The cost of raw materials and grains in the primary sector significantly impacts production cycles and the profitability of operations. Therefore, conscious and optimal management of these factors is crucial to maximizing the results of one’s work.
Comparing product quality with raw material costs, alongside continuous market fluctuations and the growing demand for dairy products, livestock farmers are increasingly seeking an alternative to soy that, with a lower purchase price, can serve as a substitute protein supplement in livestock feed.
Toasted fava beans thus emerge as an optimal alternative to traditional soy, thanks to their nutritional properties and competitive price.
Fava beans: a versatile legume with an ancient history
Fava beans are a legume belonging to the Fabaceae family, characterized by edible seeds contained within pods. The resilience of its plant, ease of cultivation, and nutritional benefits make fava beans an extremely versatile food, suitable for both human and animal consumption.
Comparing the properties of fava beans with those of soy, we immediately notice:
In addition to being a valuable source of protein, fava beans are rich in essential nutrients such as fiber, iron, magnesium, and folates, making them a highly nutritious choice for consumers. On the other hand, soy protein is renowned for its high protein concentration, which in isolated form can exceed 90% of its weight.
Roasting fava beans vs. soy: nutritional benefits and rices
The process of roasting fava beans helps improve the nutritional profile and preservation of this food. Roasting not only intensifies the flavors, making fava beans more palatable, but also enhances digestibility and increases the availability of key nutrients. Therefore, roasting overall makes fava beans more enjoyable and safer for animals. But compared to soy, how do they stack up in terms of protein content and price?
Toasted soy is a protein-rich food: on average, 100 grams of toasted soybeans contain about 35-40 grams of protein. This level may vary slightly depending on the roasting method and the specific variety of soy. This grain is thus considered a complete source of protein as it provides all essential amino acids necessary for both animal (and human) diets.
Toasted fava beans are another good nutritional source, though they tend to have a lower protein content compared to soy. On average, 100 grams of toasted fava beans can contain up to 25-30 grams of protein. The value can, of course, change based on the variety of fava beans and the roasting method used.
Regarding prices, based on data from the Milan and Bologna Commodity Exchanges, the current price of domestic white fava beans hovers around 340-350 euros per ton, while the price of soybeans is higher, averaging about 440-450 euros per ton. This demonstrates that fava beans have a lower cost compared to soy and are, therefore, potentially more accessible for livestock and other industrial or food purposes.
Which machine to choose for efficient fava bean roasting?
There are various methods for roasting fava beans and different machines to accomplish it. The choice usually depends on the intended final use and the size of the farm where the machine is employed.
Mecmar roasters stand out for being made with durable materials, ensuring optimal performance and great reliability in any context.
Available in different models to suit the varying sizes and needs of farms, they are designed to be efficient and functional, capable of handling even large-scale fava bean roasting processes. The compact stainless steel design allows for quick movements and excellent durability.
Caring for your livestock’s nutrition, caring for the environment. Mecmar’s range of machines also includes electric roasters. Drawing on experience and know-how accumulated over years of design, these 100% electric machines represent a sustainable innovation that eliminates the use of diesel, gas, and LPG without compromising the quality of the results.
In conclusion
Based on current price trends, fava beans may gradually replace soy in animal feed mixtures. The use of roasters that enable quick and effective processing, like those from Mecmar, will make a difference in the quality of this type of feed.
Do you have any more questions or curiosities on the topic? Read our brief guide on our seed roaster or contact us for more information. Mecmar experts are at your disposal.
