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Keywords = fermented liquid feeding

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19 pages, 1165 KiB  
Article
Expansion of Mechanical Biological Residual Treatment Plant with Fermentation Stage for Press Water from Organic Fractions Involving a Screw Press
by Rzgar Bewani, Abdallah Nassour, Thomas Böning, Jan Sprafke and Michael Nelles
Recycling 2025, 10(4), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling10040141 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 274
Abstract
A three-year optimization study was conducted at a mechanical biological treatment plant with the aim of enhancing organic fractions recovery from mechanically separated fine fractions (MSFF) of residual waste using a screw press. The study aimed to optimize key operating parameters for the [...] Read more.
A three-year optimization study was conducted at a mechanical biological treatment plant with the aim of enhancing organic fractions recovery from mechanically separated fine fractions (MSFF) of residual waste using a screw press. The study aimed to optimize key operating parameters for the employed screw press, such as pressure, liquid-to-MSFF, feeding quantity per hour, and press basket mesh size, to enhance volatile solids and biogas recovery in the generated press water for anaerobic digestion. Experiments were performed at the full-scale facility to evaluate the efficiency of screw press extraction with other pretreatment methods, like press extrusion, wet pulping, and hydrothermal treatment. The results indicated that hydrolysis of the organic fractions in MSFF was the most important factor for improving organic extraction from the MSFF to press water for fermentation. Optimal hydrolysis efficiency was achieved with a digestate and process water-to-MSFF of approximately 1000 L/ton, with a feeding rate between 8.8 and 14 tons per hour. Increasing pressure from 2.5 to 4.0 bar had minimal impact on press water properties or biogas production, regardless of the press basket size. The highest volatile solids (29%) and biogas (50%) recovery occurred at 4.0 bar pressure with a 1000 L/ton liquid-to-MSFF. Further improvements could be achieved with longer mixing times before pressing. These findings demonstrate the technical feasibility of the pressing system for preparing an appropriate substrate for the fermentation process, underscoring the potential for optimizing the system. However, further research is required to assess the cost–benefit balance. Full article
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23 pages, 317 KiB  
Review
Effect of Fermented Feed on Growth Performance and Gut Health of Broilers: A Review
by Jim Kioko Katu, Tamás Tóth, Balázs Ásványi, Zoltán Hatvan and László Varga
Animals 2025, 15(13), 1957; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15131957 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 632
Abstract
The fermented feed used in broiler production has gained significant attention for its potential to improve growth performance, enhance gut health, and modulate gut microbiota. This review synthesized findings on the effects of both solid and liquid fermented feed in broilers. Fermentation processes [...] Read more.
The fermented feed used in broiler production has gained significant attention for its potential to improve growth performance, enhance gut health, and modulate gut microbiota. This review synthesized findings on the effects of both solid and liquid fermented feed in broilers. Fermentation processes enhance nutrient bioavailability; reduce anti-nutritional factors; and generate beneficial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, which contribute to gut health. Incorporating fermented feed in broiler diets has been shown to improve weight gain, the feed conversion ratio, and nutrient absorption by promoting favorable gut morphology changes, including an increased villus height and villus height-to-crypt depth ratios. Additionally, fermented feed fosters a beneficial microbial environment by increasing lactic acid bacteria populations while reducing pathogenic microbes. Fermentation also modulates gut immunity by regulating cytokine production and stimulating immune cell activity. However, challenges such as inconsistent effects on feed intake and growth during the early production stages underscore the need for optimizing fermentation protocols tailored to broiler production systems. Although the implementation of liquid fermented feed presents logistical challenges, research suggests it can significantly improve feed digestibility. Advances in precision fermentation techniques and multi-strain inoculant use hold promise for further improving fermented feed efficacy. Future research should focus on assessing the long-term impacts, economic viability, and environmental sustainability of fermented feed in commercial poultry systems. Overall, fermented feed offers a promising strategy to enhance productivity and sustainability in broiler farming while reducing the reliance on conventional feed additives. This review reflects the body of knowledge at the time of writing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Poultry)
13 pages, 274 KiB  
Article
Chitosan and Cashew Nut Shell Liquid as Sustainable Additives: Enhancing Starch Digestibility and Reducing Methane Emissions in High-Grain Diets for Feedlot Cattle
by Raquel Tenório de Oliveira, Rafael Henrique de Tonissi e Buschinelli de Goes, Jefferson Rodrigues Gandra, Fernanda Naiara Fogaça da Cruz, Nayara Gonçalves da Silva, Lara de Souza Oliveira, Jaqueline Luiza Royer, Lucas Gabriel Batista Domiciano, Tainá Lorraine Pereira Azevedo and Carolina Marques Costa Araújo
Polymers 2025, 17(13), 1860; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17131860 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 414
Abstract
Chitosan and technical cashew nutshell liquid (CNSLt) have emerged as promising natural compounds due to their antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and fermentation-modulating properties. This study aimed to evaluate the inclusion of chitosan and CNSLt as potential substitutes for the ionophore monensin on feed intake, ruminal [...] Read more.
