BY ADELINE ANTHONY ALPHONSO

With increasing demand for feed produced in accordance with halal principles , FGV IF ’ s ALMA Animal Feed is well-positioned to cater to both local and international markets .

While Malaysia does not regulate halal certification for animal feed , ALMA ensures that its production processes adhere to halal standards by prioritising the cleanliness and sourcing of ingredients . This commitment guarantees that their feed meets the highest quality standards and aligns with the ethical and religious expectations of consumers .

ALMA ANIMAL FEED

ALMA Animal Feed primarily utilises palm kernel expeller ( PKE ), paddy and sugar by-products , and feed grains like corn and soybeans . These ingredients are either sourced locally or selectively imported and combined with premium feed additives to create various feed specifications .

PKE is a key ingredient in ALMA ’ s formulations due to its nutritional value and cost-effectiveness . It serves as an excellent energy and protein source , crucial for both ruminants and poultry .

For ruminants such as cattle and sheep , PKE ’ s high fibre content supports healthy digestion , aids in rumen function , stimulates saliva production , and promotes a healthy gut microbiome , which is essential for nutrient

Abdul Razak Aya

absorption and overall well-being . This highfibre content also enhances disease resistance and supports efficient weight gain .

In addition to its benefits for ruminants , PKE provides a balanced diet for layer poultry contributing to their growth and productivity . The energy-dense nature of PKE ensures that poultry can achieve optimal weight gain and maintain good health for egg production .

FGV ’ s current yearly production of PKE amounts to 400,000 metric tonnes . Their role as a feed and animal nutrition maker is to continuously guarantee that the feed meets the highest standards of quality and safety .

In addition to plant-based ingredients , FGV IF has newly explored the use of Black Soldier Fly Larvae ( BSFL ) as a sustainable protein source in its animal feed .

BSFL offers an excellent alternative to traditional animal feed ingredients , as it is high in protein and offers a reliable option for ruminants , poultry and aquaculture .

Additionally , BSF larvae are a by-product of waste recycling . They enhance their environmental benefits by converting organic waste into valuable feed resources , thereby promoting a more sustainable and circular agricultural system .

This innovative approach , however , features two key components ;

Dried larvae : Produced by rapidly heating fresh BSF larvae , they retain a high concentration of protein and fat . This nutrient-dense feed option not only supports optimal growth and performance in livestock but also enhances feed intake due to its balanced protein and fatty acid profile . Additionally , the dried larvae are rich in essential micronutrients , antimicrobial peptides , and lauric acid , which

contribute to overall animal health and productivity .

Frass : The excrement of BSF larvae serves as a potent organic fertiliser . It is packed with crucial nutrients such as nitrogen , phosphorus , and trace minerals , which significantly improve soil fertility and support sustainable agricultural practices . The presence of beneficial microbes , chitin , and plant-available nutrients in frass further enhances its role in promoting soil health and crop productivity , especially in the horticulture industry .

Through the integration of BSF products , FGV IF not only addresses the need for innovative , sustainable feed ingredients but also reinforces its commitment to enhancing food security and supporting the agricultural ecosystem .

HALAL COMPLIANCE

While halal certification for animal feed is not mandatory in Malaysia , FGV IF is keen to collaborate with JAKIM and other relevant government bodies to establish certification standards .

Said FGV Integrated Farming Head Abdul Razak Aya : “ We are looking forward to potentially working with JAKIM and the government to develop formal halal certification for animal feed in Malaysia or globally .”

In the absence of formal certification , FGV IF has implemented stringent internal measures to maintain halal standards . This includes regular audits , monitoring of the supply chain , and employee training on halal processes .

“ Education is crucial to maintaining halal integrity . We strive to ensure that every part of our supply chain adheres to these principles .”

GLOBAL MARKET DEMAND The global market for halal-certified products