Sorghum grain as a replacement for corn in poultry diets

Sorghum grain can be a viable replacement for corn in poultry diets.

Poultry diets must contain a large percentage of cereal grains that provide protein and energy within the ration. Rations, in general, include corn, wheat, barley, rice and sorghum.

The new varieties of sorghum are an excellent source of protein and energy for broilers, laying hens, turkeys and waterfowl.

Some sorghum users consider that the cultivation of sorghum generates a lower environmental impact compared to other cereals that require large amounts of moisture and fertilizers.

Nutritional Characteristics

Both the nutritional profile and amino acid digestibility of sorghum are very similar to corn, especially when considering new varieties.

The fat content of the sorghum grain and therefore its energy value is slightly lower compared to corn.

In turn, sorghum contains lower amounts of xanthophylls required for the pigmentation of the yolk and skin of broilers.

In that case, other sources of pigments such as calendula oil, yeast products, synthetic compounds and even corn-based DDGS can be used. These are widely available and can often be included in rations at a minimal cost.

Another feature of sorghum is that it contains a little more available phosphorus. Due to these characteristics, when sorghum is valued at competitive prices, it can be used to replace corn at levels of up to 70% in broilers and layers.

Today’s sorghum

Current varieties of sorghum compare more favorably with maize in lower-cost food formulations. Ancient varieties of sorghum contained relatively high amounts of anti-nutritional compounds called tannins.

The presence of tannins in poultry feed is well known as they suppress the growth and
yield of all types of poultry. This is due to the fact that tannins bind to proteins and make them less available for metabolism. However, nowadays there are “low tannin” or “99% tannin-free” varieties.