Extraction Process

De-oil-cake, also known as castor meal, is a byproduct obtained from the castor oil extraction process. After castor seeds are pressed to extract oil, the remaining residue is processed into a solid cake known as de-oil cake or castor meal.

• Castor seeds are cleaned and roasted.
• Amino Acids: : It contains essential amino acids, contributing to the nutritional value of the feed.
• Oil is extracted using mechanical pressing or solvent extraction.
• The remaining seed residue is processed into de-oil-cake.

Nutrients

Castor meal is rich in nutrients that make it a valuable agricultural input:

• Protein: Castor meal contains a significant amount of protein, making it a potential protein source for livestock feed.
• Nitrogen: It serves as an organic source of nitrogen, essential for plant growth and development.
• Phosphorus and Potassium:Castor meal contains phosphorus and potassium, important macronutrients for soil fertility and plant health.
• Organic Matter:The organic matter in castor meal contributes to soil structure and enhances water-holding capacity.

Applications of De-Oil-Cake (Castor Meal)

De-oil-cake (castor meal) finds various applications in agriculture and beyond:

• Organic Fertilizer: Castor meal acts as an organic fertilizer, enriching the soil with nutrients and improving its overall fertility.
• Livestock Feed: : After detoxification to remove ricin (a toxic compound), castor meal can be used as a protein-rich livestock feed supplement for animals like cattle and poultry.
• Soil Conditioner:: Its organic matter enhances soil structure, aeration, and microbial activity, promoting better root growth and nutrient uptake. Pest and Disease
• Management:Castor meal has shown potential as a biopesticide and soil amendment for controlling certain pests and diseases. .
• Crop Residue Utilization:By recycling castor seed residue, the production process becomes more sustainable, reducing waste.