Brewers' Grain Transforms Chicken Feed Industry

Cornell Researchers Innovate with Spent Brewers' Grain

As chicken consumption in the U.S. continues to rise, finding cost-effective and sustainable feed options has become a priority. Cornell University researchers are turning heads with their innovative use of spent brewers' grain (BSG) to improve chicken feed.

Spent grain, a byproduct of the brewing industry, typically feeds cattle and hogs. However, its high fiber content is less suitable for chickens. Focusing on a water-soluble extract of BSG, the researchers, led by Elad Tako, associate professor at Cornell, discovered significant gut health benefits for broiler chickens.

"One of the biggest threats to a successful game day meal is bacteria that causes foodborne illness,” said USDA FSIS Administrator Dr. Denise Eblen. This project could help tackle such challenges by improving poultry health and reducing antibiotic use.

The research, which used grains from Harpoon Brewery in Boston, involves an innovative "intra-amniotic administration" technique. This process feeds broiler embryos through their amniotic fluid, pinpointing gut health improvements without the fibrous bulk.

Their findings show that this extract not only enhances the intestinal development of chickens but also reduces harmful bacteria, such as E. coli. The technique also allows for precise nutrient absorption measurements, crucial for optimizing feed formulas.

This breakthrough could significantly impact the global poultry feed market, valued at $238.9 billion by 2025. By integrating BSG, a waste product, into chicken feed, the industry can achieve greater sustainability while keeping costs down. This aligns with consumer demands for environmentally friendly and ethically produced food.

As the team looks to expand their research to other upcycled products, the poultry industry watches closely, eager for solutions that support both the economy and ecosystem.