Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Identifying Non-Roughage Feedstuffs
Which of the following is NOT classified under roughage?
- Straw & Stovers
- Molasses — Correct Answer
- Hay & Silage
- Husk & Hull
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Molasses
Molasses is NOT classified as roughage — it is an energy-rich concentrate (liquid by-product of sugar refining) with high TDN (>60%) and low crude fibre (<18%). All other options are genuine roughage.
Feed Classification
| Feed | Category | CF% | TDN% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straw & Stovers | Dry roughage ✔ | >18% | ~40% |
| Hay & Silage | Roughage ✔ | >18% | <60% |
| Husk & Hull | Roughage ✔ | >18% | <60% |
| Molasses | Concentrate (energy-rich) ✘ | <18% | >60% |
Molasses — Key Facts
- Anti-nutritional factor in molasses: Oxalates
- Treatment for oxalate toxicity: CaCO₃ supplement
- Used to add energy and palatability to silage (& poor-quality roughage)
- Added to crops with low soluble carbohydrates for ensilage at 3–3.5%
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- Straw & Stovers → dry roughage; CF >18%, TDN ~40%
- Hay & Silage → roughage (dry and succulent respectively)
- Husk & Hull → fibrous crop residues; classified as roughage
📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition
This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.
