Victam News

Nestlé is committing more than CHF 157 million to expand Purina’s pet food production in Thailand. The expansion will increase capacity for Felix, Friskies, Pro Plan and Purina One brands, serving both local and international markets.

Nestlé is investing more than CHF 157 million to expand its pet food manufacturing capabilities in Thailand, strengthening production for Purina brands and helping meet the growing demand for high-quality pet nutrition.

The investment is focused on Purina’s manufacturing site in Rayong, Thailand and will enable increased production of pet food and pet treats under the Felix, Friskies, Pro Plan and Purina One brands. Production will support both local and international markets.

“Pet food is one of Nestlé’s most dynamic segments globally, accounting for around 21% of Group sales. This investment reflects our confidence in its long-term potential across Asia, Oceania and Africa (AOA) as well as the rest of the world,” said Remy Ejel, CEO of Nestlé Zone AOA. “Thailand is an important part of Purina’s global manufacturing network, and this expansion will enhance our ability to serve more pet owners with superior nutrition.”

A rise in pet ownership is driving growth in pet care across AOA. Pet owners are moving from home-prepared meals to wholesome packaged nutrition, particularly in the premium space, and they are looking for products that support pets’ health and wellbeing.

“With over 350 million domestic cats and dogs across AOA as well as a pet population that continues to grow, demand for high-quality pet nutrition is also increasing,” added Hubert Wieser, CEO of Nestlé Purina Petcare. “The health and wellbeing trend is being extended to pets, as they are increasingly seen as members of the family. This is driving demand for functional and specialized products that help enhance their longevity, vitality and overall quality of life.”

The expanded production is expected to use a high proportion of locally sourced raw materials, including poultry, fish and vegetables, supporting local suppliers and boosting value creation in Thailand.

Nestlé notes that the CHF 157 million investment is part of its continued efforts to strengthen pet food manufacturing worldwide, following a CHF 520 million investment in a new pet food plant and logistics platform in Italy and a USD 550 million investment in a new Purina factory in the U.S. The investment further strengthens Nestlé’s manufacturing footprint in Thailand, as the company also plans to build a new high-tech Nescafé production and distribution hub in the country.

Nestlé allocates over CHF 157 million to expand pet food production in Thailand yazısı ilk önce Feed & Additive Magazine üzerinde ortaya çıktı.

BioMar Greece has secured ASC Feed Certification, completing BioMar’s certification pipeline across all eligible production facilities. The certification strengthens BioMar’s ability to support customers with ASC-conforming feed and responsible sourcing practices.

BioMar Greece has achieved ASC Feed Certification, completing BioMar’s ASC certification pipeline across its global production network. With this latest certification, all BioMar feed production facilities where the ASC Feed Certification programme is currently available are now certified.

The certification in Greece marks the completion of a global process that has seen BioMar progressively achieve ASC Feed Certification across its production facilities in Europe, Latin and Central America, Australia and Asia. BioMar’s facilities in China are not included in the certification pipeline following ASC’s decision to phase out its certification programme in the country.

“This is an important milestone for BioMar and the result of a significant effort from different teams across our organization,” says Marco Espinoza, Head of Global Quality for BioMar Group. “Completing our certification pipeline gives us a strong global foundation to support our customers with ASC-conforming feed and respond to the growing demand for transparency and responsible sourcing throughout the aquaculture value chain.”

The ASC Feed Standard sets out requirements covering environmental responsibility, social and labour rights, health and safety, and the responsible sourcing of raw materials. Certification requires feed producers to demonstrate responsible practices throughout their operations and supply chains, including increased transparency and traceability of feed ingredients.

“Achieving ASC Feed Certification is an important milestone for our team in Greece and for the customers we work with every day,” says Thanos Batsikouras, Managing Director at BioMar Greece. “It strengthens our ability to support producers with ASC-conforming feed while meeting increasing expectations for responsible sourcing and transparency across the supply chain.”

For BioMar Greece, the certification strengthens its ability to supply ASC-conforming feed to aquaculture producers across the Mediterranean region, including customers farming key species such as seabass and seabream.

According to BioMar, the completion of the certification pipeline strengthens its ability to support customers with ASC-conforming feed across its global markets.

BioMar marks completion of global ASC Feed Certification pipeline yazısı ilk önce Feed & Additive Magazine üzerinde ortaya çıktı.

Seafood Expo Global/Seafood Processing Global has opened its call for proposals for the 2027 conference program, inviting industry professionals to submit session ideas on topics shaping the global seafood industry.

Seafood Expo Global/Seafood Processing Global is accepting speaker and session applications for its 2027 conference program. Professionals across the seafood supply chain, as well as those working in NGOs, research and data institutions, foodservice, retail and technology companies can submit proposals on topics relevant to the global seafood industry. Submissions are open through 18 September 2026, offering professionals a chance to secure a spot in the program.

The event will take place in Barcelona from 20-22 April 2027, bringing together seafood buyers and suppliers from around the world for three days of networking, education and business growth opportunities. Last year’s event brought more than 35,500 seafood professionals with companies exhibiting from 85 countries.

The event’s conference program features industry experts who share insights, case studies, research and data impacting the global seafood marketplace. Topics of interest include:
• Aquaculture
• Automation/Machine Learning
• Blue Foods Strategies & Policy
• Corporate Due Diligence
• Consumption Trends
• Emerging Markets & Species
• Processing & Equipment
• Product Innovation & Marketing
• Seafood Business & Finance
• Sustainable Seafood Innovation & Responsible Management
• Supply Chain Compliance & Control
• Traceability & Transparency

Professionals interested in speaking are asked to review the submission guidelines, create a proposal on one of the many topics, use the online form to create a speaker portal login and submit their idea.

Proposals can be submitted through the Seafood Expo Global/Seafood Processing Global call for proposals page.

2027 Seafood Expo Global conference program opens for speaker proposals yazısı ilk önce Feed & Additive Magazine üzerinde ortaya çıktı.

World Without Cows documentary has unveiled its official trailer ahead of a global theatrical tour. The film explores cattle, food systems, sustainability and climate across 22 countries and five continents.

World Without Cows filmmaking team and Studio 410 have released the official trailer for the award-winning documentary and have announced its fall global theatrical screening tour. It kicks off with global premiere events in Dublin, Ireland (September 9), London, England (September 10), Los Angeles, U.S. (September 16) and New York, U.S. (September 18), with directors Michelle Michael, Video Producer at Alltech, and Brandon Whitworth, Senior Media Production Specialist at Alltech, and Dr. Mark Lyons, Alltech President and CEO, as executive producer in attendance.

According to Alltech, cows are tied to some of the biggest questions facing humanity: how we feed a growing population, protect the planet, and provide adequate nutrition in communities around the world. Against a backdrop of climate change, food insecurity, and rising protein demand, World Without Cows challenges assumptions about cows, climate, health, and the future of our planet. Filmed across 22 countries and five continents, it explores the complex relationship between food, sustainability, biodiversity, and the people whose lives hang in the balance.

“Cows have become a symbol in the climate conversation, but the reality is far more complex. By exploring this issue from many angles and in such diverse geographies, the filmmakers give us a much more insightful and hopeful outlook than we might have expected,” said Mark Lyons.

Award-winning journalists Michelle Michael and Brandon Whitworth spent five years filming in more than 40 locations, in conversation with farmers, ranchers, scientists and environmental experts. Their conclusion: when it comes to cows, it’s not black and white.

“The journey showed us that there is no single simple solution to the world’s greatest challenges,” said Michelle Michael. “I don’t think the world wants simple answers. It wants a better understanding of how our global food systems work, and that need has never been more urgent than it is right now.”

“Our hope is that World Without Cows creates a new baseline for how people engage in hard conversations,” said Brandon Whitworth. “The film wasn’t made to be an echo chamber. It was made to bring people together to ask difficult questions about complex issues and be open to different perspectives.”

Following the premieres, the campaign expands into a theatrical tour of select cities throughout North America beginning this October, including a large-scale journey through America’s heartland, alongside international screening events planned across South America, Europe, Africa and Asia, returning World Without Cows to many of the places where it was filmed. Most stops pair the film with panel discussions, making this theatrical release a town hall, gathering farmers and ranchers, scientists and students, educators, environmental voices, food and agriculture communities and moviegoers in the same room to watch and talk together. Through a partnership with Gathr, any community can also request a screening and bring the film to its own local theater. With the film available in more than 25 languages, the tour is built to travel.

Additional tour cities, international screening events, participating panelists and special screenings will be announced in the coming weeks.

World Without Cows is directed by Michelle Michael and Brandon Whitworth and written by Michelle Michael, Brandon Whitworth and Josh Tickell, with Mark Lyons serving as executive producer. The film is produced in association with Studio 410 by Michelle Michael, Brandon Whitworth, Susanna Elliott, Alan Henthorne and Josh Tickell, edited by Talain Blanchon, with music composed by Nathan Horst.

World Without Cows releases trailer ahead of global theatrical tour yazısı ilk önce Feed & Additive Magazine üzerinde ortaya çıktı.

Brazil’s animal feed composition is undergoing a structural shift, with distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and sorghum gaining share as the country’s biofuels industry expands, according to a new RaboResearch report titled ‘Brazil: The feed and protein powerhouse strengthens its competitive edge.’

Although corn and soybean meal remain the backbone of feed rations, corn’s share in feed formulations has declined since 2017, indicating the beginning of a diversification process and partial substitution with industrial byproducts, the report states. Soybean meal, in contrast, has maintained remarkable stability throughout the period, reinforcing its role as the primary protein source in feed.

DDGS has shown the most notable growth, with supply increasing at an average annual rate of 21 percent over the past five years, according to RaboResearch. The report projects the grain byproduct supply will reach eight million metric tonnes by 2031, driven by the continued expansion of Brazil’s corn ethanol industry.

Sorghum has also emerged as a relevant alternative, particularly in regions where rainfall patterns constrain second-crop corn planting. The country’s production of the grain reached six million metric tonnes in the 2025/26 season and is projected to increase to 10 million metric tons by 2031, outpacing growth observed for soybeans and corn, as reported by RaboResearch.

The report attributes these shifts to the expansion of biofuels, supported by Brazil’s Fuel of the Future law, which stipulates a 20 percent mandatory biodiesel blend in diesel by 2030. While the primary incentive is linked to soybean oil, the net effect will be an increase in overall crushing activity, raising soybean meal production by around five million metric tonnes compared to 2025 volumes.

According to RaboResearch, the projected supply growth appears sufficient to meet rising demand, highlighting one of the South American nation’s most important structural advantages: abundant and diversified access to feed inputs. The analysis indicates that feed ingredient availability should remain well ahead of industry requirements, reducing the risk of supply bottlenecks.

The report notes that feed represents the single largest cost component in animal protein production, accounting for 70 percent to 80 percent of operating costs in beef cattle feedlots and approximately 72 percent of hog production costs in Santa Catarina. Lower feed costs directly improve production margins and strengthen the international competitiveness of Brazil’s animal protein sector, according to RaboResearch.

The country’s share of global exports exceeds its share of global production across beef, chicken and pork, the report states. In beef, Brazil accounts for approximately 15 percent of world production but holds a significantly larger share of global trade. The report suggests that rising global protein demand, combined with the nation’s structural cost advantages, makes it unlikely that demand will become a binding constraint on further sector expansion.

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Will receive passes to three-day summit

Ancient grain offers many benefits, including protein and vitamins

Alapala International Inc has successfully completed and commissioned a turnkey feed mill for Agro Universal in Georgia, delivering a modern production facility with a capacity of five tonnes per hour, according to the company.

The plant is fully operational and designed to produce both mash and pelleted feed, providing a reliable and efficient solution for commercial feed production, Alapala stated.

Founded in 2017, Agro Universal operates as the authorised representative of a Hungarian company and is active in feed manufacturing and international exports. According to Alapala, the new facility enables the company to produce a wide range of feed products for poultry, swine, dairy cattle and small ruminants while meeting European quality and hygiene standards.

Executed on a full turnkey basis, the project included process engineering, plant engineering, equipment manufacturing and supply, mechanical installation, electrical works, automation integration, commissioning, performance optimisation and operator training, the company reported. The entire production process from raw material intake to final packing is controlled through an advanced PLC-based automation system, ensuring high operational reliability, full traceability and consistent product quality.

The completion of this project marks another milestone in Alapala Feed Tech’s expanding international portfolio. According to the company, it continues to strengthen its position as a global partner for turnkey feed milling projects while supporting customers in improving productivity, operational efficiency and long-term competitiveness.

Aquasorgal was a Gold Sponsor of RAStech Europe 2026, one of the leading international events dedicated to Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS), held on 8 and 9 September at the Hilton Gaia in Porto, Portugal.

The company’s participation was particularly significant as it was the only Portuguese aquafeed producer present at this year’s event. Aquasorgal is a national reference in the development of nutritional solutions for more efficient and sustainable aquaculture.

Tiago Aires, Technical Director at Aquasorgal, was an invited speaker in the ‘Genetics and Nutrition’ session, where he presented ‘Feed Formulation for Marine Species in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS)’. His presentation addressed the main challenges of feed formulation for fish in RAS, highlighting the importance of nutrition, digestibility and feed efficiency in optimising fish growth and health, maintaining water quality and improving the overall performance of production systems.

As a Gold Sponsor, Aquasorgal had the opportunity to engage directly with key European RAS operators, a growing segment in which nutritional quality, feed efficiency and consistent performance play a critical role.

RAStech Europe is dedicated to recirculating aquaculture systems and brings together producers, technology companies, researchers and industry experts.

Aquasorgal was a Gold Sponsor of RAStech Europe 2026, one of the leading international events dedicated to Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS), held on 8 and 9 September at the Hilton Gaia in Porto, Portugal.

The company’s participation was particularly significant as it was the only Portuguese aquafeed producer present at this year’s event. Aquasorgal is a national reference in the development of nutritional solutions for more efficient and sustainable aquaculture.

