Some Aspects of Molasses Toxicity

Abstract

Molasses toxicity is the most important disease syndrome associated with high molasses fattening systems which are currently under investigation at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Dar es Salaam. The components of the high molasses system are outlined and possible causal factors leading to the onset of molasses toxicity are reviewed. It is suggested that adequate roughage intake appears to be the crucial factor in preventing molasses toxicity. Management recommendations for minimising the risk of molasses toxicity are made. It is stressed that molasses toxicity is not yet fully understood and that adaptation of the high molasses system in Tanzania must take into account local factors which may predispose to this condition.