Two soybean research discoveries may greatly expand the use of specialty soybeans in fish, poultry and livestock rations. One was a surprise.

Schillinger Genetics, a familiar name to many Mid-Atlantic farmers, and Plant Sensory Systems have commercialized an Enhanced Nutrition (high-methionine) soybean variety — Navita 3553 — targeted for fish and poultry rations. The EN technology increases seed content of several essential amino acids.

Meal from this non-GMO product has higher metabolizable energy, plus increased levels of essential amino acids, especially methionine, explains Frank Turano, chief research officer of Plant Sensory Systems. Conventional soybeans are deficient in methionine. Methionine levels in this soybean meet the dietary requirements for fish and poultry — reducing supplementation needs and feed costs.

“We’re excited about the significant enhancement of key amino acids from the EN technology in our high-protein Navita soybeans,” adds John Schillinger, president and founder of Schillinger Genetics.

Analyses for Schillinger Genetics suggest the 3553 variety has higher crude protein, lower neutral detergent fiber, lower acid detergent fiber, higher methionine, higher lysine and higher histidine levels than conventional mid-Group 3 soybeans.

Source: American Agriculturist // Original Article