EVALUATION OF Annona muricata LEAVES AS POTENTIAL NUTRACEUTIC SUPPLEMENT IN GROWING KIDS

Abstract

Background. Annona muricata has been reported as a potential nutraceutical based mainly on in vitro studies. Objective. to determine potential toxicity and nutritional value of Annona muricata leaf flour using in vitro gas production (IVGP), dry and organic matter digestibility (IVDMD, IVOMD) as well as in vivo voluntary intake and apparent digestibility on Criollo kids. Methodology. In vitro trials were carried out with and without the tannin blocking agent polyethylene glycol (PEG). Kids (n=22) were fed with 0% (control, n=5), 2.5% (T2, n=6), 5% (T3, n=6) and 10% (T4, n=5) of A. muricata flour, intake and hepatic function were monitored. Results. The IVGP was lower (P<0.05) with increasing A. muricata inclusion, but without difference on the IVDMD or IVOMD (P>0.05). PEG inclusion had no effect (P>0.05). The T4 caused 100% feed refusal. Intake was 396a, 379a and 203b g DM (S.E.D. 0.038) for control, T2 and T3 respectively (P<0.05). The IVGP of A. muricata was low but not associated to the presence of condensed tannins. Implications. Due to reduced feed intake further studies are needed to identify the compound responsible of such effects. Conclusion. Although based on chemical composition and IVDMD and IVOMD A. muricata leaves can be qualified as medium quality fed, its use can only be recommended up to 2.5% diet inclusion, above such level toxicity might arise in growing goats.