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The rising power of social media has added a new, and not altogether positive, aspect to product development and launch as we saw with the unveiling of the feed additive, Bovaer, at the end of last year.
The announcement by Arla Foods of a 30-herd test of Bovaer in the UK, a move designed to help reduce methane emissions from dairy cows, produced a wild social media reaction leading to some people pouring milk down their sinks. Other consumers were reported to be ready to boycott products from certain supermarkets, prompting some farmer groups to take to social media themselves to announce that they weren’t using the targeted product.
Claims that Bovaer was part of a ‘depopulation’ plot was one of the crazier theories posted on certain platforms alongside a host of other items of ‘mistruths and misinformation’, to quote product manufacturer, dsm-firmenich.
Headquartered in The Netherlands and Switzerland, dsm-firmenich pointed out that both the UK and EU Food Safety Authorities had approved Bovaer, considering it safe for use and effective in reducing emissions. Listing at least 13 positive facts about the product’s development and testing history, including its fully approved availability in 68 countries, the company firmly declared its belief in science and the power of evidence-based progress.
Sadly, science and evidence-based information doesn’t appear to have a place in today’s social media world.
The reaction by official bodies to the misinformation storm was impressive, however, not least by the UK’s Food Standards Agency which stated clearly that milk from cows given Bovaer is ‘safe to drink’. FSA further explained that the additive is metabolised by cows so does not pass into their milk.
A similar assurance was issued in relation to meat, as derived from the dairy herd, with FSA stating that its assessment of the product had concluded there are ‘no safety concerns when Bovaer is used at the approved dose’.
In this particular case, the general media storm, driven as it was by social media falsehoods, appears to have been relatively short-lived, which is encouraging. Only time will tell, however, whether or not the product’s longer term use has been damaged in any way.
What is already clear is that future feed product developments of this type are also likely to be subject to immediate and extreme social media attention.
There is nothing wrong with new products being required to withstand public scrutiny, of course, provided the questions being asked are genuine. In fact, dsm-firmenich, in its defence of Bovaer’s scientific path to the marketplace, made a point of stressing the ‘utmost importance’ of transparency concerning what goes into the world’s food products.
What we saw in the reaction to Bovaer’s UK trials programme, however, was very different. While science and evidence-based
assessment ruled the product’s progress through 15 years of research and development to the announced series of on-farm trials, the social media reaction was based on mistruths and misinformation.
Having been heavily criticised across the same social media platforms for the methane emissions attached to livestock production, farmers could be excused for feeling aggrieved that their efforts to explore a feed-based solution to the issue should attract such a negative response.
A case of ‘dammed if you do, dammed if you don’t’ comes to mind. Actually, a better response is to stay calm, point to the science, and carry on delivering an end result which is both safe and effective. Which is really what we’ve seen in recent weeks.
Behind closed doors, however, those working on similar product solutions will no doubt be adding new layers of preparation and proof to their own development processes. This may lead to a slowing of methane reduction progress and a raising of research, development, and trial costs, but hopefully with final solutions that are able to pass smoothly into commercial production.
There is certainly plenty of methane reduction research going on around the globe at present.
In July last year, for example, the global food and feed business, Cargill, made a US$1 million grant to Colorado State University to help fund research aimed at promoting sustainable animal agriculture practices and reducing the environmental impact of the beef industry.
The company also has its own Technology Application Center (TAC) in Bazhou, China, featuring what is described as a ‘dairy research facility that plays an important role in Cargill’s ruminant methane emission reduction strategy’.
Many breeding solutions to methane emission concerns also exist, including the birth in Scotland of Hilda, a calf which recently became the latest addition to the country’s Cool Cows project. Run by Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), this is a venture geared to establish a nucleus of highly methane-efficient animals.
Cool Cows is actually part of the ‘world’s longest-running livestock genetics project’ with Hilda being the first member of the 16th generation of the College’s Langhill Dairy Herd.
By using new genomic assessment methods, alongside existing production and environmental efficiency indices, SRUC researchers are aiming to select elite, methane-efficient heifers for future breeding. The goal is for the Cool Cows project to produce a number of offspring from selected donors, rapidly establishing a nucleus of highly methaneefficient calves.
Social media followers should note that the Langhill Herd has been running for more than half a century, with all research findings being closely monitored, assessed, and approved at each and every step along the way. Please do your own detailed background checks, therefore, before embarking on any new round of misinformation.
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By Ryan Mounsey
October Production Overview
Total production of compounds, blends and concentrates, including integrated poultry units, in Great Britain during October amounted to 1,075,700 tonnes, an increase from a year earlier of 37,600 tonnes or 3.6 per cent. However, as a result of significantly higher outputs in the first half of the decade, the total under review was 8,400 tonnes or 0.8 per cent lower than the decade long average for the month under review.
Total feed production during the month of October 2024 was made up of: 44.1 per cent poultry feed; 33.5 per cent cattle and calf feed; 13.8 per cent pig feed; 4.6 per cent sheep feed; 1.6 per cent horse feed; and 2.5 per cent other feed.
At 474,000 tonnes of output, total October poultry feed production , including integrated poultry units had surpassed its year earlier counterpart by 3,800 tonnes or 0.8 per cent. Due to recent declines in production, the current total was not great enough to outpace the decade long average, which it fell 14,300 tonnes or 3.0 per cent below.
Despite the general upturn in poultry feed production, only the integrated poultry units subsector, at 177,400 tonnes and the layer compounds subsector, at 85,200 tonnes, bettered their year previous returns. The former did so by 5,100 tonnes or 3.0 per cent and the latter by 4,100 tonnes or 5.1 per cent. On the other hand, chick rearing feed compounds decreased for the fifth October in a row to its lowest level since records were kept in their current form of 8,300 tonnes, 300 tonnes or 3.5 per cent down on a year previous. The production of broiler chicken compounds also dropped for the fifth October in succession, in this instance down 5,500 tonnes or 3.5 per cent to
151,200 tonnes. At 22,500 tonnes, poultry breeding and rearing compounds were 1,400 tonnes or 5.9 per cent down from 2023. Lastly, turkey compounds production declined by 1,300 tonnes or 7.3 per cent to its lowest output on record for the month of 16,400 tonnes.
Total cattle and calf feed production for October increased from its year previous level by a significant 26,300 tonnes or 7.9 per cent to 359,900 tonnes, its highest level for six years. Moreover, the current total outstripped the 10 year average for October by 13,500 tonnes or 3.8 per cent.
Every cattle and calf subsector bettered its year previous return for the month under review. All other cattle blends production was at its highest level on record for October of 32,700 tonnes, up 6,800 tonnes or 26.3 per cent from 2023. Output of compounds for dairy cows and all other cattle compounds both surpassed their year previous returns by 5,300 tonnes, with the former rising 3.1 per cent to 180,100 tonnes and the latter by 12.2 per cent to 48,600 tonnes. An increase of 2,100 tonnes or 13.4 per cent from a year earlier brought total October calf feed up to 17,800 tonnes and the production of blends for dairy cows also grew notably from a year previous, up 6,300 tonnes or 9.5 per cent to 72,400 tonnes, its third highest return in the last 10 years. Finally, cattle protein concentrates grew by 300 tonnes or 3.8 per cent from the corresponding month in 2023 to 8,100 tonnes.
For the third year in succession, total October pig feed fell below its year previous output, the total under review had decreased by 6,300 tonnes or 4.1 per cent to 148,500 tonnes. Additionally, the current total was 11,100 tonnes or 7.2 per cent down on the decade long average for October.
Pig starters and creep feed production was the only subsector to better its year earlier return, doing so by a significant 1,600 tonnes or 72.6 per cent to 3,800 tonnes. In contrast, link and early grower feed production was at its lowest output for October since 2000 at 4,900 tonnes, down 100 tonnes or 2.0 per cent from 2023 and pig breeding compounds production declined from year previous levels by 2,000 tonnes or 6.2 per cent to 30,300 tonnes, its lowest level since records were kept in their current form. Pig finishing compounds production fell for the third time in succession for the month under review, in this instance by 5,000 tonnes or 5.7 per cent down to 82,500 tonnes. Lastly, a decline in production of 900 tonnes or 3.2 per cent dropped the output of October pig growing compounds down to 26,900 tonnes.
Following a sizeable decline in production in the October of 2023, total sheep feed production rose by a considerable 11,200 tonnes or 29.6 per cent to 49,000 tonnes, a record high for the month under review. The total under review also outstripped the 10 year average for the month by a significant 10,100 tonnes or 23.0 per cent.
Aside from breeding sheep output, which matched its year earlier October return of 1,100 tonnes, all sheep feed categories bettered their 2023 levels. The production of blends for growing and finishing sheep increased sharply from a year earlier to a record high of 8,500 tonnes, a rise of 2,600 tonnes or 44.1 per cent. Compounds for growing and finishing sheep was also at an unparalleled output for
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October of 8,200 tonnes or 31.4 per cent. At 4,800 tonnes, compounds for breeding sheep production was up 400 tonnes or 9.1 per cent on a year previous.
Total horse feed production for October bettered its year earlier return by 1,900 tonnes or 12.7 per cent and rose to 16,900 tonnes, the third highest total for the month on record. Moreover, the current total outpaced the decade long October average by 800 tonnes or 4.9 per cent.
At 27,400 tonnes, total other feed had increased by 600 tonnes or 2.2 per cent from the corresponding period a year earlier, the second October in succession where production had climbed. However, due to significantly lower production levels in recent years, the current total was a considerable 7,300 tonnes or 23.5 per cent lower than the decade long average for the month.
August Production Overview
Total production of compounds, blends and concentrates in Northern Ireland during August amounted to a record high 210,700 tonnes, up 12,300 tonnes or 6.2 per cent from the corresponding month a year previously. In addition, the total under review was 25,800 tonnes or 13.9 per cent greater than the decade long average for the month under review.
Total feed production during the month of August 2024 was made up of: 49.4 per cent cattle and calf feed; 36.0 per cent poultry feed; 10.4 per cent pig feed; 1.7 per cent sheep feed; and 2.6 per cent other feed.
Total cattle and calf feed production was at an unparalleled level for August at 104,000 tonnes, an increase of 8,200 tonnes or 8.6 per cent from its year earlier output. Moreover, the current total outstripped the 10 year average for the month by 15,500 tonnes or 17.5 per cent.
For the third August in succession, output of dairy cow compounds had surpassed its year earlier counterpart, in this instance, it rose by 2,300 tonnes or 4.9 per cent to a record high of 49,900 tonnes. The dairy coarse mixes or blends and other calf compounds subsectors were also at record outputs for the month under review, the former at 19,100 tonnes, outpaced its 2023 production by 2,600 tonnes or
15.5 per cent and the latter did so by 300 tonnes or 6.1 per cent up to 6,100 tonnes. At 18,800 tonnes of output, beef coarse mixes or blends had grown by a considerable 3,200 tonnes or 20.6 per cent. In contrast, the production of beef cattle compounds declined by 200 tonnes or 2.2 per cent from a year earlier to 9,700 tonnes and all other cattle compounds fell from a year earlier by 50 tonnes or 17.4 per cent to 230 tonnes of output.
At 75,900 tonnes, total poultry feed production had surpassed its year earlier counterpart for the fourth August in a row. This increase of 700 tonnes or 0.9 per cent brought the total under review up to the second highest output on record for the month. As such, the current total exceeded the decade long average for August by 6,900 tonnes or 10.0 per cent.
Despite the sector wide increase in output, production from the broiler feed subsector by 1,700 tonnes or 4.0 per cent to 40,100 tonnes. On the other hand, chick rearing feed output was at its highest level on record for August at 3,200 tonnes, up 700 tonnes or 26.9 per cent from a year previous. In addition, layer and breeder feed production rose from a year earlier by 400 tonnes or 1.3 per cent to 28,900 tonnes, the joint highest level on record since they were kept in their current form. Lastly, turkey and other poultry feed, following a significant fall in output in 2023, surpassed its year earlier return by a notable 1,300 tonnes or 55.0 per cent and rose to 3,700 tonnes.
After two consecutive falls in August output, total pig feed production rose by 3,000 tonnes or 15.9 per cent to 21,900 tonnes, a record high for the month under review. The current total also exceeded the decade long average for August by 3,000 tonnes, a difference of 25.7 per cent.
Three pig feed subsectors were at record levels for August: pig link and early grower feed surpassed its year previous counterpart by 800 tonnes or 28.0 per cent up to 3,700 tonnes; pig starter and creep feed output rose by 600 tonnes 27.7 per cent to 2,900 tonnes; and pig breeding feed production increased by 1,000 tonnes or 39.8 per cent to 3,400 tonnes. The sector’s largest element, pig finishing feed, also bettered its year previous return; at 8,600 tonnes, it was up 700 tonnes or 9.5 per cent. In contrast, pig growing feed output decreased by 200 tonnes or 4.8 per cent from its 2023 level to 3,300 tonnes.
Total August sheep feed production increased for the second year in succession to 3,500 tonnes, a joint highest total for the month on record and 400 tonnes or 12.6 per cent up on a year earlier. Moreover, the current production bettered the decade long average for the month by 500 tonnes or 13.6 per cent.
Both the breeding sheep compounds and coarse mixes and blends for sheep subsectors matched their previous August outputs of 200 tonnes and 600 tonnes respectively. However, the production of growing and finishing sheep compounds rose by 400 tonnes or 16.3 per cent from a year earlier to a record high return for the month under review of 2,700 tonnes.
At 5,400 tonnes, total other feed production was 100 tonnes or 1.3 per cent down on a year previous. The total under review was, however, in line with the decade long average for August.
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By Colin Ley
Political upheaval in France and Germany, aligned with the return of Donald Trump to the White House, complete with his trade tariffs agenda, hardly suggests a quiet start to 2025 for Europe.
Add to this the depressing fact of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine tipping into its fourth year and the challenge for the Continent appears substantial. While these observations are most critical at a personal and humanitarian level, the demands being placed on business leaders come a close third, not least across our own industry.
Staying on the right side of the need to reduce emissions from livestock farming, while successfully feeding the world as costeffectively as possible, has become an increasingly complex equation in recent years. It’s difficult to see the next 12 months being any easier. At the same time, feed sector ambition and innovation has always delivered progress, often in the face of enormous odds.
As the following selected items reveal, there are already plenty of fresh initiatives underway, from groundbreaking to unbalanced, and from high risk to an acknowledged significant step forward. And these are only the advances, or otherwise, which we have currently been told about.
The reaching of a ‘political agreement’ between the EU and four Mercosur countries in early December last year has set up a 2025 battle for the so-called ‘groundbreaking partnership’ to be ratified and implemented.
While heralded and applauded by European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, and the presidents of Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, the agreement has drawn fierce protests from EU farmers and some Member State governments, France and Poland in particular.
Passing the agreement through the Council of Europe and the European Parliament will not be easy, especially with the European farming lobby group, Copa Cogeca, warning that the deal will lead to an ‘influx’ of low-cost farm products and that the agricultural sector has been used as a ‘bargaining chip’ to benefit other industries.
The counter argument from EU officials is that the deal includes safeguards for sensitive products, with only 99,000 tonnes of Mercosur beef due to be allowed in at an agreed low duty rate of 7.5%. This, they say, will be phased in over five years, and will be equivalent to just 1.6% of the EU’s annual consumption. They also make the point that the EU already imports nearly 200,000 tonnes of beef from the
four Mercosur countries which are signed up to the new agreement.
There is no direct mention of animal feed supplies within the official texts which have already been issued by the EU. Such deals, however, often create new routes for trade which then become subject to adjustment once the core products are seen to be flowing smoothly. For the moment, nevertheless, compound feed interests centre, in particular, on the knock-on implications for EU beef and poultry producers.
On beef, the EU promise is that the deal will have ‘limited impact’ on the bloc’s market and that it will not generate further deforestation in Mercosur countries. Regarding the 7.5% duty concession for 99,000 tonnes of Mercosur beef to enter the EU market, the argument is that the EU is a net exporter of beef, securing 4.6 billion euros of total exports in 2023, almost double the value of EU beef imports from the four partnership countries.
On poultry, the EU promise is that the agreement’s duty-free quota, set at 180,000 tonnes, will be ‘just enough’ to account for increasing EU consumption. This, it is said, represents 1.4% of total EU consumption and is lower than the 240,000 tonnes of poultry imported from Mercosur in 2022. The additional point on poultry is that EU exports to the partnership countries stands at 2.2 million tonnes.
The EU/Mercosur text also declares that the new agreement carries ‘no threat’ to rainforests.
As of the end of 2025, it is said, that only deforestation-free products will be allowed to enter the EU market, including products such as soya bean, beef, palm oil, wood, cocoa, coffee, and rubber. This rule will also apply to imports under the EU/Mercosur partnership agreement, ensuring that products imported under this deal will not have contributed to deforestation in Mercosur countries.
The Copa-Cogeca view is very different, of course, focusing on what the lobby group sees as the ‘unbalanced’ agricultural chapter of the agreement.
Claiming that sensitive sectors such as beef, poultry, sugar, ethanol, and rice, face heightened risks of market saturation and income loss due to the influx of low-cost products from Mercosur countries, Copa-Cogeca believes the agreement will ‘exacerbate’ the economic strain on farmers, many of whom are already grappling with high input prices and challenging climatic conditions.
The key farming complaint, however, is that Mercosur countries do not meet the production standards required of EU agriculture and that this will open new trade doors to lower cost products, making fair competition impossible for EU producers.
“EU farmers and agri-cooperatives are not opposed to trade but advocate for agreements that are fair, balanced, and environmentally sustainable,” said Cogeca President Lennart Nilsson. “ The EU/ Mercosur agreement fails to meet these criteria, using the agricultural sector as a bargaining chip to benefit other industries. COGECA therefore calls on EU Member States and the European Parliament to take a strong stance against this deal.”
Previous EU/Mercosur agreements have fallen at the ratification stage, of course. The future of this new deal is far from settled.
In a more positive vein, the farm lobby group took the chance recently to celebrate the EC’s endorsement of the joint Copa-Cogeca/FEFAC Code of Good Labelling Practices for compound feed. Completed in early December, the endorsement was welcomed by feed and farm leaders as a ‘significant step forward’ in the promotion of sustainable feed production and in the reduction of livestock production emissions.
The updated code, said the two lobby organisations, gives detailed guidelines for communicating the environmental performance of animal feed to farmers, addressing key impact areas such as climate change, eutrophication, and livestock emissions abatement techniques. It also integrates the PEFCR Feed for Food-Producing Animals methodology and the Global Feed LCA Institute database, offering a harmonised approach to labelling in support of feed sector efforts to reduce their environmental footprint.
In addition, the Code is seen as providing clear recommendations for substantiating environmental claims for compound feed, especially in relation to livestock emissions abatement techniques. More specifically, said Copa-Cogeca and FEFAC, it ensures that feed producers can transparently report on the environmental impact of their products,
enhancing the feed sector’s transparency towards both livestock farmers and consumers.
This, the lobby groups concluded, represents a major milestone in the path toward sustainable feed and livestock production, leaving the feed sector better positioned to contribute to reducing emissions from feed and livestock production.
