Pineapple Waste-fed Cattle In High Demand Ahead Of Aidiladha

By Mohamad Syazwan Mustafa

PONTIAN, May 25 (Bernama) -- A cattle farm in Kampung Parit Jerman here is gaining attention ahead of Aidiladha for turning pineapple waste into livestock feed, producing leaner and more tender beef while embracing a sustainable farming model.

The integration of agriculture and livestock farming through a circular economy concept has not only reduced dependence on commercial feed, but also produced premium-quality beef that is leaner and healthier.

Jermanpine Cafe manager Mohammad Anal Talha, 54, said the operation was designed to fully utilise every stage of the business, from pineapple cultivation and downstream products to the use of pineapple waste for livestock feed.

“We cultivate pineapples on a large scale for downstream products such as tarts and juice. The waste generated from the process is substantial and sufficient to support our livestock needs.

“The pineapple waste is mixed with rice straw as a supplementary feed. To feed 300 cattle, we require about two tonnes of pineapple waste daily,” he told Bernama during a recent visit to Jermanpine here.

The Batu Pahat native, who began cattle farming in 2014, said the pineapple-based diet provides major benefits to the animals’ immune system and meat quality.

“The cattle develop stronger immunity compared with those fed on commercial feed and are more resistant to diseases. According to studies by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), the beef is also more nutritious because pineapple contains acidic properties that help reduce fat, making the meat more tender and leaner,” he said

To maintain quality, Mohammad Anal said the farm works closely with the Department of Veterinary Services, which regularly monitors the livestock, provides advisory support and helps control disease outbreaks.

On this year’s Aidiladha market, he said the farm has received orders for 70 cattle from customers around Johor, while another 20 heads have been prepared for fresh beef sales.

Prices range from RM4,500 to RM10,000 per animal depending on size, while fresh beef is sold at RM36 per kilogramme and premium cuts at between RM40 and RM44 per kilogramme.

“Orders increase every year. After Hari Raya Aidiladha, we plan to expand our existing display barn from a capacity of 30 cattle to 300. Next year, we are targeting sales of 150 cattle,” he said.

The livestock business operates alongside his 500-acre pineapple plantation in Kampung Parit Jerman.

The farm produces between 40 and 50 tonnes, or about 25,000 pineapples, each month with an estimated value of RM150,000, while generating about 20 tonnes of pineapple waste monthly.

To strengthen the business ecosystem, Mohammad Anal said Jermanpine Cafe, established in 2023, offers various pineapple and beef-based dishes including tomahawk steak, beef soup, pineapple pizza, pineapple tarts and fresh pineapple juice.

Regular customer Sayuti Ab Rahim, 41, said the beef stood out for its tenderness and texture.

“I first bought the beef out of curiosity and immediately noticed the difference. The meat was more tender and flavourful. When I came back to buy more, I learned that the unique taste came from cattle fed with pineapple waste,” he said.

-- BERNAMA