The aim of this study was to identify the most adequate level of calcium oxide (CaO) in the treatment of sugar cane by evaluating the chemical composition and in vitro digestibility of dry matter. The sugar cane was homogenized with CaO levels 0, 0.75, 1.5, 2.25, 3.0, 3.75 and 4.5%, in natura matter, for 24 hours. The dry matter and mineral matter increased, while the organic matter of the sugar cane decreased (P <0.05) linearly as a result of the CaO levels. The CaO had no effect on the levels of crude protein and ether extract. The phosphorus concentration remained unchanged, but there was a significant increase (P<0.05) in the calcium content. The contents of neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber and cellulose decreased linearly with the levels of CaO. The average levels of indigestible dry matter and indigestible neutral detergent fiber significantly decreased with increasing levels of CaO. The results showed that the in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) was different between fresh sugar cane and sugar cane with added levels of CaO from 1.5%. The IVDMD and nutritional value of the sugar cane was improved by adding 1.5% CaO based on fresh content.
additive; forage; hydrolysis; Saccharum; alkaline treatment
