Patna/Muzaffarpur: Muzaffarpur district in Bihar is seeing a new initiative to turn lychee processing waste into animal feed, in a move that could benefit both farmers and livestock owners. The National Lychee Research Centre is leading the research, focusing on converting discarded peels and seeds—rich in fibre, antioxidants, polyphenols, and vitamin C—into nutritious fodder.
During lychee juice and jam production, 40–50 per cent of the fruit becomes waste. Traditionally, this material was either burned or composted, contributing to pollution. Researchers say converting it into animal feed is an effective way to ensure nutritional security for livestock and could increase milk yields by up to 20 per cent.
Ghaziabad-based Vishwakainath Herbs and Aromatic Private Limited has also developed feed from lychee waste. Manager Krishna Gopal said toxins are removed before preparing the feed, offering a safe and cost-effective option for farmers. Several local farmers have been trained to convert peels into preserved green fodder for cows and buffaloes, providing a sustainable use for the otherwise wasted material.
Dr Vikas Das, director of the National Lychee Research Centre, confirmed that the research is ongoing and expects the project to offer dual benefits: reducing environmental pollution while enhancing livestock nutrition.
