Coconut meal, also known as coconut copra meal, is a byproduct of coconut oil production. It is high in protein, fat, and fibers, making it a valuable feed ingredient for livestock such as ruminants, pigs, and poultry.
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Nutrition of copra meal
One of the main benefits of coconut meal in livestock feed is its high protein content, which can be as high as 20-30%. This protein is of good quality and is easily digestible by animals, making it a valuable ingredient for increasing the protein content of the feed.
Coconut meal is also high in fat, which can provide energy for livestock, especially for growing animals and lactating animals. However, the fat content of coconut meal can vary depending on how it is produced, so it is important to know the level of fat when using it as a feed ingredient.
In addition, coconut meal is high in fibers, particularly lignin and cellulose. These fibers can be beneficial for ruminant animals, as they can promote healthy digestion and fermentation in the rumen. However, the fibers can also make coconut meal less palatable to non-ruminants such as pigs and poultry.
Nutritional analyses of copra meal
Dry matter 91 %
Crude protein 20.5 %
Crude fiber 12.9 %
Crude fat 9.3 %
Ash 6.2 %
NDF 49.3 %
ADF 25.5 %
Lignin 5.9 %
Starch 0.3 %
Total sugars 10.1 %
Gross energy (kcal) 4420 kcal/kg
Coconut/copra meal for cattle
Copra meal has a vital role in meeting the nutritional needs of cattle. Copra meal increases milk production in cows, Bulls increase beef production. Its high protein and fat increase milk fat. It’s high in fiber and suitable for ruminants.
Copra meal for chickens
Copra meal also can be used in chicken feeds. Coconut meal is also good for horse feed.
Overall, coconut meal is a valuable feed ingredient for livestock due to its high protein and fat content. However, it is important to consider the fiber content in feed for non-ruminants and the fat content for all animals.
It is also noteworthy that the process of oil extraction and the quality of the raw material used greatly affect the nutritional value of the coconut meal and might result in low-quality coconut meal being fed to the livestock.
