Matrix Science Pharma (MSP)

This study investigated the effects of different drying methods on the nutrient and phytochemical contents of bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) meal as a potential feedstuff for livestock. Fresh leaves of Vernonia amygdalina were subjected to three methods of processing: air drying, sun drying and oven drying. Samples included: fresh bitter leaf (BLF), fresh bitter leaf sundried for a day (BLS1D), fresh bitter leaf air dried for two days and sundried for a day (BLA2D) as well as fresh bitter leaf oven dried at 1050C for 24 hours (BLOV1D). The proximate composition, mineral content and phytochemical composition of the fresh and processed leaves were subsequently determined, using standard methods/procedures. The crude protein of BLF (29.10%) was significantly (p<0.05) higher than the mean values of 26.70, 25.30 and 22.80%, obtained for BLS1D, BLA2D and BLOV1D, respectively. There was significant difference (p<0.05) in the calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, copper, manganese and nickel content of the different processed bitter leaf. There was significant difference (p<0.05) in the anti-nutrients content of different processed bitter leaves. Quantitative estimation showed significant lowering (p<0.05) of all the contents of the phytochemicals in the processed leaves compared to fresh bitter leaf. This study concluded that processed V. amygdalina leaf meal can serve as good source of protein, fibre and minerals in animal feeding. Furthermore, the processing of the bitter leaf meal through drying reduced the composition of phytochemicals for better incorporation and utilization and incorporation in livestock feeds.