Chitosan and technical cashew nutshell liquid (CNSLt) have emerged as promising natural compounds due to their antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and fermentation-modulating properties. This study aimed to evaluate the inclusion of chitosan and CNSLt as potential substitutes for the ionophore monensin on feed intake, ruminal fermentation, nitrogen balance, and microbial protein synthesis in steers. Five crossbred steers (Bos taurus), 18 months old with an average body weight of approximately 350 kg and fitted with permanent ruminal cannulas, were assigned to a 5 × 5 Latin square design. The experimental diets consisted of: (1) control (CON), (2) monensin (MON; 25 mg/kg of dry matter [DM]), (3) chitosan (CHI; ≥850 g/kg deacetylation degree, 375 mg/kg DM), (4) CNSLt (500 mg/kg DM), and (5) CNSLt + CHI (500 + 375 mg/kg DM). Supplementation with CHI or CNSLt + CHI reduced the intake of dry matter, crude protein, and neutral detergent fiber. Additionally, fecal excretion of whole corn kernels increased in these treatments. Ruminal fermentation parameters were affected, with the CNSLt + CHI treatment promoting higher molar proportions of propionate and acetate, along with reduced estimated methane emissions. However, purine derivatives, microbial protein synthesis, and nitrogen balance were not significantly affected by any of the treatments. These results suggest that CNSLt and CHI, particularly when combined, may serve as effective natural alternatives to monensin in high-grain diets for ruminants. Full article
21 pages, 2000 KiB  
Review
Gas Endeavour: An Innovative Equipment for Estimating Methane Kinetics During In Vitro Rumen Fermentation
by Rashid Iqbal, Sheyla Arango, Franco Tagliapietra and Lucia Bailoni
Animals 2025, 15(9), 1331; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15091331 - 5 May 2025
Viewed by 744
Abstract
The growing need to reduce methane emissions from ruminants while enhancing feed utilization has driven the development of innovative in vitro measurement techniques. This review examines the Gas Endeavour (GES), an automated volumetric apparatus that quantifies both total gas and methane production in [...] Read more.
The growing need to reduce methane emissions from ruminants while enhancing feed utilization has driven the development of innovative in vitro measurement techniques. This review examines the Gas Endeavour (GES), an automated volumetric apparatus that quantifies both total gas and methane production in real time during rumen fermentation. Utilizing the principles of liquid displacement and buoyancy, the GES integrates a thermostatically controlled water bath, specialized gas flow cells, and an alkaline CO2 absorption unit to deliver precise kinetic data on fermentation. Compared to conventional methods—which often rely on manual measurements and post-incubation gas chromatography—the GES provides continuous monitoring and immediate data acquisition, reducing labour and potential errors. This review discusses the system’s design, operational challenges such as controlling headspace pressure and ensuring consistent inoculum preparation, and its applications in both animal nutrition and biomethane potential assessments. The findings suggest that, with further standardization and protocol refinement, the GES could significantly advance research aimed at optimizing feed digestibility and mitigating methane emissions in ruminant production systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)
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17 pages, 2461 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Palm Kernel Cake Bioconversion with P. ostreatus: An Efficient Lignocellulosic Biomass Value-Adding Process for Ruminant Feed
by Aldo Ibarra-Rondón, Dinary Eloisa Durán-Sequeda, Andrea Carolina Castro-Pacheco, Pedro Fragoso-Castilla, Rolando Barahona-Rosales and José Edwin Mojica-Rodríguez
Fermentation 2025, 11(5), 251; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11050251 - 1 May 2025
Viewed by 697
Abstract
This study aims to optimize the bioconversion of palm kernel cake (PKC) by Pleurotus ostreatus to improve fungal biomass production, lignocellulolytic enzyme expression, and the nutritional value of the substrate as ruminant feed. Three inorganic nitrogen sources (ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate, and urea) [...] Read more.