The promise of a ‘valuable insight into the environmental impacts of feeds and rations’ is scheduled for inclusion in a joint Wynnstay, Trouw Nutrition, and University of Nottingham event, set for January 29.
Billed as an unveiling of new research findings into the use of alternative proteins in dairy diets, the event will be held within the University’s Centre for Dairy Science Innovation. Presentations are promised by David Howard, Head of Dairy Services, Wynnstay; Dr Liz Homer, Sustainability Manager Ruminants, Trouw Nutrition; and Nigel Armstrong, Dairy Centre Manager, University of Nottingham. The event will also feature the ‘exclusive launch of trial results of feeding cows an alternative protein diet’
Also scheduled is an outlining of ‘practical advice on adopting the best approaches to improve the sustainability of dairy diets’, the alreadymentioned ‘valuable insight’ session, and a part-tour of the University’s 1,100-acre commercial, mixed enterprise farm.
Although the search for alternative proteins continues to gather pace, the role of imported soya remains central to livestock farming, according to a specialist section of the Outlook 2025 report issued by the UK farm business consultants, Andersons. While the focus of the section is based on the use of soya within the UK, the examples given, and the conclusions reached, definitely have wider European relevance.
Written by Tom Cratchley and Harry Davies, both consultants within the Andersons’ team, the section acknowledges the decline in UK soya bean meal imports from 2.74 million tonnes in 2020 to 2.37 million tonnes in 2023. But there’s no suggestion of major further reductions being in the pipeline.
The joint authors suggest, in fact, that the ongoing development focus will be placed more on the ‘sustainability of the soya source’ rather than the ‘replacement of soya altogether’.
They go on to state that the elimination of soya from livestock diets in the UK, in particular for pigs and poultry, seems ‘a difficult ask’. At least, that is, in the short to medium term. As a result, the priority attention of both industry and government will be on ensuring imported soya is ‘conversion and deforestation-free’.
With the EU having tried, and failed, to introduce its DeforestationFree Supply Chains legislation by its original deadline of December 31, 2024, the interest now has switched to how the revised end-of-2025 implementation timeline works out.
Meanwhile, to return to Cratchley and Davies, their observation that more than two billion people in 128 countries regularly eat insects, makes the increased use of insect protein in feed rations the most likely replacement for soya in livestock diets, if and when that time comes.
The expanding market for pet feed is a key focus for insect-based diets, of course, with two major developments in that sector securing funding from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) at the end of last year.
The Bank, which delivered a record €16.6 billion in investments in 2024, found space in its portfolio to support both the Egyptian feed producer, Proteina, and the Ukrainian-originated feed company, Kormotech.
Both EBRD-backed advances featured pet feed initiatives, maintaining a strong connection with feed investments for the London-headquartered Bank. Established in 1991 to help build a new, post-Cold War era in Central and Eastern Europe, EBRD claims to have played a ‘historic’ role in fostering change in the region - and beyond. To date, it has invested more than € 200 billion in over 7,200 projects.
EBRD’s support for Kormotech’s pet feed vision amounted to €40 million, an advance designed to enable the company to expand its wet pet food production facility in Kėdainiai, Lithuania. The total project, valued at €63 million, features four new production lines, with a completion date set for sometime in 2028.
Now headquartered in Poland, Kormotech’s product sales vision includes Romania, Bulgaria, the Baltic States, Poland and Greece, with further aspirations for the Czech Republic and Hungary.
EBRD’s support for Proteina, meanwhile, advanced in partnership with the EU, is designed to help the Egyptian business to ‘expand its insect-based protein’ while also gearing up to ‘revolutionise the pet food industry’.
At a time when the farm animal feed market seems to face an endless flow of questions and challenges, as already discussed, it is encouraging that the pet feed sector continues to advance.
Latest statistics, listed by FEDIAF, which represents the European pet food industry, show that 166 million households in the EU own a pet, generating annual pet food sales worth 29.2 billion.
In addition, estimated annual growth in the EU’s pet food industry is put at 2% by FEDIAF, an expansion in sales potential which beats all the equivalent farm animal feed facts issued by FEFAC in relation to production throughout 2024.
On the FEFAC list, cattle feed sales are estimated to have climbed by 0.3% during the year; poultry by 1.3% and the total market by 0.5%. Pigs, it is suggested, had a standstill feed sales year.
It’s also worth noting, however, that in highlighting the rising sales potential within the pet feed sector, there are currently some 375 pet food companies competing for a share of this business. There are also an estimated 480 production plants devoted to feeding the Continent’s pets, with more in the pipeline.
Even in Europe’s more buoyant sales markets, therefore, the year ahead will definitely not be lacking in either challenge or competition.
By Matthew Wedzerai
Organic acids are potential alternatives, as antimicrobials and zinc oxide are restricted in post-weaning piglet diets following recent EU regulatory changes to reduce antimicrobial resistance and environmental pollution. In this recent study published in the Animal Feed Science and Technology journal, researchers found organic acid preservation of wheat and barley grains beneficial to piglet health and growth performance post-weaning.
Wheat and barley are important energy components of pig diets. The quality of these grains directly impacts the nutritional value of the feed. On the other hand, preserving the quality of cereal grains during storage is a challenge due to several intrinsic and extrinsic factors that lead to variations in physical, chemical, and microbiological attributes. While industrial drying is a conventional method of grain preservation, it raises significant economic and environmental concerns due to its high energy consumption. Moreover, variations in the drying process can lead to inconsistencies in moisture content within grain batches, potentially creating an environment conducive to mould and mycotoxin production. Conversely, over-drying can denature proteins, diminishing the nutritional value of the grains; this demands alternative preservation methods.
According to the researchers, studies investigating the impact of incorporating grain preserved with organic acid blends in contrast to zinc oxide (ZnO) supplementation on the health and growth of pigs during the post-weaning period are limited. Hence, this research work published in the journal Animal Feed Science and Technology, investigated the effect of preserving wheat and barley grains with an organic acid liquid surfactant mould inhibitor compared to conventional artificial drying. Organic acid (OA) was assessed for its effects on gut health, growth performance, nutrient digestibility and diarrhoea incidences. The OA blend used was a liquid surfactant mould inhibitor, including propionic acid (650 g/kg), ammonium propionate (70 g/kg), glycerol polyethylene glycol ricinoleate (17.5 g/kg) and a carrier.
Piglets were used starting from the weaning age (28 days of age) and the experiment lasted for 35 days. The dietary treatments were as follows:
• Control: Conventional-dried grain diet,
• OA: Organic acid (OA)-preserved grain diet,
• Control + ZnO: Conventional-dried grain diet plus ZnO (positive control),
• OA + ZnO: Organic acid-preserved grain diet plus ZnO.
The ZnO was included at 3.1 g ZnO/kg of feed and halved to 1.55 g ZnO/kg feed after three weeks.
The current study showed that the OA mould inhibitor effectively improves grain quality by mitigating mould and mycotoxins in wheat and barley during storage. Both dried wheat and barley had higher levels of the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON) and mould compared to the OA-preserved grains. Similarly, the dried barley had numerically greater HT-2 toxin and ochratoxin (OTA) levels than OA-preserved barley. The presence of DON in animal feed has been associated with reduced feed intake and growth rates, as well as adverse effects on intestinal barrier function and immune responses in animals. Exposure to even low levels of OTA has been shown to negatively impact pigs, affecting their performance and causing immunosuppression.
“Although the mycotoxin levels in both preservation methods remained below the European Union’s regulatory limits and guidelines for cereal grains destined for pig feed, the observed differences may partially explain the differences in pig performance between the dietary treatments,” the researchers said.
Using grains preserved with the OA mould inhibitor enhanced growth performance, feed intake, and feed efficiency (Table 1). The growth performance was attributed to the improvements in nutrient digestibility and the beneficial impact the OA-preserved grain diet had on the gut microbiome. On diarrhoea, pigs offered the OA-preserved grain diet exhibited lower diarrhoea incidence compared to those offered the dried grain diet but to a lesser extent compared to those supplemented with ZnO.
The researchers emphasised that “These nutritional strategies are no longer considered alternatives but will be essential to improve digestive health in the absence of zinc oxide in combination with other strategies.”
Table 1 — The effect of grain preservation method and zinc oxide supplementation on pig growth performance and diarrhoea incidence
Days 0-21:
Days 21-35:
Pigs offered the OA-preserved grain diet showed significant improvements in both the apparent total tract digestibility (Table 2) and apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of nutrients (dry matter, organic matter, nitrogen and gross energy) compared to pigs offered the dried grain diet. It was highlighted that previous research work observed lower concentrations of resistant starch in the organic acid-preserved corn compared to dried corn, which may partially explain the depression in the digestibility of nutrients in pigs fed the dried grain diet in the current study.
Table 2 — The effect of grain preservation method and zinc oxide supplementation on the apparent total tract digestibility (%).
Pigs offered the OA-preserved grain diet had a higher abundance of Actinobacteria compared to pigs offered the dried grain diet. At the genus level, the OA-preserved grain diet decreased the relative abundance of Streptococcus and Eubacterium, while increasing the abundance of Collinsella and Faecalibacterium compared to the dried grain diet. Streptococcus has been associated with various health issues in pigs, including pneumonia, meningitis, septicaemia, and arthritis. Faecalibacterium is one of the most promising next-generation probiotics due to its strong anti-inflammatory properties and positive effects against gastrointestinal diseases. Collinsella is positively associated with feed intake, nutrient digestibility and immune function in pigs.
Commenting on Eubacterium , the researchers said: “The unexpected reduction of Eubacterium may have been due to an adaptive mechanism, where pigs offered the preserved diet had ingested sufficient organic acid, suppressing the growth of Eubacterium.” However, they concluded that “Under the conditions of this study, these findings suggest an overall improvement in intestinal health and highlight the potential of organic acid-preserved grain on pig performance, particularly after the first 21 days post-weaning.”
The researchers concluded that “Organic acid preservation improves grain quality, benefiting post-weaning pigs through improved nutrient digestibility and gut health, thus enhancing the overall growth performance of post-weaning piglets. These findings are pivotal for the pig sector as they offer insights into sustainable and efficient grain preservation methods that improve animal health and growth in the absence of zinc oxide.”
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By Christine Pedersen Senior Dairy Business Consultant
The Dairy Group christine.pedersen@thedairygroup.co.uk www.thedairygroup.co.uk
GB daily milk deliveries are running approximately 3% above the same week last year. Whilst there was a strong production increase last autumn, that was against a backdrop of sharp declines in autumn 2023. Production only moved above the 3 & 5 year averages in October 2024. A lot of the UK’s positive production is in Northern Ireland (+10%) which is balancing a weaker position in Ireland, but even so, GB production is 1.6% above the long term trends. The expectation is that production will return to trend level early in 2025 due to strong cull cow values, the end of seasonal pricing and the historic softening of prices post-Christmas. Milk supply patterns are more mixed around Europe, with Poland and France up while Ireland and Germany are down. The USA and New Zealand are marginally positive, which is indicative of the Global supply position that is similarly marginally positive.
Our latest MCi dairy herd costings report shows that average feed price is now below £300/t, but of course the average masks a wide range in price. Feed rates have increased to an annual average of 0.35 kg/litre as the ratio of milk price (increasing) to concentrate price (decreasing) has become more attractive and producers have not shied away from feeding more concentrates.
Our analysis of dairy accounts shows that the Top 25% of dairy producers were able to make profits of 10 ppl in the year to March 2024. What are the factors that contribute to their success?
Clearly, a competitive milk price makes a significant difference. The average 12 month rolling price by March 2025 is likely to be around 45ppl, but the outlook for the year ahead looks more uncertain with domestic milk production volumes rising. Whilst there may be opportunities to maximise milk price within an existing milk contract or by moving to a better contract, there is no control over the market forces of supply and demand. Successful businesses focus on the factors within their control that will have the greatest impact on profitability:
Benchmarking:
Independent accounts analysis compares accounts with the Top 25% to identify strengths & weaknesses, opportunities & threats.
Business strategy:
Is there a 5-10 year plan for the business? What is the plan for herd size & milk yield and what investment is necessary to meet compliance requirements and achieve the plan? An annual budget provides the opportunity to set out the key physical & financial factors to achieve the business strategy and will identify the peak borrowing requirement and how any capital investment will be funded. Sensitivity analysis can be used to understand the effect of any changes to budgeted milk price.
It is far easier to retain good quality staff than to recruit new ones. Competitive pay is crucial for retaining skilled staff but other factors including accommodation and effective communication are also important. A motivated and stable team is essential for consistent high performance.
Decisions made today will affect the herd in 5 years’ time; high performing herds tend to have higher £PLI and are genomically testing female progeny. Herd genetic reports can be used to compare herds by youngstock or lactation group against national breed averages, allowing genetic strengths and weaknesses to be identified.
The most profitable farms consistently produce high yields of high quality forage, equivalent to 120 GJ/ha. To achieve this, soils need to be in optimum condition with good soil structure and nutrient status, aiming for a minimum pH of 6.5, soil P index 2 and K index 2-. Nutrient applications for the coming year’s crops should be planned now ahead of spring applications. The Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) offers an annual payment of £652 to assess nutrient management (option CNUM1) but there are many other benefits to planning nutrient applications, not least compliance with relevant environmental regulations, such as the Farming Rules for Water. The Environment Agency’s on-farm presence has increased over recent years and up-to-date soil analysis and a forward nutrient management plan (NMP) are a basic requirement.
Accounting for nutrients supplied via the soil and targeting manure applications appropriately can help to reduce overall purchased fertiliser usage which has a financial benefit and a positive impact on the carbon footprint. Based on current fertiliser prices, standard dairy slurry is valued at £3.82 per cubic meter and an application of 30m3/ha has a value of £115. Given the challenges dairy businesses are facing, maximising the nutrients within homeproduced slurries is a straightforward step to take.
Comment section is sponsored by
Purchased feed costs:
This single cost represents 30% of the total cost of milk production so feed cost savings have a significant impact on profitability. Again, it is relatively easy for producers to benchmark purchased feed costs. Feed costs below 8 ppl should be targeted this spring, relying on both feed rate and feed price
Amongst other factors, feed rate depends on the quality of conserved forage or grazing presented and expected forage dry matter intake levels appropriate for the stage of lactation. It is a good time to review grazing and forage strategy and to identify opportunities for improvement. As readers know, moving from 25% dry matter, 10.5 ME, 14% protein to 30% dry matter, 11.5 ME, 16% protein grass silage can increase milk yield by 2 litres or reduce feed rate from 0.31 kg/litre to 0.25 kg/litre.
The Countryside Stewardship capital grant scheme is currently closed and the processing of existing applications is paused. An update from the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) is expected in early 2025 and we are advising clients to progress applications, especially those that require CSF endorsement, in preparation for the grant reopening. There are some capital grants available now but these are not relevant for most dairy businesses.
Other capital grant schemes which include the Calf Housing Grant, Improving Productivity Grants (relating to Solar PV and robotics) and Slurry Infrastructure Grant are closed to new applications.
The closing dates for final applications from invited applicants are fast approaching. These applications are complex and require a considerable amount of information. We are advising clients to progress them now to ensure they do not miss out on this grant funding opportunity.
There are no changes to Countryside Stewardship Mid-Tier agreements. Preview guidance for Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT) has been released that sets out what funding will be available. Full guidance will be published before applications open in summer 2025.
The Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) remains unchanged and we continue to encourage clients to enter the scheme to replace some of their lost BPS payments.
I will be at Dairy Tech on Wednesday 5th February at Stoneleigh Park. Please stop by at The Dairy Group stand, T65, Hall 1 and introduce yourself.
My colleague Richard Lane and I will also be at the MGA conference in Somerset on 11th & 12th February. Again, please come and find us and say hello
By Robert Ashton
With so much misery in the world, and with the winter weather being so grim, I thought I’d start 2025 in an upbeat mood. I’ll turn 70 later this year, so have decided that I can no longer waste time with negative people who always see the downside and seem immune to joy. As us baby boomers grow old, many seem to delight in starting any conversation with their latest medical challenges, however small they might be. But there is always a bright side and that is where I intend to focus.
I also set out earlier this year, to take control of the things that annoy me, rather than walk away, or simply accept them the way they are. This is already paying off; with a national grant panel I now chair making better decisions, in less time, which everyone is finding more enjoyable.
Of course, sometimes it’s not that simple and some negative people thrive on spreading their gloom as widely as they can, but where I can, I’m now being far more proactive. As I reflect on this change of approach I’m taking in 2025, I thought I’d share with you some of the ways I think you might find to make the people you encounter smile.
1. Take away the problem – Talking with the person who chaired that grant panel before me, I learned that she was never comfortable with the role. She welcomed my offer to take over from her. So one way I’m making her, and the rest of the group smile, is by taking away the problem. Would you find it easier to lead positively rather than be badly led?
2. Say well done – Too often we take what others do for granted, particularly if we’re busy or distracted. It’s all too easy to take the work of cleaners, drivers, gardeners and even traffic wardens for granted, but all will be cheered by a simple thank-you. Be sure thought to say it as if you mean it, because insincere praise is worse than no praise at all.
3. Unexpected nice surprises – When was the last time you took your team out for lunch on a Friday, or took a cake into the office? Nice surprises are important, but must never be allowed to become too regular, or they will become habits and be taken for granted. The best nice surprises are those that cost little but are highly valued by those who receive them.
4. Random acts of kindness – I’m currently reading Paul Auster’s novel Moon Palace in which an old man, knowing that death is fast approaching, goes out and gives strangers in the street $50 notes. His logic is that he has benefitted from an unexpected
inheritance and wants to pass on some of that good fortune to others. You don’t have to be quite that generous, but random acts of kindness can make you, as well as the recipients, smile.
5. Show attention to what others have to say – My mother-inlaw has dementia and in conversation what she says in reply to me has no bearing on what I have just said. She has lost the ability to listen, reflect and respond thoughtfully. I doubt you are similarly afflicted, so you have no excuse for not listening to what others have to say, yet too often, people clearly do not really listen. Showing that you are genuinely interested will always give others a boost.
6. Physical contact is important – In our politically correct and risk averse society, we tend to steer clear of touching other people for fear that it will be misconstrued. Yet at times, our instinct will tell us that a comforting hug, or just a hand laid on an arm, is what is needed at that moment. It is too easy to overthink and so avoid physical contact, but sometimes we know instinctively that this is what is needed. A paradox of population is that you can feel very alone, even in a crowd! Even asking if the person would like a hug can go a long way to making them feel better.
7. Pass the chocolate – While physical contact might not quite feel right, offering someone who is feeling down something nice to eat or drink can go a long way to restoring the smile to their face. There’s a reason why people talk about comfort food! Be aware though, that one person’s comfort food might be another’s most disliked dish. Hot chocolate is a fairly safe bet, appreciated by most when a pick-me-up is needed.
8. Don’t wait to be asked – Another thing I’m making an effort to do this year is to do things without waiting to be asked. In fact, I’m going a little further, and doing things that clearly need to be done. For example, I put my neighbour’s bin out for emptying when she is away, then return it when collecting mine. I hope she will do the same for me when I am away.
