The Need and Acceptability of Cassava Starch Residue as an Alternative Energy Source in Poultry Feeds: Farmers and Consumers Perspectives in the Ashanti Region of Ghana

This study explores the potential of cassava starch residue (CSR) as a sustainable alternative energy source in poultry feeds in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. With rising maize prices and supply challenges impacting poultry production, CSR offers a promising substitute. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 150 respondents including 50 poultry farmers and 100 consumers using semi-structured questionnaires across selected districts. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and logistic regression were applied to assess CSR awareness, acceptance, and its perceived impact on profitability and feed efficiency. Results indicate that while overall awareness of CSR is low (22%), farmers with higher education and larger farm capacities show a greater propensity to adopt CSR, primarily due to its potential cost-effectiveness and sustainability benefits. The analysis further highlights that demographic factors such as age and educational background significantly influence perceptions regarding CSR. Notably, chi-square tests showed significant associations between education and CSR awareness (χ2 = 45.66, df= 2, p= 1.21e−10), cost-effectiveness (χ2 = 26.31, df= 6, p= 0.0002), and overall profitability (χ2 = 57.65, df = 6, p= 1.35e−10). Predicted probability models further indicated that farmers aged 26 and above and those with tertiary education had a higher likelihood of adopting CSR, while smaller-scale operations (50–500 birds) were less inclined. The study concludes that targeted educational and policy interventions are crucial to enhance CSR adoption, reduce reliance on maize, and improve the economic viability of poultry production in Ghana.