This study aims to optimize the bioconversion of palm kernel cake (PKC) by Pleurotus ostreatus to improve fungal biomass production, lignocellulolytic enzyme expression, and the nutritional value of the substrate as ruminant feed. Three inorganic nitrogen sources (ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate, and urea) were evaluated for fungal biomass production using a central composite design (CCD) in liquid fermentations. The formulated culture medium (18.72 g/L glucose and 0.39 g/L urea) effectively yielded better fungal biomass production (8 g/L). Based on these results, an extreme vertex design, mixtures with oil palm by-products (PK, hull, and fiber) supplemented with urea, were formulated, finding that PKC stimulated the highest biomass production and laccase enzyme activity in P. ostreatus. The transcriptome of P. ostreatus was obtained, and the chemical composition of the fermented PKC was determined. Transcriptomic analysis revealed the frequency of five key domains with carbohydrate-activated enzyme (CAZy) function: GH3, GH18, CBM1, AA1, and AA5, with activities on lignocellulose. In the fermented PKC, lignin was reduced by 46.9%, and protein was increased by 69.8%. In conclusion, these results show that urea is efficient in the bioconversion of PKC with P. ostreatus as a supplement for ruminants. Full article
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18 pages, 1518 KiB  
Article
Adding Fruit Fermentation Liquid Improves the Efficiency of the Black Soldier Fly in Converting Chicken Manure and Reshapes the Structure of Its Intestinal Microbial Community
by Lifei Chen, Guiying Wang, Hanhan Song, Qi Yang, Jiani Fu, Jiale Liu, Haoyang Sun, Yuxi Wang, Qile Tian, Yuting Sun, Lei Sun, Hao Xin, Zuyin Xiao, Guoliang Wang, Zixuan Zhang, Yinling Zhao, Hongyan Yang and Lusheng Li
Insects 2025, 16(5), 472; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050472 - 29 Apr 2025
Viewed by 659
Abstract
This study evaluated how fruit fermentation liquid (FFL) enhances the conversion of chicken manure by black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) and modulates their gut microbiota. Three groups were tested: control (A: 300 g manure + 50 g water), low-dose FFL (B: 300 g [...] Read more.
