PROSPECTS OF USING SOURDOUGHTS FOR SILAGE MAKING

The ensiling process is a complex microbiological and enzymatic system that depends on many factors: the properties of plant raw materials, storage conditions, sealing and the use of starter cultures. Failure to comply with technological conditions can lead to the development of pathogenic microorganisms, the formation of toxic compounds and a decrease in the quality of feed and biogas potential. The use of starter cultures from lactic acid bacteria, enzymes and other microorganisms allows you to optimize the ensiling process, improve product stability and increase the efficiency of subsequent biogas fermentation. The aim of this work is to analyze the features of the ensiling and biogas fermentation processes, with an emphasis on the role of starter cultures for ensiling as one of the key factors influencing biomethane yield. Modern approaches to the use of microorganisms in ensiling technology to improve substrate digestibility and increase the efficiency of anaerobic degradation are considered. Special attention is paid to scientific research on the use of various strains of lactic acid bacteria, as well as enzymatic additives that contribute to the destruction of structural components of plant mass, in particular lignocellulose. The shortcomings of modern research are analyzed, in particular, the lack of corrections for dry matter or volatile solids losses during ensiling in many publications, which complicates the comparison of the effectiveness of different starter cultures and generates contradictory conclusions even in well-studied aspects. The need for experimental work that would allow for a correct assessment of the biogas potential of ensiled raw materials, taking into account all critical parameters, is emphasized.