October 30, 2023

 

Philippines considers seaweed as cost-effective alternative livestock feed

 
 

 

In response to the ongoing surge in the prices of commercial feeds, the Department of Agriculture (DA) in the Philippines is exploring the potential of seaweed as a viable and cost-effective substitute for animal feed, The Manila Times reported.

 

DA Undersecretary for Livestock, Deogracias Victor Savellano, has proposed the idea of using seaweed as an alternative feed to help alleviate the financial burden on local animal raisers caused by the escalating costs of commercial feeds.

 

He said that seaweed offers multiple advantages, including antioxidants that can contribute to the longevity of animals and potentially reduce the risk of infections. Seaweed is also a rich source of essential components such as protein, dietary fibre, and micronutrients.

 

Savellano outlined three primary reasons for incorporating seaweed into poultry feed, which include enhancing the animals' immune system, reducing microbial presence in the digestive tract, and elevating the nutritional content of meat and eggs. Moreover, seaweed is readily available and comparatively economical.

 

Recent data from the Philippine Statistics Authority disclosed that seaweed contributed significantly to the country's fishery sector's total production in the second quarter of this year. Seaweed production during the period from April to June 2023 reached 365,775 metric tonnes, constituting 33.8% of the fishery sector's overall production.

 

The Department of Agriculture is seeking the assistance of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations to explore seaweed's potential.

 

-      The Manila Times

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