Soybean meal and cottonseed meal are usually fed to provide which of the following?

• A. Energy
• B. Fiber
• C. Protein
• D. Minerals

Answer: (C)

Soybean meal and cottonseed meal are used mainly as protein supplements. They are by-products of oil extraction, so the remaining meal concentrates protein and provides essential amino acids needed for growth and tissue maintenance. In most livestock rations, grains like corn supply energy but little protein, so adding these meals raises the overall protein content to meet dietary requirements. Their energy contribution is limited compared with their role as protein sources, and while they do contain fiber and minerals, those are not the primary reason they’re included. Soybean meal offers a high-quality amino acid profile, especially lysine, making it a preferred protein source, whereas cottonseed meal also provides protein but must be managed carefully in non-ruminants due to gossypol.