Tiago Aires, Technical Director at Aquasorgal, was an invited speaker in the ‘Genetics and Nutrition’ session, where he presented ‘Feed Formulation for Marine Species in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS)’. His presentation addressed the main challenges of feed formulation for fish in RAS, highlighting the importance of nutrition, digestibility and feed efficiency in optimising fish growth and health, maintaining water quality and improving the overall performance of production systems.

As a Gold Sponsor, Aquasorgal had the opportunity to engage directly with key European RAS operators, a growing segment in which nutritional quality, feed efficiency and consistent performance play a critical role.

RAStech Europe is dedicated to recirculating aquaculture systems and brings together producers, technology companies, researchers and industry experts.

The Aquatic Life Institute has released its 2026 Aquaculture Certification Schemes Benchmark, assessing welfare provisions across 12 certification schemes and two international ratings agencies. The report highlights progress in animal welfare standards while identifying continued gaps in behavioural welfare.

Aquatic Life Institute (ALI) has published the fifth edition of its Aquaculture Certification Schemes Benchmark report, which remains the world’s only evidence-based tool designed to evaluate how strongly aquatic animal welfare is embedded within aquaculture certification and rating frameworks.

Seafood certification schemes and ratings agencies act as de facto regulators in a largely unregulated global industry. Through transparent evaluation, constructive dialogue, and evidence-based recommendations, the Benchmark seeks to accelerate the integration of robust animal welfare standards across global aquaculture. Since the introduction of structured feedback cycles, several certification schemes have incorporated new welfare language directly aligned with Benchmark recommendations, particularly in areas where provisions were previously absent or insufficiently explicit.

The 2026 edition analyzes current welfare requirements within the primary farming standards of 12 global seafood certification schemes and two international ratings agencies. This represents the broadest scope of the Benchmark to date, expanding the geographic and regulatory diversity represented in the assessment. Updated methodology in the 2026 edition includes an expansion of the Transport Welfare Criterion to Transport & Handling, broadening the assessment to include routine handling practices. Further, the Benchmark now evaluates Antimicrobial Misuse as a Core Prohibition, recognizing the welfare implications associated with routine, prophylactic, or otherwise unjustified antimicrobial use.

“What makes the Benchmark meaningful is that it does not end with a score,” said Steffan Edward, Certification Lead at ALI. “Behind every standard we assess are decisions that can ultimately shape the daily lives of millions of aquatic animals. This year, we saw certification schemes engage with our findings, reconsider existing requirements, and, in some cases, make concrete changes or commitments in response. That is exactly what we hope this work can achieve. The Benchmark gives us a way to recognize progress while remaining clear about where important gaps still exist. By returning to this process every year, we can keep raising expectations alongside the science and, most importantly, help turn better welfare standards into better lives for animals.”

The global seafood certification schemes and international ratings agencies reviewed in this year’s Benchmark influence the treatment of tens of billions of aquatic animals each year. Within the report, Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), Certified Humane®, GLOBALG.A.P., Global Animal Partnership (GAP), Global Seafood Alliance’s Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP), Friend of the Sea, Naturland Organic, OceanWise Seafood, RSPCA, Label Rouge, Marine Eco Label, Acquacoltura Sostenibile, Soil Association Organic, and Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch are evaluated on water quality, stocking density and space requirements, environmental enrichment, feed composition, transport and handling, and stunning and slaughter. In addition, the schemes and agencies are evaluated for their inclusion of prohibitions on octopus/cephalopod farming, use of insects in aquafeed, certification of shrimp from eyestalk-ablated broodstock, use of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) for faster growth, and antimicrobial misuse.

Based on assessment of the above criteria, Certified Humane retains the highest overall score for the second consecutive year, increasing its performance to 9.5 following the incorporation of animal welfare provisions into its standards through changes informed by ALI’s 2025 Benchmark. RSPCA received the second highest rating at 8.45, and ASC received the third highest rating at 7.95.

“We are honored that Certified Humane has once again been recognized as the top-ranked scheme in the 2026 ALI’s Aquaculture Certification Schemes Benchmark. This recognition underscores the importance of robust animal welfare standards in promoting higher welfare for farmed Atlantic salmon and driving meaningful improvements across the aquaculture sector,” said Rosangela Poletto, Certified Humane Scientific Committee Director.

Further, Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) demonstrated one of the largest improvements in overall score and continues to show a strong commitment to strengthening its animal welfare standards through ongoing engagement and standard development.

“Animal Health and Welfare is a core pillar of Best Aquaculture Practices and we greatly appreciate ALI’s role in supporting the strength and integrity of our certification program. The annual Benchmark provides a valuable learning and collaboration opportunity for the Global Seafood Alliance and BAP standards. ALI’s commitment to learning the critical details of both our standards and our certification operations has led to a stronger collaboration and more impactful improvement to our animal welfare assurances,” said David Dietz, Director of Standards at Global Seafood Alliance.

An additional highlight from the 2026 Benchmark comes from a total of six certification schemes including octopus/cephalopod farming prohibitions in their standards, reflecting the growing momentum against the practices: Certified Humane, RSPCA, Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), Soil Association, Friend of the Sea, and Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP).

An overall assessment of all data collected showed that operational welfare is well established throughout the standards. Requirements relating to feed governance, water quality management, stocking density, transport and handling procedures, and humane stunning and slaughter are now incorporated by most certification schemes, providing an increasingly consistent baseline for animal welfare protection. However, behavioral welfare remains underdeveloped. Requirements promoting environmental complexity, behavioural stimulation, and opportunities for natural behaviour continue to be among the least frequently adopted provisions, indicating that positive welfare outcomes remain insufficiently addressed.

The Benchmark serves as a practical resource for certification schemes, seafood companies, policymakers, researchers, funders, and animal welfare organizations. ALI notes that the annual report and Seafood Certification Program are designed to embed animal welfare into supply chains and trade regulations, encouraging accountability and reshaping the seafood industry on a global scale. This report focuses exclusively on animal welfare, recognizing it as an increasingly important component of responsible aquaculture and a growing priority for producers, certification schemes, retailers, investors, and consumers. It does not assess environmental sustainability, food safety, social responsibility, governance performance, or the implementation of and compliance with the standards.

ALI releases 2026 Aquaculture Certification Schemes Benchmark yazısı ilk önce Feed & Additive Magazine üzerinde ortaya çıktı.

Klara Eckel has joined Dr. Eckel as Regional Sales & Business Development Lead for Asia, effective 1 September 2026.

In her new role, Eckel will act as a bridge between sales and business development and drive the further growth of the company’s activities in Asia.

Commenting on her appointment, Eckel said: “Over the past year, Bernhard and I have regularly travelled and worked together in Asia. It has been and continues to be a very special opportunity for me to learn from my father while taking on more responsibility myself.

“Since September, Anne and I have taken the next step. As Regional Sales & Business Development Leads, we are now responsible for two important regions: Anne for Europe and LATAM, and I for Asia.

“I am very excited about this new role. I especially look forward to developing our activities in Asia together with our team, understanding our customers even better and deepening our existing partnerships.”

Klara Eckel has joined Dr. Eckel as Regional Sales & Business Development Lead for Asia, effective 1 September 2026.

In her new role, Eckel will act as a bridge between sales and business development and drive the further growth of the company’s activities in Asia.

Commenting on her appointment, Eckel said: “Over the past year, Bernhard and I have regularly travelled and worked together in Asia. It has been and continues to be a very special opportunity for me to learn from my father while taking on more responsibility myself.

“Since September, Anne and I have taken the next step. As Regional Sales & Business Development Leads, we are now responsible for two important regions: Anne for Europe and LATAM, and I for Asia.

“I am very excited about this new role. I especially look forward to developing our activities in Asia together with our team, understanding our customers even better and deepening our existing partnerships.”

Veramaris has welcomed Elin Kvamme as its new Business Development Manager, Norway and Nordics.

A qualified veterinarian since 2005, Kvamme brings extensive experience in feed and feed ingredients for the aquaculture industry.

Her industry expertise and passion for sustainable aquaculture will support the company’s work with customers and partners across the value chain.

Speaking about what attracted her to Veramaris, Kvamme said, “Demand for Omega-3 and EPA in aquaculture continues to grow. By producing EPA-rich microalgae, Veramaris offers a sustainable, scalable solution that can help meet the industry’s growing nutritional needs.”

She added, “I look forward to supporting farmers in understanding where and how this product creates the greatest value, while building long-term relationships with farmers and feed companies that are essential for lasting collaboration and growth.”

Veramaris has welcomed Elin Kvamme as its new Business Development Manager, Norway and Nordics.

A qualified veterinarian since 2005, Kvamme brings extensive experience in feed and feed ingredients for the aquaculture industry.

Her industry expertise and passion for sustainable aquaculture will support the company’s work with customers and partners across the value chain.

Speaking about what attracted her to Veramaris, Kvamme said, “Demand for Omega-3 and EPA in aquaculture continues to grow. By producing EPA-rich microalgae, Veramaris offers a sustainable, scalable solution that can help meet the industry’s growing nutritional needs.”

She added, “I look forward to supporting farmers in understanding where and how this product creates the greatest value, while building long-term relationships with farmers and feed companies that are essential for lasting collaboration and growth.”

PT Aqua has welcomed Luke Wilson to the team as its new Technical Sales Director.

Wilson brings many years of hands-on experience across aquaculture production, hatchery operations and R&D, giving him a strong understanding of the day-to-day challenges faced by producers.

His practical industry knowledge will support PT Aqua as it continues to provide customers across the aquaculture sector with specialist products, technical expertise and solutions.

The company said it is looking forward to having Wilson on board, meeting customers and partners, and benefiting from the experience and fresh perspective he brings to PT Aqua.

Commenting on his appointment, Wilson said: “I’m delighted to share that I’ve started a new role as Technical Sales Director with PT Aqua. After many years working directly in aquaculture production, hatchery operations and R&D, I’m looking forward to bringing that experience into a new position and working with producers across the aquaculture industry.

“PT Aqua works with a broad range of specialist aquaculture products, including hatchery nutrition and live feed. I’m really looking forward to getting out, meeting customers, working with the team and helping to develop the business further.”

PT Aqua has welcomed Luke Wilson to the team as its new Technical Sales Director.

Wilson brings many years of hands-on experience across aquaculture production, hatchery operations and R&D, giving him a strong understanding of the day-to-day challenges faced by producers.

His practical industry knowledge will support PT Aqua as it continues to provide customers across the aquaculture sector with specialist products, technical expertise and solutions.

The company said it is looking forward to having Wilson on board, meeting customers and partners, and benefiting from the experience and fresh perspective he brings to PT Aqua.

Commenting on his appointment, Wilson said: “I’m delighted to share that I’ve started a new role as Technical Sales Director with PT Aqua. After many years working directly in aquaculture production, hatchery operations and R&D, I’m looking forward to bringing that experience into a new position and working with producers across the aquaculture industry.

“PT Aqua works with a broad range of specialist aquaculture products, including hatchery nutrition and live feed. I’m really looking forward to getting out, meeting customers, working with the team and helping to develop the business further.”

Company’s co-founder seeks to expand Cream of the West brand

Tighter water supplies, emerging El Niño to reduce off-season planting

FEFAC has released the 6th edition of its Feed Sustainability Charter 2030 Progress Report, reviewing the European feed industry’s developments across five sustainability ambitions. It highlights key actions and achievements made over the past year.

On 8 September, The European Feed Manufacturers’ Federation (FEFAC) has published the 6th edition of its Feed Sustainability Charter 2030 Progress Report, which takes stock of the European feed industry’s progress against the Charter’s five ambitions: climate neutrality, responsible sourcing, animal health and welfare, resource efficiency, and socio-economic resilience.

This year’s edition comes as a new FEFAC Presidency takes office and the European Commission adopts its EU Protein Plan and EU Livestock Strategy. The report shows how FEFAC welcomes the package as a timely response to the strategic vulnerabilities facing Europe’s feed and food chains, including the Protein Plan’s target of raising the share of EU-grown oilseeds and protein crops in domestic feed to 35% by 2035, up from around a quarter today. For FEFAC, strategic dependency extends beyond protein crops to essential feed additives such as vitamins and amino acids, where Europe still relies heavily on a handful of non-EU suppliers.

As key achievements from the past year, the report looks back at the progress made by the GFLI Database, a symposium on circular feed, feed industry site visits for European Commissioner for Agriculture & Food Christophe Hansen and the election of Anton van den Brink (FEFAC Deputy Secretary General) as Chair of the European Livestock Voice.

FEFAC President Nicolas Coudry-Mesny commented, “As I welcome readers to this 6th Feed Sustainability Charter 2030 Progress Report as newly elected FEFAC President, I am encouraged to see the European agri-food and livestock sectors once again recognised as strategic assets for Europe’s competitiveness, resilience and food security. The EU Livestock Strategy and Protein Action Plan provide an important new policy direction, with a strong focus on practical actions to strengthen our food and feed chains and address strategic dependencies. At the same time, our sector continues to deliver solutions on the ground, from improving resource efficiency and circularity to strengthening access to essential feed ingredients. I warmly invite all stakeholders to read this year’s Progress Report as a testimony to the concrete actions being taken by our members to contribute to a more resilient, competitive and sustainable European livestock and aquaculture sector.”

FEFAC releases 6th Feed Sustainability Charter 2030 Progress Report yazısı ilk önce Feed & Additive Magazine üzerinde ortaya çıktı.

ARTEMIS Laboratory and ZYMOPTIQ have entered into a technical partnership to develop an enzyme analysis offering for animal nutrition, combining their respective analytical and technical expertise.

ARTEMIS Laboratory, a French provider of chemical and NIRS analyses for animal nutrition, and ZYMOPTIQ, a company offering technology dedicated to enzyme analysis, have launched a technical partnership.

