Effects of Different Additives on the Fermentation Profile and Aerobic Stability of Total Mixed Ration Silage Containing Wet Distillers Bran Plus Solubles: An Experimental Study

Wet Distillers bran plus solubles is a high-moisture agro-industrial by-product widely used in ruminant diets; however, its rapid spoilage limits storage and transport. This experimental and applied study evaluated the effects of different biological and chemical additives on the fermentation profile, microbial populations, dry matter losses, and aerobic stability of total mixed ration silage containing wet Distillers bran plus solubles. A total mixed ration was treated with no additive (control), a heterofermentative lactic acid bacteria inoculant, sodium benzoate, or a blend of organic acids and ensiled for 45 days. Fermentation characteristics, microbial counts, dry matter losses, and aerobic stability were evaluated after the ensiling period. All treatments resulted in adequate fermentation, with final pH values within the expected range. Chemical additives reduced dry matter losses, whereas the biological additive increased lactic acid bacteria counts without improving aerobic stability. This study provides original experimental evidence under controlled conditions, focusing exclusively on the applied evaluation of additive effects in total mixed ration silage containing wet Distillers bran plus solubles.