Sal (Shorea robusta) is a large sub-deciduous tree, seldom completely leafless, which is found extensively in parts of northeastern and central India. The tree is extensively cultivated in the Indian subcontinent as a source of timber. Salseeds, though not very palatable, are sometimes eaten by the human population in times of food scarcity. The seeds, when crushed, yield 19 to 20% of an oil which is suitable for use as a substitute for cocoa butter in the manufacture of chocolates (CSIR 1972). The residual salseed cake, generally termed salseed meal, is diverted for utilization as a livestock feed.