Location: Plant Genetics Research
Project Number: 5070-21000-044-012-A
Project Type: Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Oct 1, 2022
End Date: Mar 31, 2024
Objective:
Soybean is the preferred protein source for both poultry and swine feed. Livestock producers and animal nutritionist expect a complete ration that focus not only on the protein content but also supplies adequate quantities of essential amino acids. One of the major concerns for soybean meal is the deficiency in the sulfur containing amino acids (methionine and cysteine). In addition to protein quality the recent trend of lower levels of protein concentration among soybean cultivars possess an additional challenge. Recently, we have developed experimental soybean lines that not only contain significantly higher amounts of protein (42-45%) but also improved sulfur amino acid content (60 -70% higher). Here, we are proposing a feed trail project aimed at evaluating the potential of these newly developed soybean lines with high protein and high sulfur amino acid content to promote gain and feed efficiency of poultry.
Approach:
Seeds of experimental soybean lines containing higher levels of protein with improved sulfur amino acid content will be multiplied at cooperator's farm. Seeds will be harvested, and initial biochemical analysis will be performed. Protein concentration will be measured using nitrogen analyzer and amino acids will be measured by HPLC. Soy meal prepared from these experimental lines will be utilized for poultry feed trails.
