Name: Mark Cielo T Cameros Course & Year: BSAAG 3rd year

INTRODUCTION

Animals on such diets frequently perform below the standard, which is evident in their
slow development, delayed maturation, protracted inter-calving periods, and low milk production.
In this case, strategically adding nutrients is crucial to maximize the use of these substandard
roughages. Poor farmers can scarcely afford concentrate mixtures given their availability and cost.
In order to get over this limitation, animal nutritionists from all around the world have
demonstrated that crop residues can have a higher nutritional value if they are combined with
insufficient nutrients (Makkar, 2002).

The NDDB (1983) developed the Urea Molasses Mineral Block (UMMB), which IVRI has
improved upon (Garg et al., 1998). Animal productivity and nutrient utilization may both benefit
from the inclusion of Urea Molasses Mineral Block (UMMB) (Prasad et al., 2001). An essential
feed additive for ruminants, urea-molasses-mineral block (UMMB) provides a steady supply of
fermentable nitrogen all day long to support the development of rumen microbes. A cost-effective
way to maximize the use of locally available feed resources for increased productivity is to
supplement with UMMB licks, which greatly boost feed intake, milk yield, and growth rate.

It can be fed all year round, although it is particularly effective in the dry season or when
the animals graze on poor quality feed. Another strategy to boost nutrient consumption in cattle is
to use liquid supplements based on molasses that have additional nitrogen, minerals, and vitamins
added. These supplements have been demonstrated to enhance growth rate and reproductive
performance in cattle.

OBJECTIVES
The objectives of making UMMB are:
 To provide the nitrogen, minerals and vitamins lacking in fibrous feeds.
 To promote growth of rumen microbes.
 To produce a cost-effective feed supplement that can be adapted and adopted by local
farmers by utilizing cheap, available resources.

MATERIALS
 Urea
 Molasses
 Salt
 Cement
 Rice bran
 Basin
 Stick
 Weighing scale
 Parchment paper

PROCEDURE
 Gather all the equipment and supplies you'll need before you start preparing. Molasses,
urea, salt, cement, rice bran, water, a weighing scale, a mixing container, equipment for
mixing, and molds to shape the blocks are required.

 Using the above-mentioned proportions, measure and weigh each ingredient.

 Combine the measured amounts of salt and urea in a mixing container. To aid with the
salts' dissolution, add a small amount of water. Stir until the salt and urea are completely
dissolved. Add the molasses to the mixture gradually. Stir the ingredients constantly to
make sure they are evenly distributed. Add the limestone or cement once the molasses has
been thoroughly mixed in. To make the mixture homogenous, keep mixing the ingredients
together. Lastly, include the rice bran into the blend. To achieve a uniform blend, make
sure all the ingredients are well blended.

 After thoroughly combining the ingredients, pour the mixture into molds. Firmly press the
mixture into the mold to eliminate any air spaces and guarantee a consistent shape for the
blocks. Depending on availability and preference, a rectangular or cylindrical mold may
be utilized. One kilogram may weigh the block.

 Once the blocks are shaped, let them cure and dry. Put the blocks in a place with good
ventilation and protection from the sun. The blocks must cure in order to become stronger
and more stable. Throughout the curing process, periodically inspect the blocks for any
indications of deterioration or unwanted odors.

 The UMMB blocks are prepared for use and storage when they have completely dried and
cured. To keep the blocks from spoiling, keep them somewhere dry and cool. Make sure
the blocks are shielded from moisture, as too much moisture might lead to the blocks
breaking down. The UMMB blocks should be positioned where animals may readily get
them.
 DOCUMENTATION

Equipment preparation Molasses Urea

Cement Rice bran Salt

Mixing Urea and Molasses Adding Rice bran Mixing

Mixing 1kg of UMMB Forming & Air drying

Answer the following questions.

1. What are the uses of UMMB?

 An animal taking UMMB supplements would receive plenty of these nutrients, and the
animal's digestion would be enhanced and microbial protein production would be effective
due to the gradual urea absorption. And promote the growth of rumen microbes throughout
 the day. Also for milk producers in locations lacking in green fodder, UMMB is incredibly
helpful.
2. What are the types of mineral blocks?

 Iron, Zinc, and Manganese.

 They should be positioned 1.5–1.8 meters above the ground for cows, and they work best
when close to water but not directly beside it. It can also be administered to sheep and
cattle. The rumen buffering will be supported by the elevated positioning, which will
maximize salivation. The size of your herd determines how many blocks you'll need.
4. Can mineral blocks improve the health conditions of your stocks? How?

 Its composition promotes feed intake, appetite, and nutrient digestion, all of which
accelerate development rates. Additionally, they provide the animal with vital vitamins and
minerals, including sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. A sufficient
supply of minerals can help cattle grazing on both native and improved pastures acquire
more weight each day and have higher body condition scores by boosting metabolism and
feed efficiency.