Bamboo

Energy and Protein Value of Bamboo for Chickens

Bamboo provides both energy and protein for chickens, although in smaller amounts compared to common ingredients like maize or soybean meal. The energy and protein values depend on the part of the bamboo used and how it is processed. The main useful parts for poultry are the leaves, young shoots, and sometimes the culms when finely ground.

Bamboo leaves have moderate protein content, providing about 12 to 15 percent crude protein on a dry matter basis. This level of protein helps in building muscles, feathers, and supporting growth when mixed with other feeds that supply energy. The leaves also contain about 26 to 29 percent crude fiber. While this fiber is not a major energy source, it supports digestion and improves gut function, especially in broilers and layers.

Bamboo shoots, on the other hand, contain less protein when fresh because they are about 90 percent water. Their protein content is around 3 percent and fiber about 0.6 percent. However, when the shoots are fermented or dried, the protein becomes more concentrated, increasing by about 17 percent. This makes processed shoots a better protein source than raw ones.

The bamboo culm or stem contains very little protein but high fiber. Its main components are about 74 percent cellulose, 13 percent hemicellulose, and 10 percent lignin. This means it can add roughage but contributes little nutritional energy or protein unless broken down by fermentation or grinding.

Overall, bamboo has a moderate protein value and low energy value because of its high fiber. The energy in bamboo mainly comes from its fibrous parts, but chickens cannot digest large amounts of fiber efficiently. This is why bamboo is used as a supplement rather than the main feed ingredient.

When combined with other high-energy feeds like maize, cassava meal, or sorghum, bamboo helps balance the diet by supplying extra protein, minerals, and fiber. The amino acids in bamboo support growth and feather formation, while its natural fiber improves feed use and gut health.

Although bamboo cannot fully replace energy-rich ingredients, it adds useful nutrients to the diet. When properly processed and used in small amounts, bamboo provides a natural, low-cost protein source that supports healthy growth and digestion in chickens.

— dreck

Your professor’s Teacher.