By combining their complementary expertise, the two companies aim to develop a joint offering dedicated to enzyme analysis in animal nutrition. ZYMOPTIQ provides technologies for measuring enzymatic activity, as well as expertise in enzymatic analytical development, while ARTEMIS Laboratory brings its knowledge of animal nutrition, feed matrices and sample flow management. This collaboration is designed to address the specific needs of enzyme suppliers, premix manufacturers and feed producers, covering the analysis of various products and matrices, including concentrated enzymes, premixes, compound feeds and raw materials.

“Our goal is to make enzyme analysis more accessible to stakeholders in the animal nutrition industry by offering solutions that are simple, rapid and suitable for the wide range of matrices encountered in the field. This partnership with ARTEMIS Laboratory enables us to bring our technology and enzyme expertise closer to the practical needs of the sector,” said Philippe Pebay, Co-founder and CEO of ZYMOPTIQ.

For ARTEMIS Laboratory, the partnership expands its analytical services and supports industry professionals in addressing the growing challenges of characterizing and ensuring the quality of enzymatic solutions used in animal nutrition.

“By combining our analytical expertise with the technology and know-how developed by ZYMOPTIQ, we aim to provide our customers with a reliable, practical and tailored solution for their enzyme analysis needs,” commented Christophe Ferey, ARTEMIS Laboratory Manager.

A COLLABORATION TO BE PRESENTED AT SPACE
The partnership will be officially presented at SPACE 2026, taking place from September 15 to 17 at the Parc-Expo in Rennes, France. The teams from ZYMOPTIQ and ARTEMIS Laboratory will welcome industry professionals at the ARTEMIS booth — Hall 2/3, Booth B72 — to introduce the new joint offering and discuss their enzyme analysis requirements.

ARTEMIS Laboratory and ZYMOPTIQ partner on enzyme analysis yazısı ilk önce Feed & Additive Magazine üzerinde ortaya çıktı.

After 16 years, thousands of meetings, more than 1000 flights and visits to at least 30 countries, PT Aqua co-founder Paul Coyne is stepping away from the company he helped build from a small Irish business into an established supplier to hatcheries and aquaculture operations across Europe, Scandinavia and the Middle East.

His departure marks the close of a significant chapter in the PT Aqua story – one that began in 2009 when Coyne and Ian Sutton saw an opportunity in aquaculture and set out on an early journey to Japan, armed with determination and a willingness to build something new.

As Paul prepares to step away, PT Aqua offers an exclusive insight into the remarkable journey that helped shape both his career and the company’s development within the aquaculture industry.

The beginning

Paul’s introduction to aquaculture came through his close friend Eoin (John) Mullarney, whom Paul credits with opening the door to an industry that would go on to shape the next 16 years of his life.

Following Eoin’s passing, Paul and Ian Sutton decided to pursue that opportunity together, establishing Pacific Trading – Aquaculture Ltd in Ireland in December 2009. There was no grand international operation at the outset. In Paul’s own words, they began by “knowing very little but possessing plenty of energy and determination”.

What followed was a willingness to travel, learn, meet people and identify products they genuinely believed could make a difference to aquaculture producers. One of Paul and Ian’s earliest and most significant journeys took them to Japan.

That connection would go on to become an important part of PT Aqua’s identity. The company built its portfolio around high-quality specialist hatchery nutrition, including Japanese-manufactured products such as Otohime – a larval fish diet that would become one of the products most closely associated with PT Aqua.

Building PT Aqua

From those early beginnings, Paul and Ian steadily expanded PT Aqua’s presence beyond Ireland and into international markets.

There were exhibitions, hatchery visits, supplier meetings, product trials, dinners, airports, hire cars and more hotel rooms than either would probably care to count.

Paul estimates that the journey involved more than 1,000 flights and visits to at least 20 countries. But behind those numbers was something far more significant: relationships were being built.

Customers became long-term partners, suppliers became collaborators and, in many cases, business relationships developed into genuine friendships.

As PT Aqua grew, so too did its geographical reach. The company established a particularly strong presence across the Mediterranean and Scandinavia, while later expansion opened significant opportunities throughout the Middle East.

The product portfolio evolved alongside that growth.

PT Aqua moved beyond simply distributing specialist products, becoming increasingly involved in the development and co-development of nutritional solutions tailored to specific species and production challenges.

Feeding billions

It is difficult to put into numbers what 16 years in aquaculture nutrition represents.

Paul may have found the most fitting measure himself.

Throughout PT Aqua’s history, its products have helped feed “billions upon billions of rotifers, larvae and fish”.

Behind every bag, box and shipment, however, was the work required to bring specialist nutrition from manufacturers around the world to hatcheries at the moment it was needed.

Recognition at home

Perhaps one of the most fitting milestones in Paul and Ian’s journey together came in 2025.

Sixteen years after establishing PT Aqua, the two co-founders stood together in Dublin to accept the Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) Aquatech Business of the Year Award.

BIM described PT Aqua as one of Ireland’s longest-established and leading aquatech companies, recognising its international reputation for nutritional products, expertise and customer service.

For a business that began with two people boarding planes and working to establish themselves within a specialised global industry, the award was a significant recognition of just how far PT Aqua had come.

The Next Chapter

After 16 years, Paul has decided the time is right to step away from aquaculture and begin the next chapter of his life. Ian Sutton is now the sole owner of PT Aqua and, alongside the wider PT Aqua team, will lead the company into its next phase.

Reflecting on his departure, Paul said, “After 16 years, it feels like the right time for me to move on with energy to the next phase of life and pass the reins of PT Aqua to Ian, who is now the sole owner. I’m proud of what we started and built together, and I wish Ian and the whole PT Aqua team every success for the future.”

As Paul moves on to the next chapter, PT Aqua is left with a remarkable story of determination, international growth and relationships built over more than a decade and a half.

The airports may see a little less of Paul from now on, but his mark on the PT Aqua story will remain.

After 16 years, thousands of meetings, more than 1000 flights and visits to at least 30 countries, PT Aqua co-founder Paul Coyne is stepping away from the company he helped build from a small Irish business into an established supplier to hatcheries and aquaculture operations across Europe, Scandinavia and the Middle East.

His departure marks the close of a significant chapter in the PT Aqua story – one that began in 2009 when Coyne and Ian Sutton saw an opportunity in aquaculture and set out on an early journey to Japan, armed with determination and a willingness to build something new.

As Paul prepares to step away, PT Aqua offers an exclusive insight into the remarkable journey that helped shape both his career and the company’s development within the aquaculture industry.

The beginning

Paul’s introduction to aquaculture came through his close friend Eoin (John) Mullarney, whom Paul credits with opening the door to an industry that would go on to shape the next 16 years of his life.

Following Eoin’s passing, Paul and Ian Sutton decided to pursue that opportunity together, establishing Pacific Trading – Aquaculture Ltd in Ireland in December 2009. There was no grand international operation at the outset. In Paul’s own words, they began by “knowing very little but possessing plenty of energy and determination”.

What followed was a willingness to travel, learn, meet people and identify products they genuinely believed could make a difference to aquaculture producers. One of Paul and Ian’s earliest and most significant journeys took them to Japan.

That connection would go on to become an important part of PT Aqua’s identity. The company built its portfolio around high-quality specialist hatchery nutrition, including Japanese-manufactured products such as Otohime – a larval fish diet that would become one of the products most closely associated with PT Aqua.

Building PT Aqua

From those early beginnings, Paul and Ian steadily expanded PT Aqua’s presence beyond Ireland and into international markets.

There were exhibitions, hatchery visits, supplier meetings, product trials, dinners, airports, hire cars and more hotel rooms than either would probably care to count.

Paul estimates that the journey involved more than 1,000 flights and visits to at least 20 countries. But behind those numbers was something far more significant: relationships were being built.

Customers became long-term partners, suppliers became collaborators and, in many cases, business relationships developed into genuine friendships.

As PT Aqua grew, so too did its geographical reach. The company established a particularly strong presence across the Mediterranean and Scandinavia, while later expansion opened significant opportunities throughout the Middle East.

The product portfolio evolved alongside that growth.

PT Aqua moved beyond simply distributing specialist products, becoming increasingly involved in the development and co-development of nutritional solutions tailored to specific species and production challenges.

Feeding billions

It is difficult to put into numbers what 16 years in aquaculture nutrition represents.

Paul may have found the most fitting measure himself.

Throughout PT Aqua’s history, its products have helped feed “billions upon billions of rotifers, larvae and fish”.

Behind every bag, box and shipment, however, was the work required to bring specialist nutrition from manufacturers around the world to hatcheries at the moment it was needed.

Recognition at home

Perhaps one of the most fitting milestones in Paul and Ian’s journey together came in 2025.

Sixteen years after establishing PT Aqua, the two co-founders stood together in Dublin to accept the Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) Aquatech Business of the Year Award.

BIM described PT Aqua as one of Ireland’s longest-established and leading aquatech companies, recognising its international reputation for nutritional products, expertise and customer service.

For a business that began with two people boarding planes and working to establish themselves within a specialised global industry, the award was a significant recognition of just how far PT Aqua had come.

The Next Chapter

After 16 years, Paul has decided the time is right to step away from aquaculture and begin the next chapter of his life. Ian Sutton is now the sole owner of PT Aqua and, alongside the wider PT Aqua team, will lead the company into its next phase.

Reflecting on his departure, Paul said, “After 16 years, it feels like the right time for me to move on with energy to the next phase of life and pass the reins of PT Aqua to Ian, who is now the sole owner. I’m proud of what we started and built together, and I wish Ian and the whole PT Aqua team every success for the future.”

As Paul moves on to the next chapter, PT Aqua is left with a remarkable story of determination, international growth and relationships built over more than a decade and a half.

The airports may see a little less of Paul from now on, but his mark on the PT Aqua story will remain.

FEFAC, the European Feed Manufacturers’ Federation, has published the sixth edition of its Feed Sustainability Charter 2030 Progress Report, which takes stock of the European industry’s progress against the Charter’s five ambitions: climate neutrality, responsible sourcing, animal health and welfare, resource efficiency and socio-economic resilience.

The FEFAC sustainability report comes as a new Presidency takes office and the European Commission adopts its EU Protein Plan and EU Livestock Strategy, according to the federation. The organisation welcomed the package as a timely response to the strategic vulnerabilities facing Europe’s feed and food chains, including the Protein Plan’s target of raising the share of EU-grown oilseeds and protein crops in domestic feed to 35 percent by 2035, up from around a quarter today.

For FEFAC, strategic dependency extends beyond protein crops to essential additives such as vitamins and amino acids, where Europe still relies heavily on a handful of non-EU suppliers, the report states.

Key achievements from the past year highlighted in the report include progress made by the GFLI Database (Global Feed Life Cycle Inventory), a symposium on circular feed, industry site visits for European Commissioner for Agriculture & Food Christophe Hansen, and the election of Anton van den Brink (FEFAC Deputy Secretary General) as Chair of the European Livestock Voice.

President Nicolas Coudry-Mesny stated: “I am encouraged to see the European agri-food and livestock sectors once again recognised as strategic assets for Europe’s competitiveness, resilience and food security. The EU Livestock Strategy and Protein Action Plan provide an important new policy direction, with a strong focus on practical actions to strengthen our food and feed chains and address strategic dependencies. At the same time, our sector continues to deliver solutions on the ground, from improving resource efficiency and circularity to strengthening access to essential feed ingredients.”

Our features in this edition begin with an article discussing ‘Strengthening Fish Health Through Immunonutrition’ written by Gustavo Augusto de Aguiar, Monogastric Technical Specialist, ICC Animal Nutrition, Brazil and Graziela Valini, R&D Specialist, ICC Animal Nutrition | Brasil

As always, our Fish Farming Technology section of is packed with plenty of exciting news and stories this month, including a piece from Dr Alejandro Gutierrez, Genetic Services Lead – Europe, The Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT), UK; which is titled ‘Fast-Tracking Aquaculture’s Next Generation’

This editions aquaculture spotlight focuses on Turkey and is a great chance to learn more about an exciting and growing industry, which has now passed one million tonnes of production a year!

Finally, this month International Aquafeed was lucky enough to interview Damien Toner, Business Manager, Bord Iascaigh Mhara – Ireland’s Seafood Development Agency. This was a great chance for us to sit down and talk with Damien about what led him to the industry, industry collaboration, emerging technologies and much more!

To read the full edition, visit HERE.

Our features in this edition begin with an article discussing ‘Strengthening Fish Health Through Immunonutrition’ written by Gustavo Augusto de Aguiar, Monogastric Technical Specialist, ICC Animal Nutrition, Brazil and Graziela Valini, R&D Specialist, ICC Animal Nutrition | Brasil

As always, our Fish Farming Technology section of is packed with plenty of exciting news and stories this month, including a piece from Dr Alejandro Gutierrez, Genetic Services Lead – Europe, The Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT), UK; which is titled ‘Fast-Tracking Aquaculture’s Next Generation’

This editions aquaculture spotlight focuses on Turkey and is a great chance to learn more about an exciting and growing industry, which has now passed one million tonnes of production a year!

Finally, this month International Aquafeed was lucky enough to interview Damien Toner, Business Manager, Bord Iascaigh Mhara – Ireland’s Seafood Development Agency. This was a great chance for us to sit down and talk with Damien about what led him to the industry, industry collaboration, emerging technologies and much more!

To read the full edition, visit HERE.

FAS: Slower import demand growth expected in coming years

The American Feed Industry Association has announced the completion of a yearlong effort to update its Safe Feed/Safe Food certification programme, including the launch of a new category for warehouse, storage and distribution facilities, effective summer 2026.

The new certification recognises facilities that handle the warehousing, storage and distribution of animal food and ingredients, according to the AFIA. The programme, launched in 2004, is a voluntary, third-party certified programme designed to enhance feed safety and quality beyond regulatory requirements.

Additionally, more than 1000 facilities that currently hold at least one SF/SF certification, as well as those seeking certification, can now refer to Version 8.0 of the program, which incorporates feedback from industry stakeholders and aligns with current industry practices, the association stated.

