Improving saccharification and fermentation methods for dairy concentrates
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Feed Modulation for Dairy Cows

To improve the nutritional value of dairy cow feed and make it more palatable, various types of concentrates such as sorghum noodles, corn flour, wheat bran, and rice bran can be treated to increase their sugar content. This process involves saccharification, which converts part of the starch into maltose, making the feed sweeter and more appealing to cows. The sugar content can be raised from 1% to as high as 10%, significantly enhancing its attractiveness and digestibility.

Preparation Method

The saccharified feeds, including corn and sorghum, are first crushed and placed into wooden barrels or cylindrical containers. A suitable amount of salt and minerals is added and thoroughly mixed. Each layer should be about 0.5 centimeters thick, with one part of feed combined with 2.0 to 2.5 parts of boiled hot water. While stirring continuously to ensure even heating, the mixture is leveled and layered carefully. Once filled, cover the top with a layer of rice bran or sacks, close the lid tightly, and keep it in a warm environment to support the saccharification process. Adding a small amount of malt during this stage can accelerate the conversion of starch into sugars.

Important Considerations

During the saccharification process, maintaining a stable temperature is crucial. The ideal temperature range is between 55°C and 65°C, and the process usually takes 3 to 4 hours. If the ambient temperature is low, the time may need to be extended accordingly. Once the feed becomes sweet and slightly sour, it should be fed immediately to prevent spoilage. Due to the fast nature of saccharification, it's important to plan feed production based on the number of cows, daily feed requirements, and room temperature. Batch processing and continuous feeding are recommended to maintain quality and efficiency.

Fermented Feed Preparation

Seed Fermentation

Since commercial yeast can be expensive, it's cost-effective to prepare a yeast starter before fermenting large quantities of feed. For example, using 100 kg of feed, take 0.6 to 1.0 kg of baker’s yeast and mix it with 45 to 50 liters of warm water (between 40°C and 50°C) to create a slurry. Add this to 20 kg of corn, sorghum, and bran, and stir for 20 to 30 minutes. Let it rest at room temperature for 4 to 6 hours. Then add 100 to 150 liters of water and the remaining 80 kg of concentrate, stirring every hour for 6 to 9 hours to complete the fermentation.

Direct Fermentation

Start by adding 160 to 200 liters of water to the fermentation tank. Dilute 0.5 to 1.0 kg of baker’s yeast in 5 liters of warm water and mix it into 100 kg of concentrate. Stir every 30 minutes for 6 to 9 hours until the fermentation is complete.

Yeast Fermentation Process

Begin by using yeast as an enzyme catalyst. In 40 kg of mash feed, add 1 kg of yeast and stir every 20 to 25 minutes for 6 hours to prepare the "enzyme." Then, mix 20 kg of this enzyme with 110 to 150 liters of warm water and 80 kg of feed for further fermentation. The remaining 20 kg of enzyme can be used to treat another batch of saccharified feed, allowing for multiple fermentation cycles—up to five times in succession. This method not only improves feed quality but also enhances digestion and nutrient absorption in dairy cattle.

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