Question

The crude protein content on dry matter basis in animal feed Zea mays grains is

• A. 45.0 %
• B. 16.0 %
• C. 22.0 %
• D. 9.5 %

Hint:

Remember that non-legume cereal grains (such as maize, wheat, and oats) are primarily fed as energy sources due to high starch content ($>70\%$) and consistently contain low protein levels (ranging around 8--12% CP on a dry matter basis).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Maize (Zea mays) is a widely used, energy-rich cereal grain in animal nutrition.
It is characterized by high starch content and relatively low protein concentration.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The protein content of cereal grains typically fluctuates within a small range depending on environmental factors, soil fertility, and agricultural management practices.
On a dry matter basis, maize grain typically contains approximately 8.0% to 10.0% crude protein.
Comparing this biological standard to the options provided, 9.5% falls directly within this physiological range.
Other choices like 45.0% correspond to highly concentrated oil cakes or protein-heavy meals, while 16.0% and 22.0% represent typical protein concentrations for legume grains or formulated compound concentrates.

Step 4: Final Answer
Therefore, the most appropriate value for the crude protein content of maize grain is 9.5%.