Assessment of the nutritional profile of “maralfalfa” (pennisetum sp) associated with molasses

Introduction: The “maralfalfa” scientifically called Pennisetum sp, is a grass plant of the poaceous family used in livestock feeding. The objective of this study is to assess the nutritional profile of a “maralfalfa” based formulation associated with molasses used in Chad. Methodology: To carry out this study, “maralfalfa” samples were taken from the IRED experimental pool set up by the ACCEPT project. The molasses samples were acquired from Chad Sugar Company (CST). These samples were sent to the laboratories of the Food Quality Control Centre (CECOQDA) and the bromatology laboratory of the Breeding Research Institute for Development (IRED) for analysis. Results: Results showed that “maralfalfa” is a potential source of protein (8.39g/DM), fat (2.68%), carbohydrates (23.13g/DM) and minerals (14.17%). The dry matter content of "maralfalfa" forms the energy input of the nutritional requirements in the form of calories needed by the animals. Molasses is primarily an energy source because its carbohydrate content is (73g/DM). A NutriSurvey software analysis of the “maralfalfa” (700g) and molasses (100g) formulation yields a very appreciable protein value equivalent to 18%. Conclusion: The results of our various analyses have shown that the species Pennisetum sp, constitutes a potential source of energy. Its association with molasses would not only be an additional source of energy but also a real source of protein.