Sugar Beet Pressed Pulp

Beet pulp is the vegetable portion of the sugar beet that remains after the sugar is removed in the processing plant. Large presses are used to reduce the water content; hence the term “pressed pulp.” Pressed pulp is a succulent, high-moisture product, exceptionally high in digestible fiber and contains significant amounts of protein and minerals.

While pressed pulp has slightly less protein than some forage products, such as alfalfa, it is very high in energy helping to balance high-protein feeds with an appropriate combination of energy & fiber.

Pressed pulp is unique among livestock feeds for the high digestibility of its crude fiber. For example, its fiber digestion coefficient of 88% compares with 43% for cottonseed meal. It also possesses extremely high absorptive powers which have a beneficial effect in increasing the digestibility of other feeds used with it. Another important feature of pressed pulp is its ability to produce firm, white fat on both cattle and lambs. Pressed pulp is typically 24% dry matter and weighs 63 pounds per cubic foot. It is usually sold on a dry matter basis. It is available only during the harvest period, but it stores well when piles are properly ensiled. Shrinks are typically reported to be approximately 10%.

Nutritional Characteristics of Sugar Beet Pressed Pulp*

Typical Analysis

All charts represented as typical. Actual comparison may vary according to location or crop condition.· All charts computed on a Dry Matter Basis unless otherwise noted.* Typical analysis based on Western Sugar and independent laboratory analytical data.** Based on Feedstuffs 1989 Reference Issue. Vol. 61, Number 31. July 26, 1989

Ingredient

Component

Dry Matter % (as fed)

24%

Crude Protein

9.1%

Crude Fat

0.6%

Crude Fiber

23.1%

Ash

4%

Calcium

0.56%

Ruminant TDN

78%

Net Energy – Maintenance

0.80 MCal/lb

Net Energy – Gain

0.52 MCal/lb pH 5.0