Cottonseed Meal Supplier — Cottonseed Cake and Meal
Cottonseed meal is the protein-rich residue left after oil is extracted from cottonseed, and an established protein ingredient for ruminant feed. FUSHKOV GCG supplies cottonseed meal and cake to feed manufacturers and livestock producers worldwide on Incoterms 2020 terms.
What cottonseed meal is
Cottonseed is a by-product of cotton ginning. The seed is delinted, often dehulled, and pressed or solvent-extracted to produce cottonseed oil and meal. The protein content of the meal depends mainly on how much hull remains. Cottonseed contains gossypol, a natural pigment that is tolerated by adult ruminants but restricts use in pig, poultry and young animal diets. Supply comes from the major cotton-producing countries, including India, China, the United States, Brazil, Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
Types of cottonseed meal
Typical specification (reference)
| Parameter | Typical value |
|---|---|
| Moisture, max | Typically 10–12% |
| Crude protein | Typically 36–45%, by type |
| Crude fat | Typically 1–3% for meal; higher for cake |
| Crude fibre | Typically 10–15% |
| Free gossypol | As agreed in the contract, within destination limits |
| Aflatoxin | Within the limits of the destination country |
| HS code | 2306 10 (oilcake of cotton seeds) |
Reference values for typical commercial grades. The final specification is fixed in the contract; the final classification of a lot is confirmed by the customs declarant.
Main uses and markets
- Dairy and beef cattle. Cottonseed meal is a traditional protein supplement; the rumen detoxifies gossypol, so adult ruminants tolerate it well.
- Sheep and goats. Used as a protein source in compound feed.
- Aquaculture, pigs and poultry. Limited inclusion of low-gossypol meal, within nutritional guidelines and feed regulations.
Packaging and logistics
Cottonseed meal is shipped in bulk in vessel holds or containers, in big bags or in bags, by sea, rail or multimodal routes. Meal may be pelleted to improve handling. Moisture is controlled to prevent heating and mould growth.
Why FUSHKOV GCG
Frequently asked questions
What is gossypol and why does it matter?
Gossypol is a natural compound in cottonseed. Adult ruminants tolerate moderate levels, but pigs, poultry and young animals are sensitive, so feed rules and buyers set limits on free gossypol.
How does cottonseed meal compare with soybean meal?
Cottonseed meal has lower and less balanced protein, particularly in lysine, and more fibre. It is mainly used for ruminants, where it can replace part of the soybean meal.
Which HS code applies to cottonseed meal?
Oilcake and other solid residues of cotton seeds are classified under HS 2306 10. The final classification of a lot is confirmed by the customs declarant.
See also
Need cottonseed meal?
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