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Sunflower Meal – Uses, Nutrition & Bulk Supply Guide
Sunflower Meal: Uses, Nutrition & Bulk Supply Overview
INTRODUCTION
Sunflower meal is a protein-rich by-product obtained after oil extraction from sunflower seeds. It is widely used in cattle feed, livestock rations, and compound animal feed formulations, particularly as a cost-effective protein alternative to soybean meal in certain markets.
This guide explains what sunflower meal is, its nutritional value, uses in animal feeding, and how buyers can source sunflower meal in bulk for commercial and agricultural applications.
WHAT IS SUNFLOWER MEAL?
Sunflower meal (also called sunflower seed meal) is produced during the mechanical or solvent extraction of sunflower oil. Once the oil is removed, the remaining cake is processed into meal or pellets suitable for animal feeding.
Depending on processing method and hull content, sunflower meal can vary in:
- Protein concentration
- Fibre level
- Energy value
👉 View our product page here: https://farmseedsfeeds.com/product/sunflower-seed-meal/
Key Markets & Origin Countries
Walnuts are sourced from some of the most fertile growing regions worldwide. Leading origin countries include:
- California (USA) – Known for premium quality and consistent grading.
- Chile – Popular for its clean, light-colored kernels.
- South Africa – A growing supplier with competitive pricing and high quality.
- China and Eastern Europe – Major volume producers with diverse grades.
Understanding the strengths of each origin helps importers secure the best combination of quality, price, and shipping time.
SUNFLOWER MEAL NUTRITIONAL PROFILE
Typical nutritional characteristics (indicative):
- Crude Protein: 28% – 40%
- Crude Fibre: 10% – 28% (higher if hulls included)
- Fat: 1% – 3%
- Moisture: ≤ 12%
Actual values vary by processing method and are always confirmed by a Certificate of Analysis (COA).
SUNFLOWER MEAL FOR CATTLE
Sunflower meal is commonly used in cattle feed due to its:
- High protein content
- Good rumen degradability
- Compatibility with forage-based diets
Benefits for cattle:
- Supports muscle development and milk production
- Enhances feed efficiency
- Works well in both dairy and beef rations
Sunflower meal is often blended with maize, wheat bran, or other energy feeds to balance rations.
SUNFLOWER MEAL FOR OTHER ANIMALS
In addition to cattle, sunflower meal is used in:
- Poultry feed (layers and broilers, with fibre considerations)
- Sheep and goats
- Swine (limited inclusion depending on fibre content)
Formulation depends on animal type, age, and diet objectives.
SUNFLOWER MEAL VS SOYBEAN MEAL
| Protein | Moderate–High | Very High |
| Fibre | Higher | Lower |
| Cost | Often lower | Often higher |
| GMO concerns | Naturally non-GMO | Often GMO unless specified |
Sunflower meal is frequently chosen when cost efficiency, fibre tolerance, or non-GMO sourcing is a priority.
BULK SUPPLY & COMMERCIAL SOURCING
Sunflower meal is supplied commercially in:
- 25 kg and 50 kg bags
- Palletized bulk shipments
- Containerized export consignments
Bulk buyers typically include:
- Feed manufacturers
- Commercial farms
- Agricultural distributors
Quality, protein content, and fibre levels are verified per shipment.
Sunflower meal is frequently chosen when cost efficiency, fibre tolerance, or non-GMO sourcing is a priority.
QUALITY & DOCUMENTATION
Reputable suppliers provide:
- Certificate of Analysis (COA) per lot
- Feed safety handling (ISO/HACCP)
- Export documentation where required
Always confirm specifications based on destination regulations and feed formulation needs.
WHERE TO BUY SUNFLOWER MEAL IN BULK
If you are sourcing sunflower meal for cattle or animal feed, it is important to work with suppliers that offer:
- Consistent quality
- Bulk logistics support
- Transparent documentation
FAQ
Q: Is sunflower meal suitable for cattle?
Yes. Sunflower meal is widely used as a protein supplement in beef and dairy cattle diets.
Yes. Sunflower meal is widely used as a protein supplement in beef and dairy cattle diets.
Q: What is the protein content of sunflower meal?
Protein typically ranges from 28% to 40%, depending on processing and hull content.
Protein typically ranges from 28% to 40%, depending on processing and hull content.
Q: Is sunflower meal better than soybean meal?
It depends on diet goals. Sunflower meal has higher fibre content and is often more cost-effective, while soybean meal has higher protein content.
It depends on diet goals. Sunflower meal has higher fibre content and is often more cost-effective, while soybean meal has higher protein content.
Q: Can sunflower meal be supplied in bulk?
Yes. Sunflower meal is commonly supplied in bulk bags and containerised shipments.
Yes. Sunflower meal is commonly supplied in bulk bags and containerised shipments.
