Camelina processing in Northern Italy: sustainable oil and feed production

Camelina is a promising oilseed crop for organic farming in Northern Italy, sown in October and harvested in May/June. It supports agricultural diversification and sustainable crop rotations. High-quality oil is produced via low-temperature, pressure-based extraction, preserving nutrients like tocopherols for use in food, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals. The protein-rich cake serves as high-value animal feed. Successful processing requires dry weather, specialised harvesters (e.g., modified wheat combines), seed cleaning with sifters or optical sorters, and immediate drying if moisture is high. The value chain is supported by OK-Net EcoFeed and AIAB Italy, aiming for regional feed self-sufficiency and product quality.