Oil Palm Fronds (OPF) as potential affordable source of feeds for ruminants small holder farms

Abstract

Presently, the most important constraints faced by the ruminants industry are not only the high cost of feeds but also their shortage. The shortage is especially so in the supply of palm kernel cakes (PKC) since 95% of PKC produced in Malaysia were exported to European Union (EU) countries for their dairy industries (Sabah Veterinary Services, 2009). Most of the cattle industries (about 47%) in Malaysia are run by small holders and traditional farmers. With the sufficiency level of 24.4%, it can be considered low as far as food security level is concerned. The current challenges faced by both small holders and traditional farmers are the high cost of feedstuff for the ruminants industry such as cattle and goats. The main reason for the slow growth of the ruminant industry is due to the high demand and shortage of PKC and at the same time the high cost of soya bean meal (SBM), the best alternative. Oil Palm Fronds (OPF) on the other hand are possible substitutes as affordable feeds for ruminants in cases where forages and fodder are limited. Furthermore, with the huge planted hectare of oil palm in Malaysia and Indonesia, the potential for constant supply of oil palm fronds is huge. Studies have shown the recommended levels of OPF in the total mixed rations (on dry matter basis) are 50% for beef cattle and 30% for dairy cattle and goats. Although the energy level is only 5.6M.E/MJ/kg and the crude protein (CP) is 4.7%, the OPF can be considered reliable due to their constant supply and with the dry matter production of 9.7mt/hectare/year can be considered sustainable feed for the ruminant industry. This paper reviews the potential of OPF as an alternative and affordable source of feeds for ruminants for smallholders and traditional farmers to sustain the growth of industry in Malaysia and Indonesia