Changes in the Nutritional, Physicochemical and Antinutrient Composition of African Olive Seed Meal During Solid State Fermentation: A Potential Animal Feedstuff

Abstract

This study examined the nutritional efficacy of fungus treated African Olive seed meal as quality feedstuff for livestock animals. The seeds were collected around the University of Abuja, main campus, FCT Abuja. It was dried, milled and later fermented using Aspergillus niger for a seven-day period. The samples were later taken for the determination of phytochemical and proximate composition, amino acid content, fibre fractions and mineral elements using standard Laboratory analytical procedure. Data were analysis using “T” test model. The results revealed a decreased Dry matter content. Contrarily there was   an increased Crude protein (30% vs 18%).  and amino acid content of the fungus treated sample compared to the untreated. The ether extract and the Crude fibre of the fungus treated sample were reduced compared to the untreated sample (1.50% vs 4.50%) and 8% vs 15%) respectively. The ash content was higher in the fungus treated sample (12%) compared to the untreated sample (5%). The fibre fractions decreased significantly ADF, NDF, ADL, Cellulose, Hemicellulose). The bioactive compounds (Polyphenols, flavoids, Saponin, and Tannin) were reduced with the incubation of the sample with Aspergillus niger. Additionally, the sample fermented with Aspergillus niger had significantly improved mineral elements compared   with the untreated sample. The study concluded that fungus treated African Olive seed meal has great potential as animal feed ingredient due to its remarkable nutrient-dense profile and reduced fibre fractions and this lay the foundation for further exploration of its use in various livestock production.