Dried olive paste: fibre, olive fat and polyphenols for animal feed
A local by-product of olive oil production, with published research in ten animal groups.
See the research by animal groupAsk for the specification
- Fibre (NDF) ~40–50%
- Other organic matter
- Ash ~10%
- Protein ~8%
- Fat ~8%
What it brings to the ration
- Natural fibre
- Lignocellulose fibre (NDF ~40–50%) that bulks restricted diets and supports healthy digestion.
- Olive fat rich in oleic acid
- About 8% fat, rich in oleic acid, the characteristic fatty acid of olive oil.
- Olive polyphenols
- Natural phenolic compounds such as hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol and oleuropein.
- A local, circular ingredient
- A regional olive oil by-product that can replace part of the cereal fraction.
Research by animal group
Each page summarises what published trials show, the studies behind it and the inclusion rates we recommend.
- Dairy cowsHigher cheese yield and more favourable milk fatty acids, with milk yield maintained.up to 15%Established research
- Beef cattleHigher weight gain and intramuscular fat, and a better meat fatty acid profile in finishing bulls.10–15%Established research
- WagyuEarly-stage research: a pilot with a control group is the recommended starting point.pilot, up to 5%Early-stage research
- Sheep and goatsMore milk and more monounsaturated fatty acids in dairy ewes.10–15%Growing research
- RabbitsA fibre source that, combined with enzymes, supported growth and economic efficiency.5–10%Growing research
- DucksLow to moderate rates, based on duck fibre studies and poultry research.4–6%Early-stage research
- Laying hens15–34% fewer broken eggshells and eggs with lower cholesterol.4–6%Established research
- Fattening pigsMaintained performance at 5–10%, higher intake and a leaner carcass.5–10%Growing research
- SowsBetter faecal bacterial counts and antioxidant status in gestation, without affecting litters.10% in gestationEarly-stage research
- DogsA blood marker of oxidative stress fell in a controlled trial of 30 dogs.11.5 mg/kg/dayEarly-stage research
How to use it
Ask for the certificate of analysis
Every lot has its own analysis. Formulate with those values, not with typical ones.
Introduce it gradually
Increase the rate step by step over 7–14 days until you reach the target for your animals.
Formulate with your nutritionist
Rebalance energy and protein when the paste replaces part of the cereal.
Monitor and compare
Compare with a group on your usual diet to document your own results.
Quality and storage
- A certificate of analysis for every lot
- Store dry, covered and cool; use the oldest stock first
- Mix evenly in meal feeds; check pellet quality when pelleting
- Product specification available on request
Frequently asked questions
What is olive paste?
Olive paste (pasta de aceituna) is the dried solid fraction left after olive oil is extracted. Research papers call similar products dried olive cake or olive pomace. Different processes give different products, so always check the specification.
What does it contain?
Typically about 8% protein, about 8% fat and 40–50% NDF fibre, with natural polyphenols. The exact values are on each lot's certificate of analysis.
Which animals can use it?
The research covers dairy cows, beef cattle, Wagyu, sheep and goats, rabbits, ducks, laying hens, fattening pigs, sows and dogs. Each animal page gives the studies and the recommended rates.
How is it introduced into the ration?
Gradually over 7–14 days. Rabbits start at 42 days of age. Final rates should follow your own ration formulation and the lot analysis.
Can it replace cereals?
It can replace part of the cereal fraction. In one dairy cow trial, 1 kg of olive paste replaced 1 kg of maize. Rebalance energy and protein with your nutritionist.
Are the results guaranteed?
No. The results come from published trials under their own conditions. Your results depend on diet, genetics and management, so we recommend comparing with a group on your usual diet.