9. Can you remember chivalry? When I was a boy, my father would always hold the door open for my mother, or walk on the side of the pavement closest to the traffic because it was then the right thing to do. While this was considered polite back in the 1960s, other inequalities were large and usually ignored. Times are very different today, but a little chivalry rarely goes amiss.
10. Tell a joke – I’ve left the most obvious way to raise a smile to last, because while you might find something really funny, others might find it embarrassingly unfunny. Jokes can backfire, so use them with care.
I hope that this, my first column on 2025 has made you smile, and that you might just feel encouraged to try to make others smile too. Already the days are lengthening and spring bulbs are starting to emerge. Let’s all try to make this a happier year!
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This January/February 2025 issue of Feed Compounder is the last to be published by Pentlands Publishing Ltd. From March/April 2025 onwards, the new owners and publishers of Feed Compounder and its sister title Pet Food Supplement, will be Euromedia Associates Ltd. This is the end of an era for the Mounsey family, and the start of a new and exciting chapter for Feed Compounder and Pet Food Supplement.
Feed Compounder was launched in January 1981 by Howard and Jane Mounsey, trading as HGM Publications with first Simon, then Andrew and later Fiona joining the family business as it grew and diversified.
In 2003, Pentlands Publishing Ltd was formed by Andrew and Fiona to take on the magazine publishing side of the business, with Andrew continuing as the editor and Fiona taking over full responsibility for sales. Later, their son Ryan joined on the editorial side, becoming editor at the beginning of 2023.
Emma Hatherall, Managing Director of Euromedia Associates, comments: “I am delighted that Euromedia Associates Ltd will be taking ownership of the Feed Compounder Magazine this month. We are very much looking forward to working with the industry going forward and plan to make the magazine even bigger and better!
“As a family-run, specialist magazine publisher working predominantly for a business-to-business audience, we have more than 30 years of experience in the industry, making us the
trusted voice for professionals across a host of sectors, publishing a range of industry-focused magazines.
Euromedia Associates Ltd was established in the northwest of England back in 1990, many of us have been with the company from the very beginning and have worked hard over the years, building a fabulous team of people and expanding our magazines into more and more specialist areas of lifestyle and business. Many of our titles are award-winning or nominated publications.
“Our experienced editorial and design team will continue to nurture Feed Compounder magazine with the quality content that has kept it as the go-to publication for the industry for so long. We will pack each edition with the latest industry news and features to keep you informed and entertained while you stay on top of the vital information you need to keep your business flourishing. Our team is here to support the industry and will be delighted to assist with any of your editorial or advertising needs. ”
In future, the main contact at Euromedia for Feed Compounder will be Julie Cross (pictured right) who is the new magazine manager and in charge of advertising sales.
We are delighted to have found new owners for the magazines, with a proven track record and ambitious plans for growing the business. When Howard and Jane Mounsey launched the magazine business back in 1980, with the first issue coming out at the beginning of the following year, it was at a difficult time economically, Howard was about to turn 50, and his hope was that it would be sufficiently successful to see him through to retirement. Now, 44 years and two generations later, we have decided it is time to pass the mantle on to another ambitious and growing family-run business.
It has been a privilege to have been a part, albeit peripheral, of the animal feed sector. It’s important to remember that this is an integral part of the noble endeavour of producting food. Nothing could be more important or fundamental to the wellbeing of the people of the world. It’s easy to forget, amid all the background noise, that livestock farming is the business of producing the high quality meat, milk and eggs which is very much in demand from the vast majority of consumers. Of course, it is important to do so as sustainably and in as responsible a manner as possible and to keep an eye on changing trends over time. And the feed industry in the UK and Ireland has invested heavily to ensure it remains up-to-date. Witness the brand new, highly efficient I’Anson’s mill in North Yorkshire (see page 28), for example, and the article in this issue promoting the use of renewable energy in feed manufacture (see page 26). But the fundamentals remain the same. And these are that most people want to eat a diet which includes livestock products, the population of the UK and Ireland (and, indeed, the world) has grown significantly in recent years, and feed producers stand ready to meet the needs of livestock farmers in respect of the nutrition of the animals in their care.
We have made many friends over the years of our involvement and, as a family, we want to thank all of you for your incredible loyalty, support, banter (mostly football related!) and kindness over all that time. It really has been a pleasure. We’re still planning on sticking around for a while and hope to stay in contact in future and see some of our readers at some future events. We have our growing and successful vineyard in Pembrokeshire to keep us busy (Velfrey Vineyard - make sure you check out our website from time to time!)
With our very best wishes and sincere gratitude to all.
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The Irish Grain Growers’ Group (IGGG) is strongly urging the Irish government not to accept what the organisation regards as a two-tier Mercosur deal.
IGGG chairman Bobby Miller explains: “Pushing to ban imports of beef from the Mercosur region while still allowing large tonnages of grain and feedstuffs into the country from South America represents a slap in the face for Irish tillage farmers.”
According to Miller 750,000 tonnes of grains and other feedstuffs are imported into Ireland on an annual basis.
“IGGG is not calling for an outright ban on these imports. Rather we want the value and quality of native Irish grains fully recognised by merchants, compounders and all those other groupings operating right along the farming food chain,” he commented.
“This is not happening at the moment. And, essentially, it has resulted in tillage farmers being treated as second class citizens.
“The last thing we need is a Merecosur deal which acts to further endorse this wholly unjust situation.”
Bobby Miller continued: “With other farm bodies and the Taoiseach making noise about Mercosur now, I think they need to nail their colours to the mast when it comes to South American feedstuffs, including the likes of maize and soya hulls.
“We can’t be feeding large quantities of these feedstuffs to cattle while finishing them in sheds over the coming months and expect tillage farmers to support campaigns that support the current Mercosur deal.”
The IGGG representative pointed out that the same issues relating to deforestation and loss of biodiversity, which are put forward when calling for restrictions on beef imports into Europe, are equally valid where the production of grains within the Mercosur bloc is concerned.
He said: “Brussels and, for that matter, the Irish government, can’t have it every way. Producing beef and milk using Mercosur grain, soya and other feedstuffs is totally unethical.”
Ireland imports cereals and by-products from a total of 60 countries.
“However, the potential to increase local grain production threefold exists,” Miller continued.
“Only one-third of the land suited for cereal production in Ireland
is being used for this purpose at the present time. Grain imports lie at the heart of the challenge facing the Irish tillage sector.”
He concluded: “Currently, large tonnages of barley are coming into the country on a daily basis. This is happening at the very height of the Irish harvest when ample sources of homegrown grains are available to Irish feed compounders.”
According to the recently published Teagasc Outlook projections, Irish tillage incomes could increase by as much as 40% next year.
So what are the key factors that will drive this trend?
According to Teagasc economists, harvest prices within the cereals sector in 2024, compared to 2023, were mixed, with some prices slightly lower and some slightly higher.
Furthermore, yields for the major Irish cereal crops were mixed, with some crops tending to yield lower whilst other crops tended to yield higher than those achieved at harvest 2023.
Taken together, these developments resulted in mixed gross output values on a per hectare basis in 2024 relative to 2023.
However, there was some reprieve in direct costs of production in 2024, associated with a decrease in seed and fertiliser costs in particular.
The limited movement in cereal prices at harvest 2024 was influenced by a slight increase in the global harvest of grains but on the other hand, a decrease in the stocks to use ratio of the major grains on the international balance sheet.
Input costs will always have a major impact on tillage farm performance levels.
Whilst there was some reprieve in fertiliser prices during the course of 2023, much of the price decreases happened in the second half of the year.
However, much of the demand for fertiliser on tillage farms occurs in Quarter 1 and Quarter 2.
With further declines evident on a monthly basis throughout the first half of 2024, it is estimated that fertiliser costs on tillage farms will be reduced in 2024.
On a calendar year basis, taking purchasing patterns into account it is estimated that fertiliser prices for NPK based products are down
40 percent in 2024 compared to 2023.
In terms of the composition of total costs, seed represented about 5 percent of total costs in 2023.
In 2024, cereal farmers experienced a decrease in seed costs relative to the previous year given that cereal prices at harvest decreased in 2023 relative to 2022.
This price decrease has transmitted to seed prices, with blue label seed costing around €735 per tonne, which was about 5 percent lower than 2023 seed prices.
Meanwhile, the annual average increase in crop protection products in 2022 was 20%, with a further 9% increase in 2023, and an estimated further 4% increase in 2024.
This increase in prices is attributed to inflation in the energy market, which is important for the manufacture of products and also supply and demand issues associated with post pandemic supply shortages globally.
Total expenditure on all input items is estimated by Teagasc to have decreased in 2024 relative to 2023.
The most significant decrease in expenditure on a per hectare basis occurred for fertiliser and seed, which are estimated to have decreased by 40% and 5% respectively.
Feed prices are estimated to have decreased by about 14 percent (which is relevant for subsidiary enterprises on tillage farms). On average, the estimated decrease in total direct costs was approximately 15 percent in 2024 relative to the 2023 level, on a per hectare, per crop basis.
Taking account of grain prices, straw values and subsidies available to the sector and fixed costs, Teagasc has estimated that net margins for the typical cereal enterprise in 2024 are significantly higher than in 2023.
This reflects the upward movement in gross margins and less significant movement in overhead costs.
For the best performing one-third of tillage farms, the estimated net margin for 2024 was approximately €575/ha compared to the average, where the net margin was approximately minus €10/ha.
Looking ahead, it is projected that direct costs are set to increase by about 1% in 2025, in line with projections for general inflation in 2025 and basing the forecast on an annual average basis.
At this early stage in the production season, anecdotal evidence
on land rental prices for 2025 is mixed. However, due to the continued cash flow pressure on tillage farms in 2024, it is assumed that there will be little inflationary pressure on land rent in 2025.
Meanwhile, the very slight increase in farm gate cereal prices at harvest 2025 which is borne out in futures trading prices at the moment, reflects the anticipated decrease in carry out stock levels from the current marketing year.
Other supply side bullish factors include anticipated reductions in stock available for export from the Black Sea region, over the course of the 2025/26 marketing year.
Additional price bullish factors include demand factors where there has been an increase in demand for cereals, in response to reduced feed prices.
Direct costs are forecast to be similar in 2025 relative to 2024, due to the forecast for little movement in fertiliser costs, seed costs and fuel.
However, some direct costs of production are forecast to increase by small amounts in 2025, crop protection by 4 percent and all other direct inputs by 1%.
In conclusion, the upward movement in margins projected for the year ahead is associated with the yield and price forecasts for 2025 and a decrease in some key direct cost items.
Overall, the net margin for the average cereal enterprise in 2025 is forecast to increase by about €200 per hectare relative to 2024.
CAN PRICES FOR SPRING 2025 PROJECTED TO BE ABOUT €50/T AHEAD OF WHERE THEY WERE LAST AUGUST
The price of Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) has risen by more than €50/t since the beginning of September.
And this is where the Spring 2025 market may well find its equilibrium point, according to Grassland Agro managing director, Liam Woulfe.
“The global market for fertiliser nitrogen has tightened over the past number of months for multiple reasons for example:
“China is supplying little or no customers in the rest of Asia with urea and ammonia at the present time. In turn, this is causing supply-demand pressures to kick in across other key world markets.
“In tandem with this, gas prices have risen significantly. Earlier this year the Dutch benchmark TTF gas price was available at around €25 per megawatt hour and the equivalent price today is €40.
“Natural gas is the key driver of ammonia prices around the world which is a critical raw material for the production of CAN.
However, the Grassland Agro MD is also conscious of the evolution and potential effects of geopolitical developments over the coming months as these could also further impact (up or down) international commodity markets.
For example, a peace settlement in Ukraine could see the perception or the actual re-opening of natural gas pipelines between Russia and the rest of the world and this could lead to further price volatility.
Meanwhile, all of this happening against the backdrop of most farm gate prices in Ireland projected to continue to stay in the current positive territory for at least the first few months of 2025.
Liam Woulfe again said that: “Milk prices have improved by 40% over the past 12 months ie when one compares October 2024 against October 2023. At present, thankfully there doesn’t seem to be any significant signals of dairy markets falling back at least in early 2025.
“Beef and lamb markets are set to fare reasonably well also into 2025. This is more good news for Irish farmers.
“Where inputs are concerned, grain and other feed commodity prices may well increase somewhat but not too dramatic over the coming months.”
“In the case of CAN and Urea nitrogen fertiliser, we are looking at prices for spring 2025 not far from on a par with those available during the January/February period of 2024 but c€50/t higher than August 2024.
In the case of phosphate and potash fertiliser, prices have outwardly levelled off. But Liam confirms that as phosphate purchases are traded in US Dollar terms, currency factors come into play.
Over recent weeks the US Dollar has strengthened against the Euro by by approximately 5%. As a consequence, the price in terms of Euro per tonne terms has strengthened by the same amount. This equates to approximately $US 30/t.
“I expect this trend to be maintained into 2025,” he further explained.
The Grassland Agro representative indicated that fertiliser will be available for purchase in Ireland at reasonably normal availability level with new season demand having commenced in January.
Woulfe concluded: “But very little fertiliser has been purchased at farm level yet. The Cash flow issues remain a big challenge on many Irish farms and money is still expensive: loan interest rates remain above six percent.
“Peak demand for fertiliser in Ireland usually kicks in around the beginning of March. Last year, this date was pushed back by a month because of the very late and extremely wet spring.
“So, we will just need to wait and see how 2025 develops, but good markets and good weather generally trump everything at farm level.”
2025 will be a critically important year for the Irish tillage sector
The year ahead will be a critically important one for the Irish tillage sector. This momentum will be driven by a number of factors, chief among them being the overhang of decisions not taken by agriculture minister, Charlie McConalogue, during 2024.
Leading the charge in this regard is the government’s longawaited response to the report produced by the Food Vision Tillage Group.
The publication was delivered to Minister McConalogue months ago. So, why the hold-up in the delivery of the official response to it?
No one can predict who will be the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) minister in the next government. However, it would be a poor enough show if Charlie McConalogue was not allowed to deliver the government’s response to the many crucially important recommendations contained within the aforementioned report.
After all, he was the man who committed to have the Food Vision Tillage Group established in the first place. It is only right and proper that he should be in office to complete the process.
So, the clock really is ticking in this regard.
Crystal ball gazing is an activity that is truly fraught with jeopardy. Predictions made with all good intentions can often fall far short of the mark when it comes to the reality of an evolving situation.
However, as 2025 begins to unfold, growers can take great assurance from the income projections published by Teagasc before Christmas. These point to a rise in incomes over the coming year on all tillage farms.
A key driver in this regard is the successful establishment of winter crops over the last couple of months.
The reality is that a return to a normal 2025 harvest projection will help boost the performance achieved on tillage farms significantly.
So, let’s hope that all of this potential can be converted into fruitful reality.
But, as always, the weather remains the great imponderable.
Crops that were established in the September, October, November period have just kept on growing.
It’s a scenario that has its good and bad points.
Whether these phenomenal growth rates can be obtained remains to be seen. Winter is set to return with a vengeance later this week.
So could we be looking at the prospect of a very cold January and February: time will tell. However, nature has a habit of balancing itself out.
And where 2025 is concerned, we won’t have long to find out.
With Nacia Bonnick, Ruminant Technical Advisor, Trouw Nutrition
The results of the first 750 maize silages analysed by Trouw Nutrition GB this year clearly demonstrate the effect of the growing season on feed quality. While many good feeds have been made, there is greater variability than usual indicating that careful balancing will be required.
Nacia Bonnick, Ruminant Technical Advisor at Trouw Nutrition comments that many crops were drilled later as a consequence of the wet spring. This, combined with the cooler summer increased the risk of a higher proportion of immature crops being harvested, or of delayed harvest.
“The growing season has clearly impacted on many crops and while the average analysis is similar to recent years, we are seeing a greater proportion of poorer analysis, indicating some feeding challenges.”
The average dry matter of feeds sampled is down 3% compared to 2023 at 30.7%, with a picture of fewer, drier silages (see graph). Ms Bonnick says typically maize silages average 33-34% and this year’s reduced level indicates younger, less mature crops have been harvested. The lower dry matter will clearly have an impact on inclusion rates in diets and management of forage stocks over winter
Average ME and crude protein contents are virtually unchanged. However, while average starch levels are marginally improved at 28.4%, Ms Bonnick says that the range of data shows that we are not seeing as many high starch crops compared to last year which is another indication of immature crops.
“Starch degradability is slightly higher, which combined with higher fermentable carbohydrates results in a higher acid load than in 2023. Since starch degradability increases with time in the clamp, crops will need regular monitoring to allow steps to be taken to mitigate any acidosis risk.”
The trend in increasing NDF contents seen over the last three years has continued with NDF in the dry matter increasing by 2.1%. However,
lignin levels have reduced, reflected in slightly higher energy content shown by an increase in DyNE, the energy actually available to the cow for milk production. By accounting for the higher propionate yield from the increased fermentable carbohydrates in this year’s maize, producers will have the ability to utilise more of the energy coming from maize silage.
“When including maize in diets this winter, the key will be to avoid overloading the rumen with starch to minimise the acidosis risk. The increased energy availability may allow cost savings, especially as starch degradability increases. Regularly reviewing rations will allow this opportunity to be realised.
“Most importantly, make sure to get clamps analysed at least monthly so you know the actual quality of maize being fed and watch for signs of mould on the clamp as many crops will be at increased risk of mycotoxins this winter. Feeding a mycotoxin binder like Selko Toxo as standard practice in diets containing maize silage will help minimise the risk,” Ms Bonnick concludes
By Richard Murphy, Ph.D., Research Director, Alltech
Ever since its initial discovery in the early 1900s, selenium has presented a nutritional conundrum due to its dual status as a potentially toxic but highly essential trace element. The form in which selenium is presented is the main determinant of its efficacy. Selenium supplements are available in several forms, including inorganic mineral salts such as sodium selenite or selenate; selenium nanoparticles, produced predominantly through chemical reduction of inorganic compounds; organic forms, such as selenium-enriched yeast, in which selenoamino acid analogues such as selenomethionine (SeMet) predominate; or chemically synthesised selenoamino acids and selenoamino acid analogues produced by synthetic routes.
The largest differences are noted between inorganic and organic forms of the element. While inorganic sodium selenite has historically been the most common source of selenium added to feed, studies have found that inorganic selenium has a high toxicity, and its absorption and conversion rates are low. Organic selenium has been found to be a more effective source, resulting in an increased number of live young per animal, the stimulation of immune function, overall improvements in animal health, and an enhanced shelf life for meat, milk and eggs.
While these observations can be attributed to general enhancements in cellular antioxidant status and the amelioration of the effects of oxidative stress, the exact mechanisms by which the effects are mediated remain unclear; however, peer-reviewed research has clearly shown that dietary intervention with organic selenium is a key element for significantly
Table 1
Response in poultry
Improved FCR
Improved growth rate
Improved fertility
Increased hatchability
Improved feathering
Enhanced thermoregulation
Lower ascites
Less bruising
Improved carcass quality
Less drip loss
Better color
Increased shelf life
Improved egg freshness
enhancing production and supporting better animal nutrition, health and well-being across multiple species.
Table 1 outlines the tremendous benefits gained across species from using organic selenium in production situations.
