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 seed oil is produced in South Africa?
South Africa produced around 300 000 tons of sunflower seed oil over the past three years (SAGIS, 2011). The current processing capacity for sunflower seed oil in South Africa is 1 442 000 ? 1 522 000 tons.
Is sunflower a summer crop in South Africa?
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.
Where do sunflowers grow in South Africa?
Almost 80% of South Africa’s sunflower production is concentrated in the North West and Free State provinces. Soils should be sandy loam, with a clay percentage of less than 20%. Farmers plant sunflower seeds between November and January, while harvesting happens between late April and mid-May.