Summary of the Value of Distillers Grains Plus Solubles for Feedlot Cattle

Authors: Rebecca L McDermott, Jim C. MacDonald, Galen Edward Erickson
Cited by: 0

Abstract

Summary with Implications An analysis of over 6,100 head of finishing cattle across 50 experiments was conducted to determine the feeding value of full-fat and de-oiled distillers grains. This analysis was limited to studies where dry-rolled corn, high-moisture corn, or a combination of the two corn processing methods were displaced by 15% or more distillers grains. Dry distillers grains plus solubles (DDGS), modified distillers grains plus solubles (MDGS), and wet distillers grains plus solubles (WDGS) were evaluated as either full-fat or de-oiled. The feeding value of distillers grains was assessed relative to a corn-based control diet containing no distillers. Results indicate that removing fat from distillers grains reduces its feeding value by 8 percentage units, from 120.7% to 112.8%, across all distillers types. Additionally, feeding WDGS results in improved feed conversions compared to MDGS which is improved compared to DDGS.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Ruminant Nutrition and Digestive Physiology Odor and Emission Control Technologies Animal Behavior and Welfare Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Lincoln (University of Nebraska)
Publication date
1 January 2026