This study evaluated how fruit fermentation liquid (FFL) enhances the conversion of chicken manure by black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) and modulates their gut microbiota. Three groups were tested: control (A: 300 g manure + 50 g water), low-dose FFL (B: 300 g manure + 25 g FFL + 25 g water), and high-dose FFL (C: 300 g manure + 50 g FFL). The results show that the dry matter conversion rate significantly increased by 9.5% (p < 0.05), while the feed-to-larvae ratio was reduced by 1.02 (p < 0.01) in group C. NH3 emissions in group C decreased by 24.48 mg·kg−1·DM (dry matter substrate) day−1 (24.48 mg per kilogram of dry matter substrate per day) (p < 0.01), with suppressed H2S release. Gut microbiota analysis revealed that FFL reduced the abundance of Proteobacteria (6.07% decrease in group C) while enriching Actinobacteriota (4.68% increase) and beneficial genera (Corynebacterium, Gallicola). Substrate microbial diversity in group C improved, with Proteobacteria and Firmicutes increasing by 11.07% and 4.83%, respectively, and pathogenic Sphingobacteriaceae declining by 21.16% by day 7. FFL likely introduced organic acids and nutrients, enhancing larval digestion and nutrient absorption while inhibiting the production of harmful gases. These findings demonstrate that FFL optimizes BSFL-driven waste conversion efficiency through modulation of the microbiota, offering a sustainable strategy for organic waste management and contributing to circular agricultural systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Role of Insects in Human Society)
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16 pages, 3921 KiB  
Article
Alleviating Effects of Ethanol Extract from Acremonium terricola Culture on Patulin Toxicity
by Haiyan Lin, Savindi Kaushalya Edirisinghe, Ijeoma Esther Okolo, Zhen Chen, Juan Sun, Wei Hong and Ruiyu Zhu
Antioxidants 2025, 14(5), 509; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14050509 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 543
Abstract
Exposure to patulin (PAT) poses a significant health risk to animals, emphasizing the need for natural, safe substances to mitigate toxicity. Acremonium terricola culture (ATC), a fungal fermentation-derived feed additive, is known for its antioxidant properties, yet its potential to alleviate mycotoxin-induced toxicity [...] Read more.
Exposure to patulin (PAT) poses a significant health risk to animals, emphasizing the need for natural, safe substances to mitigate toxicity. Acremonium terricola culture (ATC), a fungal fermentation-derived feed additive, is known for its antioxidant properties, yet its potential to alleviate mycotoxin-induced toxicity remains largely uninvestigated. In this study, the ethanol extracts from the ATC (EEAT) were prepared with a total phenolic content of 67.9 mg GAE/g and a total flavonoid content of 32.7 mg RE/g. Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS) analysis was employed to investigate the bioactive components in EEAT. In PAT-exposed Caenorhabditis elegans models, EEAT treatment significantly enhanced locomotory capacity and elevated antioxidant enzyme activities by 63.1% (SOD) and 90.1% (GSH-ST), respectively. Molecular docking analysis revealed that key active compounds in EEAT, such as coumarin, succinic acid, and trigonelline, exhibited effective binding affinities to potential targets SIR-2.1 and DAF-2. Notably, coumarin and trigonelline were most effective in alleviating PAT toxicity, as evidenced by rescued locomotor rates and oxidative impairment in C. elegans. Our findings not only elucidate the molecular basis of EEAT-mediated PAT mitigation but also establish A. terricola culture as a sustainable antioxidant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural and Synthetic Antioxidants)
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17 pages, 2645 KiB  
Article
Mathematical Modeling and Dynamic Simulation of a Tower Reactor for Intensified Ethanol Fermentation with Immobilized Yeasts and Simultaneous Gas Removal
by Dile Stremel, Valéria Pulitano and Samuel Oliveira
Processes 2025, 13(4), 1122; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13041122 - 8 Apr 2025
Viewed by 569
Abstract
A mathematical model was developed for the dynamic and static simulation of a continuous ethanol production process in a tower bioreactor packed with yeast cells immobilized in citrus pectin gel. To avoid accumulation of CO2 gas during the bioprocess, a vertical fixed [...] Read more.
A mathematical model was developed for the dynamic and static simulation of a continuous ethanol production process in a tower bioreactor packed with yeast cells immobilized in citrus pectin gel. To avoid accumulation of CO2 gas during the bioprocess, a vertical fixed bed bioreactor with a working volume of 0.245 L, divided into four stages and equipped with external gas–liquid separators was used. The performance of the bioreactor was evaluated through continuous fermentations using feed medium (sugarcane juice) with substrate concentrations of 161.4 and 312.5 g/L, temperature of 30 °C, pH 4.0 and hydraulic residence times of 5 and 6 h. The developed mathematical model takes into account mass flow by convection and dispersion axial, external and internal mass transfer to/within particle, Contois kinetics for cell growth with inhibition terms, cell death, and substrate consumption for cell maintenance. The partial differential equations regarding cell, substrate and product mass balances in the solid and fluid phase were solved by numerical methods. The calculated profiles of state variables in the fluid phase agreed satisfactorily with the experimental data. The diffusional resistances within particles concerning the substrate consumption rate were not significant, resulting in calculated values of the effectiveness factor close to one. Full article
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15 pages, 2974 KiB  
Article
Effects of Fermented Liquid Feed with Compound Probiotics on Growth Performance, Meat Quality, and Fecal Microbiota of Growing Pigs
by Mengting Ji, Xiaoyin Rong, Yifan Wu, Haonan Li, Xiaolei Zhao, Yan Zhao, Xiaohong Guo, Guoqing Cao, Yang Yang and Bugao Li
Animals 2025, 15(5), 733; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15050733 - 4 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1518
Abstract
Feed fermentation enhances feed nutrition and animal health, but its impact on the gut microbiota of young pigs remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a probiotic fermented feed, which includes Lactobacillus plantarum, Pediococcus pentosaceus, Bacillus subtilis, [...] Read more.
