Spent several years developing an antibiotic-free process to produce ethanol

8/30/2011

Following an adjustment in their production process, POET is now selling certified antibiotic-free dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS).

POET produces ethanol from starch in the corn kernel. DDGS is a high-value co-product of the non-fermentables in corn, such as protein, oil and other nutrients. POET annually sells over four million tons of Dakota Gold® DDGS to a variety of animal feed markets.

On rare occasions, the chemistry of fermentation can be disrupted and an antimicrobial agent is used to control the contamination. For the last few years, POET had been developing and testing a new process that eliminates the need for antibiotics to control fermentation disruptions. The testing was done with participation of egg-farming customers and support from the United Egg Producers (UEP).

"POET partnered with UEP in a recently completed study showing that adding DDGS to layer diets can dramatically reduce ammonia emissions from the farm," said Chad Gregory, Senior Vice President at United Egg Producers. "Their antibiotic-free process is another example that demonstrates POET's commitment to animal agriculture."

"Since it was introduced more than 15 years ago, Dakota Gold has built a reputation for consistency and quality," said Mark Giesemann, Ph.D., Director of Technical Services at POET Nutrition. "We had to ensure that any adjustments in our process didn't compromise that reputation. After a few years of testing and development, we've found that the DDGS from the antibiotic-free process are of the highest quality."

For customers that want certified antibiotic-free DDGS, POET will take quality control, testing and certification steps in addition to their already rigorous procedures. Those interested can contact POET Nutrition at 888.327.8799 or go to http://www.onlyonedakotagold.com.

About POET
POET, the largest ethanol producer in the world, is a leader in biorefining through its efficient, vertically integrated approach to production. The 23-year-old company produces more than 1.7 billion gallons of ethanol and 10 billion pounds of high-protein animal feed annually from 27 production facilities nationwide. POET also operates a pilot-scale cellulosic ethanol plant, which uses corn cobs, leaves, husk and some stalk as feedstock, and will commercialize the process in Emmetsburg, Iowa. For more information, visit http://www.poet.com.

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