Do rapeseed by-products hold potential?
Rape expeller is a by-product of a biodiesel manufacturing technique that uses oilseed rape. Although it is high in protein at 30%, little research has been carried out on its suitability for poultry diets. Production methods use a cold pressing process, so there is no risk of heat damage affecting proteins. Despite considering that rape expeller meal could be included in broiler, turkey and layer diets in the future, there are concerns about oilseed rape by-products being fed to poultry. This is because the breakdown of chemicals in the seed can adversely affect growth rates and egg production. Growers producing rape for biodiesel are mainly concerned with achieving high yields, a factor that might encourage them to use high glucosinolate varieties. However, meal with a high level of glucosinolates is not suitable for poultry. Therefore, traceability and quality control are very important. A recent scientific breakthrough could lead to oilseed rape and associate products gaining impor