Feed fermentation enhances feed nutrition and animal health, but its impact on the gut microbiota of young pigs remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a probiotic fermented feed, which includes Lactobacillus plantarum, Pediococcus pentosaceus, Bacillus subtilis, and Bacillus coagulans, on the growth performance, meat quality, and intestinal microbiota of growing pigs. We randomly assigned 24 Duroc × Landrace × Landrace pigs to two groups: a control (Ctrl) group and the fermented liquid feed (FLF) group, with three replicate pens per group and four pigs per pen. Results indicated that the FLF group experienced a significant decrease in anti-nutritional factors like α-conglycinin and β-conglycinin. In addition, the average daily gain of pigs in the FLF group increased significantly, while the feed conversion ratio and shear force decreased. HE staining showed that the FLF group had notably enhanced villus height in the jejunum and ileum. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed a marked increase in the relative abundance of certain microbes in the FLF group, which were predominantly associated with carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism. These results indicated that compound probiotic FLF can elevate feed quality, enhance the growth performance of growing pigs, and ameliorate the structure of the gut microbiota. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)
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14 pages, 2741 KiB  
Article
Effect of Added Composite Bacteria on Fermentation Quality and Microbial Diversity of Mixed Microstorage of Reed Straw and Inferior Jujube
by Yaoqiang Sun, Ning Zhang, Yongbin Shao, Tengyu Wang, Wen Shen, Xinfeng Wang, Xinwen Sun and Dengke Hua
Fermentation 2025, 11(3), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11030113 - 28 Feb 2025
Viewed by 868
Abstract
Reed straw is a potential roughage resource that limits its application in livestock production due to its higher fiber content. Inferior jujube is widely used as a non-conventional feed in livestock production due to its high nutritional value. In this study, a two-factor [...] Read more.
Reed straw is a potential roughage resource that limits its application in livestock production due to its higher fiber content. Inferior jujube is widely used as a non-conventional feed in livestock production due to its high nutritional value. In this study, a two-factor experimental design was used to investigate the effects of fermentation with Composite A (BA) and Composite B (BB) under the condition that the dry matter ratio of reed straw to residual red dates was 1:1, and mixed microstorage was fermented for different times (0 d, 30 d, and 60 d) with the effects of nutrient indexes, fermentation quality, and microbial community dynamics changes. A control group (CON) was set up, six replicates were set up for each treatment, and the amount of bacteria added was 1% of the dry matter basis. The results showed that compared with the control group, both composite bacterial liquids could effectively reduce the nutrient loss of micro-silage feeds, in which with the addition of composite bacterium B (BB) treatment group at the end of fermentation, the crude protein (CP) content increased by 1.91%, and the neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and the acid detergent fiber (ADF) were reduced by 11.32% and 10.61%, respectively. The volatile fatty acid content was significantly higher than that of the control group, which was 26.41 μg·mL−1. The BB group had the highest abundance of Lacticaseibacillus during the fermentation process, which could produce a large amount of lactic acid and lower the pH to improve the quality of feed fermentation. In addition, the differences in the indexes were smaller in the BB group compared with the BA group, but the fermentation effect of the BB group was better than that of the BA group. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fermentation: 10th Anniversary)
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13 pages, 2738 KiB  
Article
Metabolomics Study Revealed the Effects of CaO-Treated Maize Straw on the Rumen Metabolites
by Hui Wang, Mingjun Shi, Zhanxia Ma, Xuewei Zhang, Huiyong Shan, Xiaofeng Xu, Suyu Quan, Junqin Zhang and Yujia Tian
Animals 2025, 15(5), 674; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15050674 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 563
Abstract
As an important limiting factor, lignin hinders the utilization rate of maize straw in ruminants. CaO treatment increases the feed digestibility of maize straw by disrupting the ester bonds between hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin in maize straw. Our previous research found that CaO [...] Read more.