The distribution and accumulation of selenium in animal tissues depends greatly on the type of selenium supplement offered. The form in which the selenium is presented will play a crucial role in its bioavailability and efficacy. Organic forms of selenium are the optimal nutritional source.
Selenium absorption occurs within the small intestine. Inorganic selenium forms, such as selenite, are absorbed inefficiently, mainly by passive diffusion. The organic SeMet is absorbed using efficient methionine transport mechanisms and transformed into common selenointermediates for further utilization and/or excretion. Following absorption, SeMet can be incorporated non-specifically into general body proteins in place of methionine and can even act as a biological pool for selenium, to be utilised during periods of suboptimal selenium intake.
Organic selenium yeast efficacy: Strain-dependent effects
It is well-accepted that even closely related yeast strains have their own unique biochemical and genetic characteristics. Numerous peerreviewed research papers have been published on this topic. One such study examined three commercial preparations of seleniumenriched yeast and assessed the composition of each product in
Response in swine
Improved FCR
Improved growth rate
Reduced piglet mortality
Heavier piglet birth weight
Better antioxidant defense
Disease resistance
Higher milk transfer rate
Improved retention in muscle and tissue
Improved carcass quality
Less PSE
Less drip loss
Enhanced shelf life
Response in cattle
Improvement in FCR and weight gain
Improved fertility
Fewer services per conception
Improved placenta retention
Improved disease resistance
Reduced somatic cell count
Fewer days between calving
Higher selenium content in milk and colostrum
Antioxidant defense
Disease resistance
Improved resistance to cold stress
Increased thyroxin levels
Less drip loss
Better-quality meat
Higher selenium content in all dairy products
Use in nutraceutical foods
terms of how much selenium was deposited within individual yeast fractions (Figure 1)
Although there is a very common perception that all selenium yeast preparations provide the same benefits in the same ways, it is clear that the location and storage of selenium within yeast is totally different between strains. Considering these differences, it is reasonable to expect that these products will also differ in parameters such as shelf life, bioavailability and, indeed, toxicology.
Rather than viewing these products in exactly the same light, we must see them as distinctly different selenium preparations.
In the case of organic selenium products such as selenised yeast, biological efficacy is more dependent on the digestibility and accessibility of selenium-containing proteins and peptides present in the preparations. In the feed industry, there is a misconception regarding the total SeMet content of selenium-enriched yeast, with the belief that “more is better.” This misconception is based on the belief that SeMet is the “active” component in selenium yeast. Such arguments have no scientific basis. While the level of SeMet may vary between products, it is also to be anticipated that the digestibility and thus the amount of bioavailable SeMet that is freed during digestion will also differ.
Peer-reviewed research has addressed this issue by assessing the digestibility of selenium-containing protein and peptides in seleniumenriched yeast following in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. Surprisingly, the authors’ findings indicated that while approximately 90% of the total selenium was extracted after gastrointestinal digestion, only 34% was quantified in the form of the free SeMet amino acid. The remainder of the selenium was present in the form of low-, medium- and high-molecularweight peptides that contained SeMet. Obviously, the bioavailability of the SeMet contained in these peptides will be wide-ranging, with some of them having no bioavailability at all.
Additional authors have differentiated the bioaccessibility of selenium in commercially available selenium-enriched yeast. This work subjected the selenium sources to a poultry in vitro digestion model, using pepsin and pancreatin as digestive enzymes. The results indicated that the available selenium yeast products varied considerably in terms of digestibility, with notable differences observed between them in the levels of bound and free SeMet following simulated digestion. A difference was also noted between the simulated gastric and intestinal release of SeMet. This may have additional implications for the bioavailability of individual products.
More recently, this differential bioaccessibility was further confirmed in a study that treated intestinal cells with simulated digests of inorganic and organic selenium products (sodium selenite, selenium yeast and chemically synthesised organoselenium), measuring thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) activity in both the presence and absence of a heavy metal challenge. Thioredoxin reductases, a family of selenium-containing enzymes, are important in defence against oxidative stress, and selenium availability is a key factor determining TrxR activity. In the study, cells treated with selenium yeast digests had higher TrxR activity than the control or other selenium sources, including chemically synthesised forms. Interestingly, inorganic selenium and chemically synthesised organoselenium resulted in a decrease in TrxR activity, in effect illustrating their potential to act as pro-oxidants (Figure 2)
Source-dependent selenium stimulation of TrxR activity
Importantly, antioxidant protection in the cell is dependent on the efficient recycling of vitamin E, with the selenium-dependent enzyme thioredoxin reductase being of critical importance. Indeed, if recycling is efficient, then even low vitamin E concentrations can support and maintain high antioxidant protection under physiological conditions. Antioxidant recycling is the most important element in understanding the mechanisms involved in antioxidant protection against oxidative stress. The sourcedependent effects noted with selenium’s influence on cellular antioxidant balance indicate that not all organoselenium sources are the same and that consideration must be given to their bioaccessibility. Moreover, the pro-oxidant effects noted with the use of the inorganic selenite and the chemically synthesised selenium source indicate that caution may in fact be necessary with the use of these newer sources.
Clearly, not all organic selenium sources are created equal in terms of their bioaccessibility or indeed their effectiveness. Not only are there differences in terms of the digestibility of selenium-containing proteins and peptides, but there are differences in their abilities to act as pro-oxidants. Increasing the relative SeMet content does not necessarily increase the bioavailability of the selenium source. Ultimately, consideration needs to be given to the variations that exist in the bioavailabilities of individual products, in the digestion and liberation of selenoamino acids such as SeMet, and in their ability to act as pro-oxidants.
Download the selenium white paper from Dr. Richard Murphy, entitled “Organic selenium: A comparison of form, source and function,” by visiting go.alltech.com/minerals-selenium-white-paper.
The animal feed manufacturing industry plays a crucial role in the UK’s food supply chain, however the industry faces on-going challenges related to energy consumption, rising operational costs and environmental impact levies.
In recent years, the adoption of solar energy has emerged a cost effective solution for the sector, offering major benefits. Below, we answer 5 key questions for animal feed manufacturers interested in decarbonising their operations through solar.
1. What are the main economic benefits of a Solar Power system?
The primary advantage of solar energy is the potential for significant cost savings. Traditional energy sources are both expensive and subject to price fluctuations. By installing solar panels, feed manufacturers can reduce their reliance on grid consumption, stabilising and lowering energy costs over the long term. Solar also provides a level of energy security that is impossible to achieve when grid purchasing. Self-made energy is both inflation, taxation and penalty-proof.
2. Are there any Tax benefits for the business?
Yes. Commercial solar arrays are covered by AIA schemes, meaning that the business can offset the installation against Yr1 tax. This essentially means the business only pays 75-80% of the installation cost in most cases, with the rest offset as a deduction from tax on net profits.
3. How does Solar reduce my Carbon Footprint?
Solar is a clean resource that significantly reduces the
environmental footprint of animal feed production. By integrating solar, feed manufacturers can reduce their carbon emissions and reduce the environmental impact of the business.
4. How can Solar enhance my Operational output?
Solar enhances operational efficiency by ensuring a more stable and reliable energy supply. Correctly sized installations often reduce strain on grid supply during peak operational periods, helping to reduce potential of supply drop-out.
5. How can Solar Installations be funded?
There are 3 main ways to fund an Instillation :
• Cash Purchase : The business pays for the system. Typically a correctly sized installation with a 25-yr lifespan will payback in just 4 to 5yrs.
• Asset Funding: Funding the installation leaves CAPEX in place for other purchasing requirements. Repayments can often be structured to be lower than the installation’s savings, enabling the business to benefit financially from the outset.
• Power Purchase Agreement (PPA): The installation is installed at no cost to the business. The funder charges the business for energy used from the array at below-market rates to cover its purchase and interest charges. At the end of the agreement the business has the option to buy out the installation and continue to make savings.
Who are Rural and Country Energy?
Rural and Country Energy specialise in the farming and feed manufacturing industry, and have installed similar arrays for some of the UK’s largest feeds groups.
Contact us today to arrange a site visit and feasibility assessment
Tel: 0845 643 9900
Email: info@ruralandcountry.energy
Web: www.ruralandcountry.energy
The animal feed manufacturing industry plays a crucial role in the UKʼs food supply chain, but faces on-going challenges related to energy consumption, rising operational costs and environmental impact levies.
Alex Keogh from SugaRich, one of the sectors largest feed additive suppliers, explains how the group are investing in solar to regain some control over their energy spend while improving their carbon credentials.
ʻWe are a multiple site businessʼ, explains Alex, ʻand as producers of low carbon feeds from former foods we are very keen to further reduce our our environmental impacts with the use of sustainable energy. Our working hours align well with harnessing electricity generated during daylight, and solar was the logical vehicle to help us to self-generate some of our ongoing electricity requirementsʼ.
Our investment so far is offsetting circa 154-tonnes of carbon per annum; equivalent to the planting of over 7,000 trees per annum. That is in addition to electricity bill savings of some £130,000 per annum. We are really pleased to have invested in this type of energy diversification, and with Rural and Country as our installerʼ. We are on target to achieve the 4-5 year payback that was modelled.
Richard Morris, Commercial Manager for Rural and Country Energy adds, ʻWe have been really pleased to work with SugaRich on these projects, and are excited to be working on future schemes with them.
ʻWe were keen to engage with an installation company who had a good trading history, and experience in this scale of installation.
Rural and Country are Cheshire based with over 10-yrs trading, but offered Nationwide coverage too. This was important for us with operations as far spread as Scotland to the South East of England. They also use their own employed staff throughout the process, which was a real plus-point for us. They have now installed over 1 Megawatt of solar for us, with further sites at design stageʼ.
It is crucial for all businesses to increase Energy Security by self-generating. With recent energy price rises still affecting all sectors, making energy in-house that is not price-controlled by utility companies, or affected by global events, is logical and sound business practice. With electricity bills increasing historically at some 8% per annum, the value of energy generated by solar simply grows year on year. It is a proven and fantastic investmentʼ
Rural and Country Energy offer a wide range of design and installation skills to accommodate all sizes and types of solar array. A full suite of funding options is available (which can also incorporate associated remedial needs such as re-roofing), and tax breaks for this technology are superb too. Call them to arrange a site inspection and proposal on how solar can benefit your business for the long-term.
Construction of Waterloo House, the technologically-advanced new animal feed mill of I’Anson Bros Ltd, and the most significant development in the UK feed industry this century, has been completed marking the successful conclusion of a project a decade in the planning and two years in construction.
At a cost of £20+million, the ground-breaking development is the largest-ever investment by the family-owned and managed firm which celebrates its 125th anniversary in 2025. A phased build-up of operational capabilities has now begun.
Designed by world-renowned Dutch milling industry specialists, Ottevanger, with ground works handled by HACS, the Harrogate-based contractor and equipment installation by GAME Engineering, of Lincoln, the facility is located on the Dalton Industrial Park, in North Yorkshire.
At 35 metres tall at its highest point, the mill is a striking new feature on the North Yorkshire skyline, almost twice as high as the Angel of the North at 20 metres or the equivalent of seven double-decker buses stacked on top of each other.
The construction statistics illustrate the scale of the project and include:-
• 1,000 tonnes of steel
• 430 x 20-metre-deep concrete pilings
• 30,000 tonnes of stone delivered in 1,500 wagon loads
• 15,000 tonnes of concrete delivered in 500 wagon loads
• 300 tonnes of reinforcing bar
• 10,000 electrical items
• 60 miles of electrical cabling in the mill, site and essential services
Managing Director, Sarah Richardson, a member of the fourth generation of the family to run the business, based in Masham, North Yorkshire, said:
“Commissioning and formal hand-over of the new mill is a highly significant occasion in the history of our business and for the UK feed industry as a whole. It is a milestone achievement made possible by the commitment of all our colleagues in the firm and the skilled and
dedicated project partners and contractors that has brought this initiative to life. We are now embarked on a phased build-up of production and operational capability.
“We are very proud to be a Yorkshire business and an integral part of the rural community and its economy. Throughout our history we have been committed to producing animal feeds of the highest quality and this significant investment means we can continue to provide current and future customers with a sustainable, long-term source of supply.
“We also support local farmers by providing an expanding market for their crops as well as creating new employment opportunities and long-term careers for our workforce.”
Waterloo House will focus on the production of the firm’s bulk feed, providing consistency of supply to customers. The Masham mill will still continue to produce quality compound animal feeds, as well as concentrating on its micronizing business and its award-winning equine feed, which is exported to more than 46 countries worldwide.
I’Anson is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of animal feeds, employs more than 100 people and has annual sales of more than £70 million.
The latest data behind 250 animal feed ingredients and in excess of 40,000 nutrients, including new amino acids, insect proteins and processed animal proteins, is now available via Premier Nutrition and its compendium of raw material data, Atlas 2025.
Fundamental to any feed formulation is a precise understanding of the feeding value of the raw materials used; only with such knowledge can formulations truly be best cost and achieve consistent animal performance.
Premier Atlas provides a comprehensive description of listed ingredients, as well as their production, anti-nutritive factors and processing details. In particular, it also details the levels of 17 digestible amino acids, for both pigs and poultry, in over 200 feed ingredients.
As the feed industry’s most current and precise ingredient values matrix, it also contains:
• Extended fibre analysis data.
• Energy estimates for equine, together with digestible protein.
• Updated pig and poultry energy values, including the addition of a layer metabolisable energy value.
• Amended amino acid digestibility data of major raw materials (particularly pig).
• Updated ruminant metabolisable energy values.
• Amended nutrient analysis where appropriate.
• Digestible calcium data for pigs.
“Atlas 2025 contains more than 250 full feed raw material
specifications, each defined by over 150 nutrients,” Dr Salmon explains.
“The nutrient matrix has not only been updated using recent quality control data, but we have added fibre fractions – non-starch polysaccharides, total dietary fibre and their solubility – on the back of global research that indicates benefits from soluble fibre found at higher levels in ingredients such as barley and rye.
“Within Premier Atlas 2025, understandably the proximate analysis has a UK bias and so, for example, cereal protein levels may be relatively low as our yields are high. Amino acid and energy values are sourced on a worldwide basis”, she adds.
“A precise raw material matrix is the foundation of consistent feed formulations, both in terms of minimising costs and reducing environmental impact. Providing a comprehensive suite of nutritional data across the widest range of raw materials available in one document allows nutritionists to optimise nutrition inputs more efficiently and can help to lead to increasingly more sustainable outcomes. With Atlas 2025, the industry now has the information required to make a difference detailed in one complete document”, Dr Salmon concludes.
Premier Atlas is available in published format and as an interactive digital tool, which will be continually updated as values and data changes; both forms are available exclusively to Premier Nutrition clients. Academics and researchers may also request a copy by emailing: pig@premiernutrition.co.uk.
The industry’s most most current and precise ingredient values matrix all in one document!
Available exclusively to customers. Academics and researchers may receive a copy by emailing pig@premiernutrition.co.uk.
By Ryan Mounsey
“We are our own customers”. This was the comment that resonated with me the most during my visit to Cargill Animal Nutrition UK’s manufacturing site at Dalton, North Yorkshire.
This Cargill mill manufactures ruminant, pig, poultry, pet and equine speciality products for the UK and Ireland. The range of products includes premixes, additives and supplements
This firm focus on the customer is simple and obvious. But it belies the importance of the job done by those working at feed mills across the globe daily.
Cargill UK’s team at Dalton know that the animals fed the products of their work will end up on the tables of their friends, their families and themselves. As such, any deviation from the highest level of care and attention to detail that is required can have very real and tangible repercussions.
This constant commitment to care, safety and precision was apparent in the actions of all personnel, in every aspect of my visit to Cargill’s Dalton Mill.
Since Cargill took over the mill in 2011, the company has implemented a series of developments to the site to improve the efficiency, sustainability and safety of its operations. These
improvements have built on the commitment to quality and customer care applied by the company’s previous owner and founder, SCA.
Efficient, health and safety-conscious protocols are apparent as soon as you enter the site. A one-way system and a segregation of traffic flow at the point of entry for lorries, staff and visitor vehicles has been put in place to separate traffic, ensure thorough security measures and minimise any risk of accidents.
There is ample car parking and free electric charging points for employees in front of the mill, reflecting the company’s desire to help improve the working environment of its employees and accommodate their needs.
After a quick signing in process, I was greeted by Piro Dhame, plant manager of the Dalton mill since July 2017. We went into the offices on site that provide the administrative HQ for Cargill Animal Nutrition’s UK operation.
Following an introduction to the UK business and manufacturing operation at Dalton, plus a safety briefing and a welcome cup of tea, we donned our PPE and made our way out to the front of the mill.
As we left the office, the lights were turned off - a small but notable action indicative of the emphasis that the company places on the importance of energy efficiency and sustainability, and that it encourages all staff to follow.
As we made our way into the mill itself via the demarked walkways shielded by safety barriers, the energy of the workforce was immediately obvious. With more than a dozen different nationalities represented, the mill is a microcosm of diversity that, according to Piro who greeted each of his team members we passed, plays a vital role in its success. “We see ourselves as one team,” he explains. “Diversity is not just a KPI for us; it’s part of our DNA.”
This inclusive ethos extends from the plant floor to management, and measures to create an environment where employees feel valued are obvious. The staff canteen was revamped in 2023 and was spotless and well-equipped. Piro’s pride in its development and offering was plain to see. And these improvements were appreciated by the staff who are encouraged to maintain and enjoy the space.
This empowerment of staff to contribute to the general upkeep and running of all parts of the mill is also reflected in the “See, Say, Stop” policy enacted by the company; employees are encouraged to speak up, regardless of their level, if they see any practices that are unsafe or unnecessary in their view.
This environment, that helps to make all employees feel comfortable to partake in this two-way flow of communication, has been carefully cultivated. HR resources are on site three days a week for face-to-face meetings and Cargill has an anonymous support line for employees.
This focus on diversity and welfare is backed by a strong commitment to workforce development, a directive of the Cargill global company and one that is very much at the forefront of its UK operation. There has been continual investment in the training and upskilling of the workforce at Dalton, ensuring the team is well prepared to handle new technologies and processes.
A recent example was the mill’s investment in a new advanced robotic palletiser system to handle pallet loading with relevant workers receiving specialised training from the equipment vendor. I was fortunate enough to see the palletiser in action, loading bags precisely, quickly and safely.
Cargill is a global company which employs approximately 155,000 people and operates in more than 70 countries. It is one of the ABCD companies that collectively are estimated to control between 70% to 90% of the global grain trade.
Cargill Animal Nutrition (CAN) is a key component of this global network and has a world-renowned research and technology division. Its Dalton, UK site is part of the CAN Western Europe region. The Dalton mill manufacturers nutritional solutions for the company’s markets in the UK and Ireland
“Cargill has several centralised research facilities that provide detailed research at a nuclear level,” explained Cargill UK commercial director Norman Downey. “These sites are used to determine the environmental impact and contribution to sustainability that a particular product or concept may have, and its contribution to animal welfare and performance.
“We then test out these new technologies in our global research centres, which includes one in Europe. And from there, new concepts and technologies are rolled out into Cargill
technical application centres. There are five application centres in Europe. These are more commercially driven and focused on the impact of the new innovation at a local level.
