Sunflowers is an important summer-season crop in South Africa as well. (This photo was taken at the Agricultural Research Council’s Oil and Protein Seeds research farm in Potchefstroom) This summer crop in South Africa, it is farmed for oil, as an edible seed for humans and birds and for its use as oil cake in animal feed formulations.
What are the uses of sunflower seeds in South Africa?
The seeds are used for oil, bird seed and human consumption. Sunflower oil is used in food preparation, for biofuel, cosmetics and skin care products. The meal and cake are used for animal feed. Production is suitable for many South African climatic conditions as the plants are drought tolerant.
How much sunflower is produced in South Africa?
South African sunflower production ranges from 600 000 tons to 800 000 tonnes. Sunflowers is an important summer-season crop in South Africa as well. (This photo was taken at the Agricultural Research Council’s Oil and Protein Seeds research farm in Potchefstroom)
Are sunflower seeds suitable for South African climatic conditions?
Sunflower seed production is very suitable for South African climatic conditions as sunflower plants are drought tolerant. The deep root system of a sunflower enables the plant to perform better than other crops during dry seasons.