As an important limiting factor, lignin hinders the utilization rate of maize straw in ruminants. CaO treatment increases the feed digestibility of maize straw by disrupting the ester bonds between hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin in maize straw. Our previous research found that CaO treatment of corn straw may increase its feed digestibility by altering the rumen microbes’ abundance. This study further investigated the molecular mechanism of CaO treatment to enhance feed utilization and also examined its ongoing effects on rumen metabolites. Rumen fluid was collected to analyze microbial metabolites using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) non-targeted metabolomics. Maize straw (moisture content of 60%) treated with four levels of CaO (0%, 3%, 5%, and 7%) was used as the fermentation substrate for a 6 h in vitro culture. Based on the effect of CaO-treated maize straw on the rumen microbial diversity, no significant differences were observed in microbial composition between the 0% and 3% treatment groups or between the 5% and 7% treatment groups. However, the microbial structure of the 0% and 3% treatment groups differed from that of the 5% and 7% groups. Therefore, the four levels were divided into a low-efficiency group (LE group: 0% and 3% levels) and a high-efficiency group (HE group: 5% and 7% levels) for principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). Compared with the LE group, most of the ruminal metabolites that showed increased levels in the HE group were products of lignin degradation. Among these differential metabolites, Dihydro-3-coumaric acid had a significant positive correlation with Prevotella and fermentation indicators like acetate, propionate, and butyrate. KEGG analysis showed differential metabolites were primarily enriched in the amino acid metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis, and cyanoamino acid metabolism. The higher CaO concentration in the HE group effectively disrupted most covalent bonds with lignin, significantly enhancing cellulose degradation and ultimately supporting improved rumen metabolism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Physiology)
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20 pages, 321 KiB  
Review
Enhancing the Nutritional Quality of Low-Grade Poultry Feed Ingredients Through Fermentation: A Review
by Jim Kioko Katu, Tamás Tóth and László Varga
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 476; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050476 - 22 Feb 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2209
Abstract
Feed accounts for up to 80% of poultry production costs, with high-quality grains such as soybean meal and corn traditionally serving as primary ingredients. However, increasing costs and competition for these grains have driven interest in low-grade and unconventional feed ingredients, including by-products [...] Read more.
Feed accounts for up to 80% of poultry production costs, with high-quality grains such as soybean meal and corn traditionally serving as primary ingredients. However, increasing costs and competition for these grains have driven interest in low-grade and unconventional feed ingredients, including by-products like rapeseed meal and cottonseed meal. These alternatives are often constrained by high fiber content, anti-nutritional factors, and reduced nutrient bioavailability. Fermentation has emerged as a promising strategy to address these limitations, enhancing digestibility, palatability, and antioxidant properties while degrading harmful compounds such as tannins, trypsin inhibitors, and free gossypol. Solid- and liquid-state fermentation techniques utilize microbial inoculants, including lactobacilli and Bacillus species, to enzymatically break down complex macromolecules, thereby releasing essential nutrients. When combined with pretreatments like enzymatic hydrolysis, fermentation significantly improves the nutritional quality of feed ingredients while reducing costs without compromising poultry health or performance. This review examines the mechanisms, benefits, and challenges of fermentation techniques in poultry feed production, underscoring the importance of further research to optimize fermentation parameters, identify novel microbial strains, and ensure scalability and safety in industrial applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Farm Animal Production)
13 pages, 300 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Rumen-Undegradable Protein via Processing Techniques in a Dual-Flow Continuous Culture System
by K. E. Loregian, M. J. Silva, S. B. Dourado, J. Guimarães, B. R. Amâncio, E. Magnani, T. H. Silva, R. H. Branco, P. Del Bianco Benedeti and E. M. Paula
Fermentation 2025, 11(2), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11020094 - 12 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1276
Abstract
The use of processing techniques to increase the rumen-undegradable protein (RUP) content of protein meals aims to enhance the nutritional performance of high-performance animals. This study evaluated the effects of various processing techniques applied to peanut and cottonseed meals on ruminal parameters using [...] Read more.