“The Safe Feed/Safe Food program has grown immensely over the last several years,” said Megan Provost, AFIA’s Chief Operating Officer. “More facilities are seeking certification because it demonstrates a commitment to feed safety, quality and continuous improvement.”

The new certification came in response to industry demand, as no SF/SF category specifically addressed the unique requirements of companies holding ingredients in warehouses and/or moving them through distribution operations, according to the association. The update to Version 8.0 reflects an opportunity for streamlining and modernisation for manufacturers that pursue certification by third-party reviewers.

Facilities may earn certification in one or more categories: Safe Feed/Safe Food; FSC32 Manufacture of Pet Food; FSC34 Manufacture of Animal Feeds; International Safe Feed/Safe Food; and Warehousing, Storage and Distribution. The programme emphasises continuous improvement, regulatory awareness and risk reduction in feed manufacturing operations.

AFIA also modernized decades old program to match current practices

Report shows feed industry advances goals amid strategic challenges

The European Commission has approved an EU€30 million State aid scheme for agricultural, fishery and aquaculture companies in Portugal facing increased fuel and fertiliser prices due to the Middle East crisis. The scheme was approved under the Middle East Crisis Temporary State Aid Framework (METSAF), adopted by the Commission on 29 April 2026.

The Portuguese scheme

Portugal notified the Commission of an EU€30 million scheme to support companies active in the primary production of agricultural, fishery and aquaculture products. The scheme, which will run until 31 December 2026, aims to mitigate the impact of increased agricultural fuel and fertiliser prices.

The aid will take the form of direct grants, providing a limited amount of support based on increases in fuel and fertiliser prices, with a maximum of EU€50,000 per company. For the agricultural sector, fertiliser support is based on a fixed amount depending on the number of hectares of agricultural land and the company’s animals. Fuel support consists of EU€0.10 per litre of agricultural or marine diesel consumed between 1 April and 30 June 2026.

The Commission assessed the scheme under EU State aid rules, in particular Article 107(3)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, which enables Member States to support the development of certain economic activities subject to certain conditions, as well as Sections 1 and 2.1 of METSAF.

The Commission found that the scheme complies with the conditions set out in METSAF. In particular, the aid will be granted under a scheme with a clear estimated budget and will temporarily support the development of companies active in the primary production of agricultural, fishery and aquaculture products.

The Commission concluded that the scheme is necessary, appropriate and proportionate to facilitate the development of an economic activity and does not adversely affect trading conditions to an extent contrary to the common interest.

On this basis, the Commission approved the Portuguese scheme under EU State aid rules.

The European Commission has approved an EU€30 million State aid scheme for agricultural, fishery and aquaculture companies in Portugal facing increased fuel and fertiliser prices due to the Middle East crisis. The scheme was approved under the Middle East Crisis Temporary State Aid Framework (METSAF), adopted by the Commission on 29 April 2026.

The Portuguese scheme

Portugal notified the Commission of an EU€30 million scheme to support companies active in the primary production of agricultural, fishery and aquaculture products. The scheme, which will run until 31 December 2026, aims to mitigate the impact of increased agricultural fuel and fertiliser prices.

The aid will take the form of direct grants, providing a limited amount of support based on increases in fuel and fertiliser prices, with a maximum of EU€50,000 per company. For the agricultural sector, fertiliser support is based on a fixed amount depending on the number of hectares of agricultural land and the company’s animals. Fuel support consists of EU€0.10 per litre of agricultural or marine diesel consumed between 1 April and 30 June 2026.

The Commission assessed the scheme under EU State aid rules, in particular Article 107(3)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, which enables Member States to support the development of certain economic activities subject to certain conditions, as well as Sections 1 and 2.1 of METSAF.

The Commission found that the scheme complies with the conditions set out in METSAF. In particular, the aid will be granted under a scheme with a clear estimated budget and will temporarily support the development of companies active in the primary production of agricultural, fishery and aquaculture products.

The Commission concluded that the scheme is necessary, appropriate and proportionate to facilitate the development of an economic activity and does not adversely affect trading conditions to an extent contrary to the common interest.

On this basis, the Commission approved the Portuguese scheme under EU State aid rules.

UK-based company formation agent 1st Formations has analysed 108,851 company incorporations between 2024 and 2025, identifying potential shifts in new business formation.

The analysis revealed a significant change in the UK’s entrepreneurial landscape, highlighting a hidden ‘industrial renaissance’ led by high-growth niche sectors.

Despite overall company incorporations falling by seven per cent year-on-year in 2025, with traditional retail and hospitality facing greater challenges, UK entrepreneurs are increasingly launching businesses focused on innovation, advanced manufacturing, sustainability and emerging technologies.

This shift is helping businesses align with long-term structural demand and government-backed growth strategies.

Among the specialist sectors analysed, fishing and aquaculture recorded the strongest year-on-year growth, increasing by 78 percent between 2024 and 2025. Other sectors showing strong growth included the manufacture of chemicals and chemical products (67 percent), the manufacture of rubber and plastic products (59 percent) and insurance, reinsurance and pension funding (54 percent).

The trends point towards ‘a new era of specialist entrepreneurship’, according to 1st Formations, as founders focus on sectors that support long-term economic resilience, technological innovation and evolving market demand.

Graeme Donnelly, Founder and CEO at 1st Formations, said: “While overall registrations have dipped, the data suggests founders are becoming increasingly strategic about where they invest their time and resources.”

“Entrepreneurs are gravitating towards sectors that support the UK’s future economy, whether that’s through strengthening supply chains, supporting sustainability goals, or developing specialist services for emerging markets. Rather than a slowdown in entrepreneurship, we’re seeing a move towards more targeted and opportunity-driven business creation,” he said.

UK-based company formation agent 1st Formations has analysed 108,851 company incorporations between 2024 and 2025, identifying potential shifts in new business formation.

The analysis revealed a significant change in the UK’s entrepreneurial landscape, highlighting a hidden ‘industrial renaissance’ led by high-growth niche sectors.

Despite overall company incorporations falling by seven per cent year-on-year in 2025, with traditional retail and hospitality facing greater challenges, UK entrepreneurs are increasingly launching businesses focused on innovation, advanced manufacturing, sustainability and emerging technologies.

This shift is helping businesses align with long-term structural demand and government-backed growth strategies.

Among the specialist sectors analysed, fishing and aquaculture recorded the strongest year-on-year growth, increasing by 78 percent between 2024 and 2025. Other sectors showing strong growth included the manufacture of chemicals and chemical products (67 percent), the manufacture of rubber and plastic products (59 percent) and insurance, reinsurance and pension funding (54 percent).

The trends point towards ‘a new era of specialist entrepreneurship’, according to 1st Formations, as founders focus on sectors that support long-term economic resilience, technological innovation and evolving market demand.

Graeme Donnelly, Founder and CEO at 1st Formations, said: “While overall registrations have dipped, the data suggests founders are becoming increasingly strategic about where they invest their time and resources.”

“Entrepreneurs are gravitating towards sectors that support the UK’s future economy, whether that’s through strengthening supply chains, supporting sustainability goals, or developing specialist services for emerging markets. Rather than a slowdown in entrepreneurship, we’re seeing a move towards more targeted and opportunity-driven business creation,” he said.

New technologies deliver earlier, more detailed insight into crop prospects

Artisan loaves gain favor as traditional bread battles boredom, GFF finds

Germany’s DVT and Landvolk Niedersachsen are calling for stronger conditions for livestock farming and feed production, highlighting supply security, feed quality, sustainability and biosecurity. The organisations raised these issues during a meeting on the future of livestock production in Lower Saxony and the wider challenges facing the sector.

The future of livestock farming in Lower Saxony, Germany, and the supply of high-quality feed were at the centre of discussions between Landvolk Niedersachsen and the board of the Northern Regional Group of the German Association of Animal Nutrition (Deutscher Verband Tiernahrung, DVT). Both organisations share the goal of ensuring that livestock farming, an important economic sector, remains productive and fit for the future.

FEED SUPPLY AND QUALITY UNDER PRESSURE
Looking ahead to the 2026 harvest, Landvolk President Holger Hennies pointed to the tight supply situation in Europe. “This year, every grain will be needed, even if it is somewhat smaller,” he said. He stressed the importance of higher production volumes and improved feed quality in the future. Protein content, in particular, has declined as a result of nitrogen-reduced fertilisation.

“The Fertiliser Ordinance must therefore be more closely aligned with actual requirements,” Hennies said. He argued that this would help support efficient feed production and domestic supply security.

For the feed industry, regional sourcing is closely linked to sustainability and feed safety. DVT Managing Director Dr. Sebastean Schwarz described animal nutrition as a form of circular economy in which feed safety remains the top priority.

“We depend on regionally produced raw materials to produce high-quality feed, which is then fed to animals in the region,” Schwarz said. He added that this not only strengthens the economic power of rural areas but also makes a significant contribution to sustainable production.

CALL FOR A MORE PRACTICAL REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
“We need to strengthen livestock farming in Lower Saxony because it is a favourable location,” Hennies emphasised. A strong agricultural sector, domestic feed production, skilled labour and high standards provide the best conditions for efficient livestock farming.

However, he said that less bureaucracy and faster procedures are needed. Building regulations and building approval procedures should be simplified and accelerated, while environmental requirements under Germany’s Federal Immission Control Act (BImSchG) and TA Luft should be made more practical.

MOVING TOWARDS HARMONISED CLIMATE ACCOUNTING
Climate accounting was also a topic of discussion. The aim is to establish streamlined and harmonised accounting without creating unnecessary additional burdens for agriculture and the feed industry.

To support this goal, DVT has prepared for the comprehensive calculation of the environmental footprint of feed and is a member of the Global Feed LCA Institute (GFLI).

Dr. Hermann-Josef Baaken, Spokesperson for DVT’s Management, said: “This gives all interested member companies access to a comprehensive database for Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of feed. The data enables internationally harmonised calculation of the environmental footprint and provides a reliable basis for sound analyses and objective comparability.”

In this context, DVT also referred to surveys among its members on the positive effects of multi-phase feeding on nitrogen excretion in pig and broiler production.

BIOSECURITY AND ASF REMAIN KEY CONCERNS
On animal diseases and biosecurity, both organisations are focusing on prevention. Effective rodent control must remain possible and should not be restricted by bans, they argued, as this is ultimately a matter of food safety.

Regarding African swine fever (ASF), the organisations called for trade barriers to be resolved more quickly. They also called for the marketing of products from regionally affected areas to be improved consistently across Germany and for regionalisation agreements with third countries to be used more systematically.

DVT and Landvolk urge stronger framework for livestock farming yazısı ilk önce Feed & Additive Magazine üzerinde ortaya çıktı.

The 15th edition of the Aquaculture Roundtable Series (TARS) concluded successfully in Bali, Indonesia, on August 20, bringing together 284 participants from 29 countries to examine the challenges and opportunities shaping Asia’s aquafeed and aquaculture industries. The two-day TARS 2026, entitled “Aquafeeds: Fit for Future 2.0,” was the series’ largest aquafeed-focused edition to date. Aquafeed producers, farmers, technology suppliers, and industry leaders held conversations about feed efficiency, ingredient volatility, animal health, sustainability, smart feeding, and the evolving aquaculture scene.

Fernando J Simanjuntak, Director of Brackish Water Fish at Indonesia’s Directorate General of Aquaculture, Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, kicked off the event. He emphasised that increased output must be complemented by higher efficiency, profitability, resilience, and sustainability, while also acknowledging aquafeed as a significant component of production expenses.
The program included 10 sessions with 52 international and regional speakers, panellists, and industry representatives. A headline conversation on the condition of the industry and commodities looked at the impact of unpredictable prices, supply interruptions, and low farmgate prices on farmers and feed makers. Participants emphasised the continued strategic relevance of marine elements while advocating for more adaptable formulations that incorporate nutrition, genetics, health, digestibility, and palatability.

Cost efficiency was also a prominent theme, with presenters underlining that lower-cost formulations do not ensure value. Instead, formulation selections should be made based on digestibility, feed performance, and overall farm economics.
Disease management was also highlighted significantly. Discussions focused on the significance of functional feeds and additives in improving animal health and lowering disease risks, especially in light of current concerns about EHP and vibriosis in Asian prawn production.

The Next-Gen Farmers X Feedmillers workshop brought together farmers and feedmill operators to address data sharing, transparency, and trust problems. Participants advocated for increased collaboration around farm profitability, measurable performance, responsible additive use, and enhanced genetics and post-larvae quality.
Smart feed management, alternative proteins and sustainability further shaped the agenda. Insect meal and single-cell proteins were discussed as components of future multi-ingredient formulations, while sustainability discussions called for industry-wide benchmarking and greater use of food-processing co-products.

“Since 2018, TARS has provided a platform for aquaculture’s next generation,” said Zuridah Merican, Chair of TARS 2026.

The organisers confirmed that TARS will return in 2027 with a focus on shrimp aquaculture, continuing its role as a regional platform for industry collaboration and innovation.

The 15th edition of the Aquaculture Roundtable Series (TARS) concluded successfully in Bali, Indonesia, on August 20, bringing together 284 participants from 29 countries to examine the challenges and opportunities shaping Asia’s aquafeed and aquaculture industries. The two-day TARS 2026, entitled “Aquafeeds: Fit for Future 2.0,” was the series’ largest aquafeed-focused edition to date. Aquafeed producers, farmers, technology suppliers, and industry leaders held conversations about feed efficiency, ingredient volatility, animal health, sustainability, smart feeding, and the evolving aquaculture scene.

Fernando J Simanjuntak, Director of Brackish Water Fish at Indonesia’s Directorate General of Aquaculture, Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, kicked off the event. He emphasised that increased output must be complemented by higher efficiency, profitability, resilience, and sustainability, while also acknowledging aquafeed as a significant component of production expenses.
The program included 10 sessions with 52 international and regional speakers, panellists, and industry representatives. A headline conversation on the condition of the industry and commodities looked at the impact of unpredictable prices, supply interruptions, and low farmgate prices on farmers and feed makers. Participants emphasised the continued strategic relevance of marine elements while advocating for more adaptable formulations that incorporate nutrition, genetics, health, digestibility, and palatability.

