Why Rice DDGS Is A Smart Choice For Farmers?
8 Oct 2025 - Admin
Rice DDGS has many benefits and is considered a smart choice for farmers. This is because of many factors, including the high nutritional value present in rice DDGS. Farmers benefit economically by choosing rice DDGS as the ultimate animal feed. Rice DDGS are cost-effective, which farmers prefer. But that’s not all, Rice DDGS actually also promotes sustainable agriculture. A byproduct of the rice-based ethanol industry, it also benefits the animals. A balanced nutrient profile is offered through rice DDGS for different livestock.
Did you know that rice DDGS is a smart choice for farmers? This blog has discussed that very topic, explaining Rice DDGS as a smart choice.
Global Rice DDGS Statistics
Production And Supply –
- The global DDGS actually exceeds its production with 45 million metric tonnes yearly.
- Primarily from Asia, rice-based DDGS actually dominates the field by contributing 6–8 million tonnes.
- Production of GGDS is growing globally, which can be seen through the numbers. The compound annual growth rate at which the growth is happening is 9–10%.
- India is a country that is known for DDGS production by contributing 40% of the global rice DDGS output.
These are some of the other top producers of DDGS:
- China
- Thailand
- Vietnam
Global Demand & Usage Trends –
- Poultry feed accounts for around 65% of total DDGS usage globally.
- Cattle and aquaculture sectors have also shown growth in demand in developing countries.
- If you look at the numbers, then the annual demand growth rate of both of these sectors is 8–12%.
What Is The Energy Of Rice DDGS?
Gross Energy (GE):
It has been reported by studies that this DDGS, in particular, has 4100–4200 kcal/kg GE.
Metabolizable Energy (ME):
It could range from 2500 to 2800 kcal/kg in ME.
What Makes Rice DDGS A Smart Choice For Farmers?
Cost-effective Alternative To Conventional Feeds –
Feed costs account for a big portion of farming expenses, where Rice DDGS helps. Rice DDGS, in particular, is cost-effective and helps the farmers economically. This animal feed can substantially reduce these outlays by benefiting the farmers.
Lower price point:
Conventional protein sources are generally more expensive, making it difficult for farmers to afford them. But Rice DDGS is often priced lower than sources like soya bean.
Reduced feed costs:
Replacing a portion of traditional feeds with Rice DDGS can lower the overall feed cost per unit. This makes the production of it more economical. There have been some studies on these cases, where replacing soybean meal actually reduces lamb weight.
High Nutritional Value –
Despite being a byproduct, Rice DDGS provides nutrition by supporting the growth of livestock. Rice DDGS retains a concentrated profile that also supports the productivity of livestock.
High protein:
It contains a high percentage of crude protein, which is its specialty. This production ranges from 28% to 48%, depending on the grade for:
- Muscle development
- Milk production
- Egg laying
Energy-rich:
For daily animal activity, Rice DDGS provides a good source of energy. In Rice DDGS, the residual fat and digestible fiber are responsible for that energy.
Essential minerals and vitamins:
Rice DDGS can also actually reduce the need for costly phosphorus supplements. This is because Rice DDGS is a source of minerals, including bioavailable phosphorus. It also contains various B vitamins.
Improved digestion:
Digestion is improved as Rice DDGS promotes a healthy gut microbiome.
Sustainable And Eco-friendly Farming –
The use of Rice DDGS promotes sustainable farming practices, which is a plus point. Sustainable farming is actually becoming important for modern agriculture.
Waste reduction:
It upcycles a byproduct of the ethanol industry, reducing wastage. A circular economy is promoted with Rice DDGS, which benefits farmers.
Reduced environmental impact:
By using recycled materials, farmers can be less dependent on energy-intensive crops.
Supports resource efficiency:
DDGS production utilizes resources more efficiently, as the animal feed becomes of value.
Conclusion
Rice DDGS has many benefits for different livestock and farmers, due to some factors. Choosing Rice DDGS stands out as a smart choice for farmers, as it is economical. It is a nutritional product for animal feed because of its high protein content. Rice DDGS not only benefits farmers, but also the environment by reducing wastage.
FAQs
Q – What’s the actual difference between maize DDGS and rice DDGS?
A – The actual and the main difference between maize and rice DDGS is the protein content. Rice DDGS actually has more protein content when compared with Maize DDGS, which is why it is preferred.
Q – What’s the GST rate of Rice DDGS?
A – The GST rate of Rice DDGS is actually 5% in India.
Q – What is Rice DDGS really?
A – It is a co-product of the rice milling industry, which has many benefits for farmers.
Q – What does the future of DDGS look like?
A – The future of DDGS looks promising as the market may keep growing from 2026 to 2033.