Livestock is one of the corn grower’s most important customers, consuming more than 41 percent of all U.S. corn, including the supply of distillers grains, which are produced by corn ethanol plants.

In Nebraska, livestock production is the engine that powers the state’s economy. It is a more than $7.5 billion industry that is fundamental to the well-being of Nebraska – and contributes in some way to the financial health of every Nebraskan.

About 16 percent of the Nebraska’s corn crop is fed to livestock within Nebraska, with the bulk of that (more than 70 percent) going to beef cattle.

In total, though, about 40 percent of the corn grown in Nebraska is fed to livestock somewhere in the United States or around the world.

Another major user of corn is ethanol – but one-third of every bushel used in ethanol production comes back as distillers grains, an outstanding feed ingredient. Nebraska ethanol plants only use the starch portion of the kernel, returning the other components to the livestock industries as a high protein feed ingredient.

Learn more about the different types of cattle feed created during ethanol production and corn farming processes.

Distillers grain is an ethanol byproduct containing leftover solubles and starches. This byproduct provides a great source of protein, fiber and fat in cattle feed. There are three different types:

• Wet distillers grain—contains up to 70% moisture, which means it has a shorter shelf life and is typically used locally to an ethanol plant.
• Modified distillers grain—partially dry version of wet distillers grain that typically has a higher protein and energy content than wet distillers grain.
• Dried distillers’ grain—contains up to 12% moisture, which allows it a longer shelf life and the ability to be shipped much further.

Corn gluten feed is a byproduct of the corn dry milling and ethanol production processes. It’s made up primarily of protein and carbohydrates, which makes a great feed supplement for cattle. It has several benefits, including being low in phosphorus content which contributes to better growth, as well as providing essential amino acids for proper nutrition.

Silage is made from grass, grains and other plant material that’s fermented and stored as part of livestock feed. It’s a rich source of energy, protein, minerals and vitamins for dairy and beef cattle.

Nebraska has more than 5,000 feed yards willing to work with cow-calf producers interested in retaining ownership or partnering on their feeder cattle. They offer competitive feeding rations from the quality feedstuffs available in the state.

Included here are Nebraska traders and merchandisers who handle the corn co-products distillers grains and corn gluten feed. Please contact the merchandisers directly for pricing and specs.