Cost efficiency was also a prominent theme, with presenters underlining that lower-cost formulations do not ensure value. Instead, formulation selections should be made based on digestibility, feed performance, and overall farm economics.
Disease management was also highlighted significantly. Discussions focused on the significance of functional feeds and additives in improving animal health and lowering disease risks, especially in light of current concerns about EHP and vibriosis in Asian prawn production.

The Next-Gen Farmers X Feedmillers workshop brought together farmers and feedmill operators to address data sharing, transparency, and trust problems. Participants advocated for increased collaboration around farm profitability, measurable performance, responsible additive use, and enhanced genetics and post-larvae quality.
Smart feed management, alternative proteins and sustainability further shaped the agenda. Insect meal and single-cell proteins were discussed as components of future multi-ingredient formulations, while sustainability discussions called for industry-wide benchmarking and greater use of food-processing co-products.

“Since 2018, TARS has provided a platform for aquaculture’s next generation,” said Zuridah Merican, Chair of TARS 2026.

The organisers confirmed that TARS will return in 2027 with a focus on shrimp aquaculture, continuing its role as a regional platform for industry collaboration and innovation.

SafeGrain has appointed Paul Kamm as its new Chief Executive Officer as part of a planned leadership transition at the Dayton, Ohio-based grain monitoring and safety equipment company.

Kamm succeeds Zachary Carr, who has moved into the role of Chairman of the Board. Carr will continue to provide strategic guidance and oversight and remain involved in shaping the company’s direction, according to SafeGrain.

Kamm previously served as SafeGrain’s Chief Operating Officer and brings experience in operations, production and leadership. He joined the company as COO in 2025. In his new role, he will lead the company as it continues to develop monitoring solutions for grain-handling operations.

Carr said the transition would allow SafeGrain to expand its reach and continue investing in solutions that address the changing needs of the grain industry. He also expressed confidence in Kamm’s leadership, saying, “Paul has been an important part of our leadership team, and I have tremendous confidence in his ability to lead the company forward. He understands our business, our customers, our people and most importantly the commitment we have made to the grain industry.”

Kamm said, “I’m honored to step into the role of CEO, following my time as COO and years of operations and production experience.” He added that SafeGrain’s focus on helping operators protect grain, equipment and facilities would remain unchanged.

SafeGrain said, “This transition reflects the strength of our organization and the foundation that has been built over nearly 70 years. It allows us to continue moving forward with clarity, focus and a long-term commitment to the customers and partners we serve.”

The company also said that it will maintain its commitment to quality and reliability, its focus on helping operators protect their grain, equipment and facilities and the relationships we’ve built across the industry.

The American Feed Industry Association’s 2025–26 State of the U.S. Animal Food Industry Report reviews developments across the sector, including economic contributions, animal food safety, supply chains, sustainability and regulatory issues.

The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) has released “Our Industry, Our Promise,” its 2025–26 State of the U.S. Animal Food Industry Report, highlighting how the animal food industry continued feeding animals, supporting communities and driving innovation amid political, regulatory and global market changes.

The interactive annual report is the culmination of the AFIA’s celebration of America’s 250-year anniversary guided by the annual theme, “Feeding Independence, Growing Innovation.” As the AFIA spent the past year illustrating to policymakers how a resilient food system will support another 250 years of American growth and leadership, the report showcases the industry’s economic contributions and progress in animal food safety, supply chain resilience, sustainability, regulatory advocacy, workforce development and international trade.

“The strength of our industry lies in its people and their shared commitment to supporting a safe, sustainable and resilient food system,” said Dan Meagher, AFIA’s 2025–26 Board Chair and President and Chief Executive Officer of Novus International. “Through collaboration, science-based advocacy and continued innovation, AFIA members are helping the industry navigate today’s challenges while preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities.”

The report focuses on accomplishments, updates and new frontiers during AFIA’s fiscal year, which ran from May 1, 2025, through April 30, 2026, with sections covering the industry’s:
• $267.1 billion economic footprint – Nearly 5,650 U.S. animal food manufacturers supported more than 80,300 jobs and paid $18.5 billion in local, state and federal taxes in 2023.
• Commitment to animal food safety – More than 1,000 facilities are Safe Feed/Safe Food certified, and roughly 99% of federal inspections found strong safety practices and procedures in place at feed mills and pet food manufacturing facilities.
• Science-based policy and regulatory advocacy – The AFIA advanced ingredient review reforms, built support for the Innovative Feed Enhancement and Economic Development Act and represented the industry on emerging federal and state policies.
• Supply chain resilience and global competitiveness – U.S. animal food exports reached $7.8 billion in 2025, while the association’s global affairs team continued to work to expand market access opportunities for its members and elevate feed supply chain vulnerabilities to key decisionmakers.
• Sustainability – As of the most recent figures in 2023, upcycled ingredients made up at least half of pet food ingredients and 37% of livestock feed ingredients.

The report also details AFIA’s educational and professional development programs, which brought together thousands of animal food industry professionals throughout the year at in-person events and online. These efforts included food safety training, technical education, networking events and international business development opportunities.

The annual report looks at areas expected to shape the industry’s future, including public-private collaboration on supply chain infrastructure challenges, animal disease preparedness and emerging policies. Featuring industry data, policy analysis and member activities, the “Our Industry, Our Promise” report provides an overview of developments across the U.S. animal food sector.

AFIA report highlights U.S. animal food industry progress yazısı ilk önce Feed & Additive Magazine üzerinde ortaya çıktı.

Taiwan Smart Agriweek 2026 brought together agriculture, livestock, aquaculture, sustainability, and food technology professionals in Taipei, with smart production, labor-saving technologies, and sustainable solutions taking center stage on the opening day.

Taiwan Smart Agriweek 2026 opened its doors at Hall 1 of the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, bringing together professionals from across the agrifood value chain. On the first day, visitors explored technologies and solutions designed to reduce labor requirements, improve efficiency, and enable more precise production management.

Key themes at the exhibition included smart production, labor-saving technologies, smart aquaculture, sustainable production, and food innovation. Exhibited solutions addressed some of the industry’s pressing challenges, including climate-related risks, disease management, labor shortages, and supply chain resilience.

The first day also provided a platform for industry professionals, buyers, technology providers, and other stakeholders to exchange ideas and explore potential business partnerships. Discussions highlighted the growing transition of innovative technologies from development and demonstration toward practical applications and commercial adoption.

The event will continue over the next two days, with several highlights on the program. Among them are the Global Agrifood Innovation Championship, where AgriTech and FoodTech teams will present their solutions, and the International Forum on Applications of Fine Bubble Technology in Agriculture and Aquaculture, which will explore applications ranging from water treatment and hydroponics to aquaculture.

With its focus on technology, sustainability, and cross-sector collaboration, Taiwan Smart Agriweek 2026 continues to provide a platform for identifying emerging solutions and business opportunities across the global agrifood industry.

Taiwan Smart Agriweek 2026 opens in Taipei yazısı ilk önce Feed & Additive Magazine üzerinde ortaya çıktı.

BioMar Greece has achieved ASC Feed Certification, completing BioMar’s ASC certification pipeline across its global production network. With this latest certification, all BioMar feed production facilities where the ASC Feed Certification programme is currently available are now certified.

The certification in Greece marks the completion of a global process through which BioMar has progressively achieved ASC Feed Certification across its production facilities in Europe, Latin and Central America, Australia and Asia. BioMar’s facilities in China are not included in the certification pipeline following ASC’s decision to phase out its certification programme in the country.

“This is an important milestone for BioMar and the result of a significant effort from different teams across our organisation,” says Marco Espinoza, Head of Global Quality for BioMar Group. “Completing our certification pipeline gives us a strong global foundation to support our customers with ASC-conforming feed and respond to the growing demand for transparency and responsible sourcing throughout the aquaculture value chain.”

The ASC Feed Standard sets out requirements covering environmental responsibility, social and labour rights, health and safety, and the responsible sourcing of raw materials. Certification requires feed producers to demonstrate responsible practices throughout their operations and supply chains, including increased transparency and traceability of feed ingredients.

For BioMar Greece, the certification strengthens its ability to supply ASC-conforming feed to aquaculture producers across the Mediterranean region, including customers farming key species such as seabass and seabream.

“Achieving ASC Feed Certification is an important milestone for our team in Greece and for the customers we work with every day,” says Thanos Batsikouras, Managing Director at BioMar Greece. “It strengthens our ability to support producers with ASC-conforming feed while meeting increasing expectations for responsible sourcing and transparency across the supply chain.”

The completion of the certification pipeline strengthens BioMar’s ability to support customers with ASC-conforming feed across its global markets.

BioMar Greece has achieved ASC Feed Certification, completing BioMar’s ASC certification pipeline across its global production network. With this latest certification, all BioMar feed production facilities where the ASC Feed Certification programme is currently available are now certified.

The certification in Greece marks the completion of a global process through which BioMar has progressively achieved ASC Feed Certification across its production facilities in Europe, Latin and Central America, Australia and Asia. BioMar’s facilities in China are not included in the certification pipeline following ASC’s decision to phase out its certification programme in the country.

“This is an important milestone for BioMar and the result of a significant effort from different teams across our organisation,” says Marco Espinoza, Head of Global Quality for BioMar Group. “Completing our certification pipeline gives us a strong global foundation to support our customers with ASC-conforming feed and respond to the growing demand for transparency and responsible sourcing throughout the aquaculture value chain.”

The ASC Feed Standard sets out requirements covering environmental responsibility, social and labour rights, health and safety, and the responsible sourcing of raw materials. Certification requires feed producers to demonstrate responsible practices throughout their operations and supply chains, including increased transparency and traceability of feed ingredients.

For BioMar Greece, the certification strengthens its ability to supply ASC-conforming feed to aquaculture producers across the Mediterranean region, including customers farming key species such as seabass and seabream.

“Achieving ASC Feed Certification is an important milestone for our team in Greece and for the customers we work with every day,” says Thanos Batsikouras, Managing Director at BioMar Greece. “It strengthens our ability to support producers with ASC-conforming feed while meeting increasing expectations for responsible sourcing and transparency across the supply chain.”

The completion of the certification pipeline strengthens BioMar’s ability to support customers with ASC-conforming feed across its global markets.

Feed has economic footprint of $267.1 billion

James named successor, effective April 1, 2027

Government says plan has added 180,000 tonnes of storage

Successful implementation requires appropriate programs, correct data and human validation

Maximising milk production in today’s high-yielding dairy cows requires more than just meeting the required megajoules (MJ) of energy, says Dr Richard Kirkland, Global Technical Manager for Volac Wilmar Feed Ingredients. 

“Depending on the stage of lactation, high-yielding dairy cows can require 400 MJ or more of metabolisable energy (ME) per day, and approximately 15 to 20 percent of that energy should be supplied from fat for optimal milk production efficiency,” explains Dr Kirkland. “However, within rumen-protected fat supplements, individual fatty acids elicit different responses and partition nutrients towards different aspects of performance. This creates opportunities to target milk yield and milk fat production while protecting body condition and fertility through strategic use of differing rumen-protected fat supplements.”

Meet energy requirements while protecting rumen function

The first part of the energy supply equation for maximum milk production is providing energy without compromising rumen function. On paper, cereals are an attractive source of dietary energy because they are widely available and more energy-dense than forages. However, their high starch content leads to acid production in the rumen, increasing risk of acidosis, cautions Dr Kirkland.

“Energy supply and rumen function cannot be separated,” says Dr Kirkland. “If the ration supplies more energy on paper but compromises rumen conditions, the cow may ultimately receive less energy from the total diet.”

Rumen-protected fat supplements contain around 2.5 times more energy than cereals and provide a practical way of increasing dietary energy density without adding to the acid load associated with rapidly fermentable starch. Manufactured to pass through the rumen before digestion in the small intestine, rumen-protected fat supplements increase energy supply without compromising rumen function.

Target fatty acids throughout lactation

Using rumen-protected fat supplements, optimising cow performance begins with matching the cow’s stage of lactation and production objectives to the right fatty acid profile. 

During the first 100 to 120 days in milk, cows experience their greatest energy demand as milk production outpaces feed intake. At this stage, feeding strategies should prioritise energy supply and avoid compromising body condition and fertility.

“Supplements containing higher levels of rumen-protected oleic fatty acid (C18:1) are particularly valuable during early lactation. C18:1 improves total fat digestibility, increasing the amount of energy extracted from the diet, while directing nutrients towards body condition. It has also been shown to support egg and embryo development, helping prepare cows for a successful breeding period.

Supplements containing higher levels of palmitic fatty acid (C16:0) exert different effects in the cow. C16:0 directs nutrients towards the udder, increasing milk fat and milk yield, particularly beneficial once cows have recovered from the demands of early lactation,” explains Dr Kirkland. 

“There isn’t a single fatty acid profile that’s right for every cow throughout lactation,” says Dr Kirkland. Matching the fatty acid profile of a rumen-protected fat to the cow’s changing nutritional priorities allows producers to support energy demands and minimise body condition loss in early lactation and target other areas of production, such as milk fat production with different fatty acid profiles if the milk contract requires.

Protect long-term cow performance

Selecting the right fatty acid profile isn’t simply about increasing milk yield. Long-term profitability depends on maintaining body condition, fertility and cow longevity alongside production. Excessive body condition loss during early lactation can reduce conception rates and delay the return to pregnancy.

Research from the University of Nottingham, UK, indicates that every 0.5-unit loss in body condition score can reduce conception rates by around 10 percent, reinforcing the importance of meeting energy requirements while protecting body reserves during early lactation.

Dr Kirkland concludes that “Ultimately, the goal is not simply to maximise milk yield, but to maximise lifetime performance.” When energy supply and fatty acid profiles are matched to the cow’s natural production profile throughout lactation, producers can improve milk production, milk quality, fertility and overall herd profitability.

