Current research projects
This project evaluates the entire chicken fattening value chain using insect protein regarding the ecological and economic sustainability. The interdisciplinary research project is supported by 6 partners. In the sub-project at the University of Göttingen, impacts of the feed substrate of the insects on the feeding value of insect protein is evaluated and application limits are determined. The other project partners deal with various questions about the influences of the feed substrate on the development of insects, the product quality of the obtained animal foods and conduct economic and ecological assessments along the entire value chain.
- Project start: 2024
- Funded by: StMELF
- Principal investigator: Dr. Philipp Hofmann (LfL Kitzingen)
Reducing dietary crude protein concentrations with adequate amino acid supply of animals is desirable because negative effects of livestock farming on the environment are decreased. The proportion of free amino acids in diets needed to meet the amino acid requirement of the animals is increased with reduced crude protein concentration. The aim of this project is to investigate metabolic adaptations to high proportions of free amino acids in the feed and to determine adaptation limits. Along with effects on growth and efficiency of nutrient utilization, the focus is on the amino acids asparagine and glutamine, the acid-base balance, and blood metabolites providing information on adaptive processes. The project is primarily carried out at Prof. Siegert's former place of work, the University of Hohenheim.
- Project start: 2020
- Funded by: DFG
- Principal investigator : Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Siegert
In order to be able to optimise compound feeds for poultry, it is necessary to know the digestibility of the individual amino acids and other nutrients from the feed ingredients used. By adapting the compound feed to the animals' need for amino acids, both the use of expensive protein feed and the excretion of N-containing compounds can be minimised. In a series of projects, the amino acid digestibility of feedstuffs is determined with caecectomised hens under standardised conditions and with a proven methodical approach.
- Project status: ongoing