Inclusion of Palm Kernel Cake in Supplements for Grazing Lambs on Growth Performance, Digestibility, Nitrogen Balance, Blood Metabolites and Meat Quality

Palm kernel cake (PKC), a byproduct produced in various countries, has been studied for its potential use as animal feed. This study aimed to assess the effects of PKC as a feed supplement on Santa Inês lambs raised on pasture (Panicum maximum cv. Massai). Forty uncastrated lambs were included in a completely randomized design and allocated to four treatments consisting of feed supplements with different levels of PKC included (0.0, 150, 300, and 450 g/kg). The intake of dry matter, neutral detergent fiber, and non-fibrous carbohydrates and the time spent ruminating decreased linearly as the level of PKC increased. Digestibility of the ether extract improved, fecal levels and intake of nitrogen decreased, and microbial protein remained consistent with PKC inclusion. The final body weight, total weight gain, and average daily weight gain decreased quadratically with PKC inclusion levels. Marbling and meat color improved with the inclusion of PKC in the diet. Lambs grazing and supplemented with control rations exhibited superior performance compared to those consuming supplements with PKC content. Including PKC at levels up to 450 g/kg in feed supplement for grazing lambs may reduce feed intake and animal performance without affecting blood metabolites. However, it enhances meat redness, which may appeal to consumers. Its use may be advantageous during critical dry periods for the maintenance feeding of grazing animals.