Effective communication critical as season unfolds

Production is increasing but so are imports

Latest technologies for grain storage and handling, rice and wheat milling

Railway moved 2.5 million tonnes of grain last month

Good for your dog and good for the world we share.

Der Beitrag Globe Buddy launches new Hearts range with insect-protein and vegan dog treats erschien zuerst auf petfood pro Technology & Marketing.

Why the forces reshaping soybean crush reward better genetics, not just more tonnage

The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) has released its 2025–26 State of the US Animal Food Industry Report, highlighting the economic contribution, safety efforts, supply chain resilience and sustainability progress of the US animal food industry. It also highlighted the industry’s efforts to drive innovation amid political, regulatory and global market changes.

The report, titled ‘Our Industry, Our Promise,’ covers AFIA’s fiscal year from 1 May 2025 to 30 April 2026. It forms part of the association’s year-long ‘Feeding Independence, Growing Innovation’ theme, developed around the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Economic contribution and food safety

According to the report, nearly 5650 US animal food manufacturers generated a US$267.1 billion economic footprint, supported more than 80,300 jobs and contributed US$18.5 billion in local, state and federal taxes. These figures are based on 2023 data.

Animal food safety also remains a key industry focus. More than 1000 facilities hold Safe Feed/Safe Food certification, while approximately 99 percent of federal inspections found strong safety practices and procedures at feed mills and petfood manufacturing facilities.

Trade and sustainability

The report notes that US animal food exports reached US$7.8 billion in 2025. AFIA said its global affairs team continued working to expand market access while highlighting vulnerabilities in feed supply chains.

Sustainability was another area of progress. The latest available 2023 figures show that upcycled ingredients accounted for at least half of the petfood ingredients and 37 percent of livestock feed ingredients.

AFIA also highlighted ingredient review reforms, regulatory advocacy and workforce development. It also details AFIA’s educational and professional development programs.

Future outlook

Looking ahead, the report points to a future of public-private collaboration to support supply chain infrastructure, animal disease preparedness and emerging policies as areas requiring continued industry attention. Taken together, the report highlights how AFIA and its members are supporting US food security, economic growth and advances in animal nutrition.

“The strength of our industry lies in its people and their shared commitment to supporting a safe, sustainable and resilient food system,” said Dan Meagher, AFIA’s 2025–26 Board chair and president and chief executive officer of Novus International. Meagher further added, “Through collaboration, science-based advocacy and continued innovation, AFIA members are helping the industry navigate today’s challenges while preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities.”

Use of E10 comes after years of preparation, collaboration

Railroad sets August monthly tonnage, carload mark for Canadian grain

FEFAC’s national feed industry associations have confirmed significant adverse impacts from repeated heatwaves across many EU Member States, affecting Central, Southern and South-Eastern Europe as well as key production regions in North-Western Europe.

The assessment aligns with findings from the JRC MARS report, published last week, and the initial impact assessment published by Copa-Cogeca.

The most severe impacts on feed supply chains are shortages of forage and summer crops, which are primarily affecting cattle. Farmers have already been forced to use winter silage and forage, increasing feed insecurity. An expected substantial shortfall in EU maize production is likely to add further pressure to feed supply chains in the coming months, reducing the availability of both maize silage and maize grain on the EU market.

FEFAC said the exceptional situation, which is already considered worse than the major EU heatwave recorded in 2018, calls for exceptional measures to support coordinated efforts across the EU feed supply chain and ease pressure on supplies of essential feed grains and forage.

FEFAC members are supporting downstream value chain partners in maintaining feed and food security and business continuity at livestock farms, while safeguarding animal welfare through adaptations to diet formulations to address heat stress. However, the organisation said further contingency measures are urgently needed at EU level to mitigate and prevent the growing risk of disruption to essential feed supplies, particularly in the ruminant sector.

FEFAC said the drought situation calls for the reintroduction of the full range of EU crisis mitigation measures released in 2022 in response to the combined effects of the COVID-19 crisis and the direct impact of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. These measures addressed severe disruption and shortages in feed grain availability, particularly maize, for which the EU faces a structural deficit.

FEFAC Feed Market Impact Analysis

FEFAC market experts expect an additional EU import requirement of more than 7 million tonnes of maize in the new marketing year, bringing the total EU import estimate to more than 26 million tonnes. The main origins are expected to be Ukraine, the USA and Brazil. FEFAC said access to feed grains from other third countries should also be facilitated to diversify sourcing.

Increased market access to imported fibre crops and co-products is also considered essential, particularly for ruminants, to compensate for forage losses. These include palm kernel expeller, sugar beet pulp and distiller grains. For palm kernel expeller, FEFAC noted that the current implementation date of December 31, 2026, for the EU Deforestation Regulation could significantly reduce market availability, with current EU imports reaching 2 million tonnes annually.

A lower forage harvest is also expected to increase the EU feed protein deficit, including for organic feed materials, creating additional pressure and demand for imported soy products. FEFAC’s latest EUDR trade disruption and economic impact assessment indicates additional direct feed sourcing costs for soy products of more than EU€1 billion in 2027, with no guarantees of sufficient market availability to meet expected increased EU import demand of 35 million tonnes in 2025. FEFAC said this is economically unviable for EU livestock farmers amid depressed prices for most livestock products.

FEFAC Recommendations

FEFAC has called for targeted short-term mitigation measures to strengthen the EU feed chain’s ability to compensate, at least partially, for shortages of forage and feed grain crops. These include ensuring open transit of and market access to feed grains originating in Ukraine, considering temporary national derogations for risk-based MRLs for imported feed grains destined exclusively for feed use, suspending application of the EUDR to palm kernel expeller and simplifying EUDR requirements for soy products used in feed.

FEFAC also recommends extending temporary EU derogations for protein sources in organic feed and for forage.

The organisation has additionally called on the EU and Member States to allow temporary national derogations for feed truck driving hours, including increasing the maximum load for cross-border feed transport to 44 tonnes, alongside further state aid measures to reduce fuel costs in the feed chain. FEFAC said these measures are needed due to continued low water levels in major inland shipping corridors, which are requiring significant volumes of feed materials to be transferred to road and rail transport.

For the medium to longer term, FEFAC is calling for accelerated efforts to strengthen the resilience of EU-grown feed grain and forage production, including improved seeds for drought-resistant crops using NGT technology.

It also recommends targeted investment through the European Competitiveness Fund in EU transport logistics and infrastructure, including storage capacity, to help reduce the cost of moving feed grains and forage from surplus to deficit regions.

FEFAC is further urging the European Commission to broaden the scope of the Food and Feed Safety Omnibus package, including animal by-products legislation and other parts of EU feed legislation, to facilitate the availability of safe, circular alternative feed resources.

Finally, FEFAC recommends establishing a biomass balance sheet at both national and EU level to improve monitoring of eligible biomass resources for feed use, including co-products from biofuel and other food and non-food industries.

Expands train operations, adds receiving and storage capacity

Cereal Price Index reaches highest level since May 2024

Replaces Carr who transitioned to board chairman

Shipment of durum wheat to Europe first since 2020

Consumers could face significantly higher grocery prices beginning as early as January, according to warnings from JPMorgan and reports highlighting mounting pressures across the global food supply chain.

The forces pushing up food prices are starting to pile up: expensive grain, soaring fertiliser and fuel costs, unpredictable weather and ongoing conflicts, according to an Axios report titled “America’s next grocery shock is brewing.”

Fertiliser shortages and supply chain pressures

The US-Iran conflict and closure of the Strait of Hormuz have disrupted fertiliser supplies, with West Asia supplying roughly 42 percent of global urea exports and 27 percent of ammonia exports, according to JPMorgan. Nitrogen fertiliser prices rose between 25 percent and 50 percent from late February to April, and Nutrien expects nitrogen markets to remain tight through the second half of 2026, as reported by Reuters.

JPMorgan estimates damaged fertiliser plants could take up to four years to restore, while some natural gas facilities could take up to five years. “Rising fertiliser prices could lift global food inflation temporarily to 4-5%,” warned Nora Szentivanyi, a senior global economist at the company.

Grain markets under pressure

Corn and wheat prices have hit their highest level in three years, according to the Axios report. Bad weather has hit corn crop yields, while the Russia-Ukraine war has disrupted wheat exports. Ukraine’s agricultural exports fell approximately 75 percent year-over-year during the first two weeks of August, as attacks nearly halted Black Sea shipments. Ukraine produces around six percent of the world’s wheat and 11 percent of its corn, according to Reuters.

Ukrainian strikes have also closed major grain terminals at Russia’s Novorossiysk port. Russia is the world’s largest wheat exporter, shipping US$9.2 billion worth in 2024.

A strong El Niño could add further pressure, with JPMorgan finding that El Niño events have historically reduced agricultural production in tropical regions by an average of 3.5 percent.

Food inflation forecast

In a widely cited report, JPMorgan analysts warned that global food inflation could hit five precent in the first half of 2027, nearly double what it was in the first half of 2026. The USDA’s July 2026 forecast placed the potential increase as high as 12.3 percent.

“Price pressures are expected to extend through [the first half of 2027], as crop and price effects are still building and agricultural impacts lag the oceanic peak by 6 to 12 months,” the analysts wrote.

Impact on consumers

A household spending US$800 a month on groceries would pay another US$40 a month if prices rose five percent, adding US$480 to its annual bill. A 12.3 percent increase would add approximately US$98 a month (or US$1181 a year), according to Yahoo Finance calculations.

In a recent Economist/YouGov poll, about three-quarters of people said grocery prices are still rising where they live, Axios reported.

EW Nutrition GmbH announced the appointment of Benedict Standen as Global Business Development Manager Aqua, effective September 2026. Standen holds a Master’s in Marine Biology and a PhD in Feed additives in aquaculture, and brings more than 10 years of experience in the industry. 

Benedict’s appointment is part of EW Nutrition’s growth strategy for its aquaculture additives portfolio. After the acquisition of Green Innovation in early 2025, the company is pursuing an aggressive expansion and targets global launches of Oxilem Blue and other innovative nutritional solutions to control pathogens, prevent oxidation and improve production performance in commercial fish and shrimp. 

“Benedict is the perfect profile and temperament for this position. He is open, inquisitive, and unbelievably knowledgeable, with both scientific and applied field expertise in a domain that is a growth target for EW Nutrition,” said Jan Vanbrabant, CEO of EW Nutrition. “I am absolutely convinced that we have a winning manager for a winning portfolio. EW Nutrition company is extremely happy to have him on board,” added Danièle Marzin, Director of Product Management. 

Benedict confirmed that he starts in September with an open agenda and a great deal of curiosity. He said: “I came to this position well aware of EW Nutrition’s growth in recent years. I want to bring my expertise into play and help expand our reach in aqua, where we can do much more to support our partners. I like the ambition and work ethic of this company and can’t wait to meet more of the global and regional teams.” 

Dr Standen’s appointment reflects the company’s continued investment in commercial and business development capabilities as the company pursues organic growth and an active expansion agenda.

EW Nutrition GmbH is a global animal nutrition company headquartered in Northern Germany. The company provides solutions for gut health, feed quality, toxin risk management, digestibility, and animal care across poultry, swine, ruminants, aquaculture and pet species. EW Nutrition is a subsidiary of EW Group, one of the world’s leading agricultural companies.

On August 31, 2026, Leiber announced the completion of its acquisition of the Agsira S.R.L. production site in Romania, marking an important milestone for the company.

With the new location, Leiber is expanding its production capacity for dry yeast and strengthening its presence in the Balkan/CEE region. The site complements the company’s existing production network while bringing it closer to customers and important markets.

The acquisition also creates new opportunities to optimise production, shorten supply routes and make better use of raw materials and by-products from the brewing industry.

The next stage will involve the step-by-step integration of the new site into the Leiber family. The company said it looks forward to working with its new colleagues in Romania and further developing the site as part of Leiber.

Rice, corn prospects decline for 2026-27

Grain Foods Foundation research dissects shift from traditional loaves

Kazakhstan is heading for its strongest wheat flour export season in years, with exports forecast to reach 2.12 million tonnes in the 2025/26 marketing year, according to Yevgeny Karabanov, chairman of the Analytics Committee of the Grain Union of Kazakhstan.

Shipments had already reached 1.87 million tonnes after ten months, up 18.3% from a year earlier, as reported by Karabanov. The country exported 1.88 million tonnes of wheat flour in 2024, making it the world’s second-largest exporter by volume after Turkey, according to the report.

Afghanistan is central to the current recovery, the report states. In 2024, it bought approximately 1.23 million tonnes of Kazakh flour, roughly two-thirds of Kazakhstan’s total exports. Karabanov said shipments to Afghanistan increased by a further 21.5% during the first ten months of the current season.

The export of flour rather than raw wheat allows Kazakh companies to retain more value from processing before the product crosses the border, according to the report. Uzbekistan’s purchases of Kazakh flour fell 15.8% during the period, while its imports of Kazakh wheat rose by 35%, as more grain is processed domestically.

Afghanistan remains heavily dependent on imports for basic food supplies. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization estimated its cereal import requirement at 3.7 million tonnes in 2025/26, mostly wheat flour, citing limited domestic milling capacity, as reported by The Times of Central Asia.

Kazakhstan exported 13.9 million tonnes of grain and flour in grain equivalent from September 2025 to July 2026, up 12.6% year-on-year, with Uzbekistan and Afghanistan among the main destinations. The growth also fits the country’s broader attempt to increase grain deep-processing capacity nearly tenfold by 2028, targeting products with greater added value than raw grain, the report states.

The International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) has highlighted the importance of connecting science, investment and regional partnerships to deliver practical solutions for land restoration, drought resilience, and food and water security during the 17th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP17).
COP17, which took place in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, with the theme “Restoring Land. Restoring Hope,” gave ICBA a chance to participate in conversations about Finance Day, Water Day, and the COP17 Mayors’ Forum. The Center took part in the national pavilion and as a member of Uzbekistan’s delegation.

