Distillers Corn Oil (DCO)

Description

Distillers Corn Oil, often abbreviated as DCO, is a non-edible oil extracted from dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS)—a major byproduct of corn-based ethanol production. This type of oil is separated from stillage (a post-fermentation slurry) in ethanol plants using high-speed centrifuges and decanters. DCO typically contains a mixture of triglycerides, free fatty acids, sterols, waxes, and phospholipids, and can range in color from amber to dark brown. It is chemically distinct from both food-grade refined corn oil and crude corn germ oil due to its exposure to heat, fermentation byproducts, and ethanol residues. While not fit for human consumption, DCO has become an essential component in the biodiesel industry, especially in the U.S., where Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) credits incentivize its use. In biodiesel applications, DCO is transesterified to produce fatty acid methyl esters (FAME), with good cold flow and oxidative properties. It is often blended with other feedstocks like soybean oil, yellow grease, or tallow to improve processing efficiencies. Additionally, DCO is used in animal feeds, particularly for poultry and swine, where it boosts the energy density and improves feed palatability. It also enhances the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins in animal diets. However, high free fatty acid levels can limit its inclusion rate in animal rations. DCO is also under investigation for use in aquaculture, where it may substitute for fish oil as a lipid source in fish feeds. Another growing application area is bio-based chemicals, where DCO is converted into lubricants, solvents, or even epoxy resins. Because of its industrial nature, it is typically sold in tankers and is priced lower than food-grade oils, making it highly attractive for large-scale, cost-sensitive applications. Its chemical profile makes it suitable for modification into renewable hydrocarbons and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) when hydrotreated. Ethanol producers have invested in DCO recovery units, adding new revenue streams to biofuel operations and improving the sustainability index of their processes. With advances in enzyme technology, some producers are achieving over 1 pound of DCO per bushel of corn, which dramatically boosts economic returns. Despite its niche industrial uses, DCO is tightly regulated to ensure contaminants like aflatoxins, heavy metals, and fermentation residues remain within acceptable limits for animal and fuel applications. DCO exemplifies a perfect circular economy approach, converting what was once waste into high-value energy and nutrition products.

Quantity is 5 litre