Betsockerrör

Betsockerrör, often translated as "sugar beet stalks" or "sugar beet residues," refers to the leftover plant material after the sugar beet has been harvested for its root. This biomass primarily consists of the leafy tops and crowns of the beet. While the sugar beet root is cultivated for sucrose extraction, the betsockerrör is a significant byproduct of the sugar beet industry.

Historically, betsockerrör was often considered agricultural waste and disposed of through burning or landfill. However, increasing awareness of sustainable practices and the potential value of agricultural byproducts has led to new uses. These residues are rich in organic matter and can be utilized in various ways.

One primary application is as animal feed, particularly for livestock. The leaves and crowns can be ensiled or fed fresh, providing a source of roughage and nutrients. Betsockerrör can also be composted, contributing valuable organic material to soil enrichment. Furthermore, its biomass potential is being explored for bioenergy production, such as anaerobic digestion to produce biogas or direct combustion for heat and power generation. Research continues into optimizing these uses to maximize the value of this agricultural byproduct and reduce waste within the sugar beet supply chain.