Corn Steep Liquor Promoting Intake of High Tannin Forage (Lespedeza cuneata)

Reference Number: K 11-05

Inventors: Olson, K.C.

Owner: Kansas State University Research Foundation

USPTO Link:

Invention Summary

Lespedeza cuneata is a noxious weed covering over 600,000 acres of tallgrass range in Kansas. Lack of grazing caused by high tannin levels encompassed with the aggressive nature of the plant reduces other native plant production by up to 92%. Supplemental polyethylene glycol (PEG) aids in reducing the effects of tannins; however, it is not widely used due to strict regulation and it being cost-prohibitive. There remains a need for approved feed additives that are effective at increasing intake and digestion of high-tannin forage.

Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a new cost-effective technique using corn steep liquor (CSL) for higher Lespedeza cuneata consumption by beef cattle. Low levels of CSL have shown to aid in the digestion of crude proteins (CPD) and dietary dry matter (DMD) significantly. Additionally, total digestible dry matter intake (TDDMI) increases dramatically in direct relation to body weight. (Forage was composed of 19% Lespedeza cuneata as a proportion to total plants.)

Advantages

• Generally regarded as safe by the FDA
• Inexpensive to manufacture
• Abundant amount because it is a byproduct of wet-corn milling
• Mitigate consequences of a high tannin diet