THE APPLICATION OF TANNIN’S IN RUMINANT NUTRITION (A REVIEW)

Özet

Tannin exists as a group of plant polyphenolic compounds which plays a vital role in animal feeding, especially for ruminants animals that exhibit protein cohesion properties. The hydrolysable tannin (HT) and condensed tannin which are two groups of tannin based on chemical structure were identified. The hydrolysable tannin when digested in the rumen of ruminants may release toxic compounds which when consumed in large quantities expose animals to health risks, while condensed tannin (CT) is the most common form of tannins which several nutritional benefits through the protection of dietary components from too much breakdown in the rumen, therefore enhancing protein use and reduction of Nitrogen (N) excretion. The study further highlighted the effects of tannin on feed intake, palatability, nutrient absorption, bloat prevention actions of tannins, and anti-parasitic functions. The moderate level of tannin in ruminant nutrition can enhance ruminant performance and excess consumption can lead to poor feed consumption with low nutrient absorption. This shows the need for selective diet formulation when including tannins in animal diets. There is a need for researchers to seek for strategic inclusion of tannins in ruminant diets especially types and amounts to optimize ruminant health and productivity. The need for future studies to continue with more understanding of tannin activities within the rumen and ways to develop protocols for effective consumption in ruminant nutrition is paramount.