Effect of Locally Formulated Urea Molasses Multinutrient Block Supplementation on Feed Intake, Growth Performance and Meat Quality of Beef Cattle

Abstract

Ruminant production in Malaysia faces significant challenges due to nutritional deficiencies, which adversely affect growth performance, feed intake, and overall productivity. To address these issues, this study evaluated the effects of locally formulated urea molasses multi-nutrient mineral block (UMMB) supplementation on cattle's body weight, feed intake, and meat production. An 80-day feeding trial was conducted at a local beef cattle farm in Tanah Merah, Kelantan, Malaysia, the study involved twenty beef cattle, divided into two age groups: calves (N=10) and adults (N=10). Cattle were randomly assigned to either a control group (C1=calves and C2=adults) receiving a basal diet or a treatment group (T1=calves and T2=adults) receiving the basal diet supplemented with UMMB. Daily feed and block intake were monitored, and live weights were recorded biweekly. Post-slaughter carcass percentage, meat quality, and composition were analysed. Results indicated that UMMB supplementation enhanced dry matter intake, particularly in adult cows, without significantly affecting live weight or feed conversion ratio. Additionally, the treatment groups exhibited a higher carcass percentage (p<0.05), with no adverse impact on meat pH, nutritional composition, or quality. These findings suggest that UMMB supplementation can improve feed intake and meat yield providing a practical solution for enhancing local meat production and supporting small farmers in Malaysia.