Effects of Different Carbohydrate Sources on Alfalfa Silage Quality at Different Ensiling Days

This study was evaluated the effects of different carbohydrate sources on fermentation profiles, chemical compositions, and correlation profiles compositions with water-soluble (WSC) alfalfa (Medicago sativa) silage. Alfalfa harvested at early flowering stage from third cutting in September 2018, wilted to 32% dry matter (DM) chopped into 1–2 cm pieces. Treatments included addition pectin (PEC), starch (STA; powdered corn), molasses (MOL), fructose (FRU), as well distilled water a control (CON). Afterward, 300 g prepared packed polyethylene bags, vacuumed, sealed, after which they were stored room temperature for 1, 3, 7, 15, 30 d. FRU PEC additions resulted desirable throughout ensiling period. rapidly decreased pH increased Fleig’s point, exhibiting lower higher point 3 d end ensiling. Acetic acid (AA), propionic (PA) ammonia nitrogen (AN) contents Higher lactic (LA) found 7 LA:AA ratios 15 Butyric (BA) not detected any during Additives exhibited DM content The WSC number days stable PEC, STA, than CON. improved quality Thus, or related agricultural byproducts may offer alternative additives improving silage profile.