CELLULASE METHODS FOR EFFICIENT DIGESTION OF GRASSES AND BRASSICAS

A cellulase solubility method for the prediction of grass digestibility was modified by changing pepsin pretreatment conditions so that cellulase values were as high as those obtained using rumen liquor [from sheep]. Raising temperature from 40-50.degree. C and acid concentration from 0.1-0.125 N during pepsin treatments given before the cellulase stage, increased digestion by 3-10% depending on the type of grass, up to the level reached by rumen liquor. For samples of brassicas (digestibilities ranging 66-84%) milder pretreatment conditions were sufficient to give cellulase digestion values as high as rumen liquor estimates.