September 26, 2008
Sustainable Oils gains approval for camelina meal as swine feed
Sustainable Oils has received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), for the use of camelina meal, a by-product of camelina oil extraction, in the diets of growing pigs up to 2 percent of the weight of the total ration.
Sustainable Oils, a joint venture between Targeted Growth and Green Earth Fuels, was launched in late 2007 and is focused on the research, development and commercialisation of camelina for biodiesel production and is one of the only two companies who have approval to sell camelina meal.
Steve Sandroni, production and logistics manager of Sustainable Oils, said that this is an important step in the process of developing a strong, sustainable market for camelina production and opening up of the livestock feed opportunities for camelina meal provides a market for the most significant by-product of camelina oil production.
He continues that camelina meal can be a very attractive option at a time of high feed prices as it is an excellent source of protein. With protein levels of 40 percent or more, it is similar to soymeal but offers the added benefit of being high in Omega-3fatty acids.
Camelina is listed as being adapted to the flax-growing regions of the northern Midwest. The adaptation of camelina as a crop has not been widely explored, according to a description of the plant by Purdue University''s horticultural website. Similar to the other Cruciferous species, the plant is likely best adapted to cooler climates where excessive heat during flowering is not important.