Specifically designed for New Zealand dairy cows to increase milk yields or put condition on lactating or dry cows.

Can be fed on its own as a supplement for ruminants  and is more palatable than straight PKE and will provide a greater milk response.

Can be fed through in-shed feeding systems, as a component of a feed mixed in a mixer wagon, on a feed pad or in-paddock (wastage may be high when fed in paddock.

Low 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 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 local account manager or our customer centre.​

Uses

Used primarily as a supplement for lactating cows on lush spring pasture with low levels of soluble sugars and starch. May also be used to supplement cows to prevent the summer dip in production where cows are fed poor quality summer pasture. Can also be used to extend the length of lactation, by feeding through to the end of lactation.

Not traditionally used for beef cattle, it can supply a useful energy and protein source for finishing cattle or breeding animals where pasture is in short supply.

Application rates and advice

Maximum feeding rates (per day)

Dairy cows 4.0kg
Beef Cattle 3.0kg
Youngstock 1.0kg
Calves 1.0kg

Ewes & Lambs - not usually recommended

Maximum feeding rates are for guidance only.

Typical nutrient analysis (dry matter basis)

Dry Matter (DM) - 90%
Metabolisable Energy (ME) - 11.4 (MJ/kg DM)
Crude Protein (CP) - 14%
Neutral Detergent Fibre (NDF) - 52%
Starch - 18%
Sugar - 0.7%
Acid Detergent Fibre (ADF) - 32%
Calcium - 0.16%
Phosphorus - 0.45%
Magnesium - 0.20%

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

PKE - Malaysia
Grain - New Zealand

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. The grain is rolled and also passes under a magnet to remove metallic contaminants.

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.