Distillers grains gain traction as feed substitute for livestock

In North Dakota, distillers grains, a byproduct of ethanol production, are under scrutiny as a possible low-cost substitute for grain corn and protein supplement for cows.

A bushel of corn produces 18 pounds (2.7 gallons) of ethanol fuel and 17 pounds of distillers grains. They are a protein rich, high quality livestock and poultry feed. Extensive research has been conducted, primarily in the Midwest, on the favorable economics of using distillers grains in the feed mix.

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