Effect of fermentation time on the quality of pineapple residue silage

To understand the effects of different fermentation times on the quality of pineapple residue silage, we examined pineapple residue in Southern China. Fresh pineapple residue containing 65% to 70% water was selected and placed in a sealed plastic silage container filled with 2 L. After compacting and sealing the lid, the container was kept in a light storage room. Nutrient content was measured, and the relative feeding value was calculated at 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days after collection. Results show that the dry matter content of silage pineapple residue was significantly lower than that of fresh pineapple dregs (P < 0.05). With increased fermentation time, DM content increased, and fermentation in fifth week was significantly higher than in second week (P < 0.05). CF, CP, Ash, Ca, and P content in silage pineapple residue was significantly higher than that of new pineapple residue. Fresh pineapple dregs (P < 0.05) decreased with increased fermentation time, with the number of dregs observed in the fifth week and no significant difference from fourth week (P > 0.05). CP content in the fourth week was significantly higher than in the first two weeks (P < 0.05). Ash content was the highest during the second week, but significant differences were not observed. Ca content was the highest in the fourth week (P < 0.05). The pH of silage pineapple residue was significantly lower than that of fresh pineapple residue (P < 0.05). NDF (neutral detergent fiber) and ADF (acid detergent fiber) content was significantly higher than that of fresh pineapple residue (P < 0.05), and pH and NDF were equal (P < 0.05) during the third, fourth, and fifth weeks of fermentation. As fermentation time increased, DMI (dry matter intake), DDM (digestible dry matter), and RFV (relative feeding value) increased. There was no significant difference in DMI, DDM, and RFV between the third and fifth week of fermentation (P > 0.05), but the 3rd, 4th, and 5th weeks were significantly higher than the first two weeks (P < 0.05). In summary, fresh pineapple residue can be used for feeding after 28 days in silage.