LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — Sorghum growers could gain a new poultry feed market from hybrids developed to help reduce disease pressure in poultry operations. The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research says research partners are preparing a disease-suppressing sorghum hybrid for wider commercial use.
The foundation partnered with Clemson University and Carolina Seed Systems after researchers identified sorghum hybrids containing compounds that suppress poultry disease. The project moved through large-scale screening, on-farm grower pilots, and controlled feeding trials with industry partners.
The approach could give farmers another marketing opportunity while helping poultry integrators manage feed and animal-health costs. Carolina Seed Systems is positioned to commercialize the hybrid through direct seed sales and use in poultry feed.
The foundation reports that an economic analysis found cost savings for producers using the sorghum varieties and additional gains for the poultry sector. At base adoption levels, the project is estimated to return $95 to $138 over 10 years for each research dollar invested.
The next step is adoption by growers and feed users. Commercial performance will determine whether the specialty sorghum market can expand across poultry-producing regions.
