🌰 Whole Cull Peanuts: A Profitable, High-Value Supplement for Cattle Feed Manufacturers

By Nandan Kachhadiya | Feed Formulation observer | Shree Shubham Exim

As feed manufacturers continue seeking cost-effective, nutrient-rich alternatives, whole cull (oil stock) peanuts are emerging as a versatile protein and energy supplement for mature beef cattle—especially during late gestation or winter feeding.

Backed by research and practical on-farm success, this commodity offers processing and supply opportunities for feed businesses targeting the livestock nutrition market.

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🔍 Why Feed Manufacturers Should Pay Attention

1. Abundant Supply, Low Cost
   • Oil stock peanuts are not fit for human consumption
   • Often undervalued, presenting a cost-effective raw material for livestock formulations
2. Nutrient-Dense Profile(Dry Matter Basis)
   • Crude Protein (CP): 22–26%
   • Oil/Fat Content: 36–44%
   • Moisture: 6–8%
   • Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN): ~110%
3. Energy-Dense Alternative
   • Compared to conventional corn + cottonseed blends, whole peanuts deliver higher energy with similar protein levels

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🧪 Study Insights: Practical Use with Beef Cows

Two-Year Trial – NFREC, Marianna, FL

• Subjects: Mature, late-gestating cows on bermudagrass hay
• Supplements: Whole cull peanuts vs. 50:50 corn/cottonseed mix
• Feeding Rate: 2–3 lbs/head/day, 3x/week

Key Results:

• 🐮 No negative effect on cow body condition
• 📉 Slightly lower weight gain (80 vs. 108 lbs in 84 days)
• 🐄 Similar hay intake between both groups
• 🐣 Calf birth weight, survival, weaning weight, & conception rate unaffected

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💡 Implications for Feed Manufacturers

4. Product Development Potential
   • Develop formulated supplements with ground cull peanuts
   • Position as a winter feed booster or low-pasture support product
5. Processing Advantage
   • No processing needed for whole feed usage (mature cows)
   • For blended rations, use coarse grinding (hammer mill, screen removed)
   • Market as a shelf-ready commodity or blend component
6. Packaging Options
   • Whole peanuts: Sell loose or in bulk bags (shelf life: up to 12 months)
   • Ground peanuts: Package for immediate use (shelf life: ~1 month)

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⚠️ Cautions to Address in Product Labeling

7. Fat Content
   • Excessive fat in total diet (>8% DM) can hinder roughage digestion
   • Recommend up to 3 lbs/head/day max for balanced diet
8. Mycotoxins – Especially Aflatoxins
   • Test every lot before processing
   • Educate dealers and end users on safe use practices
9. Species Suitability
   • Ideal for mature beef cattle
   • Not recommended for young heifers unless mixed with corn or other palatable carriers

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🚜 Handling & Storage for Feed Mills

10. Storage Requirements
    • Moisture: Maintain below 8% for optimal shelf life
    • Whole peanuts: Store up to 12 months in dry conditions
    • Ground peanuts: Use within 30 days
11. Logistics & Equipment
    • Hard to auger—consider belt systems or manual handling
    • Store similarly to whole cottonseed or soy hull pellets

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✅ Business Takeaways

✔ Low-cost input with high nutritional value
✔ Processing optional—versatile for raw or formulated use
✔ Expands your product portfolio with a niche, research-supported feed
✔ Meets growing demand for alternative, sustainable, cattle supplements