An Alternative Forage for Animal Feed: Nutritional Quality and in Vitro Digestibility of Cassava Leaves (Manihot utilissima) Soaked in Bamboo Activated Charcoal

This study aimed to analyze and evaluate the nutritional quality and in vitro digestibility of cassava leaves (Manihot utilissima) using bamboo activated charcoal soaking.The research employed an experimental method based on a completely randomized design, which included four treatments and six replications.The soaking process lasted for 36 hours, with treatments consisting of 0% bamboo activated charcoal (T1), 2% bamboo activated charcoal (T2), 4% bamboo activated charcoal (T3), and 6% bamboo activated charcoal (T4).The parameters observed in this study were proximate analysis (moisture content, dry matter, crude protein, ether extract, crude fiber, ash, nitrogen-free extract, and total digestible nutrients), van Soest analysis (acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber, cellulose, and lignin), and in vitro digestibility (dry matter digestibility and organic matter digestibility).Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA).When significant differences were observed among treatments, Duncan's multiple range test (DMRT) was applied for post hoc comparisons using SPSS version 24.The results indicated that the level of bamboo activated charcoal had a significant effect (P<0.05) on the nutritional quality and digestibility of cassava leaves.Additionally, the appropriate use of bamboo activated charcoal is crucial to prevent nutrient leaching and maintain feed quality.This study concludes that a 2% level of bamboo activated charcoal can effectively enhance nutritional quality and in-vitro digestibility, making it a viable alternative for livestock forage.