Upgrading Nutritive Value of Rice Straw: Processing, Supplementation, and Agronomic Innovations for Improved Utilization

Year : 2026 | Volume : 15 | Issue : 01 | Page : 42 58
    By

    Md. Emran Hossain,

  • Minara Begum Munni,

  • Shilpi Islam,

  1. Professor, Department of Animal Science and Nutrition, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Khulshi, Chattogram, Bangladesh
  2. Professor, Department of Animal Science and Nutrition, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Khulshi, Chattogram, Bangladesh
  3. Professor, Department of Animal Science and Nutrition, Gazipur Agricultural University, Salna, Gazipur, Bangladesh

Abstract

Rice straw, a major byproduct of rice production, holds significant potential as a livestock feed but is constrained by its high lignocellulosic content, low crude protein, and poor digestibility. Enhancing its nutritive value is imperative for sustainable livestock production. This study explores a range of innovative strategies aimed at improving rice straw’s digestibility and overall nutritional quality. Physical processing techniques, including chopping, grinding, soaking, and steam treatment, enhance its surface area and facilitate microbial degradation. Chemical treatments such as sodium hydroxide, ammonia, and hydrogen peroxide applications effectively break down lignin and improve fiber utilization. Biological approaches, including fungal inoculation, bacterial fermentation, and enzymatic hydrolysis, further enhance fiber degradation and nutrient accessibility. Nutritional supplementation strategies, such as blending with protein-rich feedstuffs, mineral fortification, and energy enrichment, improve the overall dietary balance. Enhancing rumen degradability through the use of direct-fed microbials, fibrolytic enzymes, and defaunation agents optimizes microbial efficiency and digestion. Blending rice straw with alternative feeds such as legume hays, distillers’ grains, and oilseed meals improves its nutritional composition. Genetic and agronomic advancements in rice varieties with lower lignin content offer long-term improvements in straw quality. Pre-treatment and preservation techniques such as ensiling and microbial inoculation ensure feed stability and prolonged utility. Alternative utilization pathways, including microbial protein synthesis, mushroom cultivation, and biochar feed additives, further optimize its use. These approaches collectively enhance the digestibility, palatability, and sustainability of rice straw as a viable livestock feed, contributing to improved animal productivity and environmental stewardship.

Keywords: Chemical treatment, digestibility enhancement, livestock nutrition, physical processing, rice straw, rumen degradability, supplementation strategies

[This article belongs to Research & Reviews : Journal of Botany ]

How to cite this article:
Md. Emran Hossain, Minara Begum Munni, Shilpi Islam. Upgrading Nutritive Value of Rice Straw: Processing, Supplementation, and Agronomic Innovations for Improved Utilization. Research & Reviews : Journal of Botany. 2025; 15(01):42-58.
How to cite this URL:
Md. Emran Hossain, Minara Begum Munni, Shilpi Islam. Upgrading Nutritive Value of Rice Straw: Processing, Supplementation, and Agronomic Innovations for Improved Utilization. Research & Reviews : Journal of Botany. 2025; 15(01):42-58. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjob/article=2025/view=243877


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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 15
Issue 01
Received 14/07/2025
Accepted 25/08/2025
Published 26/08/2025
Publication Time 43 Days
14

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