| dc.description.abstract | Production of PKC in Malaysia is in abundance throughout the year and has increased more than 43% since 1999 (1.62 million metric tonnes) to 2011 (2.39 million metric tonnes) respectively. Palm kernel cake (PKC) is a protein source leftover from pressed nuts of the palm fruit. PKC is rich in both protein (16-18%) and energy (9-14 MJ/Kg) and is regarded as a potential protein source of farm animals feed. This paper discussed on the rate of energy conversion, cost effectiveness and availability of PKC as a supplementary food ingredient for ruminants, non-ruminants and fishes. Price comparison between soybean cake and PKC showed that soybean cake cost 550.0 US$/MT while PKC is 150 US$/MT. This difference indicated that PKC is a reasonably good economic feed for better growth and fattening rate to farm animals (cattle, sheep, goat, pig, chicken and ducks) and farm fishes (cat fish and other). Countries in Asia, Asia-Pacific, South America and Africa are presently using PKC as an alternative feed for various farm animals. PKC is rich in protein, due to bio-conversion effects which doubled the nutritive value and protein concentration of PKC to 32% protein. Besides that, PKC is highly palatable for ruminants, non-ruminants and fishes because of its distinctive carbohydrate source namely 56.4% mannose, 11.66% glucose, 3.77% xylose and 1.4% galactose. PKC has high fibre content (16%), high phosphorus to calcium ratio and other essential elements like magnesium, iron and zinc recommended in animal optimal growth. A value-added quality of PKC is that it is free from Aflatoxins and other toxins of E.Coli, S.aureus and Salmonellaspp., that could be harmful for animal growth and productivity. Its sufficient concentration of vitamin E, acts as natural anti-oxidants which helpsin synthesizing female reproductive hormones. As a supplement of high energy feed, PKC can be used under various concentrations for different farm animals such as, for beef cattle up to 90%, dairy cattle 50%, swine 25-30%, poultry 20-25%, sheep and goat 30-40% and fish 20-30% of total ration. Therefore, this paper will provide 480 Proceeding of the 2nd International Seminar on Animal Industry | Jakarta, 5-6 July 2012 an outlook of PKC as a potential feed source that may meet the requirements as an alternative feed ingredient for farm animals and fishes. | en |
