Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) Buyer’s Guide: Specs, Uses and How to Import from Malaysia
Palm kernel expeller (PKE), also called palm kernel cake, is one of Malaysia’s biggest feed exports. It is an affordable source of energy, fibre and moderate protein, and dairy and beef producers around the world use it to cut feed costs. This guide explains what PKE is, how it is used, and what to check before you import it.
What is palm kernel expeller?
The oil palm fruit has two parts: the fleshy outer layer, which gives palm oil, and the hard kernel inside. When the kernel is pressed to extract palm kernel oil, the dry, crumbly residue that remains is PKE. Because it is mechanically pressed rather than solvent extracted, it keeps some residual oil, which adds energy.
Typical PKE specifications
| Crude protein | 14–17% |
| Crude fat (oil) | 7–10% |
| Crude fibre | 15–20% |
| Moisture | 12% max |
| Shell content | Low shell is preferred |
These are typical industry ranges. Always confirm the exact specification in your sales contract and ask for a certificate of analysis for each shipment.
How farms use PKE
- Dairy cattle: a palatable energy and fibre feed that supports milk production as part of a balanced ration.
- Beef cattle: a low-cost feed for fattening and for supplementing pasture in dry seasons.
- Sheep and goats: used in smaller amounts alongside other feeds.
Because PKE is high in fibre, it is mainly a ruminant feed. Poultry and pig diets usually include only small amounts. Ask a nutritionist about inclusion rates for your animals.
PKE vs copra meal
Copra meal (coconut meal) is the closest alternative. It usually has a little more protein and is very palatable, while PKE is often cheaper and easier to source in large volumes from Malaysia and Indonesia. Many feed mills use both. See our copra meal page for comparison.
What to check when importing PKE
- Moisture and storage: high moisture can lead to mould. Ask for moisture results and store PKE dry and ventilated.
- Aflatoxin: request test results, especially for dairy feed.
- Shell and foreign matter: lower shell content means better digestibility.
- Packaging: PKE ships in 50 kg bags, jumbo bags or bulk in containers and vessels.
- Import rules: check your country’s animal feed import permit and phytosanitary requirements before shipping.
- Incoterms: agree whether the price is FOB Malaysia or CIF your port. Our FOB vs CIF guide explains the difference.
Buying PKE from Global Sales Resources
We supply Malaysian palm kernel expeller from Sarawak in bags or bulk. See the palm kernel expeller product page for typical specs, or browse all animal feed ingredients. For a quote, message us on WhatsApp +60 10-916 9253 with the quantity and your destination port.