ABSTRACT
Maize cobs, a by-product of maize cultivation, known for their fibrous nature, present a challenge due to their complex lignocellulosic composition, which includes cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Enzymes can help break down these complex compounds into simpler, more digestible forms, thereby improving their nutritional value and digestibility. Molasses, commonly used as a sweetener in food and beverages, is also used as a supplement in animal feed. It is known to increase palatability but also, it improves better ingestion by increasing stickiness thereby reducing dustiness. Combining enzyme treatment with molasses fortification can potentially alter the physical properties and chemical composition of maize cobs. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the physical properties and the chemical compositions of maize cobs from Edo State, Ondo State, Delta State, and Ekiti State ensiled with four different enzymes and fortified with molasses. The experiment was made up of Treatments such as ORO, ERO, DRO, EKRO, OEN, EEN, DEN, EKEN, ORS, ERS, DRS, EKRS, ONA, ENA, DNA, EKNA, EDO. The maize cobs were initially broken into smaller pieces using a pestle and mortar to facilitate easier grinding by the milling machine. Once ground, the different treatment samples were measured, labeled, and soaked in clean water for 30 minutes. The soaked cobs were then sieved to remove excess moisture. After undergoing the ensiling process for seven days, the maize cobs were left to dry thoroughly for approximately 3 to 4 days to eliminate any remaining moisture. The analyzed data was tested for significant differences using table of Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT), mean comparison was carried out. All tests were carried out at 5% probability level (p<0.05). Treatment DRO had the highest Dry Matter (DM) at 80.22%. Treatment EKNA recorded the lowest Moisture Content (MC) at 17.73%. Treatment DNA had the highest Fat content at 23.28%, and also the highest Crude Protein (CP) at 17.50%. The highest Crude Fiber (CF) content was observed in Treatment ERO at 42.70%. However, the Control treatment (EDO) recorded the highest Nitrogen Free Extract (NFE) value at 22.43%. Naturzyme significantly reduced the fiber level in Ondo maize cobs, with ONA showing a fiber level of 32.64%, a notable decrease compared to EDO (37.44%).
