Fatty acids in brewers' spent grains
In addition to fat as a safe energy source, the content of fatty acids in brewers' spent grains is also important. Among others, it contains:
- Oleic acid, which has a protective function for fat structures, including the important fat pad in the hooves of cattle—critical for the prevention of laminitis
- Palmitic acid (C16:0), which helps stabilize milk fat
Fibre fermentation in the rumen produces less heat
It does not elevate body temperature as much as the fermentation of starch. The fibre in brewers grains is highly digestible, providing dairy cows or fattening cattle with sufficient energy to maintain milk production or daily weight gains, while reducing internal heat production and the negative effects associated with overheating.
Additional advantages
Increases palatability of the feed ration and supports dry matter intake
Contains a significant amount of rumen undegradable “bypass” protein