Uzbekistan’s revelation that the accreditation of ICBA’s Regional Office in Tashkent had been extended until 2029 was a significant development during the event, indicating ongoing trust in the organization’s scientific and innovative work throughout Central Asia.
“COP17 reaffirmed that turning ambition into tangible impact requires science-based policies, finance and investment directed towards scalable solutions, and partnerships capable of connecting knowledge with implementation and delivering sustainable results on the ground,” said Dr Tarifa Alzaabi, Director General of ICBA.
During Finance Day, ICBA organised the high-level dialogue, “From Investment to Impact: Financing the Restoration of Degraded Lands for Food Security, Climate Resilience and Sustainable Livelihoods.” The discussion brought together senior representatives to examine how research, innovation and investment can be aligned with national priorities and scaled to deliver long-term impact.
Additionally, ICBA emphasised its partnership with the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development on sustainable agricultural production techniques in Karakalpakstan, Uzbekistan’s degraded areas. Over 1,500 farmers in seven regions have benefited from the project, which supports farming techniques suited to drought and salinity. A Farmers’ and Agro-Entrepreneurs Accelerator was established in 2026 to help advance concepts from field trials to broader use.

The organization’s involvement in COP17 also included water management and urban ecosystems. Dr. Alzaabi spoke at the Mayors’ Forum about using natural methods to deal with dust, sandstorms, and land degradation. The Ulaanbaatar Declaration and the Ulaanbaatar Initiative were adopted when the forum came to an end.
ICBA participated in talks on improving agricultural water management for food security and drought resistance at Water Day, with a focus on salinity and water quality.

Through its involvement, ICBA reaffirmed its commitment to converting scientific knowledge into scalable solutions, supporting resilience in saline and arid areas, water management, sustainable agriculture, and land restoration.

Will be its international trade adviser

Forage shortage, maize shortfall impacting cattle population

VIV Africa 2026 is set to open on 7–8 October at the Kigali Convention Centre, with approximately 150 exhibitors from around the world confirmed across the feed-to-food value chain, according to organisers.

The fifth edition of the event, preceded by a dedicated Leadership Conference on 6 October, brings together producers, suppliers, investors and policymakers from across East Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa and the wider international agrifood community, as reported by VIV.

The exhibition is organised across five core sectors: Animal Health, Breeding & Hatching, Farm Production, Feed, Ingredients & Additives, and Feed & Grain Technology. A dedicated Processing and Food Engineering contingent and a growing Dairy Pavilion extend the show’s scope beyond poultry into broader livestock production.

Key exhibitors include animal health companies such as Ceva/Laprovet, Kemin Biologics, and Biovet; breeding and hatching specialists including Aviagen, Hendrix Genetics, and Petersime; and feed and nutrition houses such as Cargill, De Heus, Trouw Nutrition, Adisseo, and Techna, according to the organiser.

Feed and grain technology exhibitors include Bühler, Andritz, Famsun, and SCE, Silo Construction & Engineering, while processing specialists such as Baader Food Systems and Insta-Pro International will also be present.

The event is supported by the Rwanda Poultry Industry Association and the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources. A Technical Best Practice Seminar programme will run alongside the exhibition, covering topics including drinking water-based nutrition, feed efficiency modelling, and gut health in broiler production.

Visitor registration is open at www.vivafrica.nl.

Regional meetings share information, resources for US producers

Our features in this edition begin with a story from our own Roger D Gilbert and Asief Aliyar which is titled ‘Inside Moulin Soufflet: A masterclass in modern milling’ and will tell you all about a recent visit our team did to see the latest upgrades at one of France’s most traditional and long-standing  flour mills!

For our readers more interested in the feed section of our magazine, we have an excellent article covering ‘Mixing in Feed Production Where performance is won or lost’ which was written by Marcel Franitza, Industry Director of Animal Feed, ANDRITZ, Switzerland.

As always, we have a packed event section this month with plenty for you to either catch-up on or prepare for, including full previews of IAOM Eurasia and Milling Forum Europe which our teams will be attending! Find information on where to find them at the show on pages 100&101

Finally, this month Milling and Grain was lucky enough to interview Selçuk Erdem, CEO, Yemmak, Türkiye. This was a great opportunity for us to sit down with Selçuk and discuss his journey with Yemmak, automation and digitalisation, providing food for the growing population and much more!

READ THE FULL MAGAZINE HERE.

The Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS) and the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at expanding educational and professional development opportunities for members of both organisations.
The alliance, which was announced on September 1, 2026, unites two associations that represent closely related agricultural supply chain industries. While AFIA protects the commercial, legal, and regulatory interests of the US animal food industry and its suppliers, GEAPS provides services to experts in the grain handling and processing industries.

As per the agreement, the organisations will collaborate to provide their members with professional resources, industry events, and specific educational courses. Additionally, they will work together to promote qualified opportunities to their respective memberships and coordinate enrolment procedures.
“GEAPS and AFIA share a strong commitment to supporting the professionals and businesses that keep the agricultural supply chain moving,” said John Caupert, Chief Executive Officer of GEAPS.

“The grain, grain processing and animal feed industries are closely connected, and this partnership creates opportunities for employees to access educational programming, exchange knowledge and build relationships by combining our strengths and resources. We’re excited about the potential of this partnership and the greater value it will bring to members of both organizations.”
Through the partnership, GEAPS members will have access to professional development opportunities and specific AFIA training modules, such as the biennial Feed Industry Institute. Major AFIA events like the Equipment Manufacturer’s Conference and the Liquid Feed Symposium will also be accessible to members at a reduced cost.

In exchange, GEAPS Exchange and the GEAPS Leadership Conference will be less expensive for AFIA members, and they will also have subsidised access to GEAPS’ Online Learning modules.
“We are excited to partner with GEAPS to expand the programs and educational opportunities available to our members,” said Megan Provost, Chief Operating Officer of AFIA. “By bringing together the strengths and expertise of our two organizations, we can provide industry professionals with more resources to grow their knowledge, build their skills and support the continued success of the feed and grain industries.”
The collaboration, which has been under preparation for over a year, is a reflection of the groups’ common emphasis on workforce development and practical education. Access to learning opportunities throughout the interconnected feed and grain industries will be further strengthened by the announcement of specific qualified programs and registration details as they become available.

Harvest 2026 is in its closing stages across much of the UK, with overall yields remaining disappointing following another season of prolonged dry weather, according to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board’s third harvest report.

Wheat yields continue to be approximately 12 percent below the five-year average, a benchmark already influenced by below-average harvests recorded in 2024 and 2025, the report states. Winter barley is largely complete with yields broadly in line with averages, while spring barley yields are particularly challenging at 4.6 t/ha, around 19 percent below average. Oats are currently averaging 4.4 t/ha, down 17 percent.

Oilseed rape yields remain a notable exception, with harvest complete and average yields up 19 percent compared to the UK five-year average, according to AHDB.

Significant variability in both yield and quality continues to make it difficult to draw firm conclusions about the overall harvest outcome. As a result, AHDB has not published crop production estimates at this stage.

Helen Plant, AHDB Lead Analyst for Cereals and Oilseeds, stated: “As harvest moves into its final stages, the overall picture remains one of considerable variability. The differences we are seeing between farms are significant. Factors such as soil type, drilling date, use of organic fertilisers, and seed choice all appear to be influencing final performance.”

Anthony Hopkins, AHDB Director for Cereals and Oilseeds, said: “As harvest has progressed further north, better yields in some of those areas have brought a modest improvement to UK averages over the past two weeks. But this report also underlines just how damaging the hot and dry weather has been to crop yields across large parts of the UK.”

Quality variation is another key feature of this harvest, which will create additional challenges for growers and grain buyers as marketing decisions are made, according to the report.

Companies serving the grain and grain processing industries can now reserve exhibition space for GEAPS Exchange 2027, as booth sales officially open for the industry’s major annual event. Organised by the Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS), the event will take place from February 20–23, 2027, at the Kansas City Convention Center in Kansas City, Missouri. It is anticipated that over 450 exhibitors will be present on the trade exhibition floor, showcasing goods, services, and technology to thousands of global industry experts.

Companies operating throughout the grain value chain will once more be able to gather at the Expo Hall. From grain handling and storage to processing, maintenance, operations, and worker safety, exhibitors will present solutions aimed at increasing productivity, efficiency, and safety. GEAPS Exchange attracts professionals representing a broad cross-section of the grain and grain processing industries, creating opportunities for exhibitors to connect directly with potential customers, industry decision-makers and technical specialists.

“GEAPS Exchange provides exhibiting companies a direct opportunity to position their products and solutions in front of the people who use them every day,” said John Caupert, CEO of GEAPS. “From grain handling and storage to grain processing, maintenance, safety, and operations, our attendees represent every aspect of the value and supply chains of the industries we serve.”
After an early reservation period for exhibitors from previous GEAPS Exchange editions, the 2027 Expo Hall is already starting to take shape. Priority rankings were used to determine which spots eligible returning exhibitors might reserve.

GEAPS is urging potential exhibitors to reserve their space as soon as possible since booth reservations are now available to all businesses. It is anticipated that there will be a considerable demand for the remaining booth locations, which will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

GEAPS Exchange offers a broader platform for industry involvement outside of the exhibition floor, bringing professionals together to discuss advancements impacting grain handling and processing, discover new technologies, and share information.
In addition to giving exhibitors a chance to showcase workable solutions to people operating throughout the industry’s value and supply chains, the event is renowned for bringing together equipment manufacturers, technology suppliers, service providers, and industry professionals from various sectors of the grain industry.

Businesses can now reserve booth space online if they want to exhibit at GEAPS Exchange 2027. The Kansas City event, which is expected to draw thousands of guests and more than 450 exhibitors, will present another significant chance for companies to demonstrate innovation and bolster their position in the international grain market.

The Turkish Grain Board (TMO) has announced that, as the 2026 grain procurement period draws to a close, it will begin selling wheat stocks held in licensed warehouses. The sales will take place via the Turkish Commodity Exchange (TÜRİB) from 1 September 2026

In the announcement made by the TMO, it was stated that purchases for the 2026 season have largely been completed and that the purchasing process is drawing to a close. It was noted that the organisation is monitoring market developments both domestically and internationally.

According to the statement, wheat sales will be carried out taking into account market needs and regional developments. Priority will be given to regions where the harvest has been completed and the supply of produce to the TMO has ceased; wheat in quantities to be determined on a daily basis will be offered for sale via TÜRİB.

No distinction will be made between individuals and organisations in the sale of TMO stocks held in licensed warehouses. Thus, the specified quantities of wheat will be openly offered to buyers in the market via TÜRİB.

The scheme is expected to represent a significant development in terms of managing the supply of wheat in the market and meeting regional needs following the 2026 harvest season.

In its announcement, the TMO stated that sales volumes would be determined on a daily basis in line with market conditions and regional developments, and that it would continue to fulfil its regulatory role in meeting the market’s needs.

The 2026 edition will take place from October 28–30 at BITEC, Bangkok, bringing together 450 exhibiting companies from 40 countries and showcasing the full breadth of the pet industry value chain. On the visitor side, the organizers expect to welcome 12,000 trade visitors from 80 countries, creating a truly international platform for business, networking, and new partnerships.

The organizers and exhibiting community warmly invite pet industry professionals from around the world to join Pet Fair South East Asia 2026 in Bangkok — reconnect with established industry partners, meet new business contacts, and discover new opportunities across the dynamic pet markets of the Asia-Pacific region.

Start planning your trip to Pet Fair South East Asia and Bangkok — one of the world’s most popular tourism destinations — and combine productive business with an unforgettable leisure experience.

For a general overview of the show and to pre-register as a visitor for free show access, visit:
www.petfair-sea.com

Der Beitrag Pet Fair South East Asia Invites You to Bangkok erschien zuerst auf petfood pro Technology & Marketing.

Der Beitrag Zoomark and Petzoo Eurasia strengthen their alliance and announce the launch of a new pet show in Turkey from 2028 erschien zuerst auf petfood pro Technology & Marketing.

Maschinenfabrik Seydelmann KG is deepening its long-standing collaboration with the American Food Equipment Company (AMFEC) — Caldwell, Idaho, USA — thereby marking an important milestone for its continued international expansion. As part of this strategic partnership, Seydelmann is acquiring a 50 percent stake in AMFEC. The primary goal of this investment is the joint expansion of business in semi- and fully automated production lines for the food industry in the North American market.

The two companies have enjoyed a close and trusting working relationship for many decades. During this time, an intensive exchange of expertise, mutual support, and numerous successfully completed projects have formed the foundation of their partnership. With this new investment, this long-standing relationship is being elevated to a new strategic level.

“Our companies have complemented each other exceptionally well for many years—both technologically and culturally. The investment in AMFEC is the logical continuation of a partnership that has proven itself over decades. Together, we aim to pool our expertise and provide our customers with even more comprehensive support in the planning and implementation of modern production solutions in the future,” explains Andreas Seydelmann, Managing Partner of Maschinenfabrik Seydelmann KG.

The collaboration focuses on expanding the range of automated production lines for the food industry. While Seydelmann is known worldwide for high-performance machines for grinding, processing, and mixing food and pet food, as well as for its comprehensive expertise in developing complete production lines with high levels of automation, AMFEC contributes its many years of experience in the areas of mixers, tumblers, conveyor technology, and customized system solutions. By combining their respective core competencies, the two companies are creating high-performance, comprehensive solutions from a single source—ranging from individual machines to turnkey, highly automated production lines for the North American market.

The demand for automation and efficient, custom-tailored production lines is growing steadily. Through this enhanced collaboration, customers will receive even more targeted support in the planning, implementation, and maintenance of complex production lines. At the same time, they benefit from streamlined decision-making processes, a high level of engineering expertise, and close on-site technical support.

