🐷 Whey for livestock

ANIMAL FEED

China could boost exports of Brazilian corn-based ethanol byproduct

During President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s recent state visit to China, the two nations announced a significant development in agricultural trade: China authorized imports of five new Brazilian farm products, including two corn-derived animal feed supplements known as DDGs.

Dried distillers grains (DDG) and their variant, dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGs), are nutrient-rich byproducts of corn ethanol production. High in protein, these supplements are used to feed cattle, chickens, hogs and pigs — akin to whey protein for animals. While not a complete substitute for corn or soy, their concentrated composition allows producers to reduce overall grain use, improving feed efficiency and cutting costs.

The global market for DDGs is projected to reach USD 12 billion this year, with demand led by cattle and pig farming. According to the consultancy Global Growth Insights, the Asia-Pacific region is the fastest-growing market for the product. Environmental concerns in Europe have also driven interest, as DDGs help accelerate livestock growth, thereby reducing associated carbon emissions.

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