“The reason for taking this approach is that we can show that the product concept or solution that we’ve developed works under a wide range of different environmental conditions, impacts and situations,” he added.
Once research has progressed through the application centres – and this may involve using multiple application sites, the technologies – new concepts, products and or services –are assessed at a market level through local research farms within the region and country. “This is to make sure that the product delivers what we expect for a particular market,” said Norman.
“Following this pathway, a concept is taken from a global level and then tested through several different environments, systems and programmes. This ensures that it delivers to our expectations, and ultimately, that it delivers the performance and values our customers expect from Cargill.”
The reduction in manual handling has been a core strategy in the development of the mill infrastructure and has focused on increasing employee safety. “The future for us is digitalisation and automation wherever we can,” explained Piro. “This requires continued upskilling and development of our people so we can have a workforce that is of the highest skill and capability.”
As a further part of staff development, employees undergo both mandatory and voluntary training programmes. Some are to meet legal requirements, such as refresher courses for forklift operators every three years, but additional training programmes are offered at the mill in areas like feed safety, new digital systems and technologies. Piro explained: “It’s our job to create the optimal environment to enable staff to excel, whether they’re on the mill floor or working with advanced equipment.”
Continuing around the mill floor, Piro is particularly proud of the recent investment in micro-dosing systems, which allow for the precise measurement and blending of feed ingredients. “We’re talking about a multi-million pound investment,” he said. “But it adds value because it improves feed safety, reduces waste, and allows us to create more specialised products.”
This technology enables the mill to meet the specific nutritional requirements of each of its customers, regardless of the species, life stage or feeding system of the animal. This micro-dosing system was manned by Sunny , who at 67 years old, was moving more gracefully than me at half his age, a testament no doubt to the benefits of less reliance on manual handling along with his enthusiasm.
However, it is not just the specialised, big-ticket technologies that are making a difference at Dalton. The mill has also introduced smaller innovations, such as sensor-controlled lighting and improved insulation for steam pipes, both of which have resulted in significant energy savings.
“Every little bit counts,” Piro noted. “These changes may seem minor, but when you add them all up, they make a big impact on our energy efficiency and carbon footprint.”
The addition of new developments is ongoing. For example, new quick-scan analysis equipment that allows the mill team to swiftly and accurately determine the presence of mycotoxins in raw materials delivered to the site was introduced the month after my visit.
Feed safety is a top priority at the Dalton mill, and the steps taken to ensure this are impressive. Piro walked me through the rigorous quality control process, which begins with the careful selection of suppliers. Only those approved by Cargill and who meet the company’s rigorous criteria, including compliance with environmental and ethical standards, can supply raw materials.
“We won’t work with suppliers that don’t treat people well or who harm the environment,” Piro says. “Our supply chain has to be as transparent and ethical as the products we make.”
As one of many key constituents of an international company, the Dalton mill also benefits from the global supply chain that Cargill oversees. “Our global reach allows us to access raw materials reliably which otherwise may be hard to purchase on a smaller scale, such as responsibly sourced soya,” Piro explained, “our Triple S Soya comes from sites that are deforestation free since 2008 and are fully traceable to individual farms.”
Once the raw materials arrive at the mill, they are scanned and tracked through every stage of production using a barcode, ensuring
full traceability, which is essential for both feed safety and quality control. “Every bag has a unique barcode,” Piro explained. “If there’s an issue, we can trace it back through every step of the process, right down to the supplier and batch number.”
The mill also has robust systems in place to handle any potential issues. If a product doesn’t meet the required standards, it’s flagged up and corrective action is taken immediately. “If something goes wrong, we don’t play the blame game,” Piro said. “Instead, we focus on the root cause and fix it, so it doesn’t happen again.”
This proactive approach to quality control ensures that the mill’s customers can rely on consistently high-quality feed products. Again, properly trained staff play a vital role in maintaining product quality and safety, “Our employees are the last line of defence before the product reaches the customer,” Piro emphasised.
the loss of material during production, as one of his key targets for improvement. “If we produce 100 kilos and only get 98 kilos, we need to know where those two kilos went. Reducing shrink not only saves money but also cuts down on waste.”
One of the ways the mill addresses this is by repurposing byproducts like mineral waste for energy generation. This prevents it from going to landfill and helps offset some of the mill’s energy needs and is a paid for service; another clear indication of the site’s commitment to safe-guarding and improving the environment.
In addition, the mill is exploring ways to make its operations eco-friendlier, including switching its entire fleet of forklifts to electric models. Currently, half of the fleet is electric. “We’re always looking for ways to reduce our emissions,” Piro added. “It’s about doing the right thing for the environment and for our business.”
Above and beyond these measures, a sample of every product that leaves the mill is taken, analysed, bagged and stored in a purpose built facility. Each sample is assigned a barcode to allow for full traceability and is labelled with a breakdown of ingredient by percentage. If any sample is found to be out of tolerance with the assigned label, the associated product will not leave the site.
“We would rather have a difficult conversation with the customer regarding supply than risk any product being delivered that doesn’t meet the specification in whichever area that might be and however minor. It’s not about the numbers, it’s about doing the right thing,” he said.
These samples remain on site to allow for further checks if required and are kept stable with the use of air conditioning. Although air con is a necessity, the facility has been designed with the use of sky lights to illuminate the space using ambient light rather than electric. A small detail with an ever growing impact.
Sustainability is at the forefront of operations at the Dalton mill. As part of its commitment to environmental responsibility, the mill has implemented a range of initiatives aimed at reducing waste and minimising its carbon footprint. Piro considers ‘shrink’, which is
Energy efficiency technologies feature highly in the Dalton mill. It has already seen significant improvements by insulating steam pipes and repairing air leaks, and it’s looking into renewable energy options but in a logical and calculated fashion. “We’ve explored solar panels, but the payback period is roughly 15 years and that’s too long. Still, we’re committed to finding sustainable solutions that make sense for our operations.
“We want to be transparent with our customers about our environmental impact. It’s not just about meeting today’s standards - it’s about leading the way in sustainability for the entire industry.”
Piro is optimistic about the future, particularly when it comes to sustainability. “Our vision for the next few years is to keep reducing our environmental footprint,” he added. “We’re already on track, but there’s always more we can do.”
As we return to the offices, he reinforces that digitalisation is a key driver of future success. “Automation and digital tools are changing the way we work. But it’s still about people. We need the best-trained, most capable workforce to make it all happen.”
This future planning is based on Cargill’s integrated business process, which looks 12 to 18 months ahead and provides the mill with the commercial intelligence that allows them to maintain stock and production levels despite the uncertainty caused by worldwide crises.
“We analyse what part of the market we’re going to compete in, which product we’re going to make, what the key materials are, the key packaging we need to have and what investment we need to perform the operations to be ready to handle these challenges.”
It was this forward planning that allowed the mill to adapt to the challenges of Covid-19, which they managed to navigate without a single day of downtime, Brexit, the war in Ukraine and the Middle East Crisis. And given current events, this future proofing looks more important than ever.
Support throughout the gut
The intestinal integrity of poultry is constantly challenged by the environment, diet, and pathogens. The development and maintenance of a robust gut function depends on the composition of the gut microbiota. If the gut and the microbiota is supported, so is the health of the bird.
Probiotics are used to create a healthy and resilient microbiota. Alterion (Bacillus subtilis DSM 29784), is a consistent and reliable probiotic that has been shown to be effective in protecting animals by acting on three connected lines of defence: ensuring a resilient microbiome, strengthening the gut barrier function, and preserving gut integrity – as well as maintaining a reactive immune system. Butyrate is a central signalling molecule, which has a direct effect on the microbiota, which benefits intestinal integrity. Adimix Precision is a superior butyrate formulation that protects the product and controls release as required.
The immature gut of the young bird takes a while to be able to effectively combat challenges. Alterion helps the bird develop a beneficial microbiota faster and the best way to get to an optimal level of butyrate is to also feed Adimix Precision. Butyrate is anti-inflammatory and reduces the translocation of pathogens, whilst Alterion has a unique profile of metabolites that increase its activity.
Working together on complementary beneficial pathways, probiotics and butyrate support gut health, poultry health and profitable production. This strategy also helps producers control pathogens like Salmonella and Campylobacter and Clostridium perfringens - as well as reducing reliance on antibiotics www.adisseo.com
Azelis offers a range of innovative and scientifically proven products to help support livestock and ensure the maximum nutritional value is obtained from the feed. Choosing the right feed ingredients can improve livestock performance and critically deliver a significant ROI.
Sangrovit® Feed
Sangrovit ® Feed contains standardized specific secondary plant metabolites scientifically proven to support livestock productivity, ensuring consistent feed intakes and performance even during times of challenge. Sangrovit® ensures consistent results throughout the production period.
Available for use in complete feed and premix.
ProPhorce™ SR130
ProPhorce™ SR130 is an esterified butyric acid. Butyric acid is a wellresearched essential nutrient, proven to have a positive impact on gut health. The esterification of ProPhorce™ SR130 produces a tributyrin which eliminates the need for coating and supports more efficient and higher level of delivery where needed most in the small intestine.
Targeted and efficient delivery of a high concentration of butyric acid in the form of tributyrin.
Enhanced cost effectiveness due to lower dosage levels
Easy handling and no odour issues.
Gastrivix™ Avi
A unique and synergistic blend of esterified butyric and valeric acids, helping modern broilers to meet their natural genetic potential. It is designed to supply these important short chain fatty acids in the optimum ratio giving even further improvements in FCR, ADG and EPEF.
NuxaSan 500™
Is a polyherbal product rich in phytoactives which help support livestock performance during times of coccidia challenge.
For further information please contact Leia Trotman at Azelis on: +44 (0)7792116659 or via email: leia.trotman@azelis.co.uk
TechnoSpore ® is a novel probiotic feed additive for monogastric animals, based on the strain Bacillus coagulans
This bacterium is the first of its kind approved by the EU as a probiotic feed additive for animal nutrition. It smartly combines the benefits of pelleting stability and lactic acid production. B. coagulans reliably supports intestinal health
by using different modes of action; the lactic acid production lowers the pH in the gut and suppresses pH-sensitive pathogens such as
● Precision feeding solutions for broilers, breeders and layers, as well as turkey, game birds, duck, and other poultry sub-species.
● Best-in-class feed additives to further enhance bird feed performance and your profitability to provide targeted support to improve animal health, enhance performance, reduce production losses and support recovery from illness. This includes the SolviTec® and and Promote® ranges.
Salmonella spp. and E. coli. At the same time, other health-supportive gut bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria profit from the probiotic activities. Furthermore, B. coagulans controls the negative effects of pathogens such as Clostridium perfringens and associated necrotic enteritis. TechnoSpore also improves feed digestibility and performance, including weight gain and feed conversion. Immunological studies demonstrated that B. coagulans administration strengthens the immune defense. www.biochem.net
Cargill PLC, Dalton Airfield Industrial Estate, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 3HE (01845) 578125 customerservices_dalton@cargill.com
Clovex Salt – Complete Garlic Chemistry
Cargill UK’s post-biotic feed products, Diamond V ® , are distributed throughout UK and Ireland for all species. These products are formed from a proprietary fermentation process and produce important bioactive compounds and metabolites that work synergistically in animal diets. They support immunity, health and performance in all animal species.
In dairy and beef diets, Diamond V Original XP™ improves rumen pH and the activity of beneficial rumen micro-organisms. It promotes feed digestibility in the rumen and the small intestine via the fermentation products and bio-active compounds. Consistent improvements in milk yield, milk quality, weaning weight and daily weight gains have been seen in trials on dairy and beef units.
Diamond V XP Ultra is now included in some of Cargill’s specialist, topic-focussed rumen buffers such as Equaliser® Fibre+, Equaliser® Cream and Equaliser® Starch+. It acts in synergy with other carefully selected ingredients in each of these specialised rumen buffers to improve specific aspects of rumen metabolism.
The Diamond V product NutriTek ® is the most advanced nutritional health product for cows and calves. It supports rumen health and reduces the risk of glucose being diverted into supporting the immune system, leaving more energy available for milk production and growth.
Diamond V Original XPC™ is used in poultry diets to promote food safety, antibiotic resistance and performance in layers, broiler flocks, pullets and turkey units. This fermentation product, with numerous bioactive metabolite compounds, helps to optimise immune function and promotes a healthy microbial balance.
These benefits promote efficiency and health and support antibiotic stewardship and food safety. Cargill’s equine and pet products TruEquine™, TruPet™ and Epicor ® Pet also contain Diamond V® additives to enhance performance. Contact Matthew Pickles Marketing Communications Specialist –UK and Ireland Cargill Animal Nutrition Tel: +44 (0)1845 578125 Provimi Ltd.
Clovex® Garlic Salt is a unique feed ingredient, harnessing total garlic chemistry to offer the feed industry actives that are often lost in standard sources of garlic. By protecting and concentrating volatile actives contained in both the oil and water fraction of garlic, Clovex ® acts more like pure fresh garlic cloves than dried garlic. This allows Clovex® to supply the components of garlic cells as it would in nature to create powerful polysulphides. As polysulphides are highly volatile the protection of the longer chains which are more reactive are key to utilising the natural effect of garlic.
The high activity and concentration allow for an economic option into the feed industry across multiple species where garlic is added for health or immune response.
For equines, Clovex® is also available with the allicin reacted out to aid the risk of allergic reaction that can be associated with standard garlic. For further information on Clovex ®, please contact Tom today.
Contact Tom Butler Technical Director Contact Number: 01363 775115
Email: techteam@brinicombe.co.uk
Enviva® PRO
• Superior gut balance: Establishes a positive microbiota quickly and offers extended coverage for today’s evolving production environments - leading to powerful results in liveability.
• Contributes to Nutribiosis: Establishing a balanced microflora helps the birds live up to their genetic potential.
• Proven results: Consistently delivers a positive microbiota and healthy gut balance
The three strains of Bacillus in Enviva® PRO are spore formers, which means that they can survive extreme heat, pH and starvation conditions. Together, they work to improve gut health in six key structural and microbiological areas. The three strains in Enviva® PRO have been shown to promote immune development, reduce the risk of inflammation during periods of change and strengthen the gut structure. In addition, they support the development of a positive microbiota while inhibiting the colonization of non-beneficial microbes and producing antimicrobial compounds. Specifically, Enviva® PRO has even been shown to increase beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, while decreasing non-beneficial bacteria, such as Campylobacter. It has also been shown
to be effective at inhibiting Clostridium growth. In vitro, all three Bacillus strains in Enviva® PRO were shown to inhibit the growth of multiple Brachyspira pilosicoli with performance superior to other Bacillus strains. Tel: +31 6 1539 6689 Web: animalnutrition.iff.com
dsm-firmenich
DSM is a leading feed additives manufacturer; a pioneer from the earliest days of feed additives, we are one of the world’s leading suppliers of vitamins, carotenoids, eubiotics, feed enzymes and not least mycotoxin risk management to the global feed industry.
Balancius ® is a breakthrough technology which hydrolyzes peptidoglycans from bacterial cell debris in the intestinal tract, thereby improving nutrient digestibility and absorption. Balancius® is the first and only microbial muramidase that works in the intestine to help keep the balance between nutrition, microbiota and host well-being and the only feed ingredient on the market that targets bacterial cell debris.
Cylactin® is one of the most effective and extensively tested probiotics available for use in calf, pig and poultry feeds. This bacterial strain is able to rapidly colonise the animal’s gut and leads to a more stable, healthier gut eco-system and better animal performance. It has now been developed for increased stability.
CRINA ® products are species specific blends of botanical components all synthesized or purified to minimum 95% activity. In monogastric animals, CRINA® stimulates the production of digestive enzymes and positively modulates the gut microflora. In ruminants, CRINA® helps optimise rumen fermentation, which is essential for performance, health and longevity.
CRINA® Poultry Plus is a zootechnically approved feed additive that acts to promote eubiosis, the optimal balance of microflora, in the gastrointestinal-tract of poultry. The combination of benzoic acid and botanical components result in growth inhibiting effects on pathogenic bacterial strains allowing birds to grow faster while reducing the use of antibiotics.
CRINA® Digest is the latest addition to the CRINA® range and can be used in all poultry species, complementing CRINA® Poultry Plus. It is a unique and cost-effective combination of three essential oil compounds using microencapsulation technology that ensures a controlled release of bioactives along the gastrointestinal tract to enhance poultry digestion by balancing the intestinal microbiota and stimulating the bird enzymatic activity.
Digestarom® line of phytogenics contain unique blends of herbs and spices, essential oils and other plant extracts to improve palatability and acceptance of feed, support digestion and overall performance of farm animals.
The Mycofix® portfolio of feed additives represents the most stateof-the-art solution for protecting animal health by deactivating mycotoxins that contaminate farm animal feed. Its safety and efficacy are proven by
7 EU authorizations for substances that deactivate mycotoxins.
Proven benefits of Mycofix® include enzymatic biotransformation of various mycotoxins, the highest aflatoxin adsorption (99%), enhanced bioprotection and unique endotoxin protection
PoultryStar® is a well-defined, poultry-specific, multi-species synbiotic product that promotes a beneficial gut microbiota through the combined action of carefully selected probiotic microorganisms and prebiotic fructooligosaccharides.
Symphiome™ is a complex glycan mixture technically defined as a Precision Biotic. A first-of-its-kind microbiome metabolic modulator precisely designed to harness the power of the microbiome, by optimizing microbial nutrient metabolism.
VevoVitall® has zootechnical authorisation for use in growing pigs and sows and is the active form of sodium benzoate. The powerful antimicrobial effects of VevoVitall® can help to improve feed quality leading to improved intakes and superior performance. Lowering the pathogenic bacteria loading in the animal will increase the amount of nutrients available for growth and performance as well as reducing the incidence of digestive upsets and the need for medication.
Feed, water and gel applications of the PoultryStar® line ensure that birds of all ages and production systems can receive the symbiotic and benefit from improved gut health.
Performance enhancers are essential to achieve the production potential of your animals.
For more information, please contact your DSM representative.
Email: Heanor.anh-enquiries@dsm.com Web: www.dsm.com/anh
SpeoCare™ T60 is the tributyrin source from a world leading manufacturer of animal nutrition products, significantly enhances gut integrity, ensuring the health and performance of your animals, reduces the risk of leaky gut, and other gut health challenges which substantially lowers animal performance, and is characterized by excellent concentration, bioavailability and handling at your feed and farming operation.
Ecobiol® is a gut flora stabilizer containing Bacillus amyloliquefaciens CECT 5940, which helps optimize and regulate the intestinal microbiota and prevent stress, resulting in an improved feed efficiency and reduced mortality. Ecobiol® is a naturally occurring, non-GMO, spore-forming, heat-resistant strain of bacteria that produces abundant lactic acid and has the potential to produce secondary metabolites, such as macrolactins, which inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, as well as modulating the immune response in the gut. Available for feed application and in our latest form, Ecobiol Fizz®, an effervescing tablet for precise, flexible application in water.
