Effect of PASLoc Meals on the Zootechnical and Nutritional Parameters of Young Wistar Rats Suffering from Induced Moderate Acute Malnutrition

Abstract

Aims: The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of four food products manufactured from locally sourced ingredients in restoring Wistar rats afflicted with induced moderate acute malnutrition. Study Design: The rats used in this research were kept in separate metabolic cages with wire mesh flooring. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the vivarium of the Ecole Normale Supérieure in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, over a period of 38 days. Methodology: 42 male rats, with an average age of 80 ±5 days and an average weight of 103.46 ±5.10 g, were randomly divided into six batches of seven rats each. Two control batches (MID and PCD) and four experimental batches (PASLoc1A, PASLoc1B, PASLoc2A, and PASLoc2B) were formed. The experiment consisted of an adaptation phase (5 days), a malnutrition induction phase (19 days), and a nutritional rehabilitation phase (14 days). Zootechnical and nutritional parameters were assessed at the end of the induction and nutritional rehabilitation phases. Results: Malnourished animals experienced a body weight loss rate of -22.36 ±6.47%, leading to a decline in all zootechnical parameters, including weight gain (1.39 ±0.28 g/day), body length (0.95 ±0.64 cm), and feed efficiency coefficient (-24.98 ±5.47). The nutritional rehabilitation phase resulted in the correction of the dysfunctions observed during induction, especially in terms of body weight gain, with rates comprised between 20.84 ±5.03% and 34.59 ±3.33%. The minimum weight gain for the rats fed PASLoc diet was 1.66 ±0.54 g/d for Pasloc1B, respectively. PASLoc diets have a significant impact on nutritional value, with a minimum biological value of 94.04 ±0.25%. Conclusion: The result of this study suggest that PASLoc2A and PASLoc2B possess a robust nutritional potential, and their consumption can effectively address issues of moderate acute malnutrition after weaning.