Taiwan Develops Sunn Hemp Granular Forage, Poised to Replace Imported Alfalfa

Taiwan's Livestock Research Institute has achieved a significant breakthrough in animal feed production by successfully developing a granular forage from sunn hemp, a widely cultivated green manure crop in Taiwan. This innovation aims to reduce the livestock industry's reliance on imported leguminous forages like alfalfa, whose prices are susceptible to international market fluctuations and shipping costs.

The newly developed "sunn hemp granular forage" retains its nutritional value, including a crude protein content comparable to imported alfalfa. The production cost is estimated at NT$9.7 per kilogram, presenting a substantial cost advantage over imported alfalfa, which typically ranges from NT$15 to NT$18 per kilogram. This price difference makes the locally produced forage a highly competitive option.

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The crude protein content of sunn hemp is about 18%, which is not inferior to imported leguminous alfalfa.

Traditional methods of utilizing leguminous forages, such as sun-drying into hay, are often hindered by Taiwan's hot and humid climate. The institute's new technique involves drying, cutting, and precisely pelletizing the sunn hemp, resulting in a product that is not only nutrient-rich but also highly storable and resistant to spoilage. Testing showed that even after six months of storage, the crude protein content remained stable.

Initial feeding trials with goats indicated that the sunn hemp granular forage has high palatability, with consumption levels comparable to traditional pangola grass. This positive reception suggests a strong potential for the product to be adopted by local livestock farmers. By offering a more economical and stable feed source, the development could significantly enhance the self-sufficiency of Taiwan's domestic forage production and provide a much-needed boost to the agricultural sector.

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The total cost of producing domestic sunn hemp granular forage is about NT$9.7 per kilogram, compared to imported leguminous alfalfa which can cost NT$15 to NT$18 per kilogram.