Low-penetration packing films improve the nutritional quality and aerobic stability of corn silage

Context Corn silage is a widely utilized feed source in ruminant nutrition, valued for its substantial contributions of energy, fiber and protein to the diet. However, the quality of silage is significantly influenced by various factors during both the fermentation and storage processes. Aims This study aims to evaluate the effects of packaging films with varying oxygen transmission rates on the fermentation profile, dry matter recovery, chemical composition, in vitro degradation and pH following aerobic exposure in whole-plant corn silage. Methods Twenty-four experimental silos (18-kg plastic bags) were used in a completely randomized block design to evaluate the following treatments: (1) control: conventional black and white polyethylene film with a thickness of 115 μm and an oxygen transmission rate of 290 cm3/mm.m2.day; (2) conventional film: ensiling using the previously described black and white polyethylene film plus an additional silage film barrier; and (3) low-penetration film (LPF): ensiling using a black and white polyethylene film with a thickness of 115 μm and an oxygen transmission rate of 107 cm3/mm.m2.day. Blocks were defined by corn hybrids, and bags were stored at room temperature for 60 days. Key results Treatments had no significant effect on the silage fermentation profile or DM recovery of silage. However, conventional film and LPF increased organic matter and starch while reducing the acid detergent fiber content compared with the control. Additionally, LPF decreased NDF and increased non-fiber carbohydrate content compared with other treatments. Despite these changes, treatments had no effects on DM and NDF in vitro degradation. Moreover, LPF reduced silage pH compared with other treatments 48 and 72 h after aerobic exposure. Conclusions Low-oxygen penetration films increase non-fiber carbohydrate and aerobic stability while reducing NDF content and pH in corn silage. Implications Low-oxygen permeability films improve the quality and stability of corn silage, providing a practical tool to optimize silage preservation. This innovation supports sustainable production and more efficient resource utilization.