Evaluation of Turmeric Powder Addition on In vitro Rumen Fermentation and Digestibility

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of adding turmeric
powder on in vitro rumen fermentability and digestibility. The experimental
diet consisted of 30% commercial concentrate and 70% elephant grass. The
treatments were as follows: T0 (control) without turmeric addition, and T1
with 2% turmeric powder added. Each treatment was replicated six times.
Parameters measured included rumen bacterial and protozoal populations,
pH, VFA and NH₃ concentrations, as well as dry matter (DM) and organic
matter (OM) digestibility. Data were analyzed using an independent sample
t-test. The results showed that adding 2% turmeric powder to the diet
significantly increased (P<0.05) the concentrations of total VFA and NH₃,
as well as DM and OM digestibility. The addition of 2% turmeric powder
significantly lowered (P<0.05) rumen pH but did not affect the total
populations of rumen protozoa and bacteria. In conclusion, 2% turmeric
powder could be an effective feed additive to enhance rumen fermentation
and digestibility.