Maize is the principal energy source used in poultry diets in most of the countries because of its high-energy value, palatability, presence of pigments and essential fatty acids.It contains highest amount of energy (ME 3350 kcal/kg) among cereal grains. It has 8-13% of crude protein.It has high TDN of 85-90%.Maize has low fibre content and is highly palatable.Extremely low in calcium and deficient in vitamin B12 but fair in phosphorus content.Yellow maize provides carotene and xanthophylls pigments for colouration of egg yolk, poultry fat and skin when it is used at 30% and above in the diet.Maize is an excellent source of linoleic acid which contributes for egg size, and maize protein is mainly deficient in tryptophan and lysine.
Well-recognized exporter of animal foods
