Evaluation of the Nutritional Profile of Matoa (<i>Pometia pinnata)</i> Peel-Enriched Corn Silage

Abstract The research assessed the impact of matoa peel (MP) inclusion on the nutrient profile of corn silage. Sixteen packs 200 g corn silage, enriched with 0%, 20%, 30% and 40% MP, were analyzed for pH and nutrient content before and after 21-days ensiling. Results showed that pH levels decreased to 3.62 after ensiling, with the 20% matoa peel resulting in the lowest pH at 3.90 across inclusion levels. Highest dry matter (DM) was observed before ensiling. Although there was no significant interaction effect on ash content, significant variation among inclusion levels was observed, with the highest value at 9.65% in the 0% inclusion. Crude protein (CP) content showed a significant interaction, with the highest CP in the 20% MP inclusion before ensiling. Significant difference was noted in the crude fiber (CF) which is highest in the 40% inclusion level. A significant interaction was found in ether extract (EE), with the highest EE in the 0% inclusion after ensiling. Nitrogen-free extract (NFE) revealed significant differences, showing highest value in 0% MP inclusion. Incorporating MP into corn silage significantly influenced pH, CP, CF, and EE, with the 20% inclusion level showing optimal effects on pH and CP.