Utilization of by-product from collard green (Brassica oleracea) as dietary supplement on duck laying

Collard green (Brassica oleracea) was considered as a healthy vegetable due to its dietary fibers, vitamins, minerals and phytochemical constituents. The edible part of collard green was used for food but the old leaf was normally discarded on the farm. By-product from collard green could be utilized as an excellent source in diet of poultry. This research investigated the utilization of by-product from collard green as dietary fiber source to partially replace basal diet on duck laying. Different replacement ratios (0-9%) of collard green leaf were included in the diet of ducks at different ages (16, 24, 32 weeks). The investigation was lasted for 2 weeks. Eggs were randomly sampled for the analysis of egg specific gravity, albumen index, Haugh unit and yolk index. Results showed that 7% collard green leaf could be incorporated in to basal diet of duck laying to achieve the best egg internal quality. By-product from harvesting of collard green could be utilized as a good source of dietary fiber in duck rearing to save production cost, avoid environmental pollution while ensuring egg quality.