Fecinor® is a gut flora stabilizer containing Enteroccocus faecium CECT 4515, a naturally occurring, non-GMO strain of bacteria that doubles in CFU every 19 minutes to out-compete E. Coli strains and form a
biological barrier by adhering to the intestinal mucosa to protect against pathogenic colonization and translocation to the circulatory system and other organs. This helps to optimize and regulate the intestinal microbiota, prevent stress, and therefore improve feed efficiency and is approved in the EU to be used in weaned piglets up to 35kg live weight. Available for both feed and drinking-water application.
Web: evonik.com/animal-nutrition
CholiGEM by Kemin - “a breakthrough innovation in choline nutrition” Animal health is crucial for sustainable dairy farming, with metabolic post-calving problems as a focus point. Research shows that cows experiencing such problems produce significantly less milk and have an increased risk of fertility issues. Problems like ketosis and metritis are caused by an energy imbalance. Rumen-protected choline offers a solution by supporting the liver in converting fatty acids into energy, which reduces the production of harmful substances such as ketone bodies.
Studies show that supplementing choline to dairy cows increases milk production and improves feeding efficiency. CholiGEM™, a rumenprotected choline developed by Kemin, has more than double the concentrated source of Choline chloride (60%) in encapsulated form, with more than triple the bioavailable Choline chloride than its first generation. The C3-model focuses on concentration, core, and coating, making CholiGEM an effective source of choline supply. The right particle size and specific gravity results in a combination of an elevated level of rumen escape, providing high intestinal choline content ready to be absorbed and available to the animal. Due to the high concentration, CholiGEM can create up to 30% space in premix formulations.
Feeding trials in Belgium support these findings. Choline nutrition during lactation showed a significant and long-lasting increase in milk production. Another trial with CholiGEM showed not only higher milk production but also improved fertility and health in dairy cows receiving the encapsulated choline chloride.
In conclusion, if rumen-protected choline is fed pre and postpartum, it reduces the risk of clinical and subclinical metabolic disorders and overall morbidity, thus improving animal health and milk production. For further insights please contact Robert Hamilton via mobile 07538 461541 or email robert.hamilton@kemin.com
Demand for animal protein is increasing globally due to population growth. Increasing animals’ productivity is needed to meet the demand and contribute to a sustainable agriculture. The supply of fat and energy is challenging, as fat sources are among the most expensive raw materials. Several characteristics of
the fat ingredients are impacting their digestion in the small intestine, such as the ratio of unsaturated/saturated fatty acids and free fatty acids concentration. When considering common fat sources, approximately 13.2% and 7.1% of fatty acids are undigestible in broilers and swine, respectively. The nutritional emulsifier, Excential Energy Plus, which is adapted to the watery intestinal conditions, is an effective feed additive to improve metabolism. First of all, Excential Energy Plus will emulsify the lipids in smaller droplets for digestion by lipases. Then, the emulsifier will support the absorption in the epithelium of the free fatty acids by combining them into micelles. The dietary application of Excential Energy Plus is quite flexible. By applying it on-top of the formula, the feed conversion ratio (FCR), weight gain and slaughter performance are upgraded in fattening animals. In layers, the FCR, egg production and yolk pigmentation are improved. In aquaculture, lipase activity, fillet yield and antioxidant status are enhanced. For piglets, on top of performance parameters, intestinal morphology is improved. Current applications are backed up by more than 100 trials including fifty scientific trials. Further research is ongoing to continuously support productivity and economic profit of the animal industry. For more information, visit us on www.orffa.com.
SENS Nutrition distributes a range of specialist feed additives from innovative suppliers including Adisseo, ADM, Agromed, Animine and BioZyme.
BioZyme® is a truly innovative US-based business that specialises in the production of prebiotics and postbiotics from the fermentation of a select strain of the fungus Aspergillus oryzae. These are sold under the AO-Biotics® brand.
Amaferm® is a unique product registered as a zootechnical feed additive for inclusion in dairy cow diets, supported by more than 180 research studies and field trials. Amaferm boosts the digestibility of forages by providing nutrients for rumen fungi growth and increased microbial enzyme activity to accelerate the rate of fibre digestion.
Feeding Amaferm® increases dry matter intake and the production of microbial protein and volatile fatty acids, boosting milk yields.
AO-Ferm® is a version of Amaferm for use in calves and growing heifers.
Calves fed AO-Ferm® can be weaned earlier and have a greater daily weight gain.
EQE® is the first and only Aspergillus oryzae postbiotic developed specifically for layers. A postbiotic is a product derived from microbial fermentation which confers health and physiological benefits to the animal. It contains inactivated microbial cells, cell components and metabolites. The efficacy of postbiotics is through multiple modes of action, such as modulation of the gut microflora and strengthening gut wall barrier function; and optimising immune and metabolic responses.
Incorporating EQE® in your layer feeds results in more sellable eggs, improved egg mass, more resilient birds and increased productive life span of your flock.
For more information on these and our range of products contact: Steve Ladbrook
Unit B2, Risby Business Park, Risby, Bury St Edmunds IP28 6RD Tel: 07595 025110 Email: info@sensnutrition.com
GALLICALM:
Gallicalm Is a new product for 2025 which is a natural solution to reducing the effects of stress across all Poultry. Its aim is to ensure stress does not develop into aggressive behaviour which can affect feather cover and lead to Oxidative stress which will affect gut function. Based mostly on botanicals, its mode of action increases serotonin levels in the brain, whilst also naturally stimulating GABA neurotransmitters known to have a calming effect on the central nervous system. As well as working very effectively to control aggression, trial work also shows improved performance. Please contact Iain Campbell for further information at iain.campbell@ groupe-techna.com
ELENSIS:
ELENSIS, a blend of essential oils, improves energy efficiency in the digestive tract of ruminants. It improves the rumen balance by shifting fermentation towards propionic acid (glucose precursor) which is the most efficient VFA for energy utilisation. The essential oils have two specific coatings for targeted release within the rumen and hindgut - a slow release and fast release coating - meaning that the product is effective over time in the rumen and in the hindgut. It can be formulated into feeds to reduce fat and use competitive raw materials where feeds can be formulated at least cost but without compromising on quality and digestibility. Or it can be added on top of diets to give extra energy to the diet and improve animal production. Please contact Jamie-leigh Douglas for further information at Jamie-leigh.douglas@ groupe-techna.com.
Robus Zen:
Robus Zen is a feed additive for all groups of pigs, aimed at decreasing aggression, especially tail biting. Based mostly on botanicals, its mode of action increases serotonin levels in the brain, whilst also naturally
increasing neurotransmitters known to have a calming effect on the central nervous system. As well as working very effectively to control aggression, trial work also shows improved performance. Please contact Anna Varnish for further information at anna.varnish@groupetechna.com
Trouw Nutrition is committed to enabling animal producers to reduce the need for antibiotics by improving microbial control, ensuring optimum production efficiency. By using a feed – farm – health approach, scanning the entire system, we can use our in-house laboratories to identify key areas for improvement, developing a bespoke product offering. Our dedicated feed additives engineer can offer advice and installation of customer specific dosing systems. • Gut Health
Feed Safety • Precision Nutrition
Analytical services Analysis of feed materials to ensure accurate formulation.
Selko Optimin SeY® A high quality selenium enriched yeast (Saccharomyces Cerevisae).
Selko IntelliBond® Highly Bioavailable Hydroxy Trace Minerals –Copper, Zinc and Manganese
Selko Lactibute® Strengthens the intestinal barrier, promoting better gut health, increased milk yield, and higher production of milk solids, including butterfat, in lactating dairy cows
Selko pH® Promoting a healthy microbial balance in the proximal small intestine optimising feed utilisation and animal performance through the control of gram-negative bacteria.
Selko Selacid® A synergistic blend of free and buffered organic acids added to finished feed providing a positive effect of animals gut health and performance.
Selko Presan® Stabilises microbiota and may increase villi length. This integrated approach is a powerful formula designed to improve animal performance
Selko Fysal® Effectively reduces enterobacteriaceae like Salmonella sp. in both raw materials and compound feeds with a long-lasting effect.
Selko® TMR A blend of organic acids that reduces the growth of yeasts, moulds and bacteria such as Enterobacteriaceae like Salmonella.
Selko Toxo® A tiered range of mycotoxin mitigation products for monogastric and ruminant animals
Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk
It is not just about quantity, quality is key!
By Dr. Maria Walsh, Director of Global Marketing for Swine, Animal Nutrition & Health, dsm-firmenich
Maria Walsh is the Global Swine Marketing Director. Maria is an Irish national with a PhD in Animal Science from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, USA. She has more than 15 years of experience as a scientist and researcher. She joined dsmfirmenich in 2018 as a Senior Scientist, and has managed the swine innovation pipeline for the Animal Nutrition & Health business, including new product development and application solutions from ideation to commercialization.
Introduction
The removal of antibiotics from swine diets has led to a substantial increase in the use of vaccines. Vaccination stimulates an immune response which requires specific nutrients that are not then available for use in muscle deposition.
Nutrients are also required to support immune responses to other challenges (bacteria, viruses, parasites) that are routinely encountered during the normal growth cycle. Mounting an effective response to these challenges can impact negatively on growth performance.
Alongside this, improvements in sow prolificacy have increased the numbers of piglets with low birth weight and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Increased farrowing time has reduced the ‘shot’ of immunity (IgG) that is passed on to piglets via colostrum. These pressures can affect the long term immunocompetency of fatteners, even into the finisher phase1
The capacity of pigs to address these challenges without losing performance will depend on their adaptability. Specifically, their ability to repartition available nutrients between the (competing) functions of lean muscle development, the immune system and bone health.
This article explores how immune challenge affects the partitioning of nutrients and how dietary supplementation with 25-OHD3 (hydroxycholecalciferol) is one way that can be used to support immune competency without loss of performance.
Immune challenge alters nutrient partitioning and feed efficiency
Figure 1 illustrates how immune challenge can impair growth in fattening pigs2. Different sources of challenge can reduce the mean growth response by up to 40%. Separation of the relative contributions to these reductions reveals that, for most sources of challenge, at least some of the reduction is not due to reduced feed intake (red part of bars) but to feed efficiency (blue part of bars). This implies the reallocation of nutrients away from growth towards immunity under conditions of challenge.
Figure 1. Metabolic consequences of an activated immune system in fattening pigs (adapted from Pastorelli et al., 20122).
Research at the level of the gut and surrounding tissues indicates that this repartitioning of nutrients involves an initial reduction in protein digestibility (pre-absorptive effect) followed by a re-partitioning
of free amino acids away from protein deposition in muscle towards the production of inflammatory proteins (post-absorptive effect)3,4
Nutrient requirements for immunity are different than those for growth
When considering whether and how diets can be optimized to prevent this nutrient repartitioning from affecting growth, it needs to be recognized that nutrient requirements for immunity differ fundamentally from those required for growth.
For example, the amino acid profiles of acute phase proteins (the first proteins produced in response to inflammation) are completely different from that of lean-mass muscle protein (Table 1). This is illustrated by the example of threonine in fattening pigs where it has been observed that the requirement to support a serum IgG response to ovalbumin injection is ~12% greater than that required for average daily gain5. The implication is that if the amino acid composition of the diet is balanced for growth then this may not be adequate to support an effective immune response.
Table 1. Amino acid (AA) composition of acute phase proteins and pig muscle (g
Are we currently feeding correctly to meet the nutrient requirements of the immune system?
If the immune response requires different nutrients to those needed for muscle deposition and the aim is to maintain muscle deposition in the face of immune challenge, this generates the question: ‘ Are we feeding correctly to meet the nutrient requirements of the immune system?’
The answer is likely no, because diets are formulated based on recommended nutrient requirements derived from animals reared in isolation, in clean conditions, without immune challenge. Emerging evidence from routine observations on-farm is indicating a rise in the incidence of swine inflammation and necrosis syndrome (SINS), ear and tail necrosis in fattening pigs without obvious diet deficiencies or environmental or health stressors.
25-OH-D3 (hydroxycholecalciferol) as a potential tool to support nutrient requirements for immunity
Vitamin D supplementation represents one potential tool by which to support nutrient requirements for immunity so that lean muscle deposition is maintained.
1. Rationale for using 25-OH-D3 to support nutrient allocation and immunity
The rationale behind the use of 25-OH-D3 to support immunity and growth comes from existing knowledge of vitamin D biology in both humans and animals. In particular, the key involvement of vitamin D in both the regulation and maintenance of skeletal muscle and in immune system integrity.
This two-way relationship is illustrated in Figure 2.
Figure 2. Illustration of the regulatory and protective role of vitamin D in the functioning of skeletal muscle and the immune system.
The dual role of vitamin D is illustrated by observations in humans that vitamin D deficiency impairs the development of skeletal muscle in conditions of oxidative stress by disrupting mitochondrial function, leading to reduced protein synthesis and muscle atrophy6
The beneficial effects of vitamin D on the immune system are two-fold, acting on both the innate and adaptive immune systems via interactions with vitamin D receptors on immune cells. In humans, research has shown that when levels of the more biologically active form of vitamin D known as 25-OH-D3 (hydroxycholecalciferol) reach sufficient levels (e.g. through dietary supplementation), it exerts an antibacterial effect by inducing monocyte and macrophage activity to kill bacteria and separately decreases inflammation and autoimmunity by inducing dendritic cells to release a cascade of cytokines7
2. Examples of immune-benefits of 25-OH-D3 (HyD®) supplementation in pigs
dsm-firmenich’s 25-OH-D3 (Hy-D®) additive has been developed to support nutrient allocation and metabolism in response to routine immune challenges that are encountered during the normal growth cycle. Some examples of its proven beneficial activity are given overleaf.
Example 1: Increasing supplementation of 25-OH-D3 in the range 5.5 to 155.5 μg/kg alleviated diarrhoea in piglets infected with porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus (PEDV)8. The beneficial effect was mediated via a reduction in serum diamine oxidase activity indicating reduced gut permeability and increased maintenance of intestinal tight junction structure, likely via an antioxidant effect8
Example 2: Supplementation of 25-OH-D3 in place of classical vitamin D reduced levels of the acute phase protein haptoglobin in the blood after 18-19 weeks in boars and gilts showing signs of SINS, ear and tail necrosis. It also reduced the percentage of animals with SINS lesions9. These changes were accompanied by improved final body weight (+2.3%) and reduced mortality (1.7% vs. 4.3%), which was due to improved availability of nutrients for growth because of the beneficial effects of the 25-OH-D3 on the immune system response (manuscript under preparation).
Example 3 : Long term (84 days) supplementation of 25-OH-D3 in growing pigs increased antioxidant gene expression as well as the content of individual amino acids (tryptophan, tyrosine and asparagine) and total protein in muscle9
Example 4 : Supplementation of 25-OH-D3 in piglets fed a diet contaminated with mycotoxin (DON) and challenged with endotoxin (LPS) improved vitamin D status, calcium metabolism and increased the immune response to deal effectively with the endotoxin challenge.10
Conclusion
Today’s fattening pigs are exposed to increased immune challenges from a variety of sources. These challenges affect the partitioning of nutrients across growth, immunity and bone health and can result in a reduction in growth performance if nutrient availability is not adequate. Supplementation with 25-OH-D3 as Hy-D® can be effective in supporting immunocompetency, enabling growth to be maintained in the face of challenges such as PEDV, PRRS, SINS and endotoxins.
References
1. Payling et al., 2023. Presentation at Think Piglet Health & Nutrition 2023, Copenhagen, September 21–22.
2. Pastorelli, H., J. van Milgen, P. Lovatto, and L. Montagne. 2012. Meta-analysis of feed intake and growth responses of growing pigs after a sanitary challenge. Animal 6:952–961.
3. Gonzalez-Vega, C., and J. K. K. Htoo. 2022. How functional amino acids can support pigs during challenge environments. Proceedings XXXII Reunión Internacional de Producción de Carne y Leche en Climas Cálidos, Mexicali. Mexico. Archivos Latinoamericanos de Producción Animal. Volume 30 No. Supl. 1.
4. Le Floc’h, N., L. LeBellego, J. J. Matte, D. Melchior and B. Sève.
In brief:
• Today’s fattening pigs are faced with increased immune stimulation due to greater use of vaccines and the removal of antibiotics from feed.
• Immune challenge can impair production performance due to the reallocation of nutrients away from growth to meet the demands of the immune system response.
• Nutrient requirements for immunity differ from those for growth. Therefore, diets balanced for growth may not contain adequate nutrients for immunocompetency development.
• Supplementation with the more bioavailable form of vitamin D known as 25-OH-D3 (hydroxycholecalciferol, as Hy-D®) is a useful tool for supporting immunity in the face of challenges such as from porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus (PEDV), swine inflammation and necrosis syndrome (SINS) and endotoxin, enabling growth to be maintained.
2009. The effect of sanitary status degradation and dietary tryptophan content on growth rate and tryptophan metabolism in weaning pigs. Journal of Animal Science 87:1686–1694.
5. Wang, X., S. Y. Qiao, M. Liu, and Y. X. Ma. 2006. Effects of graded levels of true ileal digestible threonine on performance, serum parameters and immune function of 10-25 kg pigs. Animal Feed Science and Technology 129:264–278.
6. Dzik, K. P., and J. J. Kaczor. 2019. Mechanisms of vitamin D on skeletal muscle function: oxidative energy metabolism and anabolic state. European Journal of Applied Physiology 119:825–839.
7. Sîrbe, C., S. Rednic, A. Grama, and T. L. Pop. 2022. An update on the effects of vitamin D on the immune system and autoimmune diseases. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 29:9784.
8. Yang, J., G. Tian, D. Chen, P. Zheng, J. Yu, X. Mao, J. He, Y. Luo, J. Luo, Z. Huang, A. Wu and B. Yu. 2019. Dietary 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 supplementation alleviates porcine epidemic diarrhea virus infection by improving intestinal structure and immune response in weaned pigs. Animals 9:627.
9. Zhou, X., L. Wang, Z. Zhang, and X. Qin. 2023. 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 improved growth performance, bone characteristics and polyunsaturated fatty acid deposition by activating calcium ion channel proteins expression in growing pigs. Journal of Functional Foods 105:10581.
10. Sauvé, B., Y. Chorfi, M.-P. Létourneau Montminy, and F. Guay. 2023. Vitamin D supplementation impacts calcium and phosphorus metabolism in piglets fed a diet contaminated with deoxynivalenol and challenged with lipopolysaccharides. Toxins 15: 394.
With Hannah Elliott, Monogastric Technical Manager, Lallemand Animal Nutrition
A two-decade meta-analysis of 62 global trials across 25 countries has confirmed that the probiotic, Pediococcus acidilactici CNCM I-4622, significantly improves hen performance, even over longer laying cycles1
Conducted by Lallemand Animal Nutrition, the study demonstrates how this probiotic continues to play a pivotal role in improving layer welfare and productivity, 25 years after it was first registered for use in Europe under the name BACTOCELL®
Hannah Elliott, monogastric technical manager at Lallemand Animal Nutrition, explains how the probiotic’s beneficial impact on gut health translates to improved resilience and performance.
“Across all stages of the laying cycle, studies have confirmed the significant benefits of including 100g (10 billion CFU) of Bactocell per tonne of feed for layers,” she says.
