THE PROXIMATE COMPOSITION AND VITAMINS ANALYSIS OF (IPOMOEA BATATAS L.) SWEET POTATO LEAVES MEAL

ABSTRACT This study evaluates the nutritional potential of sweet potato leaves (Ipomoea batatas) as a sustainable feed resource for livestock, particularly in resource-constrained environments like Nigeria. The research was conducted at the Animal Science and Range Management Lab, Modibbo Adama University, Yola. Sweet potato leaves were collected from local farms, air-dried, and ground for analysis. Proximate composition was determined using standard methods, including the micro Kjeldahl method for crude protein and Soxhlet extraction for crude fat. The nutritional content was assessed through proximate analysis and antioxidant activity using DPPH radical scavenging methods. Data were analyzed using One-way ANOVA with Duncan’s multiple range test at a 5% significance level. Results indicated that sweet potato leaves contain 10% crude protein, 10.2% moisture, and significant levels of vitamins, including 1998 mg/100g of carotene and 386 mg/100g of vitamin C. The findings demonstrate the potential of sweet potato leaves to enhance livestock health and productivity by improving growth rates and feed conversion efficiency. However, the presence of anti-nutritional factors, such as tannins, requires careful management to mitigate adverse effects on nutrient absorption. This research revealed the economic viability of incorporating sweet potato leaves into livestock diets, suggesting a reduction in reliance on expensive commercial feeds. Further studies are recommended to explore the phytochemical properties of sweet potato leaves to optimize their use in livestock nutrition, ultimately enhancing animal welfare and production efficiency.