Lucerne (alfalfa) meal and pellets

HS code 121410 covers the import and export of lucerne (alfalfa) meal and pellets. Lucerne, also known as alfalfa, is a widely cultivated forage crop that is highly valued for its nutritional content and versatility. As a key ingredient in animal feed, the lucerne meal and pellet industry plays a vital role in supporting the global livestock and dairy sectors, contributing to food security and the broader agricultural economy.

Lucerne meal and pellets are produced through a multi-step process. First, the lucerne is harvested, dried, and then milled into a fine powder or meal. The meal is then compacted and extruded into pellets, which can be more easily stored, transported, and fed to livestock. This processing helps to preserve the nutritional value of the lucerne and improve its handling and distribution.

The production of lucerne meal and pellets requires several key inputs. The primary raw material is, of course, the lucerne crop itself, which is typically grown and harvested by specialized agricultural producers. Additionally, the manufacturing process requires machinery such as mills, pellet presses, and drying equipment. Energy sources, such as electricity or fuel, are also necessary to power the production facilities.

The primary output of HS code 121410 is lucerne meal and pellets, which are primarily used as a high-protein, high-fiber ingredient in animal feed for livestock and poultry. The lucerne meal and pellets may be consumed by producers of 230990 Preparations of a kind used in animal feeding, 230110 Flours, meals and pellets, of meat or meat offal, unfit for human consumption; greaves, and 230210 Bran, sharps and other residues, whether or not in the form of pellets, derived from the sifting, milling or other working of cereals.