GrassValue: Miscanthus Xylo-oligosaccharides for Enhanced Feed Efficiency and Fibres for Climate-Friendly Construction
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Short description The GrassValue project aims to unlock the full potential of Miscanthus biomass by developing innovative value chains that integrate sustainable agriculture, animal nutrition, and climate-friendly construction materials. The project investigates the production and application of xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS) derived from Miscanthus as a prebiotic feed additive for poultry. XOS have the potential to improve gut health, enhance feed efficiency, and reduce reliance on conventional grain-based feed resources, thereby contributing to more resource-efficient livestock production. A key innovation of GrassValue is the cascade utilisation of the entire Miscanthus plant. XOS are extracted from the hemicellulose fraction and evaluated as a functional feed ingredient, while the remaining lignocellulosic fibres are further processed into bio-based construction materials. This integrated approach enables the substitution of fossil-based and mineral resources, promotes long-term biogenic carbon storage, and establishes a circular bioeconomy pathway for regionally produced biomass. The project brings together Miscanthus cultivation, biomass processing, poultry feeding trials, and the development of innovative fibre-based materials. Through comprehensive ecological, economic, and technical assessments, GrassValue evaluates the sustainability, market potential, and practical feasibility of establishing alternative Miscanthus-based value chains. The project aims to create new opportunities for agricultural diversification while supporting the transition towards climate-resilient and resource-efficient production systems. Project duration June 2026 to December 2029 Staff involved Rakesh Bhatia, John Clifton-Brown, Lucas Kohl, Robert Ringseis Collaboration Partners Professur für Nachhaltige und Funktionelle Tierernährung, JLU Giessen Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen Hof Niederfeld WällerBioEi Bioland Geflügelhof Roth Technical Service Kuehn GmbH Hof Buchenhain Hainbuchenhof Universität Bonn Internationale Vereinigung für Miscanthus Beck+Heun GmbH Meyerhof zu Bakum GmbH Arcitekbio Ltd. Bio Frischgeflügel Roth GmbH & Co. KG
Funding Programm Europäische Innovationspartnerschaft für Produktivität und Nachhaltigkeit in der Landwirtschaft (EIP-Agri) Funding Body European Commission and the Hessian Ministry for the Environment, Climate Protection, Agriculture and Consumer Protection. |
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