Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Composition of Nitrogen Free Extract
NFE (Nitrogen Free Extract) mainly represents:
- Cellulose, hemicelluloses & lignin
- Protein
- Monosaccharide & Disaccharide — Correct Answer
- None
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Monosaccharides and Disaccharides
NFE (Nitrogen-Free Extract) represents the readily digestible carbohydrate fraction of feed, primarily composed of monosaccharides and disaccharides (simple sugars, starch, and other soluble carbohydrates). It is the only proximate principle not directly measured — it is calculated by subtraction.
Proximate Principles — Carbohydrate Fractions
| Fraction | Components | Digestibility |
|---|---|---|
| NFE (Nitrogen-Free Extract) | Monosaccharides, disaccharides, starch, simple sugars | High — easily digestible |
| CF (Crude Fibre) | Cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin | Low — structural, resistant |
NFE Calculation Formula
- NFE% = 100 − (CP% + EE% + CF% + Ash%) on a dry matter basis.
- NFE is the only proximate principle that cannot be determined by direct analysis.
- NFE overestimates digestible carbohydrates because it includes some lignin that escapes CF determination.
- This limitation of the Weende system was overcome by the Van Soest Detergent Method.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- Cellulose, hemicellulose & lignin → these are Crude Fibre (CF), not NFE.
- Protein → this is the Crude Protein (CP) fraction.
- None → monosaccharides and disaccharides are the correct NFE components.
📚 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.
