Maize DDGS
Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) are the dried residues remaining after the start fraction of Maize is fermented with yeasts to produce ethanol. After fermentation, the ethanol is removed by distillation and the remaining fermentation residues are dried. The ethanol industry in the United States has expanded rapidly on the back of crude oil prices, resulting in a fast growing supply to and usage of DDGS by the feed industry. Besides from maize, DDGS can also be produced from other grains such as barley, rye, sorghum and wheat.
Features and benefits:
- All of the components found in maize, with the exception of starch, are also present in DDGS but approximately at three times greater concentrations.
- DDGS is high in protein (29% of DM) of which 55% is rumen by-pass.
- The high energy level of DDGS is derived predominantly from fibre and fat and does not cause any risk of developing acidosis.
- DDGS contains dried yeast cells from the distillery process that provides B-vitamins and an excellent palatability.
- As the solubles provide highly digestible microbial amino acids (15% of total protein), the total protein digestibility of DDGS is high. The composition of the amino acid pattern low in lysine and high in methionine makes it highly compatible with other protein sources like soybean meal.
- Compared to Australian wheat DDGS, US maize DDGS has a higher energy value and total digestible nutrient value. The protein level of maize DDGS is marginally lower where its by-pass portion is significantly higher.
- DDGS is a good source of readily available low cost organic phosphorus.
Feeding recommendations:
The benefits of DDGS are best captured in a balanced feed ration. Possible inclusion rates depend on achieving a nutritional balance, but typically up to 20% of daily DM-intake will maximise performance. DDGS can be fed mixed with silage in the paddock of on the feed pad. It's average flowability characteristics makes it possible unsuitable for in-shed feeding systems. Consult you nutritionist or farm consultant to work out the most optimal inclusion level for your particular situation.
Storage:
Like all feedstuffs, DDGS should be stored dry, in bulk bins or placed on cement slabs (away from vermin and covered and protected from the weather accordingly). Generally, DDGS will contain average to low moisture levels. Therefore, when properly stored the quality of DDGS will be maintained.
Inclusion Levels
| Animal | Inclusion Level (%) |
|---|---|
| Calves Inclusion (%) | 15 |
| Beef Cattle Inclusion (%) | 20 |
| Lamb Inclusion (%) | 10 |
| Sheep Inclusion (%) | 15 |
| Broiler Inclusion (%) | 10 |
| Layer Inclusion (%) | 15 |
| Starter Pig Inclusion (%) | 15 |
| Finisher Pig Inclusion (%) | 25 |
| Sow Inclusion (%) | 50 |
Nutritional Information
| Element | Value |
|---|---|
| Moisture (%) | 9.9 |
| Protein (%) | 26.3 |
| ME (MJ/kg) | 14.1 |
| Fat (%) | 10.5 |
| NDF (%) | 44 |
| Ash (%) | 4.2 |
| ADF (%) | 6.7 |
| Calcium (%) | 0.18 |
| Phosphorus (%) | 0.83 |
| Magnesium (%) | 0.33 |
| Lysine (%) | 0.83 |
| Methionine (%) | 0.55 |
| Cysteine (%) | 0.32 |
| Threonine (%) | 1.13 |
| Tryptophan (%) | 0.24 |
| DM (%) | 90.1 |
| CP (%) | 28.0 |
Disclaimer
These feeding recommendations are to be used as a guide only, and to assist readers in understanding generally accepted feeding levels. Readers should not rely on these guidelines in making specific feeding decisions but should consult an appropriate nutritionist for specific total dietary approach recommendations. Online Supplements Ltd. makes no warranties that these recommendations are suitable for any particular herd or for any particular animal. Online Supplements Ltd. disclaims any liability for any problems encountered in the use of these recommendations.
