Utilization of Sorghum as Energy Source in the Diets of Broilerchickens: A Review

Abstract

Maize is the conventional source of energy in broilers ration in Nigeria. The ever growing demand for maize for human consumption, livestock feeds and some industrial uses has pushed its market price to an alarming height. The Metabolizable energy value of maize and sorghum are 3432 and 3256 kcal/kg respectively, the crude protein content of maize and sorghum are 9.0 and 11.0 respectively, the crude fat values of maize and sorghum are 3.25 and 4.25% while the crude fibre of maize and sorghum are 2.7 and 2.0 respectively. Sorghum is suitable alternatives to maize considering the cost, availability and their nutritive value. Several research findings revealed that there is no significant (P<0.05) difference in the performance parameters among the three energy sources. Alternative sources of energy will reduce the cost of feeds; improve protein availability and intake, increase efficiency and productivity of broiler chickens as well as the improving the profit margin of the poultry producers.