THE POWERFUL IMPACT OF AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST
Whilst the business has a global presence, the core business of dsm-firmenich in the Middle East is taking stridesin developing innovative solutions that not only improve the health and well-being of animals, but also people and the planet.
“In the animal nutrition and health division, we focus on providing advanced feed solutions that enhance animal performance, ensure food safety, and promote sustainability,” shared Nilgün Demir, Operating Unit Director (Turkey, Middle East, Africa, and Pakistan).
“Our commitment to research and development, combined with our deep understanding of local markets, enables us to address the specific needs of our customers and drive progress in the agricultural sector,” she continued.
Strategically partnered with ARASCO, dsm-firmenich is a global leader in health, nutrition, and biosciences.
DSMFIRMENICH
PROJECT
DIRECTED BY: JAMIE WAITE
ARTICLE WRITTEN BY: LAURA WATLING
Where Others See Challenges, dsm firmenich Sees Possibilities
Whilst there are many pillars to dsmfirmenich’s ambitious growth strategy, including building on its cornerstones of innovation and sustainability, the business will be strengthening its local partnerships.
“Our partnership with Arasco in Saudi Arabia exemplifies this approach. By working closely with regional leaders, we combine local insights with our global expertise to develop solutions that are well-suited to the Middle Eastern context,” explained Nilgün. “These partnerships enable us to scale our operations, reach new markets, and address regional challenges more effectively”.
And when it comes to food security, the Middle East is not short of challenges.
In a study released by the Middle East Council on Global Affairs in February 2023, it was highlighted that “ Structural issues, such as unsustainable agricultural practices and lack of rural development, along with the intensifying effects of climate change are heightening the state of food insecurity,” and that the “MENA should focus on increasing its domestic food production capacities and using its resources efficiently. This will require further investment in agricultural research and technology that can address existing challenges”.
Through its innovations in the sector, dsm-firmenich is helping to enhance food security in the Middle East by improving animal health and productivity.
Its efforts ensure a stable supply of highquality animal products, crucial for the growing population in the region.
“Additionally, our commitment to food safety ensures that the animal products are safe for consumption, protecting public health,” added Nilgün.
Further to the region's focus on food security, dsm-firmenich is also playing a pivotal role in supporting the Middle East
in its continued economic diversification plans and ambition to reduce its dependence on the energy sector.
“dsm-firmenich’s contributions to the Middle East extend beyond improving animal nutrition and health. Our efforts support the region’s economic diversification by promoting sustainable agricultural practices, fostering innovation, creating employment opportunities, and enhancing food security. These initiatives collectively help build a more resilient and diversified economy for the future,” shared Nilgün.
One such initiative to contribute to this development is dsm-firmenich’s dedication to supporting SMEs.
Working closely with local farmers and businesses, the firm helps to strengthen SMEs in the agricultural sector by enabling them to adopt modern practices and improve their productivity, which, Nilgün added:
“is essential for economic diversification. Thriving SMEs contribute to a more dynamic and resilient economy,”.
Additionally, through partnerships and collaborations, such as with Arasco in Saudi Arabia, dsm-firmenich is able to facilitate the transfer of knowledge and technology, enhancing local capabilities and encouraging innovation within the regional agricultural sector.
Encouraging Sector Growth Through Innovation
Forged out of a merger between dsm, a mining firm which transformed into a science-based business, and firmenich, a family business renowned for its expertise in creating fragrances and flavours, dsmfirmenich has become synonymous with innovation.
Dedicated to meeting the specific needs of the countries in which it operates, dsm-firmenich invests in research and development to create cutting-edge solutions tailored to the region’s needs.
In the Middle East, dsm-firmenich has undertaken several impactful projects, including the development of SymphiomeTM which supports the improvement of gut health in livestock.
SymphiomeTM leverages advanced microbiome science to enhance the gut flora of animals, leading to better nutrient absorption, improved immunity, and overall health.
In the Middle East, where livestock often face stress due to extreme environmental conditions, SymphiomeTM has proven to be highly effective in maintaining animal health and productivity.
In addition, dsm-firmenich has developed another breakthrough product, BalanciusTM. The feed additive works by breaking down bacterial cell debris in the gut, allowing for better nutrient absorption and utilisation. As a result, animals exhibit improved growth rates and feed conversion ratios.
“In the Middle East, BalanciusTM has been particularly beneficial in optimisng feed use, thereby reducing costs and environmental impact,” explained Nilgün.
Alongside its feed based innovations (which also includes Mycofix® for mycotoxin management), the business has developed digital tools to support farmers.
VeraxTM uses machine learning to predict health problems in poultry flocks. By analysing data from various sources, VeraxTM can identify patterns and early warning signs of potential health issues, allowing farmers to take proactive measures to prevent disease outbreaks. This predictive health management tool is particularly valuable in the Middle East, where early intervention can significantly enhance flock health and productivity.
Meanwhile, dsm-firmenich’s innovations are helping to contribute to better human health outcomes by addressing common nutritional deficiencies in the region. Significant innovations in this area include
the development of Omega-3 enriched feed for livestock. This feed not only improves the health of the animals but also enhances the nutritional quality of animal-derived products such as meat, milk, and eggs.
“By increasing the levels of omega-3 fatty acids in these products, we contribute to better human health outcomes, addressing common nutritional deficiencies in the region,” added Nilgün.
Through these projects and innovations, dsm is making a significant impact on health and nutrition in the Middle East.
Alongside innovations driven to impact health, the business is also committed to using innovation to positively impact the environmental footprint of animal farming.
As such, dsm-firmenich offers innovative feed solutions that enhance feed efficiency and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
“Our feed additives like Bovaer® are designed to reduce methane emissions from ruminants by up to 30%, significantly cutting the carbon footprint of livestock production,” shared Nilgün, “Meanwhile, our global sustainability service, SustellTM, allows farmers to measure their actual environmental footprint, identify the best possibilities to improve, and provide advice and practical solutions for implementation”.
Its commitment to research and development, coupled with strategic partnerships, educational initiatives, and sustainability, ensures that dsm-firmenich continues to deliver solutions that benefit animals, people, and the planet.
www.dsm-firmenich.com