The use of processing techniques to increase the rumen-undegradable protein (RUP) content of protein meals aims to enhance the nutritional performance of high-performance animals. This study evaluated the effects of various processing techniques applied to peanut and cottonseed meals on ruminal parameters using a dual-flow continuous culture system. These two feeds were individually analyzed in two experiments, each one using five fermenters (1297 ± 33 mL) in a 5 × 5 Latin square arrangement with five periods of 10 d each, with 7 d for diet adaptation and 3 d for sample collections. Five treatments were evaluated in each experiment: no processed meal (control); meal thermally treated in an autoclave with xylose (autoclave); meal thermally treated in a conventional oven with xylose (oven); meal thermally treated in a microwave with xylose (microwave); and meal treated with tannin (tannin). All diets contained 60% concentrate (corn, minerals, and processed meal). Fermenters were fed 55 g of dry matter per day, divided equally into two meals at 06:00 and 18:00 h. The solid and liquid dilution rates were adjusted daily to 5.5% and 11% per hour, respectively. On days 8, 9, and 10, 500 mL samples of solid and liquid digesta effluent were collected, mixed, homogenized, and stored at −20 °C. Subsamples of 10 mL were preserved with 0.2 mL of a 50% H2SO4 solution for later determination of NH3-N and volatile fatty acids. Microbial biomass was isolated from the fermenters for chemical analysis at the end of each experimental period. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure in SAS with a significance level of α = 0.05. Regarding cottonseed meal, the tannin treatment tended to have a lower true digestibility of DM compared to the control, autoclave, and oven treatments (p = 0.09). Additionally, tannin fermenters exhibited a lower apparent digestibility of CP compared to all other treatments (p = 0.04). The tannin and microwave treatments resulted in the highest flow of dietary nitrogen and the lowest supply of RDP-N (p < 0.01). The control treatment had a greater flow of NH3-N compared to other treatments (p < 0.01). Regarding peanut meal, the autoclave and tannin treatments exhibited the highest acetate concentration (p = 0.03) and the lowest apparent digestibility of CP (p < 0.01). The tannin treatment increased the RUP content without impairing ruminal fermentation and exhibited a greater supply of RDP-N compared to all other treatments (p = 0.02). No significant differences were observed for the other digestibility and fermentation parameters (p > 0.20). Our results indicate that tannin inclusion and microwave processing were the most effective methods for reducing the protein fraction available in the rumen for cottonseed meal. Additionally, tannin inclusion increased the RUP in peanut meal without negatively affecting ruminal fermentation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ruminal Fermentation)
22 pages, 2718 KiB  
Article
Closing the Loop of Biowaste Composting by Anaerobically Co-Digesting Leachate, a By-Product from Composting, with Glycerine
by Thi Cam Tu Le, Katarzyna Bernat, Tomasz Pokój and Dorota Kulikowska
Energies 2025, 18(3), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18030537 - 24 Jan 2025
Viewed by 843
Abstract
To achieve the required recycling rates, organic recycling via composting should be widely introduced in Poland for selectively collected biowaste. However, this process not only produces compost but also leachate (LCB), a nitrogen- and organics-rich liquid by-product. So far there has [...] Read more.
