ASF UB and PT. Rumah Desa Sejahtera Will Make Innovative Alternative Animal Feed from Date Seeds

Feed in livestock business activities is the highest production cost component. Apart from that, the availability of raw materials is also limited due to the narrow land area, the influence of the season, and competition with other industries.

Indonesia’s tropical climate, which has high temperature and relative humidity throughout the year, triggers heatsress in livestock. Resulting in disturbed livestock health resulting in a decrease in feed consumption and decreased productivity.

According to a lecturer at the Animal Science Faculty of Universitas Brawijaya (ASF UB), Dr.Ir. Tri Eko Susilorini, MP., IPM., ASEAN Eng. To overcome this problem, it is necessary to process alternative feed ingredients that are cheap but have a myriad of benefits.

Date seeds can be added to the composition of concentrate feed for all livestock, both ruminants and non-ruminants. Because it contains crude carbohydrates (KH), protein, fat, crude fiber (SK), and minerals. Besides, the use of by-products from dates can reduce feed costs.

The statement was heard by Ir. Ali Baradja, Director of PT. Rumah Desa Sejahtera which wants to expand its business by starting a livestock business in the field of alternative feed.

To realize the plan, he cooperates with the Animal Science Faculty of Universitas Brawijaya (ASF UB) to conduct in-depth research related to feed innovation using date seeds for rumiansia and non-ruminant animal feed.

The agreement text was signed by Ir. Ali Baradja and Prof. Suyadi (Dean), Monday January, 25th 2020. The scope of the research is in three parts, namely testing the use by-product of date palm seedas an alternative feed in laying and broiler hens, fattening goats, and Friesian Holstein dairy cows.

The two parties also agreed on cooperation in the field of Tri Dharma Perguruan Tinggi to support the Ministry of Education and Culture program of the Republic of Indonesia regarding Independent Learning Campus Freedom (MBKM).

Prof. Suyadi said the implementation of MBKM is by provide flexibility for students to be able to develop their potential widely.

So that the learning system is no longer about the theory taught in class. However, it emphasizes student exchanges, teaching assistance in educational units, research, humanitarian projects, entrepreneurial activities, independent studies or projects, building villages or thematic real work lectures, and internships / work practices.

“We hope that this collaboration can be used by students to hone their abilities. So that it can give birth to a young generation who is ready to face the challenges of technological development.“He explained (dta)