Effects of Sucrose (Sugar) as Inoculant on Physical Quality, Fermentation Profile and Relative Feed Value of Alfalfa Silage at Different Ensiling Time

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine effects of sucrose (sugar) addition on physical quality, fermentation profile and relative feed value of alfalfa silage at different ensiling time. Silage quality was evaluated based on inoculant supplementation (C; no additive and S: sucrose additive) and four ensiling periods (7, 14, 30 and 60 days). The color and structure scores were unchanged but the smell score increased significantly by sucrose inoculant. Sucrose supplementation significantly decreased pH value in comparison to the control group. Significant change in Flieg point of alfalfa silage was observed between the groups. Relative feed value significantly increased in the sucrose group at d 7 and 14 of ensiling, but remained unaffected at d 30 and 60 of ensiling. As a result, addition of sucrose improved silage quality at different fermentation time.