Table of Contents

• What is Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE)?
• How is Palm Kernel Expeller Produced?
• What is Palm Kernel Expeller Used For? The 5 Primary Applications
  • 1. High-Energy Animal Feed
  • 2. Biofuel and Renewable Energy
  • 3. Organic Fertilizer and Soil Conditioner
  • 4. Filler in Industrial Composite Materials
  • 5. Base for Activated Carbon Production
• The Pros and Cons of Using Palm Kernel Expeller
• The Future of PKE in 2025 and Beyond
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

What is Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE)?

Palm kernel expeller (PKE) is a significant byproduct of the palm oil industry, created after oil is extracted from the kernel of the palm fruit. Often overlooked, understanding what palm kernel expeller is used for reveals its crucial role in various global sectors. It is a dense, high-fiber, and protein-rich material that serves as a cost-effective alternative to traditional commodities like soybean meal or corn. As a core product derived from palm processing, a high-quality Palm Kernel Expeller is sought after globally.

Primarily known for its gritty, brownish appearance, PKE’s composition makes it a valuable resource rather than a waste product. Its nutritional profile, typically containing moderate protein levels (14-18%), high fiber, and residual oil, defines its wide range of applications, especially in animal nutrition and renewable energy. As industries seek more sustainable and economical materials, the demand for PKE continues to grow.

How is Palm Kernel Expeller Produced?

The production of palm kernel expeller is a multi-step mechanical process that begins with the Oil Palm Fruit Bunch. First, the fruit’s flesh is pressed to produce Crude Palm Oil. The remaining nut is then cracked open, separating the valuable Palm Kernel from another useful byproduct, the Palm Kernel Shell, which is also used for biomass energy.

The kernels are then crushed and heated to prepare them for oil extraction. They are fed into a mechanical screw press, or “expeller,” which applies immense pressure to squeeze out the valuable Palm Kernel Oil. The solid residue left behind is the palm kernel expeller. This process is distinct from solvent extraction, which results in a product with a lower residual oil content known as palm kernel meal.

What is Palm Kernel Expeller Used For? The 5 Primary Applications

While often associated with just one purpose, the uses for this byproduct are surprisingly diverse. From farms to power plants, here are the essential applications that define this versatile material in 2025.

1. High-Energy Animal Feed

The most common answer to “what is palm kernel expeller is used for?” is animal feed. It is a staple ingredient in the diet of livestock, particularly for ruminants like dairy and beef cattle. Its high fiber and moderate energy content make it an excellent bulk feed ingredient that supports healthy digestion.

For cattle, PKE provides a cost-effective source of energy and protein, reducing reliance on more expensive grains. However, its grittiness and lower protein quality compared to soymeal mean it’s often mixed with other ingredients to create a balanced ration. It is also used in feed for poultry and swine, though in smaller quantities due to its high fiber content. According to a study published in the Brazilian Journal of Animal Science, PKE can be effectively included in ruminant diets without negatively impacting performance.

2. Biofuel and Renewable Energy

In the search for renewable energy sources, palm kernel expeller has emerged as a valuable biomass fuel. Its high calorific value and low moisture content make it an efficient source for generating heat and electricity. Power plants, particularly in Southeast Asia, co-fire PKE with coal or use it as a standalone fuel in biomass boilers.

This application transforms an agricultural byproduct into a green energy source, contributing to the circular economy. It helps reduce carbon emissions by replacing fossil fuels and provides a sustainable solution for energy generation, a topic further explored by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in their reports on biomass potential.

3. Organic Fertilizer and Soil Conditioner

The nutrients within palm kernel expeller are not just for animals. When composted, PKE breaks down into a rich organic fertilizer. Its high fiber content helps improve soil structure, water retention, and aeration, which are vital for healthy plant growth.

Using PKE as a fertilizer returns organic matter to the soil, enhancing its fertility and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. This sustainable practice is a perfect example of closing the nutrient loop, demonstrating how agricultural byproducts like PKE are key to modern, regenerative farming.

4. Filler in Industrial Composite Materials

A lesser-known but innovative use for palm kernel expeller is as a filler in composite materials. Its fibrous nature and low cost make it a suitable component for particleboards, bioplastics, and other composites. It can partially replace wood fibers or synthetic fillers, making the final product more sustainable and affordable.

Research continues to explore how this agricultural byproduct can be integrated into more industrial products, potentially reducing plastic and wood consumption. This application highlights the versatility of the palm kernel expeller beyond its traditional roles.

5. Base for Activated Carbon Production

Activated carbon is a powerful material used in water and air filtration due to its highly porous structure. Palm kernel expeller, being a carbon-rich organic material, can be converted into activated carbon through a process of pyrolysis and activation. As highlighted in research on biomass-derived activated carbon, agricultural wastes are excellent precursors.

This high-value product can be used to purify drinking water, treat wastewater, and capture pollutants from the air. This process turns a simple byproduct into a critical tool for environmental protection, showcasing another remarkable use for palm kernel expeller.

The Pros and Cons of Using Palm Kernel Expeller

On one hand, PKE is a cost-effective, waste-reducing byproduct that promotes a circular economy. On the other, its nutritional limitations and connection to the broader palm oil industry require careful consideration.

Benefits:

• Cost-Effective: Generally cheaper than other feed sources like soybean meal.
• Reduces Waste: Finds a valuable use for a byproduct that might otherwise be discarded.
• High in Fiber: Beneficial for ruminant digestion.

Drawbacks:

• Lower Protein Quality: Not as rich in essential amino acids as other protein sources.
• Sustainability Concerns: Its sustainability is directly tied to the practices of the palm oil industry. Sourcing from certified sustainable producers is crucial. More can be read from the WWF on this topic.
• High Copper Content: Can be toxic to sheep, requiring careful ration formulation.

The Future of PKE in 2025 and Beyond

Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, the role of palm kernel expeller is set to expand. Innovations in processing technology are aimed at improving its nutritional value, potentially through fermentation or enzyme treatment, to make it more suitable for a wider range of animals.

Furthermore, its role in the bio-economy as a feedstock for biofuels and bio-based materials will likely grow. As the world pushes for more sustainable solutions, byproducts like PKE will no longer be an afterthought but an integral part of industrial and agricultural systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is palm kernel expeller the same as palm kernel cake?

The terms are often used interchangeably. However, “expeller” specifically refers to the product from mechanical pressing, while “cake” or “meal” can also refer to the product left after solvent extraction, which has a lower oil content.

Is palm kernel expeller good for all livestock?

No. While excellent for cattle, its high copper levels can be toxic to sheep. Its high fiber content also limits its use in large quantities for poultry and young pigs. Formulation by an animal nutritionist is always recommended.

Is PKE a sustainable product?

This is a complex issue. As a byproduct, using PKE is inherently sustainable as it reduces waste. However, its ultimate sustainability depends on the palm oil plantation it comes from. Sourcing PKE from Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) certified producers is the best practice.

Makmur Amanah Sejahtera provides high-quality palm products such as Palm Kernel Expeller, Palm Kernel Shell, Crude Palm Oil, Palm Kernel Oil, etc. Kindly contact us at WhatsApp +6282140002198 or email us at admin@makmuramanah.co.id.

Conclusion

So, what is palm kernel expeller used for? It is far more than a simple leftover. From nourishing livestock and powering cities to enriching soil and purifying water, PKE is a cornerstone of the circular bio-economy. Its versatility and affordability ensure that it will remain a critical global commodity in 2025 and for years to come, turning a byproduct into a powerful resource for a more sustainable world.