Utilization of Expander-Extruder Processed Complete Diet Containing Sunflower Heads in Ongole Bull Calves

Expander-extruder processed sunflower (Helianthus annuus) heads (capitiilum after removal of seeds) based diet, corresponding mash diet and a conventional diet containing concentrate mixture and chopped sorghum straw were evaluated for nutritive value in 18 Ongole bull calves (6 in each group). DM1/100 kg body weight was similar whereas, water intake/kg DMI was higher (P<0.01) in calves fed complete diets containing sunflower heads. DM, OM, CP and CF digestibilities of complete diets were significantly (P<0.01) higher than conventional diet. Extruded diet had higher OM digestibility than that of mash diet. Expander-extruder processing increased the DCP (P<0.01) and TDN (P<0.05) contents. These results indicate that blending, of concentrate and roughages into complete diet was beneficial and expander-extrusion distinctly improves its nutritive value.