Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Functions of Molasses in Feed
Molasses is a:
- Pellet binder
- Energy rich concentrate
- Both — Correct Answer
- None
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Both (Pellet binder AND Energy-rich concentrate)
Molasses serves a dual role in animal feed: (1) as an energy-rich concentrate (high in fermentable sugars — sucrose), and (2) as a pellet binder in feed manufacturing. Its sticky, viscous nature helps hold pellets together during pelleting.
Properties and Uses of Molasses
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy value | ~72% TDN (high in readily fermentable sugar) |
| Sugar content | ~50–55% total sugars (sucrose, glucose, fructose) |
| Pelleting role | Binder — improves pellet durability index (PDI) |
| Palatability | Increases feed palatability (sweet taste) |
| Anti-nutritional note | High molasses → oxalate; supplement with CaCO₃ |
Special Notes on Molasses
- Molasses can be added at 5–10% of concentrate mix to improve palatability.
- Oxalate is an anti-nutritional factor in molasses (also found in Napier grass, Bajra) → treated with CaCO₃ supplementation.
- Used in urea-molasses blocks (UMB) as a slow-release NPN vehicle for ruminants.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- Pellet binder only → incomplete; molasses is also a significant energy source.
- Energy-rich concentrate only → incomplete; its pelleting role is equally important.
- None → both functions are well-established for molasses.
📚 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.
