Cottonseed Meal: Eliminating Gossypol for Securing Another Source of Protein

Cottonseed meal (CSM) is a byproduct of cottonseed oil extraction and is considered a valuable source of protein for animal and human nutrition. However, CSM utilization is limited due to the presence of anti-nutritional factors, particularly gossypol, which can negatively impact animal growth and health. The protein amount and quality, amino acid profile, and nutrient composition of CSM, as well as the detrimental effects of gossypol on animal nutrition, are all summarized in this book chapter. The chapter also examines various methods for reducing gossypol in CSM, including physical, chemical, biological, and combination methods. In addition, the utilization of low-gossypol CSM is discussed, including its potential applications in animal feed, human food and nutrition, and industrial and non-food applications. Finally, future research directions are outlined, including the development of new low-gossypol cottonseed varieties, optimization of gossypol removal methods, and evaluation of the nutritional quality of low-gossypol CSM, as well as environmental and economic impact assessments of low-gossypol CSM production. This boom chapter highlights the potential of CSM as a sustainable protein source and identifies strategies for improving its utilization.