New source of protein for chickens: Grass and grassland cuttings [11.08.23]
Researchers at the University of Hohenheim want to utilize a previously largely untapped source of protein: grass and other grassland plants. Using laying hens as an example, in the GruenProHen project they are investigating how grassland cuttings can also be made usable for livestock other than ruminants such as cattle or sheep. The Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL) is funding the project with a total of 360,000 euros.
Grass and other grassland plants represent a previously underestimated protein resource. However, only ruminants such as cattle and sheep can utilize this protein directly. However, if it is separated from its plant structure, it is in principle also suitable as animal feed for non-ruminants, such as chickens.
This grassland protein extract is obtained from grassland cuttings, whose composition differs due to the different plants and environmental influences. Researchers in the GruenProHen project are investigating what effects this has on the composition of the protein extract and how it influences its usability by laying hens.
The researchers are particularly interested in two factors that have a significant influence on the yield, botanical composition, and constituents of grassland growths: the fertilization and the frequency with which the areas are cut. For example, extensive management generally involves fewer cuts than more intensive use.
The researchers are paying particular attention to the protein quality of the extract produced, i.e., the concentration and digestibility of the amino acids, on the one hand, and the protein yield achieved from the area, on the other.
The project is a joint effort of the departments Animal Nutrition, Conversion Technologies of Biobased Resources, and Process Engineering and Food Powders. Prof. Dr. Markus Rodehutscord and Dr. Wolfgang Siegert from the Department of Animal Nutrition are the principal investigators.
Project profile
- Title: Assessment of protein extracts from grassland growths for feeding to chickens – GruenProHen
- Funding amount: 359,218 euros
- Funding institution: Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL) as part of the federal programme Organic Farming
- Duration: 1 April 2023 – 31 March 2026
- Project participants: Prof. Dr. Markus Rodehutscord and Dr. Wolfgang Siegert from the Department of Animal Nutrition (principal investigators9, Prof. Dr. Andrea Kruse from the Department of Conversion Technologies of Biobased Resources, and Prof. Dr.-Ing. Reinhard Kohlus from the Department of Process Engineering and Food Powders
- Website
Use of animals at the University of Hohenheim
The University of Hohenheim is the first signatory of the nationwide Transparent Animal Testing initiative launched in 2021. Gaining and imparting knowledge for the benefit of all living beings and for the protection of our planet will not be possible in the foreseeable future without research and teaching with animals. Society, legislators, and the University of Hohenheim itself apply very strict standards to working with animals: In 2017, the University created guidelines in which it continues to acknowledge the need for animal testing, but also commits to reduce, mitigate, and transparently inform the public about this testing.
Contact
Prof. Dr. Markus Rodehutscord, University of Hohenheim, Department of Animal Nutrition, +49 711 459-22420, E-mail
Heavily funded research projects
The series “Heavily funded research projects” presents outstanding research projects with a financial volume of at least 350,000 euros for research requiring equipment or 150,000 euros for research without specialized equipment.
