Antibiotics found in ethanol grain stream throw another wrench in production

Ethanol producers, with whom the FDA was previously hands-off, may be in for more scrutiny. Recent studies showed traces of several antibiotics in the ethanol byproduct, distillers grain, used for livestock feed and a major source of revenue for the ethanol industry. The fermentation process requires producers to limit bacterial growth, since the organisms compete with yeast for the sugar, creating lactic acid instead of the desired alcohol product. Producers therefore use antibiotics in attempt to preserve profit margins. Concerns about feeding growing antibiotic resistance abound, and closer regulation may be in sight. Full story: Minnesota Public Radio