Understanding Palm Kernel and Its Role in the Dairy Industry

Summary

The video explores the debate around using palm kernel as supplementary feed in New Zealand's dairy industry. It outlines the pros, including utilizing a byproduct that would otherwise be discarded, and the cons, such as links to deforestation and environmental concerns. The discussion compares palm kernel to other feeds like soy and maize, highlighting regional differences in its use, particularly between the North and South Islands. The overall impact on dairy intensification is examined, showing palm kernel plays a minor role. The 'Happy Cow' perspective advocates avoiding palm kernel due to controversy and promoting regenerative practices through locally grown crops integrated with dairy systems.

Takeaways

• 😀 Palm kernel is a byproduct of palm oil production and has become a significant feed ingredient in New Zealand dairy farming.
• 😀 Palm kernel is high in nutritional value and has been imported by New Zealand dairy farmers for over 15 years to feed cows.
• 😀 Palm kernel is typically discarded or burned after the palm oil is extracted, so its use in dairy farming helps reduce waste.
• 😀 Proponents of palm kernel argue that its use is not responsible for deforestation, as palm trees are planted for oil production, not the byproduct.
• 😀 Critics argue that using palm kernel supports an industry linked to deforestation, environmental degradation, and intensified farming practices.
• 😀 The global demand for palm oil has led to significant environmental concerns, particularly in tropical regions where forests are being cleared.
• 😀 The use of palm kernel in dairy farming is often seen as contributing to the intensification of dairy farming, which leads to higher stocking rates and environmental impact.
• 😀 Some argue that other crops, like soybeans, have a greater environmental impact, particularly with deforestation and pollution in regions like the Amazon.
• 😀 Happy Cow recognizes both sides of the argument but opts to avoid palm kernel due to its controversial nature and environmental concerns.
• 😀 Instead of relying on imported feeds like palm kernel, Happy Cow supports regenerative farming, where crops are integrated with dairy farming to reduce nutrient loading on the land.

Q & A

What is Palm kernel, and how is it used in New Zealand dairy farming?

Palm kernel is the husk that surrounds the palm fruit, a byproduct of palm oil production. It is used in New Zealand dairy farming as a supplementary feed for cows because of its nutritional value, especially since around 2007.

What are the primary arguments in favor of using Palm kernel in dairy farming?

Proponents argue that Palm kernel is a byproduct that would otherwise be discarded or burnt, and by purchasing it, farmers are preventing waste. Additionally, they claim that the demand for Palm kernel does not directly influence the planting of more palm trees, as it is a byproduct of palm oil production meant for human consumption.

Why do some people oppose the use of Palm kernel in dairy farming?

Opponents argue that the Palm oil industry is associated with deforestation and environmental harm. They also claim that using Palm kernel supports an unsustainable and intensive dairy farming model that could have long-term negative effects on ecosystems and biodiversity.

How does the environmental impact of Palm kernel compare to other crops like soybeans and corn?

Proponents of Palm kernel argue that other crops, such as soybeans and corn, also have significant environmental impacts, like deforestation in the Amazon and soil degradation in North America. They point out that much of the soybean crop is used as animal feed, similar to Palm kernel, yet it doesn’t face the same level of ethical scrutiny.

What is the link between Palm kernel and intensification of dairy farming in New Zealand?

Palm kernel has been used as supplementary feed in the North Island of New Zealand, where it is associated with a slight increase in stocking rates (the number of cows per hectare). However, Palm kernel is not the primary factor behind the overall intensification of dairy farming in New Zealand, with irrigation and other factors playing a larger role in the South Island.

How has the New Zealand dairy industry changed since 1990?

Since 1990, New Zealand's dairy industry has seen significant growth, with an additional 2 million cows and a 50% increase in milk production per cow. The use of supplementary feed, including Palm kernel, has increased dramatically, with Palm kernel becoming a major feed component in the North Island.

How much supplementary feed is fed to cows in New Zealand today compared to 1990?

In 1990, cows were fed about 50 kg of dry matter (feed) per cow per year. Today, that number has increased to around 800 kg, reflecting a 400% increase in the use of supplementary feed in New Zealand dairy farming.

Why is Palm kernel more widely used in the North Island of New Zealand compared to the South Island?

Palm kernel is a major feed component in the North Island, while in the South Island, other feeds like fodder beet and maize silage are more commonly used. This difference reflects regional variations in farming practices and feed availability.

What is the Happy Cow stance on Palm kernel use in New Zealand dairy farming?

Happy Cow takes a moderate view, acknowledging that Palm kernel is unfairly vilified compared to other imported feeds. However, they argue that the real issue is the practice of importing feed, which introduces new nutrients to the land. They advocate for a more sustainable, regenerative farming model that integrates crops with dairy farming to reduce reliance on imported feed.

What does Happy Cow suggest as a more sustainable alternative to importing feed like Palm kernel?

Happy Cow suggests integrating crops within dairy farming, as crops can help take nutrients out of the ground while cows put nutrients back in. This regenerative system would reduce the need for imported feeds and promote long-term soil health.