Ludhiana, August 21, 2024 – Dairy Dimension is pleased to report on the successful DDGS Yatra seminar held today in Ludhiana, focusing on the theme “Feed of the Future, For India, By India.” Organized by the All India Distillers Association (AIDA) in collaboration with the Department of Animal Nutrition at GADVASU, the seminar gathered nearly 190 participants from various sectors of the animal feed industry. The event was supported by key partners including CLFMA of India, GEMA, Novonesis, and the Animal Nutrition Society of India.
The seminar aimed to bring together industry stakeholders to explore the potential of Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS) as a sustainable and high-quality protein source for animal feed, emphasizing its importance in the context of India’s growing ethanol industry.
The event began with a welcome by Dr. Parminder Singh, Additional Director of Extension Education, followed by an opening address from Dr. Parkash Singh Brar, Director of Extension Education, who introduced GADVASU’s role in advancing animal nutrition research. Dr. Inderjeet Singh, Honourable Vice-Chancellor, honored the esteemed guests and speakers, setting the stage for a day of insightful discussions.
A key presentation by Mr. Sunil Dugggal of AIDA highlighted the Government of India’s Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP), which aims to achieve 20% ethanol blending with petrol by 2025/26. Currently, the country has reached 13.5%, with a target of 15% for FY 2023/24. He explained how DDGS, a byproduct of ethanol production from maize and rice, can provide a reliable and economical protein source for feed millers, particularly in regions like Punjab and Haryana, where ethanol production is concentrated.
Dr. H. S. Jat, Director of ICAR Indian Institute of Research on Maize, provided an in-depth analysis of India’s maize production strategy, predicting an increase from 38 MMT to 45 MMT by 2030. He emphasized the role of maize in ethanol production and discussed methods to reduce aflatoxin contamination, a critical factor for maintaining DDGS quality in animal feeds.
Dr. Rajiv Thakur, Lead – Fresh Milk Sourcing at Nestle India Ltd., addressed the significance of high-quality cattle feed in enhancing milk production. He discussed the impact of aflatoxin on cow productivity and milk quality, advocating for strict quality controls to ensure aflatoxin levels in DDGS remain below 20 ppb.
Dr. Amit Kumar Sharma, Assistant Professor at GADVASU, shared insights on the utilization of DDGS in animal feeds, addressing the challenges of variable quality and the importance of proper storage to prevent oxidation and contamination. He also highlighted the nutritional benefits of DDGS for dairy animals, including its role as a source of Rumen Undegradable Protein and highly digestible fiber.
The seminar concluded with discussions led by Mr. BH Mohan of Novonesis, who spoke about innovative biotechnological solutions to enhance the quality and protein content of corn DDGS, and Mr. Munish Sharma and Mr. Ashok Kumar of the Punjab Feed Manufacturers Association, who discussed the challenges faced by dairy farmers and feed millers in adopting DDGS.
The event ended with a vote of thanks from Dr. APS Sethi, President of the Animal Nutrition Society of India, who appreciated the efforts of AIDA and all partners in organizing this impactful seminar.
Dairy Dimension will continue to follow the developments in the DDGS sector and its implications for the future of animal feed in India.
