NUTRITIONAL EVALUATION OF FORAGES BY HIGH-RESOLUTION SOLID STATE 13C-NMR

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Abstract
The NMR technique known as 13C cross-polarization-magic angle spinning with proton decoupling (CP/MAS) was examined as an approach to the direct measurement of the nutritional value of forages. Preliminary results indicate that the relative amounts of protein, lignin and carbohydrate can be estimated not only in single species but also on mixtures thereof without special treatment. This technique reveals changes due to maturation which should in turn be related to digestibility of forages. A dipolar dephasing (spectra with delay) technique can be used to enhance resonance signals due to protein and lignin and probably distinguish the fructose moiety from the remaining carbohydrate complex. While detailed quantitative correlations between NMR spectra and nutritional values remain to be established, the scope of the technique and some of the problems to be overcome are discussed.