A biodiesel residue with potential for livestock

In the use of vegetable oils for the production of biofuels, a byproduct is generated, glycerol, a viscous, colorless, odorless, sweet-tasting, water-soluble alcohol. But a large proportion of glycerol ends up becoming a productive residue, which is discarded in the environment, as there are no alternatives for its use. In that sense, in order to achieve added value for this "productive residue," years ago, from a company that, among various activities, produces biodiesel, proposed to professionals from INTA Colonia Benítez the possibility of seeking alternatives for the use of the glycerol generated in their facilities. In response to this, and taking into account the energy content of glycerol, it was proposed to study its use in the feeding of fattening steers. Thus, a project was developed in conjunction between INTA Colonia Benítez and the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences of the UNNE, which demonstrated the feasibility of including up to 12% glycerol in the diet of crossbred ...