​Can be fed on its own as a supplement for ruminants (is more palatable when mixed with other ingredients)

Can be fed as a component of a feed mixed in a mixer wagon, on a feed pad or in-paddock (but wastage may be high when fed in paddock

High in readily fermentable fibre and oil, but low in starch and minerals

Not normally fed to sheep due to its high copper content

No risk of acidosis as starch content is low

While straight PKE is a great filler feed when pasture is short, we offer a variety of blends which are better for your cows and gives increased returns.

In addition to we offer the option of blending minerals (with or without Ruemensin) into the PKE which is a very convenient way of administering these products to animals. For more information contact your Ravensdown account manager or our customer centre.​

​Uses

Most palm kernel imported into New Zealand is used on dairy farms, particularly in the North Island. It is used primarily as a supplement for milking cows to increase production or make up shortfalls in pasture.

Use of PKE for fattening beef cattle or as a supplement feed for beef cows when pasture in limited is increasing.

Application rates and advice

Maximum feeding rates (per dayfeed)

Dairy cows 3.0 - 4.0kg
Beef Cattle 1.0kg
Youngstock 0.5kg
Calves 0.3kg

Ewes & Lambs - not usually recommended

Maximum feeding rates are for guidance only. Higher intakes may be achieved and do not pose a risk of acidosis to the animal, but palatability is likely to limit intakes. Ensure adequate feed space, and introduce gradually.

Typical nutrient analysis (dry matter basis)

Dry Matter (DM) - 92%
Metabolisable Energy (ME) - 11.0 (MJ/kg DM)
Crude Protein (CP) - 16%
Neutral Detergent Fibre (NDF) - 67%
Starch - 2%
Sugar - 0%
Acid Detergent Fibre (ADF) - 42%
Calcium - 0.20%
Phosphorus - 0.49%
Magnesium - 0.23%

Capability and precautions

Can be combined with low protein feeds to obtain a better nutrient balance.
Mineral supplementation should be considered.
Contains relatively high levels of copper; supplementation with other sources (e.g. mineral licks or injectables) should be undertaken with caution.

Storage and handling

Must be kept dry during storage to prevent growth of moulds and toxins.

Source

Malaysia

All Ravensdown PKE is screened before despatch to remove any over-sized product and potential foreign matter and is passed under two industrial magnets to remove any potential metallic contamination.

PKE free from biosecurity risks

Ravensdown’s PKE approach

Acting within Government guidelines, Ravensdown imports palm kernel extract (PKE) from South East Asia as a supplementary animal feed to fill a feed requirement  when pasture supply is low.

We strictly follow MAF biosecurity protocols, and fumigate the feed before it is landed in New Zealand.

Our suppliers certify that PKE is sourced from existing palm plantations that were formerly rubber and cocoa plantations.

New Zealand importers of PKE are working with industry and suppliers to develop a robust certification process that demonstrates the PKE was produced in a sustainable way.

PKE is a by-product, and without the demand for palm oil for consumer products, the palm kernel extract would not exist.