Ensiling legume forage pulp
Problem
Pulp is a co-stream in the extraction of protein from forages in a screw press. Pulp may be a valuable feed for ruminants, but low sugar content is a challenge for the ensiling process. However, it is still a valuable feed that can be preserved as silage and utilised for ruminant feeding. The juice extraction also lowers the sugar content making the pulp less suitable for ensiling.
Solution
The addition of sugars as molasses at the dose of 50 kg/ton of fresh pulp stimulates lactic acid fermentation, resulting in successful preservation and good stability at feedings when best-practice ensiling rules are respected. Alternatively, add dry feeds like sugar beet pulp or a cereal meal at 150 kg/ton of fresh pulp.
Description
This ProRefine Practice Abstract gives practical recommendations for ensiling legume forage pulp in order to support the implementation of biorefined forage legumes as high-quality protein sources in the European organic sector and give value to the fibrous co-products. This will contribute to strengthening the agricultural sector in Europe, while also improving the cooperative utilisation of local resources.
Author: Paolo Beni
Organization: Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore - Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition, Italy
Other organizations: Organic Farm Knowledge
Year: 2022
Type: Practices
Full text available at: https://organic-farmknowledge.org/tool/43873
Content language: English