Other Products Derived From Cotton Plants

Apart from fibre, the cotton plant supplies seeds that can result in a variety of products. Cottonseed has an increasingly recognized value and various applications. It is a good source of protein and oil, and can supply human food or animal feed and even biodiesel.

Cottonseed stands out as an alternative in ruminant diets, with positive impact on yield and quality of animal products. Its use is recommended by nutritionists for presenting high energy, protein and fiber contents. Hence it is considered a “complete” food, combining protein and energy.
Refined cotton seed oil is used for human consumption, i.e. cooking, margarine etc. Non-refined is used in soap, feed, fatty acids and other industrial appliances.

The cottonseed cake is a by-product from oil extraction, useful for animal feeding. Two types of cake are produced: high-energy cake (5% oil), from mechanical crushing, and with low protein content; low-energy cake (less than 2% oil), from chemical crushing, and with high protein content. Cottonseed cake supplies protein, and can replace cottonseed or bran, especially in ruminant diets.

Cottonseed hulls comprises the outer layer of cottonseed. It is a high fiber product, with low protein and energy levels, interesting as an alternative bulk feed.

Cotton bran is a residue from the cotton seed oil production. The extrusion process gives cotton bran a better digestibility compared to high-energy cottonseed cake and fresh cottonseeds. It is a good protein source, replacing soybean bran, and is an excellent product for feedlots and protein supplement of animal under grazing. It promotes increase in lactation and weight gains, and is available throughout the year.