2.7. pH measurements
The pH of digesta samples from the proximal and distal colon was determined after slaughter. Samples (7 replicates/
dietary treatment) were placed in universal containers (Sarstedt, Wexford, Ireland) and pH measurements were made
using a Mettler Toledo MP 220 pH meter, which was calibrated using certified pH 4 and 7 buffer solutions (Sigma–Aldrich
Ireland Limited, Wicklow, Ireland). Distilled water was added to some very viscous samples from the proximal colon in order
to facilitate pH measurement. The pH measurements of manure samples at 0 and 240 h were determined similarly.