Evaluation of the effect of the mixture of palm tree and glicerin to obtain a bovine supplement

Abstract

In Colombia, African palm oil is produced at a big scale and it is mainly used for biodiesel production. This process generates a significant amount of by-products, such as palm tree and glycerin, which have important nutritional characteristics. The aim of this investigation was the evaluation of the effect of the mixture of palm tree and glycerin on the development of a bovine alimentary supplement. For the formulation of the supplement, the content of raw fiber was evaluated using the gravimetric method, and the content of protein using Biuret’s method based on albumin, to three combinations (45% palm tree, 17,5% glycerin; 50% palm tree, 12,5% glycerin, and 55% palm tree, 7,5% glycerin). It was determined that the formulation with better nutritional content was 45% palm tree, 55% glycerin, since this combination contributes the metabolizable protein required for the animal (12,9%). The calorific capacity contained in glycerine (3,500 Kcal/kg) gives the necessary energy for bovine’s maintenance and growth, besides, it helps to enhance digestion. The fiber content is adequate to improve the rumen function, stimulate salivation, palatability and a better intake of nutrients by bovines.