With the ethanol industry traditionally dominated by corn, many are beginning to explore alternatives.
The National Sorghum Producers discusses the growing potential of sorghum, or milo, as a viable feedstock for ethanol.
According to Matt Durler, “The starch structure of corn sodium is essentially the same. So, they can grind them both in the same bin if they choose to. Several of the plants segretate those, but basically fully fungible. Now, we do have a little bit more bound protein in starch matrix and sorghum, so we use a little different enzyme cocktail initially. But today is plants look to separate the corn oil from the distiller’s grains, pretty much the enzyme cocktail is the same amongst the plants too. So, we have a lot of flexibility, and we look at corn and sorghum as feedstocks, there’s a little more protein in sorghum coming into the plant. A Little more fat in the corn. So different revenue opportunity for the corn oil. Also, different opportunity in the animal feed because the enhanced protein coming from sodium distillers, but largely similar.”
Dusrler says that sorghum offers added benefits, including antioxidant value and increased food-grade sodium. It is also a versatile crop that can be used for both entaol production and feed, particularly in regions like Kansas where it fits well into crop rotation with cotton, wheat, and corn.
Analysts say a Supreme Court decision on tariffs could reshape protein markets, strain U.S.-China trade, and force farmers to rethink global demand strategies.
January 21, 2026 12:03 PM
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Wayne Cockrell with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association joined us to discuss preparedness, producer awareness, and the industry’s response to New World screwworm concerns.
January 21, 2026 12:00 PM
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President Donald Trump speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, addressing SNAP spending, tariff threats against Europe, market reactions, and the upcoming USMCA review.
January 21, 2026 11:50 AM
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Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
January 20, 2026 02:47 PM
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Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
January 20, 2026 02:04 PM
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Congressional leaders signal momentum toward expanded, targeted farm aid to help producers manage losses and cash-flow stress in 2026.
January 20, 2026 11:48 AM
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