ARS | Publication request: Characterization of Physical, Chemical, and Flow Properties of Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS) and DDGS Extrudates

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: October 15, 2007
Publication Date: November 14, 2007
Citation: Muthukumarappan, K., Ganesan, V., Bhadra, R., Kannadhason, S., Rosentrater, K.A. 2007. Characterization of Physical, Chemical, and Flow Properties of Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS) and DDGS Extrudates. 2nd Annual Pacific Rim Summit on Industrial Biotechnology and Bioenergy.

Technical Abstract: Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) is the main coproduct from dry grind ethanol manufacturing. Significant quantities of distillers grains are being produced due to the increased demand for ethanol as a fuel additive. Marketing of distillers grains, however, is hampered by inconsistencies in physical and chemical properties, and also due to poor flowability. To effectively utilize DDGS, characterization of its physical, chemical, and flow properties are necessary. Also, it is essential to find new ways to improve the value of DDGS. Currently, there is growing interest in utilizing DDGS as a base material for fish feed production through extrusion cooking. To address these issues, the objectives of this study are of three-fold: 1) To determine the effect of various levels of soluble content, moisture content, anti-caking agents, and consolidation pressures on the resulting flow properties of DDGS; 2) To characterize the physical properties (moisture content, water activity, bulk density, thermal properties, color scales, angle of repose, and energy content) and chemical properties (protein, fat, fiber, ash, residual starch, and glucose contents) of DDGS; 3) To combine DDGS with other feed materials to produce balanced diets appropriate for aquaculture rations, to compare the effect of various starch sources (cassava, corn, and potato) on functionality, and to examine extrusion processing conditions such as screw speed, barrel temperature, and feed moisture contents, on the resulting properties of DDGS-based extrudates. By comprehensively examining the properties of DDGS, and pursuing potential routes for value-added processing, we can add value to DDGS and improve its utilization. This will become increasingly important as the fuel ethanol industry continues to grow.