To achieve the required recycling rates, organic recycling via composting should be widely introduced in Poland for selectively collected biowaste. However, this process not only produces compost but also leachate (LCB), a nitrogen- and organics-rich liquid by-product. So far there has been limited information on the application of anaerobic digestion (AD) for treating LCB, which has fermentative potential. However, for effective methane production (MP) via AD, the ratio of chemical oxygen demand to total Kjeldahl nitrogen (COD/TKN) and pH of LCB are too low; thus, it should be co-digested with other organics-rich waste, e.g., glycerine (G). The present study tested the effect of G content in feedstock (in the range of 3–5% (v/v)) on the effectiveness of co-digestion with LCB, based on MP and the removal of COD. MP was accessed by using an automatic methane potential test system (AMPTS). Regardless of the feedstock composition (LCB, or LCB with G), the efficiency of COD removal was over 91%. Co-digestion not only increased MP by 6–15%, but also the methane content in the biogas by 4–14% compared to LCB only (353 NL/kg CODadded, 55%). MP and COD removal proceeded in two phases. During co-digestion in the 1st phase, volatile fatty acids (VFA) accumulated up to 2800 mg/L and the pH decreased below 6.8. The presence of G altered the shares of individual VFA and promoted the accumulation of propionic acid in contrast to LCB only, where caproic acid predominated. An initial accumulation of propionic acid and acidification in the mixtures decreased the kinetic constants of MP (from 0.79 to 0.54 d−1) and the rate of COD removal (from 2193 to 1603 mg/(L·d)). In the 2nd phase, the pH recovered, VFA concentrations decreased, and MP was no longer limited by these factors. However, it should be noted that excessive amounts of G, especially in reactors with constant feeding, may cause VFA accumulation to a greater extent and create a toxic environment for methanogens, inhibiting biogas production. In contrast, digestion of LCB only may lead to ammonium buildup if the COD/TKN ratio of the feedstock is too low. Despite these limitations, the use of AD in the treatment of LCB as a sustainable “closed-loop nutrient” technology closes the loop in composting of biowaste. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Challenges in Waste-to-Energy and Bioenergy Systems)
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16 pages, 3129 KiB  
Article
Fed-Batch Strategy Achieves the Production of High Concentration Fermentable Sugar Solution and Cellulosic Ethanol from Pretreated Corn Stover and Corn Cob
by Jiamin Huang, Xuezhi Li, Jian Zhao and Yinbo Qu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(22), 12306; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252212306 - 16 Nov 2024
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Abstract
The bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomass, which are abundant and renewable resources, into liquid fuels and bulk chemicals is a promising solution to the current challenges of resource scarcity, energy crisis, and carbon emissions. Considering the separation of some end-products, it is necessary to [...] Read more.
The bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomass, which are abundant and renewable resources, into liquid fuels and bulk chemicals is a promising solution to the current challenges of resource scarcity, energy crisis, and carbon emissions. Considering the separation of some end-products, it is necessary to firstly obtain a high concentration separated fermentable sugar solution, and then conduct fermentation. For this purpose, in this study, using acid catalyzed steam explosion pretreated corn stover (ACSE-CS) and corn cob residues (CCR) as cellulosic substrate, respectively, the batch feeding strategies and enzymatic hydrolysis conditions were investigated to achieve the efficient enzymatic hydrolysis at high solid loading. It was shown that the fermentable sugar solutions of 161.2 g/L and 205 g/L were obtained, respectively, by fed-batch enzymatic hydrolysis of ACSE-CS under 30% of final solid loading with 10 FPU/g DM of crude cellulase, and of CCR at 27% of final solid loading with 8 FPU/g DM of crude cellulase, which have the potential to be directly applied to the large-scale fermentation process without the need for concentration, and the conversion of glucan in ACSE-CS and CCR reached 80.9% and 87.6%, respectively, at 72 h of enzymatic hydrolysis. This study also applied the fed-batch simultaneous saccharification and co-fermentation process to effectively convert the two cellulosic substrates into ethanol, and the ethanol concentrations in fermentation broth reached 46.1 g/L and 72.8 g/L for ACSE-CS and CCR, respectively, at 144 h of fermentation. This study provides a valuable reference for the establishment of “sugar platform” based on lignocellulosic biomass and the production of cellulosic ethanol. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Valorization of Lignocellulosic Biomass)
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