Corn gluten meal is used as a protein rich feed ingredient and processing byproduct.
Common Uses
Animal Feed: Due to its high protein content (around 60%), corn gluten meal is a valuable, high-energy ingredient in feeds for livestock, poultry, fish, and pets. It is a good source of protein, energy, and pigments (xanthophylls) for poultry skin and egg yolk coloration. It is, however, low in the essential amino acids lysine and tryptophan and must be balanced with other protein sources.
Natural Herbicide: Corn gluten meal acts as a natural pre-emergent herbicide that inhibits the root formation of germinating seeds, causing them to dry up and die. It does not kill existing weeds and is most effective when applied before weed seeds sprout (typically early spring and fall).
Natural Fertilizer: Containing about 9–10% nitrogen by weight, CGM provides a slow-release nitrogen source, which helps promote a thick, healthy lawn or garden.
Other Uses: Corn gluten is also used to manufacture hydrolyzed vegetable protein, a common food flavouring, and has been patented as the active ingredient in rodenticides.
Products and Application
Corn gluten meal is available in powder and granular forms. Granular or pelletized forms are typically easier to apply with a spreader, especially in windy conditions.
Specific products available on the market include:
Farrier’s Magic Play-ON (for lawns) and Graze-ON (for pastures): These products utilize CGM as a natural weed suppressor and fertilizer.
Nature’s Guide Corn Gluten Meal: A fine yellow powder that functions as an organic pre-emergent herbicide and a nitrogen source.
For optimal results as a herbicide, it should be applied at a rate of around 20 lbs per 1,000 square feet, watered lightly after application, and followed by a dry period to prevent the weed seedlings from forming new roots.
