Copra Meal

Copra Meal (CM) is a good economic feed for cattle, both for fattening and supplementary feeding. Although CM supplies both protein and energy, it looked upon more as a source of protein. CM by itself is a medium grade protein feed and with its high Fiber content it is often consider suitable for feeding of ruminants. CM was ranked a litter higher than Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) or Palm Kernel Cake (PKC). The main difference between the solvent extracted CM and the palm kernel expeller (PKE) or palm kernel cake (PKC) pressed type is in the ether extract or oil content. The oil content of the PKM & CM is low (2 - 3 %), while that in the PKE is higher (5 -12%). CM is considered a medium grade protein feed, containing 15 - 18% crude protein, useful for fattening cattle either as a single feed, with only minerals and vitamins supplementation, or mixed with other feedstuffs. It has also become the main ingredient in dairy cattle ration, mixed with other ingredients such as maize and soybean meal. Fiber considered an essential nutrient for dairy cattle. The high phosphorous to calcium ratio in CM makes it a good choice for the dairy cows. These are 2 critical nutrients forming the mineral base for the bones and teeth and biochemical energy transformation in all body cells. Other elements such as magnesium, copper, zinc and iron, essential to animal are available in CM.