Value and Prospects of Moringa oleifera as Non-Conventional Feedstuff in Livestock Production: A Review

Abstract

There is need to improve livestock production in Africa and developing countries across the world, to combat dietary animal protein insufficiency. Moringa oleifera is a fast growing plant that thrives well in almost all climatic conditions and is proven to contain high levels of protein (26% in dried leaf), vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals which have antioxidant, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory and other properties and show a lot of prospects for organic agriculture, particularly in the current climate of consumer ambivalence about use of synthetic antibiotics and other additives in the livestock industry. The leaves have been proven to contain all the essential amino acids, the anti-nutritional factors are minimal and it is a proven hypocholesterolemic agent; it therefore has good potential for use particularly in poultry and swine production towards satisfying animal protein and mineral requirements and for satisfying consumer demand for lean meat. Whole seed and its components have desirable but largely untested properties for animal feeding, as does leaf stalk (rich in fibre, minerals and desirable phytochemicals). Woody stem is a potential source of bactericidal/ bacteriostatic bedding/ litter and when combusted may augment traditional fuels for supplying heat for brooding chicks or general heating of livestock housing in colder climes. Scientists should therefore be encouraged to research and demonstrate safety and effectiveness of Moringa oleifera products and by-products in animal agriculture and equally, crop farmers should be encouraged to take up moringa farming to enlarge supply and lower price per unit which is a critical requirement for its adoption in animal farming.