Soybean meal

Soybean Meal

Soybean meal is a by-product of the extraction of soybean oil. It is a high-protein feed ingredient that is widely used in animal diets. The global production of soybean meal has been increasing consistently due to its high nutritional value and protein content.

Production

Soybean meal is produced from the residue left after oil extraction. Oil extraction from soybeans is carried out in a series of steps which include cleaning, cracking, dehulling, and flaking, followed by oil extraction. The remaining meal is then toasted and ground into a coarse meal or a fine flour.

Nutritional Value

Soybean meal is highly nutritious and is one of the most important protein sources used to feed farm animals. It has a high protein content, typically 44-48%, and contains a good balance of all the essential amino acids. It is also a good source of energy, with a metabolizable energy content of around 3,000 kcal/kg.

Uses

Soybean meal is primarily used as a protein source in animal diets. It is used in the diets of poultry, swine, ruminants, and aquaculture. It is also used in some pet foods. In addition to its use in animal feed, soybean meal is also used in some food products for humans, such as bread and other baked goods.

Market

The global market for soybean meal is large and growing. The United States, Brazil, and Argentina are the largest producers and exporters of soybean meal. China is the largest importer, due to its large livestock industry.

Environmental Impact

The production of soybean meal has some environmental impacts. These include the use of large amounts of water and energy in the extraction process, and the potential for pollution from the waste products of the extraction process.

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  Soybean meal in a scoop

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  Close-up of soybean meal

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  Global soybean meal consumption chart