“By improving intestinal health and immune system functioning, the monogastric-specific bacteria has been shown to bring bird mortality down by 33%, on average, versus non-supplemented birds.”
She says the study shows a 10:1 return on investment for producers feeding Bactocell, as a result of the flock health and productivity improvements it delivers.
“Regardless of production type, or breed, these studies have confirmed that feeding Bactocell is an efficient solution for producers looking to maximise bird health, welfare and productivity,” adds Ms Elliott.
As well as increasing feed conversion ratio (FCR) by 3.1% and laying rate by 2.7%, Bactocell has been shown to drastically improve egg quality too – decreasing the broken egg rate by 21% on average and lowering the number of downgraded eggs.
Ms Elliott says crucially, the ability for Bactocell-supplemented hens to produce eggs with more resilient shells does not come at
the expense of bone health.
“This is because the probiotic supports efficient calcium absorption and metabolism, ensuring calcium turnover is optimal for both eggshell formation and bone maintenance,” she explains.
“This is particularly important for producers looking to extend their laying cycle – even up to 120 weeks of age – and safeguard hen health and welfare at the same time.”
She adds: “As hens age and egg size increases, eggshell quality can decrease, which can be confirmed by looking at eggshell ultrastructure under a microscope.
“This is because hens mobilise a similar amount of calcium throughout lay, even though egg size increases.”
As birds age, calcium metabolism and hormonal regulation – notably the activity of calcitriol – decreases, explains Ms Elliott.
She says most calcium for eggshell formation comes from the diet, but some is mobilised from the medullary bone, particularly overnight. It is then replaced when sufficient circulating levels of calcium are available.
“If calcium metabolism is reduced, less calcium is absorbed from the diet, calcium retention and bone resorption may be reduced, and calcium mobilised from the bones is not replaced,” adds Ms Elliott.
“If this continues over a period of time, structural bone loss may occur resulting in keel bone fractures and deviations – studies suggest this can affect up to 90% of laying hens, posing a welfare problem2.”
She says Bactocell helps combat this by enhancing nutrient absorption, circulating hormone levels, metabolism, and mineral retention within bones.
“Bactocell-fed birds have fewer fractures and deviations, with higher calcium and phosporus retention within bones,” adds Ms Elliott.
“This is reflected by fewer keel bone fractures and deviations on farm and an increase in bone ash and bone hardness on postmortem.”
Bactocell can survive throughout the gut and plays an important role in microbiota balance, intestinal maturity, and digestive efficiency.
“This lactic acid bacteria was specifically selected for monogastrics, due to its ability to produce exclusively high levels of the L+ form of lactic acid, which can be used as a direct source of energy for the birds,” explains Ms Elliott.
“Bactocell produces L+ lactic acid by utilising the indigestible sugars from feed, therefore improving FCR by getting more out of the diet and reducing viscosity within the gut.”
She says this mode of action means Bactocell can be included in a lower energy density feed (0.42MJ less) and produce bioequivalent performance results to a higher energy control feed3
“It also contributes to a local pH decrease within the gut to favour the proliferation of positive bacteria such as Lactobacilli,” adds Ms Elliott.
While emphasis is often placed on supporting older hens during later lay, the value of feeding Bactocell to support pullet growth and development should not be underestimated.
Ms Elliott explains that pullet development is crucial for sustaining good performance – and importantly welfare.
“Breast muscle scoring has long been used as a proxy for pullet development and production in later lay,” she adds.
“Bactocell use has also been shown to significantly increase muscle thickness, as measured by ultrasonography and has previously been shown to result in better protein retention in layers4.”
For more information on including Bactocell into feed rations, speak to your nutritionist or contact Lallemand Animal Nutrition.
1. Demey V., Sacy, A., Nozeran, A., Chevaux, E. (2023). A meta-analysis evaluating the effect of Pediococcus acidilactici MA18/5M on performances of laying hens. EPC 2024.
2. Rufener et al. 2017 Effects of keel bone fractures on individual productivity of laying hens Poster, X European Symposium on Poultry Welfare
3. Mikulski, D., Jankowski, J., Mikulska, M., Demey, V. (2020) Effects of dietary probiotic (Pediococcus acidilactici) supplementation on productive performance, egg quality, and body composition in laying hens fed diets varying in energy density, Poultry Science; 99 (4) 4 pg. 2275-2285
4. Alleman et al., 2011. Influence of the supplementation with Pediococcus acidilactici on zootechnical performances of free range laying hens. Poultry Science Symposium (PSS), abstract ID 29.
Lallemand Animal Nutrition is pleased to announce that its unique lactic acid bacteria strain Pediococcus acidilactici CNCM I-4622 (BACTOCELL) has become the first microbial to receive an authorisation in Great Britain related to the hygiene of liquid feed.
Already the first microbial to receive EU authorisation related to the hygiene of liquid feed for all species1, the probiotic has now received the same recognition from the Food Standards Agency (FSA) for use in all liquid-fed livestock in Great Britain2
The company’s feed additive manager, Mark McFarland, says this new development could be a game changer for pig producers using liquid feed systems.
“Liquid feed is a popular choice among many pig producers, due to the availability of nutrient-rich co-products from the food and beverage industries,” adds Mr McFarland.
“We’re also seeing increasing amounts of milk replacer and porridge being fed to piglets, as a result of larger litter sizes, and the hygiene of these feeds is also very important at this time.
“Producers who have been benefitting from feeding Bactocell to growing and fattening pigs can now include the probiotic in liquid feed fed to all classes of pigs, with this new authorisation - making it much easier to implement a consistent feed hygiene strategy across the herd.”
Mr McFarland says ensuring the sanitary quality of liquid feed and the feeding system itself is a key priority for all producers.
He adds that Bactocell is recognised by both the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the UK government’s FSA for its safety,
potential to reduce pH, and ability to limit the growth of coliform bacteria in liquid feeds.
“The unique bacteria strain is now authorised as a technological feed additive within the functional group of ‘hygiene condition enhancer – acidity regulator’,” he explains.
“Trials have shown that feeds containing the strain were better and faster acidified than untreated feed.
“Feed pH remained significantly lower for up to 24 hours and the concentration of L-lactic acid in the feed was significantly higher with P. acidilactici CNCM I-4622 included.”
Mr McFarland explains that by converting non-digestible carbohydrates into L+ lactic acid, this promotes a healthier bacterial balance.
“The probiotic helps maintain the nutritional quality of liquid feed, preserving lysine levels, and reduces the colonisation of harmful bacteria contributing to negative biofilm formation,” he adds.
Mr McFarland says farmers who adopt Bactocell into their feeding practice may also observe animal performance improvements linked to gut health.
“This unique lactic acid bacteria can survive throughout the gut and plays an important role in microbiota balance, intestinal system maturity, and digestive efficiency,” he adds.
“Its benefits can be particularly noticeable and deliver significant economic returns under challenging conditions such as bacterial diarrhoea caused by sub-optimal feed hygiene practices.”
By Steffen Hansen, Pig.dk (Snekkebaek), Denmark, Dr. Carsten Pedersen, Pedersen Nutrition Ltd., UK and Jes Klausen, Hamlet Protein, Denmark
Feed costs typically account for a significant portion (60-70%) of total production expenses in pig farming. Therefore, efficient feed utilisation and cost optimization are crucial for ensuring profitability. However, when we know that feed costs account for 60 to 70% of the total costs (see Table 1), does it really matter if we use a more accurate energy evaluation system and related recommendations?
More about that later in this article.
Table 1. Feed costs as a percentage of total costs of producing 1 kg hot carcass (Cosair, 2024; Davies, 2021, 2022)
and minimize feed costs by correctly assessing the energy content of feed ingredients. A reliable system ensures that pigs receive the appropriate amount of energy to meet their specific needs, promoting efficient growth, lean tissue development, and reproductive performance.
Furthermore, a precise energy evaluation system helps to prevent overfeeding or underfeeding, both of which can negatively impact animal health and productivity. By making informed decisions about feed ingredient selection and diet formulation, farmers can achieve optimal results and maintain a competitive edge in the swine industry.
Let us now revisit the initial question: how much does applying the most optimal energy evaluation system impact pig production profitability?
There are two main elements to consider:
The importance of reliable energy evaluation
An accurate energy evaluation system is paramount in pig nutrition. Nutritionists can formulate diets that optimize animal performance
• The impact on diet composition and, hence, a potential price reduction.
• A better feed conversion due to the diet composition, which is closer to the pig´s optimum requirements.
Figure 1. Average feed costs in selected countries (Cosair, 2024; Davies, 2021, 2022)
In this example, we will only use the feed cost prices provided by Interpig. Any improvements in FCR would be an added benefit in addition to the lower feed prices.
“...Especially in the UK, there is a massive potential for cost savings in feed expenditures...”
The average feed costs in selected countries are shown in Figure 1.
Table 2 shows how much each country deviates from the priceleading country in the individual year.
Table 2. Percentage price differences between the lowest price and the individual countries in 2021
9.0 9.8 0.0 6.3
Figure 1 and Table 2 clearly show the UK is consistently the most expensive country. This comparison also has a quite consistent pattern when considering the other six countries. Germany and Spain are ”high” intermediaries. Belgium and France are closer to the priceleading countries Denmark and the Netherlands; however, they still have around 10 per cent higher costs.
The consistency in the data may indicate that the energy evaluation systems and related feed recommendations in the more expensive countries are inferior to the Dutch and Danish practices.
It´s not a realistic scenario to expect that every country obtains the lowest possible European prices every year. However, imagine if the more feed-expensive countries had a feed price just 10 per cent above the Dutch and Danish prices. How much would that improve
profitability? Table 3 above shows the feed costs for rearing 90 kg carcasses in the individual countries.
Table 4 uncovers the cost savings in Spain, Germany, and the UK if a feed price of 10 per cent above the lowest one is applied.
Especially in the UK, there is a massive potential for cost savings in feed expenditures. Remarkably, British pig producers could save as much money as their German colleagues even though the pig production is four times bigger in Germany. The combined pig production in Germany and Spain could save nearly one billion EURO annually.
Instead of reducing feed prices, British pork producers could increase their profitability through improved FCR. Assuming an FCR of 2.5, this would require a 30 per cent reduction to around 1.8.
Conclusion
The implementation of an accurate and reliable energy evaluation system would mitigate a large proportion of the profitability losses observed in countries with expensive feed.
References
1. Corsair, J., 2024. Cost of production in selected countries (InterPIG). AHDB. Cost of production in selected countries (InterPIG) | AHDB
2. Davis, C., 2022. 2021 pig cost of production in selected countries.
Table 4. Potential annual savings (EUR) if the feed is 10 per cent more expensive than the price-leading country
Costs savings (EUR)
A new process control company, ControlControl Ltd., has been formed, made up from some very experienced control engineers.
Led by Paul Girdham who founded DSL Systems many years ago, the core team also includes Dan Ashall and Tim Evans who both used to work for DSL Systems as Senior Engineers.
When Paul was asked why he set up the new company, he immediately responded by saying that he and the rest of the team wanted to really look after customers with proper support and sensible prices.
ControlControl Ltd, is working on a brand-new innovative control system called SuperSCADA ®. SuperSCADA ® is designed for weighing and batching plants, animal feed and petfood as well as being self-configurable for electrical installers / contractors for whatever plant they are working on. Its innovative design makes it much simpler and quicker to configure and also so much easier to operate. SuperSCADA ® hasn’t had its warehouse management section completed yet but this is expected to be completed in a month or two. Almost any mainstream PLC, old and new, may be used and also any device which has MODBUS TCP/IP communications.
One of the innovative things about SuperSCADA® is that it is linked to an open-source ERP system which for some smaller customers will be able to provide lots of office functions off-the-shelf, all well proven already. These include formulations (Bill Of Materials), orders, stock control, reports, OEE, Quality control, traceability and even a maintenance module.
SuperSCADA’s graphics are super impressive, allowing the user to zoom, pan and jump all around views of the whole plant without losing detail. In control rooms you can have many windows open at the same time; for example, intake, alarms, grinding etc. On standard tablets with touch-screens these will operate rather like smart phones, letting you zoom around to look at anything.
SuperSCADA has a wonderful facility called “Bespoke Logic” to enable Engineers to write bespoke logic in an “easy-to-use” language. An example could be: -
“If Bin 9 high level is covered, after time 15 seconds, start fan P2F, set the alarm “Bin 9 high” and stop conveyor C42”.
ControlControl’s experienced staff are also available to help anyone in the Animal Feed, Grain and Petfood world with maintenance, support, calibrations and consultancy.
If you would like to see what ControlControl can do for you, you can contact them directly.
ControlControl Ltd can be contacted at: mail@ControlControl.co.uk www.ControlControl.co.uk or by telephone on +44 115 865 5454
British pig and poultry feed manufacturer ABN has been undertaking an on-going programme of product development, across its ABN Delta Nutrio pig range, to support the optimum growth, efficiency and health of today’s genotype.
The latest product developments are showing promising dual benefits of maintaining performance and reducing medication costs and impacts, following the phasing out of zinc from pig starter diets.
“We had seen a predisposition of digestive upsets in some animals, as they transitioned from a zinc free starter diet to the higher protein diets in our ABN Delta Nutrio weaner ranges,” explains Dr Steven Jagger, ABN technical expert.
ABN had been approached by industry to look into the option of a ‘safer’ weaner pig diet, aimed at those animals struggling to transition from starter to early weaner diets. It therefore began developing and trialling a range of four diets, lower in protein and kinder on the digestive system of the pig.
“In our trial work, we looked to determine the response to reduced dietary protein in early weaner diets. The first trial, across 576 pigs ((Large White x Landrace) x Danish Duroc) over one growth phase from 10-20kg, has shown positive results, with gain, intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) maintained,” says Dr Jagger.
“Meanwhile, similar results we re
observed in the next set of trials, again with 576 pigs, but this time with a single growth phase from 20-40kg liveweight,” he adds.
The promising results have started to be replicated with on-farm/commercial trials currently underway, specifically in units in the south west of England and Humberside, with early indications showing performance being maintained, and gut health improved.
Anecdotal evidence from the producer in the south west of England has been very favourable, with the pigs responding well. Importantly, it has allowed the producer to reduce medication usage, which is a key thing for him.
“This has brought a value benefit, with a slight increase in feed costs being off-set by the reduced antibiotic use,” says Dr Jagger.
The four new diets in the ‘safer’ weaner range represent a good value option for those animals transitioning from the starter diets and facing digestive upsets, by maintaining performance and reducing overall medication costs, therefore also helping to cut antibiotic use on farm.
ABN offers a complete range of compound products for the growing and breeding pig.
The ABN Delta Nutrio range, incorporating ABN Delta Nutrio Weaner, ABN Delta Nutrio Finisher and the ABN Delta Nutrio Breeder ranges, offers a comprehensive portfolio of diets.
The ranges have all been designed and developed using the latest in-house
and university research, to ensure the supply of innovative feeding solutions for all stages and types of pig production.
“There is continual pressure to reduce medication and antibiotic use on farm, and our focus has also been on how we can support health and reduce medication use, from both a performance and health perspective, but similarly from a cost angle, making our feeds a better value proposition for our customers,” concludes Dr Jagger.
BIPEA has launched a new interlaboratory test (PTS 105B), enabling testing laboratories to detect Listeria spp and Listeria monocytogenes in feed samples
For this test, laboratories received 3 refrigerated samples of feed, some contaminated, others not. The aim was to assess the laboratories’ ability to detect or not detect the requested parameters.
For more than 50 years, BIPEA has provided a wide range of proficiency tests and external reference materials for testing laboratories concerned by quality control and analytical accuracy in various fields (environment, food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals).
To learn more about the “PTS 105B – Microbiology in Feed – Listeria spp and Listeria monocytogenes”, as well as the full range of interlaboratory tests, please feel free to contact BIPEA.
Hay and grass silage quality has suffered this year, meaning producers will need to supplement their livestock feed carefully. That’s according to analysis of forage samples at the recent Wynnstay Beef and Sheep Event held at Welshpool Livestock Market.
Around 1,000 farmers attended the bi-annual event, which brought together experts and industry leaders to share knowledge, discuss the latest trends, and explore innovative practices in the livestock industry.
The opportunity to submit forage samples for testing highlighted crucial issues like low protein content, high fibre levels, and poor fermentation quality, sparking discussions on how to address these areas for improved livestock performance.
Overall, the quality of forages submitted for sampling were below target, highlighting the need for careful supplementation with energy and protein this coming winter.
The analysis of hay, grass silage, maize and whole crop silage highlighted that strategic adjustments will be required to help farmers maximise the nutritional value of their rations. “Understanding your forage’s profile is the first step in optimising herd or flock health and productivity,” said Bryn Hughes, Wynnstay’s national sheep and beef manager.
Hay samples revealed crude protein (CP) levels averaging only 6.5%, falling below the ideal 8-11% range. “The low CP levels are concerning,” Mr Hughes pointed out. “Mature, late-cut grasses divert nutrients to structural carbohydrates, which lowers protein content. Farmers must balance this with protein supplements to maintain livestock performance.”
The grass silage analysis pointed to similar concerns, showing CP levels at an average of 9.3%, significantly below the target range of 12-16%. High pH levels, averaging 4.6, further compounded the issue.
“Elevated pH allows clostridia to break down protein into ammonia, rendering it less useful to livestock and diminishing the feed’s nutritional value,” explained Mr Hughes. “This can negatively affect growth rates and cause health issues.”
Neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and lignin levels in grass silage were notably high at 68.3% and 6.3%, respectively, indicating a harvest of overly mature grass. “Excessive NDF means more structural carbohydrates,
which slow digestion and reduce feed intake,” Mr Hughes said.
Additionally, butyric acid levels averaged 0.6%, exceeding the desired <0.1% threshold, indicating poor fermentation and suboptimal silage preservation, which can compromise feed quality.
To address these issues, Mr Hughes highlighted essential management practices.
“Supplementing lower-protein forage with high-protein feed is necessary to sustain livestock productivity,” he advised. “And incorporating yeast metabolites can aid fibre digestion and support rumen health, making fibrous silage more manageable.”
Although farmers can’t predict the weather, the key to better silage next year lies in its preparation. “Adjusting the timing of cuts, ensuring rapid wilting and tightly packed clamps to exclude oxygen can prevent harmful bacterial activity and preserve protein integrity,” he said. “Small but significant changes can greatly enhance feed quality and animal performance.”
Tips on balancing rations:
Supplement protein: Add high-protein feed to balance low-protein forage and support livestock productivity
Manage fibre levels: Use yeast metabolites to improve fibre digestion and maintain rumen health
Combat high pH: Address elevated pH to prevent protein loss through proteolysis and preserve feed quality; Compact silage well to remove the oxygen from the clamp and use silage inoculants containing lactic acid bacteria to speed up the rate of pH reduction in the clamp.
Tips on improving forage
Optimal cutting: Adjust cutting times and ensure thorough wilting to boost forage protein levels
Better silage consolidation: Tightly packed clamps help exclude oxygen and protect protein content.
Focus on fermentation: Prioritise good silage practices to minimise harmful bacterial activity and enhance nutritional value.
“SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN”
The Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) has launched a new strategic resource offering invaluable guidance for UK agri-supply businesses, helping them to successfully navigate the sustainability landscape and promote greater efficiency.
Unveiled at the AIC Conference, “Agri-supply: An action plan for sustainable efficiency” is a comprehensive blueprint dedicated to delivering a resilient UK agriculture and food system.
The Action Plan provides insight and inspiration for companies operating in the major agri-supply sectors – Animal Feed, Combinable Crops, Crop Protection and Agronomy, Fertiliser, and Seed – helping them to enhance their sustainability credentials while becoming more efficient and fit for the future.
Offering an in-depth insight into the pivotal role that the agri-supply industry plays, its content makes for essential reading by everyone involved in the agriculture and food system.
The report covers the fundamental areas for sustainable agriculture and food production, including economic resilience, climate impacts, biodiversity, and sustainable communities.
It includes a summary of actions for the agri-supply industry, clearly outlining where businesses can make a start and take further actions to build resilience.
By implementing the recommendations in the Action Plan, businesses can make tangible progress towards reducing their environmental impact, aligning with government policies, improving market access and opening up wider investment opportunities.
AIC’s Chief Executive, Robert Sheasby, said: “On behalf of the AIC team, I am delighted to share with the industry our Action Plan for delivering a resilient UK agriculture and food system.
“This Action Plan underscores AIC’s commitment to leading the industry towards a more sustainable future. It is a call to action, empowering our Members to excel in a marketplace where sustainability is no longer optional, but essential.
“Together, we will keep up the drive for positive change, ensuring that our industry – which forms the bedrock of our food system – remains resilient, responsible, and ready for whatever the future brings.”
Leading food systems expert Professor Tim Benton of Chatham House said: “‘Sustainability’ and ‘resilience’ are no longer buzz words but are increasingly measures of business’ ability to thrive in the decades ahead.
“AIC’s ‘Sustainability Action Plan’ is therefore an important guide to address the existential challenge ahead.”
The Sustainability Action Plan is now available for download on the AIC website, offering in-depth insights and practical strategies for businesses aiming to integrate sustainable practices into their everyday operations.
A series of LifeStart roadshows, hosted by Trouw Nutrition and sponsored by MSD Animal Health and SCCL, will put the spotlight on the latest developments and innovations to improve calf health, resilience and lifetime productivity.
“Focussing on optimising development of calves to ensure resilience, will allow us to support heath and really push the boundaries on calf growth and performance. We know that elevating calf rearing systems is essential to achieve economic and sustainable milk production,” comments Georgina Thomas, Technical Sales Manager, Young Animal Feed with Trouw Nutrition. “These roadshows will outline the very latest research and practical innovations for improving the efficiency of calf rearing systems.”
The roadshows, which all begin at 10am and will finish at 3pm, are being held as follows:
• Tuesday 18th February - Carlisle Racecourse
• Wednesday 19th February - Uttoxeter Racecourse
• Tuesday 25th February - Welshpool Livestock Market
• Wednesday 26th February - Exeter Racecourse
Topics being discussed will include the latest developments in health monitoring and vaccine technology, new research and practice advice on colostrum utilisation and a major new development in milk replacer formulation.
“The Trouw Nutrition LifeStart programme has already revolutionised our perspectives on calf rearing. Now new research has rewritten the rule book on fat composition in calf milk and its impact on disease resilience and performance,” Ms Thomas continues. “At the roadshows we will be explaining the new findings and how the patent-pending technology has been incorporated into Milkivit ONE, the next generation Energized Calf Milk, bringing the benefits of optimized development and greater resilience into practice.”
The roadshows will be of value to farmers, calf specialists, vets, feed advisors and consultants. To register click on the graphic or go to www.trouwnutrition.co.uk/ CalfInnovationRoadshow
Key drivers for the market in 2024 include economic uncertainty, regulatory changes, and ongoing environmental and animal disease impacts. These factors will continue to shape production dynamics across the EU, affecting different animal feed sectors in varied ways.
According to data from FEFAC, industrial compound feed production in the EU27 is projected to rise slightly by 0.50% in 2024 compared to 2023, reaching 147 million tonnes. Poultry feed production
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shows a moderate growth, with an expected increase of 1,3%. This recovery follows a challenging 2023, driven by a rebound in poultry production in key member states such as France, Spain, and Portugal, which began recovering from the impacts of Avian Influenza from last year. However, poultry production in Hungary and Italy continues to suffer from continued H5N1 avian influenza outbreaks.
The pig feed sector remains under pressure but is showing signs of stabilization compared to last year, in particular modest recovery is anticipated in Ireland (+3%), Spain (+5%), and Poland (+1.9%). However, key challenges persist due to an overall decline in pig populations in EU27 due to ongoing economic and animal diseaserelated pressures, in particular from African swine fever (ASF). In addition, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands face heightened policy pressure to reduce farm emissions or further downscale animal husbandry, creating significant uncertainty for the sector.
EU cattle feed production is expected to remain relatively steady, with minor fluctuations depending on regional conditions linked to the availability of roughage.
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ForFarmers and Remediiate, a company unlocking the power of microalgae, to convert CO2 into valuable animal feed, have signed a letter of intent for their collaboration in the UK. This collaboration focuses on growing microalgae that can capture industry CO2 emissions at scale that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere. By processing the microalgae into animal feed, the end product - the microalgae - adds value. This collaboration offers a double solution: it reduces CO2 emissions and creates a sustainable, circular solution for animal feed. ForFarmers is a knowledge partner in this project and its role is focused on the application of the microalgae in animal feed. This gives microalgae a valuable role in the food chain.
Reduced CO2 emissions
This project helps to reduce CO2 emissions of industries such as energy, cement, steel and petrochemicals, key industries targeted by Remediiate. Most CO2 emissions come from chemical reactions in production processes in these industries. It is often difficult and expensive to reduce these emissions because CO2 must be collected, purified, transported and stored. Direct use of CO2 at its source is an effective way to abate these industrial greenhouse gasses.
Carlos de Pommes, CEO Remediiate: “Our collaboration with ForFarmers is an important step towards sustainable innovation. With Project LightARC in Wales, we are now capturing CO2 emissions from nickel production to culture microalgae, and in partnership with ForFarmers we are exploring its application in animal feed. This project shows that together we can make a positive impact on both industry and the environment.”
Circular economy in the animal feed industry
The microalgae in the project are cultured to capture CO2 from industry. By using them in animal feed, they gain value and transform into protein for human consumption. Microalgae are an alternative source material that can help reduce the use of certain crops, such as soybean. They are rich in proteins, carbohydrates and oils, but as cultured here, they are not
directly suitable for human consumption. That is why we call them a ‘circular raw material’ for animal feed.
Rob Kiers, COO ForFarmers: “This collaboration is an important step towards a more sustainable future and thus fits well with our mission For the Future of Farming. By using microalgae to sequester CO2 in the final product, we not only create value for our animal feed industry, but also contribute to a sustainable future. In addition, it is a step towards more circularity, one of the sustainability ambitions within our organisation.”
Future steps
The use of microalgae in animal feed has a lot of potential but needs further development. What is interesting about this collaboration is that Remediiate is already culturing microalgae at a large scale, transforming what used to be a niche industry into a significant market. It is going to make it really clear whether formulating microalgae in animal feed is possible. This will of course require the innovative steps in the field of nutrition, with ForFarmers playing an important role in making the microalgae suitable for use in feed. This collaboration could be an important step towards a more sustainable animal feed industry.
Alltech has just released an interim report with the preliminary findings of its mycotoxin testing programme, the Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis. This report offers early, detailed and actionable insights about this year’s mycotoxin risks. Mycotoxins, which are natural substances produced by moulds and fungi, are more prevalent — and more of a problem in agriculture — than ever before. More than 95% of crops today are contaminated with at least one mycotoxin, and usually with two or more. Because these toxins are difficult to detect, they can cause significant damage to animal health before producers even realize they are present. A proactive mycotoxin management programme is essential, and the first step is learning which mycotoxins pose the highest risk in specific regions, crops and species.
The Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis programme tests samples of newcrop grains and forages collected from farms or animal feed production sites in 20 countries, ensuring an accurate picture of mycotoxin contamination across the continent. All samples are tested at the leading-edge Alltech 37+ lab, which can detect the presence of 54 mycotoxins. Corn samples from central and southern
Europe are also tested in collaboration with SGS, a global leader in mycotoxin testing and certification.
The newly released interim report shows moderate to high mycotoxin risk so far in 2024, with significant regional variations. This is similar to the results seen at this time last year. Type B trichothecenes and emerging mycotoxins are most prevalent, but type B trichothecenes like deoxynivalenol are bringing the most risk in grains.
Increasing weather fluctuations are a major contributor to today’s rising mycotoxin risks, which vary widely by region. For example, early-season rains and floods followed by late-season droughts have created distinct challenges for crop producers this year across central and southeastern Europe. Some countries, including Hungary, Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria, are showing high levels of aflatoxin B1 in corn grain samples, with concentrations of up to 506 ppb.
“This year’s weather in Europe has been extreme and unpredictable, which has been reflected in the behaviour of moulds and the production of mycotoxins. The mycotoxin risk for all animal species is medium to high, and for some mycotoxins, such as aflatoxin B1, even extremely high,” said Dr. Radka Borutova, global technical support for the Technology Group at Alltech. “The application of effective mycotoxin management is the only way to break this deadlock.”
Other key results from the Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis so far include: Wheat and barley
Wheat samples analysed to date are averaging 7.7 mycotoxins per sample, with 99% containing multiple mycotoxins. Barley samples show an average of 6.3 mycotoxins, with 98% of samples containing multiple mycotoxins. The most prevalent mycotoxins in both wheat and barley are emerging mycotoxins and type B trichothecenes. The overall risk for both barley and wheat is moderate.
Straw
For straw, samples tested so far show an average of 5.9 mycotoxins per sample, with 91% of samples containing multiple mycotoxins. The most prevalent are emerging mycotoxins and deoxynivalenol, with the overall risk being high.
Forages
For grass and corn silage, the preliminary findings show 2.9 mycotoxins per sample on average, with 68% of samples containing multiple mycotoxins. The most prevalent are type B trichothecenes and Penicillium mycotoxins such as penicillic acid, mycophenolic acid and patulin, with the overall risk being high.
Once testing and analysis have been completed, the full Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis report will be released, giving a more complete and detailed breakdown of key results by region, crop and species.
Premier Nutrition has appointed Alex Wealleans as Commercial Nutritionist, extending its significant technical expertise in poultry nutrition.
Ms Wealleans, who joins the company this month, will support poultry customers across broilers, layers, and turkeys, using her extensive knowledge in emulsifiers, enzymes and other feed additives to optimise diet formulations and production efficiencies whilst minimising environmental impact.
Regarding her appointment, she said: “I’m very excited to be joining Premier Nutrition. Over the past 10 years my focus has been scientifically advancing animal nutrition, which has included over 30 peer reviewed published papers. To have an opportunity to use that knowledge now, face to face in a commercial environment and amongst such a talented nutrition team is an honour and I can’t wait to get started.”
Welcoming Ms Wealleans to the team, Premier’s Poultry Nutrition & Innovation Manager, Ralph Bishop, added: “Without doubt, the addition of Alex to an already strong team ensures Premier Nutrition is at the forefront of the poultry industry in terms of nutrition, formulation and driving bird performance. Our job is to ensure we develop the most optimal feeding strategies with our customers that delivers consistent performance, in a sustainable way and offers them the best possible returns; Alex fits that brief perfectly.”
Alex has a PhD in Animal Nutrition from Reading University and completed an MBA at Henley Business School in 2024.
TBA Ltd have appointed Mollie Freeston as Britannia Ambassador, a new role the company says will build its position in specialist calf nutrition.
Mollie grew up on the family’s dairy farm in Wiltshire where she developed her passion for calf and youngstock management. She graduated from the University of Reading with a first-class degree
in agriculture, specialising in livestock production and dairying. Her final year project explored colostrum quality’s influence on calf immunoglobin levels, growth rates and disease incidences, building on her experience in calf rearing.
After relief milking and calf rearing in Wiltshire, she travelled to New Zealand and Australia where she worked on a 1200 head dairy farm in Tasmania, feeding over 200 calves per day.
At TBA Ltd her role will focus on building the brand and expanding sales of the Britannia range of Energized calf milk replacer and other youngstock feeds. She will support the team of feed specialists working with new and existing customers to help deliver faster growing, healthier replacements.
TBA Ltd Managing Director Trevor Birchall believes Mollie will bring a new dimension to the business. “The Britannia range of milk replacers is highly regarded, and Mollie will focus exclusively on building the market for the range, bringing a combination of practical experience, a strong academic background and an absolute passion for calf rearing.
“Mollie will strengthen our offering to dairy farmers looking to ensure their calves are able to get off to the best possible start and develop into high quality herd replacements.”
Barentz Appoints Derk Jan Terhorst as New CEO
Barentz announces that Derk Jan Terhorst was appointed Group Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 January 2025. Derk Jan will take over from Terry Hill who served as Interim CEO since May 2024.
Derk Jan brings a wealth of experience to the role, having been with Barentz for more than three years as Group CFO. During this time, Derk Jan demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision, playing a key role in formulating Barentz strategy and driving other important initiatives. Prior to joining Barentz, Derk Jan held senior management positions in Ahold Delhaize and Tony’s Chocolonely, gaining significant expertise in international financial management, with experience spanning Europe and the USA.
ForFarmers N.V. announces that Jan van Nieuwenhuizen, chairman of the Supervisory Board, has decided not to be considered for a second term as of 17 April 2025.
Jan van Nieuwenhuizen, Chairman of the Supervisory Board: ‘ForFarmers has made great progress in the implementation of Strategy 2025 and is now well positioned to further contribute to a future-proof and sustainable agricultural sector. In recent years, I have enjoyed contributing to various strategic issues, the sustainability strategy, the development of the organisation and the formation of the leadership team. However, now the time has come for me to prioritise other matters. Therefore, I have decided not to make myself available for another four-year term. I would like to thank my colleagues in the Supervisory Board and the members of the ForFarmers Executive Board for the very good cooperation over the past years.’
The Supervisory Board and Executive Board regret that Jan van Nieuwenhuizen is not available for a new term. Pieter Wolleswinkel, CEO ForFarmers: ‘ForFarmers is very grateful to Jan for his commitment and we thank him for the constructive and positive cooperation. Together with his Supervisory Board members, he has made an important contribution to our mission, For the Future of Farming and ForFarmers’ strategy.’
The Supervisory Board will consider the further formation and composition of the Supervisory Board and the possibility of nominating a new chairman from among its members. The recruitment of a new Supervisory Board member will be started. Jan van Nieuwenhuizen will continue the role of chairman of the Supervisory Board until and including the upcoming AGM on 17 April 2025.
Trevor Pewsey, production manager at ForFarmers’ Portbury Mill, has been awarded the Brian Cooke Award at the Bristol Corn and Feed Trade Association (BCFTA) annual dinner.
Trevor collecting his award
The award is given to recognise outstanding contributions to the supply trade and wider agricultural industry.
Trevor started his career working as an apprentice engineer for Dalgety in 1979 before he moved to BOCM Silcock at Portbury in 1987, where he has remained to this day. Working his way up the ranks, he was appointed as production manager in 2016 and is due to retire on Christmas Eve 2024.
The BCFTA runs a trade awareness course three times a year which sees 20 delegates visit various facilities at different stages of the agricultural supply chain, including the ForFarmers mill at Portbury. Trevor has long been responsible for escorting delegates around the mill at Portbury.
James Reeson, president of the BCFTA, said: “Trevor has always been attentive and happy to show the next generation the working of the mill and has been doing that for the last 20 years.
“His happy and kind enthusiasm is why people engage with and enjoy the course.”
Trevor was unaware of his impending award on being invited to the dinner, where he was presented with a piece of Bristol Blue Glass in the shape of one of the famous Nails on Corn Street in Bristol.
Trevor said: “I was very humbled and chuffed to have been presented the award. Some of its previous winners are people I really respect and it means a lot to be able to join them in this way.”
A focus on the fundamentals of a safe and consistent supply of quality and good value feeds will be key to supporting the future of the UK poultry sector, according to the newest member of the ABN broiler team.
“If we look back at 2019 and predicted then, what would have had the biggest impacts on the sector over the next five years, I don’t think many of us would have had the foresight to see the challenges ahead,” says Murray Brown, ABN’s new feed advisor and broiler account manager.
According to Mr Brown, while huge changes such as the global pandemic, the war in Ukraine and the subsequent cost-of-living crisis sent shockwaves through the industry, and dramatically altered processor requirements, there has remained some consistency throughout these and other challenges.
“The industry is now producing smaller/younger birds, in part to meet those changing demands, and we have developed our ranges to help producers meet these processor requirements,” he says.
“What has not changed through this time, has been the demand for the consistent, quality and safe supply of poultry feed, while offering value to our producer customers,” he adds.
By focusing on this approach, Mr Brown says ABN is well positioned to adapt to a changing environment and different
influences, no matter the size of impact they might bring.
“It is impossible to predict where we might be in the next five to ten years, with the introduction of AI, new technologies and new government policy, but by focusing on the fundamentals this puts us in a good place to be both proactive and reactive to those changes,” he adds.
ABN constantly develops its ranges to meet changing requirements, and this is supported by ongoing commercial trials and in-house research.
The pace of change over the last five years, with a focus on changing genotypes, meeting new broiler targets and nutritional recommendations, has been reflected in the rebranding of the broiler range, now being marketed as ABN Compass.
“The focus has been on driving performance with optimising Feed Conversion Ratios (FCR) and increasing European Performance Efficiency Factor (EPEF) scores to meet current and future challenges,” continues Mr Brown.
“Our research and product development is constantly evolving. While the ABN Compass range reflects the significant changes over the last five years, it will continue to develop, as the range always has, to meet industry demands,” he says.
Alongside this, ABN has also been looking at new and more sustainable raw materials, such as UK-grown pulses to reduce or remove reliance on imported soya, as it looks at responsible ways to help reduce the carbon footprint of broiler production.
Murray joined the ABN broiler team in September 2024, having finished the game season with another AB Agri business, Sportsman Game Feeds, where he had been working since May 2021.
He started his agricultural career at a local egg production company in the Scottish borders, having been offered the job ahead of his final Rural Business Management exam at SRUC.
Keen to develop his agricultural business skills in a commercially focused environment, he is also now studying a Business-toBusiness Sales Degree Apprenticeship, funded and supplied through AB Agri.
“I really enjoy bridging that gap between what our customers require and how our teams can deliver it. That means developing strong external customer relationships, but also working closely with our internal teams,” he says.
“Whether it be production, the commercial departments, raw materials, technical or procurement, it is important that we all work closely together to get the right product, at the right time, to our customers. “We might have to adjust to changing production or transport plans, but the key is maintaining good communication with the farmer, when they need you, and that is what makes our job important.
“Farming is a 24-7 job, and we need to be available when required, and by concentrating on the fundamentals and adapting to changing requirements, we are best placed to support the future of our sector,” concludes Mr Brown.
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