Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE)
Palm Kernel Expeller meal (PKE), is a by-product of the palm oil industry in South East Asia, mainly from Malaysia. It is a by-product of the crushing and physical expelling of oil from the kernel of the fruit of the oil palm tree (Elaeis guineensis). The outer fleshy fruit of the palm fruit is removed and extracted to produce palm oil leaving the kernel. After removing the shell, the kernels are also crushed to release Palm Kernel Oil and Palm Kernel Expeller. PKE combines mid to high energy levels (around 8 percent fat and 65 percent NDF) with moderate protein levels.
Features and benefits:
- Lower palatability of PKE will affect voluntary intake levels during the first period after introduction. It is best introduced mixed with more palatable inputs like molasses or silage. After about 10 days cows will consume it straight.
- PKE is very low in starch and sugars (most of the energy coming from oil and NDF) and does not cause any risk of developing acidosis and few rumen health issues are likely to be caused.
- The NDF in PKE has a small particle size and is low in effective fibre. PKE should be fed with a long (effective) fibre source to establish sufficient rumination.
- The calcium to phosphorous ratio of PKE is low as is sodium, calcium and sodium may need to be supplemented if PKE is fed at high levels.
- The high fermentable NDF level in Palm Kernel Expeller is a substrate for acetic and butyric acid production which will aid the production of milk fat and stimulates cow condition and milk fat levels.
- PKE's moderately fast fermentable NDF and higher protein levels makes it ideally suitable to be fed in conjunction with high starch low protein supplements like maize silage or tapioca.
Feeding recommendations:
PKE can be fed on the feed pad, via some feed systems in the dairy shed or on a trailer/in a trough in the paddock. Normal feed out rates are 2-3 kg DM, higher rates up to 6 kg DM are possible in case of serious feed shortage. PKE has higher levels of copper, which can cause problems in susceptible sheep breeds, when ad lib fed on PKE. Consult your nutritionist or farm consultant to work out the most optimal feeding level for your particular situation.
Storage:
Like all feedstuffs, PKE should be stored dry, in bulk bins or placed on cement slabs (away from vermin and covered and protected from the weather accordingly). If stored in a silo, the sides should be smooth, the bottom cone steep and, preferably, a wide opening to allow free flow of the PKE. Pre-blending with grain will allow for a better flow ability.
Inclusion Levels
| Animal | Inclusion Level (%) |
|---|---|
| Calves Inclusion (%) | 10 |
| Beef Cattle Inclusion (%) | 25 |
| Lamb Inclusion (%) | 20 |
| Sheep Inclusion (%) | 30 |
| Broiler Inclusion (%) | 10 |
| Layer Inclusion (%) | 15 |
| Starter Pig Inclusion (%) | 5 |
| Finisher Pig Inclusion (%) | 10 |
| Sow Inclusion (%) | 15 |
Nutritional Information
| Element | Value |
|---|---|
| Moisture (%) | 8.0 |
| Protein (%) | 15.5 |
| ME (MJ/kg) | 11.5 |
| DE (MJ/kg) | 10.5 |
| AME (MJ/kg) | 7.0 |
| Fat (%) | 8.0 |
| Crude Fibre (%) | 17.7 |
| NDF (%) | 67.0 |
| Ash (%) | 4.5 |
| Calcium (%) | 0.20 |
| Phosphorus (%) | 0.49 |
| Potassium (%) | 0.60 |
| Sodium (%) | 0.01 |
| Magnesium (%) | 0.23 |
| Lysine (%) | 0.50 |
| Methionine (%) | 0.32 |
| ADF (%) | 42.0 |
| Copper (ppm) | 24 |
| CP (%) | 17.0 |
| DM (%) | 92.0 |
Disclaimer
These feeding recommendations are to be used as a guide only, and to assist readers in understanding generally accepted feeding levels. Readers should not rely on these guidelines in making specific feeding decisions but should consult an appropriate nutritionist for specific total dietary approach recommendations. Online Supplements Ltd. makes no warranties that these recommendations are suitable for any particular herd or for any particular animal. Online Supplements Ltd. disclaims any liability for any problems encountered in the use of these recommendations.
