Read the complete report: Interaction of distillers grains on sulfur concentration and dietary roughage on microbial fermentation
About this report:
The increase in ethanol production has provided Minnesota feedlot operators a great opportunity to utilize ethanol coproducts such as distillers grains in feedlot rations. Despite the known advantages of including high levels of distillers grains in rations, there are concerns among feedlot producers about the potentially negative aspects of including distillers grains. The primary concern with feeding high levels of distillers grains is the high sulfur content association with distillers grains. An excess of sulfur in feedlot diets can lead to hydrogen sulfide toxicity which may result in decreased animal performance, increased morbidity and in some cases, death. This report looks at the effects of dietary roughage and sulfur concentration on ruminal fermentation and hydrogen sulfide production.
Conclusions:
Increased dietary roughage concentration did not necessarily allow for greater dietary concentrations of sulfur without increasing Hydrogen Sulfide production. However, it appears that added roughage did provide a more favorable environment for ruminal fermentation.
Project outcomes:
Ethanol production in Minnesota has provided feedlot operators an opportunity to utilize ethanol coproducts in feedlot rations. This report will help feedlot producers make informed decisions on the use of distillers grains in their cattle diets.
Partners:
Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council
Questions?
For questions or additional information, please contact AURI at 800.279.5010.
