Research project examines duckweed as a soy substitute in animal feed

2023-10-10 05:50:39

The so-called duckweed can double its biomass very quickly, is rich in protein and can be grown locally.

The plant, which is actually called small duckweed, might therefore also be used for animal feed – as a substitute for soy. Scientists and companies are currently investigating this under the leadership of the University of Vechta (Lower Saxony). Animal feed consists partly of soybeans, and they mainly come from South America. According to the nature conservation organization WWF, the cultivation of fodder soy is a major factor in the destruction of local ecosystems.

For this reason, regional alternatives to protein-rich soy are being sought. One might be duckweed. “It is often underestimated,” says project coordinator Beata Punte. “It has at least as high a protein content as soy.” The EU-funded “ReWali” project will run until spring 2025. The plant is often called duckweed because ducks like to eat it.

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