Effect of Maize Substitution with Fermented Sugarcane Tops on Growth Performance and Lipid Profile of Broiler Chickens

High cost of feed production has been a persistent thorn in the flesh of the Nigerian poultry production sector. The cost of maize, a vital source of carbohydrate in feed formulation has skyrocketed. The study revealed the potential of using Lacto bacillus fermented sugarcane tops (FST) as maize replacement in broiler feed formulation. Alkaline treated sugarcane tops sample was fermented using lactobacillus at pH 7 and temperature of 300C for 7 days to enhance its nutritional composition for inclusion in broiler feed formulation. Five diets were prepared with five different levels of FST as maize replacement, namely 0% FST (A), 25% FST (B), 50% FST (C), 75% FST (D), and 100% (E). Two hundred and fifty broiler chicks purchased from certified sale outlets in Katsina state were divided into five groups in a completely randomized design. The experimental broilers were given the formulated diet for eight consecutive weeks. At the end of the feeding trial, the Broilers were subjected to growth performance and lipid profile assessment. Broilers that received the A diet exhibited a significantly higher (p < 0.05) growth performance. However, LDL-cholesterol was significantly (p<0.05) influenced by FST. There is also an observed improved lipid metabolism as indicated by the reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein LDL- cholesterol and the increased high-density lipoprotein HDL-cholesterol. In conclusion FST replacement improves the lipid profile in the experimental Broilers. The findings underscore the viability of fermented sugarcane tops as a sustainable and cost-effective substitute for maize in poultry diets.