DEVELOPMENT,FEED GRADES USING SWEET POTAT LEAF MEAL, TUBER PEELS

This study was conducted to examine the development of feed grades (25%, 50%, 70%) using sweet potato (Ipomoea batata L.) leaf meal and tuber peels. The experimental work was carried out in the main laboratory Unit of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin, Ugbowo, Benin City, Edo State. The feed grades of sweet potato (Ipomoea batata L.) leaf meal and tuber peels include 100% Leaf Meal, 100% Tuber peels, 25% Leaf Meal + 75% Tuber peels, 50% Leaf Meal + 50% Tuber peels and 75% Leaf Meal + 25% Tuber peels. Data collected include proximate and mineral composition and were subjected to statistical analysis using Analysis of Variance ANOVA of GenStat Statistical package and means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test of the same GenStat package. Based on the findings in this study, it is evident that the proximate composition of sweet potato (Ipomoea batata L.) leaf meal and tuber peels varies significantly across different grades. The highest dry matter content (89.95%) was observed in the 100 tuber peels grade, the 100% Leaf Meal grade showed the highest (14.96%) crude protein content. Moreover, the 100% Leaf Meal grade also indicate the highest (4.737%) ether extract content, which could contribute to energy density in feed formulations while 100%Leaf Meal grade contained the highest (14.450%) crude fiber content, the ash content was higher (13.163) in leaf meal grades compared to tuber peels, indicating differences in mineral composition. Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended to incorporate sweet potato leaf meal and tuber peels in feed formulations, tailored to meet specific dietary requirements. The findings showed that100 Leaf Meal grade consistently gave the highest proximate and
mineral element, 100% Leaf Meal grade is therefore recommended as diet for animal production.