15 December, 2025

by admin

• palm kernel meal
• Palm Kernel Expeller
• palm kernel expeller in Indonesia
• Indonesia
• sell palm kernel cake
• PKE
• offering Palm Kernel Shells
• Palm kernel shells

Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE): The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Uses, Specs & Price

Table of Contents

• What is Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE)?
• How is Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) Produced?
• Nutritional Specifications of Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE)
• The Ultimate Uses of Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE)
  • PKE in Ruminant Feed (Cattle, Goats, Sheep)
  • PKE in Monogastric Feed (Poultry & Swine)
  • PKE as a Biofuel Source
• Factors Influencing Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) Price
• Sustainability Concerns and Certifications
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

In the world of animal nutrition and agricultural commodities, few ingredients offer the unique balance of cost-effectiveness and nutritional value as the Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE). This powerful byproduct of the palm oil industry has become a cornerstone in livestock feed formulations across the globe. Whether you’re a farmer, a feed nutritionist, or a commodity trader, understanding the intricacies of PKE is crucial for making informed decisions.

This ultimate guide provides a comprehensive look into Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE), from its production process and nutritional specifications to its diverse uses and the market forces that dictate its price. Let’s dive in.

What is Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE)?

Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE), also known as Palm Kernel Cake (PKC), is the solid residue left behind after the oil has been mechanically extracted from the kernel of the oil palm fruit. It is a highly fibrous and medium-grade protein feed, making it a valuable ingredient for compound animal feeds, particularly for ruminant animals like cattle.

Characterized by its brownish, crumbly texture, PKE is renowned for being a good source of energy and fiber. Its global availability and competitive pricing make it a popular alternative to more expensive feedstuffs like soybean meal and corn.

How is Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) Produced?

The creation of Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) is an integral part of the palm oil milling process. The journey from a fresh fruit bunch to the final PKE product involves several key stages:

1. Harvesting & Sterilization: Fresh Oil Palm Fruit Bunch are harvested and sterilized with high-pressure steam. This process halts enzymatic activity that can increase free fatty acids.
2. Threshing & Digestion: The fruits are separated from the bunch (threshing) and then heated in a digester to break down the oil-bearing cells.
3. Oil Pressing: The digested fruit mash is pressed to extract Crude Palm Oil (CPO). The remaining solid contains nuts and fiber.
4. Nut & Kernel Separation: The nuts are separated, dried, and cracked to release the internal Palm Kernel. The hard outer layer is separated as Palm Kernel Shell, another valuable byproduct used for biofuel.
5. Kernel Crushing: The kernels are crushed and cooked, then fed into a mechanical screw press (expeller) to extract Crude Palm Kernel Oil (CPKO).
6. Final Product: The fibrous, solid material that remains after the oil extraction is the Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE).

This mechanical extraction method is crucial as it ensures the PKE retains a moderate level of residual oil, which contributes to its energy content. For more details on this process, you can explore the Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) overview of palm oil processing.

Nutritional Specifications of Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE)

The nutritional profile of Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) is its most defining feature. While values can vary slightly based on the efficiency of the oil extraction process, a typical analysis is as follows:

Key Strengths:

• High Energy: The residual fat and digestible fiber provide an excellent source of slow-release energy for livestock.
• Cost-Effective: It is often more affordable than other protein sources like soybean meal.

Considerations:

• Amino Acid Profile: Its protein is deficient in essential amino acids like lysine and methionine, requiring supplementation for non-ruminant diets.
• High Copper Content: PKE can have elevated levels of copper, making it unsuitable for high-inclusion rates in sheep feed due to their sensitivity to copper toxicity. A study in the Journal of the Saudi Society of Agricultural Sciences highlights these nutritional characteristics.

The Ultimate Uses of Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE)

The versatility of Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) allows it to be used across several sectors, although its primary application is in animal feed.

PKE in Ruminant Feed (Cattle, Goats, Sheep)

PKE is a star performer in the diets of ruminants. Its high fiber content is beneficial for rumen function, and its combination of protein and energy supports both milk production in dairy cows and weight gain in beef cattle. Farmers value this Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) as a reliable component for creating a balanced and economical total mixed ration (TMR).

PKE in Monogastric Feed (Poultry & Swine)

Using Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) for monogastric animals like poultry and swine is more challenging. The high fiber content is difficult for them to digest, and the gritty texture can reduce feed intake. However, with advanced feed processing techniques and the use of feed enzymes, its inclusion rates can be improved, offering a cost-saving opportunity.

PKE as a Biofuel Source

Beyond animal feed, PKE is a valuable source of biomass for renewable energy. Its high calorific value allows it to be burned in industrial boilers to generate electricity and steam, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This application positions PKE as a contributor to the circular economy. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) provides extensive data on the role of biomass like PKE in global energy.

Factors Influencing Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) Price

The market price of Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) is dynamic and influenced by a web of interconnected factors:

• Palm Oil Market: The price of PKE is closely tied to the prices of Crude Palm Oil (CPO) and Palm Kernel Oil (PKO). High oil prices often lead to increased production, which can increase the supply of PKE.
• Competing Feed Ingredients: The prices of soybean meal, corn, and other feedstuffs directly impact PKE demand. When they are expensive, demand for the more affordable PKE rises.
• Global Demand: Major importers like New Zealand, the European Union, and China heavily influence global demand and pricing.
• Logistics and Freight: Shipping costs from major producers like Indonesia and Malaysia to consumer countries are a significant component of the final price.
• Government Policies: Export levies, tariffs, and biofuel mandates can all sway the market. You can track related commodity prices on platforms like IndexMundi.

Sustainability Concerns and Certifications

The palm oil industry faces scrutiny over its environmental impact, particularly regarding deforestation and biodiversity loss. Consequently, the sustainability of Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) is a critical consideration for many buyers. Certifications from organizations like the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) ensure that the PKE is sourced from plantations that adhere to strict environmental and social standards, promoting responsible sourcing throughout the supply chain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between PKE and soybean meal?

PKE has lower protein (~15%) and higher fiber (~18%) compared to soybean meal, which has higher protein (~46%) and lower fiber (~6%). PKE is primarily an energy and fiber source, while soybean meal is a primary protein source.

Is Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) good for all animals?

No. This Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) is excellent for ruminants like cattle but less suitable for poultry and swine due to high fiber. It should be used in very limited quantities, if at all, for sheep due to high copper content.

How should I store PKE?

PKE should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight to prevent mold growth and rancidity. Proper storage ensures its nutritional quality is maintained.

Your Source for High-Quality Palm Products

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.

In conclusion, Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) is an indispensable and economically vital commodity in the global agricultural landscape. Its value as a feed ingredient for ruminants is unparalleled, offering a consistent and affordable source of energy and fiber. By understanding its properties, uses, and the market dynamics that shape its value, stakeholders can effectively harness the full potential of this powerful byproduct.