Yields of protein extracted from a range of northern Victorian herbage

Leaf protein concentrate was extracted and measured in a range of commonly grown pasture plants and cereals in Victoria, with the aim of identifying species most suitable for a leaf protein concentrate industry. The effects of sward maturity, nitrogen fertilizer and pH, on protein extractability were examined. Best yields (1100 to 1500 kg ha-1) of extractable protein were obtained from irrigated lucerne and white clover. Extractable protein yield from perennial grass, cereals and lucerne declined rapidly with maturity, whereas lupins, vetch and white clover were much less affected by maturity. Soursob in mixed pasture reduced yields by reducing pH of juice. Nitrogen fertilizer applied in spring on a mixed pasture reduced the clover content and consequently the extractable protein yield.