The partnership also offers cost advantages for customers. Particularly in conveyor systems such as long conveyor belts, the effort and transportation costs are disproportionate to production costs, thereby unnecessarily driving up overall costs. Local manufacturing eliminates this cost barrier.

Through their investment in AMFEC, both companies are laying the groundwork to integrate their respective strengths even more closely in the future and to offer their customers—particularly in North America—innovative, high-performance, and cost-effective turnkey solutions for food production. The strategic partnership underlines their shared commitment to further advancing technological innovations, the highest quality, and customer focus worldwide, thereby further expanding their market position and actively shaping the future of automated food production.

The existing partnership in North America with Robert Reiser & Co., Inc., which has been in place since 1962, remains unaffected. The close ties between Reiser, AMFEC, and Seydelmann will be further expanded and strengthened.

AMFEC was founded in 1975 and has enjoyed an excellent reputation within the American food industry for decades as a manufacturer of high-quality machines and systems that are precisely tailored to its customers’ requirements. The company employs approximately 150 people and, in addition to mixers and tumblers, manufactures conveying and handling systems as well as complete turnkey production lines. The focus is always on customized solutions that sustainably increase customers’ efficiency, productivity, and profitability.

Maschinenfabrik Seydelmann KG looks back on a corporate history spanning more than 180 years. Founded in 1843, this family-owned business is now in its sixth generation and ranks among the world’s leading manufacturers of high-quality food processing machinery. With its headquarters in Stuttgart, a modern production facility in Aalen, and more than 500 employees, Seydelmann is represented in over 150 countries.

For decades, artisanal butcher shops, medium-sized food manufacturers, and international industrial global cooperations alike have relied on Seydelmann’s high-performance cutters, mixers, grinders, and emulsifiers. In addition, the company has extensive experience in the design and implementation of fully automated production lines. The machines are no longer used exclusively in the production of sausage and meat products, but are equally successful in the pet food, cheese, vegetables, fish, pharmaceutical, confectionery, soup, baked goods, and baby food industries.

In development, design, and manufacturing, Seydelmann uncompromisingly adheres to the highest quality standards in terms of material selection, technology, and workmanship. Continuous research and development, along with a global 24-hour service and support network, ensure the company’s leading international position and market leadership.

Der Beitrag Maschinenfabrik Seydelmann KG Acquires a Stake in AMFEC and Expands Strategic Partnership for the North American Market erschien zuerst auf petfood pro Technology & Marketing.

spoga dog powered by ZZF is already receiving strong support from the industry during the preparation phase: With TRIXIE, mammaly and Landguth, Happy Dog, Bewital, Koch Heimtierweld and Mera Tiernahrung, renowned companies from the pet industry have already confirmed their participation at the premiere in Cologne from 30 January to 1 February 2027. These commitments underline the industry’s interest and send a positive signal for the launch of the trade fair.

Strong signals for the premiere of spoga dog

For Burkhard Friedrichsen, Chief Operating Officer of Trixie Heimtierbedarf GmbH & Co. KG the new platform comes at exactly the right time: “TRIXIE is taking part in the premiere of spoga dog powered by ZZF, because we are convinced that this new platform will bring new momentum to the market and lend the topic of dogs the significance it deserves. For us in such challenging times this is the right moment to demonstrate presence, showcase innovations and set new benchmarks together with the specialised trade.”

With mammaly a further company is on board that views the development of the pet market particularly from the perspective of preventative animal health. “We believe that preventive animal health is the future of the pet market – spoga dog is precisely the place where this future is shaped together with the specialised trade,” said Tanja Viefhues, Senior Key Account Manager at mammaly.

Landguth also provided early confirmation of its participation at the premiere of spoga dog powered by ZZF.  “Landguth is taking part in spoga dog powered by ZZF because we are passionate about co-shaping the future of pet food. We are looking forward to the new format, it is the ideal place for us to share our innovations directly with an interested trade audience,” commented Janina Caspers, Head of Sales at Landguth.

In the opinion of Sebastian Rosito, Vice President Trade Fair Management at Koelnmesse GmbH, the exhibitor commitment confirms the chosen course. “With spoga dog powered by ZZF, we are creating a new B2B format for a market this is evolving dynamically and which poses clear demands in networking, visibility and business development. The fact that renowned companies are confirming their participation at the premiere shows that we are addressing a relevant market need with our concept.”

Gordon Bonnet, Chief Operating Officer of the ZZF – German Pet Trade & Industry Association and of the WZF (Pet Industry Services Company) also emphasised the content-related relevance of the new format: “The dog industry is developing extremely dynamically: Topics such as animal health, functional nutrition, sustainability, premium products and intelligent activities and equipment are driving innovations.
spoga dog powered by ZZF offers an exceptional opportunity to present these trends for dog owners and at the same time leverage the close touchpoints with the equestrian world. This creates additional market potential and access to new business contacts for manufacturers from both the dog and horse sectors.”

Specialised programme enhances new B2B format

A diversified stage programme is planned to accompany the trade fair, which will focus on the latest developments, trends and future themes in the dog industry. Lectures, panel discussions and examples of best practice are to create space for a knowledge transfer, inspiration and exchange. In this way, spoga dog powered by ZZF aims to offer extra added value for the trade, industry and further industry players and strengthen the dialogue within the community.

Companies that would like to become part of the premiere, can register as exhibitors now. Media representatives can also save the date for spoga dog powered by ZZF: The press accreditation is expected to open in the late autumn 2026.

For more information, please visit: www.spogadog.com. 

About the pet industry and the ZZF

People live together with pets in 43 percent of all households in Germany (How many dogs, cats, small mammals and birds live in Germany? | ZZF ). After cats, dogs are the most popular four-legged companion of humans: In total, 10 million dogs are found in 20 percent of Germany’s households.

The ZZF – Central Association of the Pet Industry – was founded in Wiesbaden in 1947 and asserts itself for a responsible and animal-friendly pet keeping and represents the professional and economic interests of pet shops, manufacturers and wholesalers of pet food, care and supply products, pet breeders and wholesalers as well as pet groomers in salons (dog hairdressers).

Der Beitrag spoga dog 2027 powered by ZZF Kicks Off with the Hall Planning with strong Industry Support erschien zuerst auf petfood pro Technology & Marketing.

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The Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC), in partnership with rePurpose Global, announced the return of Plastic Recovery July, an industry-wide initiative helping pet companies fund verified plastic recovery projects around the world.

The campaign brings together pet brands, manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and retailers to support the recovery of plastic waste that would otherwise pollute communities, waterways, and ecosystems.

The initiative follows a successful inaugural campaign in 2025, when 14 companies across the pet industry collectively funded the recovery of more than 92,000 pounds of plastic waste through impact projects in Kenya, India, and Indonesia.

Those efforts also supported more than 1,070 waste workers through recovery and recycling programs while helping protect coral reefs, mangrove forests, and sensitive ecosystems in the Himalayan foothills. More than 800 women were supported through workforce and leadership opportunities connected to local recovery systems.

“The first year of Plastic Recovery July showed what becomes possible when companies across the pet industry align around shared action,” said the Pet Sustainability Coalition. “Collective investment creates measurable impact at a scale individual companies cannot achieve alone.”

This year’s campaign will continue supporting verified recovery efforts through rePurpose Global’s Verified Plastic Recovery (VPR) framework, which tracks and verifies recovered plastic through ethical collection and end-of-life processing systems. Funds raised through Plastic Recovery July will support one of rePurpose Global’s 13 active impact projects spanning 6 countries across South Asia, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Sub-Saharan Africa — from protecting whale breeding grounds on Colombia’s Pacific coast to safeguarding coral ecosystems in Bali to empowering women-led waste collection networks in India. Each project operates through rePurpose’s VPR framework, ensuring every pound recovered is tracked, verified, and tied to dignified livelihoods for waste workers on the ground. Specific project allocation will be shared following the campaign.

Plastic Recovery July was designed to offer companies a practical action they can take today while broader packaging transitions continue to evolve across the industry.

“Plastic Recovery July proves that meaningful impact starts with taking action and amplifies when we act collectively. Fourteen companies came together last year and recovered 92,000 pounds of plastic. We’re proud to partner with PSC to make verified plastic recovery accessible to every company that’s ready.” – Manika Doshi, CEO, rePurpose Global

To date, rePurpose Global has helped recover more than 100 million pounds of plastic waste globally through its recovery and recycling initiatives.

This initiative is made possible thanks to support from World Pet Association (WPA) to underwrite and expand the program to achieve 50 thousand pounds of plastic recovery.

Early supporters for the 2026 campaign include Earth Animal, Printpack, Ahlstrom, Bimini Pet Health, Cloud Star, InClover, Petcurean Pet Nutrition, Polkadog, Material Motion, Morris Packaging, and Royal Canin.

Join the Initiative

Companies participating in Plastic Recovery July receive verified recovery impact along with communication assets and coalition-wide visibility opportunities designed to help share participation clearly and credibly.

Participation levels range from Ally ($1,000) to Torchbearer ($10,000), with PSC members eligible to apply one member credit toward participation while supplies last.

Plastic Recovery July offers companies a way to participate in practical, measurable action today while joining a growing industry movement focused on collective impact.

Get started by emailing: membersupport@petsustainability.org

About the Pet Sustainability Coalition

The Pet Sustainability Coalition is a nonprofit that advances sustainability in the pet industry through collaboration, education, and innovation. Founded in 2013 by eight companies, PSC now serves more than 200 member companies across the pet industry, helping them to progress on their sustainability practices, set and strive for ambitious goals, and report on their achievements. Additionally, PSC leads retailers, distributors, manufacturers, brands, and suppliers in pursuing collaborative solutions to some of the largest industry-wide issues, such as sustainable packaging and protein sourcing. Connect with us on LinkedIn and YouTube. Learn more at www.petsustainability.org.

About rePurpose Global:

rePurpose Global is the world’s leading packaging compliance and sustainability platform, helping 400+ brands take meaningful action on plastic waste and another 100+ stay ahead of evolving regulations. Our Impact Projects enable credible, high-integrity sustainability claims through verified plastic recovery and have collectively recovered over 100 million pounds of plastic waste from the environment, improving the lives of thousands of marginalized waste workers, and delivering waste management services to millions of people. On the EPR compliance side, our purpose-built platform handles reporting across all states, fee forecasting, and source reduction planning, so your team can comply without the operational lift. Trusted by brands like Tillamook, Swarovski, and Oatly. Learn more at repurpose.global.

Der Beitrag Pet Industry Unites for Plastic Recovery July to Fund Verified Plastic Recovery Worldwide erschien zuerst auf petfood pro Technology & Marketing.

Summer is probably the best time of year for dogs and their owners. But between beach chairs and mountain panoramas, there are a number of pitfalls lurking that can overwhelm a dog’s stomach and lead to acute diarrhoea. ida+, which specialises in high-quality dietary supplements for dogs, provides an overview of the typical triggers and explains what to do if your dog does happen to fall ill.

1. From lakes to puddles: these water sources are a cause for concern in summer

Dogs drink a lot in summer, and by no means always from their clean bowl at home. When out and about, there are several risks lurking that every dog owner should be aware of.

• Swimming lakes:Beware of stagnant water. During prolonged heatwaves, toxic blue-green algae multiply rapidly. Even a small sip is enough to cause poisoning, vomiting and acute diarrhoea. Therefore, look out for warning signs on the shore or greenish-blue streaks on the water’s surface.
• Puddles: What looks like a harmless source of water is often a breeding ground for bacteria and parasites in warm weather. Water bowls left in the sun for hours are also risky. So change the water several times a day and carry your own water bottle with you.
• The sea: When your dog is romping through the waves or enthusiastically fetching their favourite ball, they often swallow a surprising amount of salt water. The salt dehydrates the body and can quickly lead to sudden diarrhoea. You should therefore offer your four-legged friend fresh drinking water regularly and take breaks in the shade.

2. Found & Spoilt: The food traps they sniff out

• Spoilt food: Wet food spoils surprisingly quickly in a bowl at summer temperatures. Within a few hours, bacteria multiply rapidly and flies may lay their eggs in it. You should therefore offer food in smaller portions, store opened tins in the fridge and dispose of any uneaten leftovers after an hour at the latest.
• Food scraps on the beach and at barbecue areas: On holiday, your dog is exploring new and exciting surroundings, but it’s worth keeping a close eye on any scraps they sniff out on the ground. Discarded barbecue scraps, greasy bones or dried-out fish remains on the beach or at the campsite are anything but wholesome. Such ‘finds’ are not only hard to digest but may also contain pathogens.
• Ice-cold water or ice cream: however well-intentioned the quick cool-down may be, ice-cold water straight from the fridge or a lick of an ice cream sundae can severely irritate a dog’s stomach. This often results in acute diarrhoea. It is therefore better to offer water that is lukewarm to cool and to avoid ice cream intended for humans. If you want to treat your dog to something refreshing, you can opt for special dog-friendly ice cream recipes made with yoghurt or broth.

3. A change of scenery with side effects: travel & new stimuli

Many dogs are creatures of habit. What for us is a long-awaited holiday initially means excitement for our four-legged friends – and sometimes pure stress, which can upset their stomachs.

• Travel stress & change of scenery: Long car journeys, flights or unfamiliar pet carriers often unsettle dogs. The combination of excitement, lack of exercise and confined spaces frequently leads to the dog developing diarrhoea upon arrival at their destination. Add to this unfamiliar noises, smells and a change in daily routine, and the strain on your four-legged friend is greater than many owners realise. Regular breaks along the way and familiar items such as their favourite blanket or toy help your dog to travel more relaxed and settle in more quickly.
• Climate and dietary changes: Extremely high temperatures at the holiday destination further weaken the immune system. If this is compounded by a change in diet – for example, because the dog’s usual brand is not available at the holiday destination – diarrhoea is often inevitable. It is therefore best to take a sufficient supply of the dog’s usual food with you, or to gradually switch to a brand that is also available whilst travelling, starting a few weeks before departure.

Well-prepared for summer adventures with Diar-Stopp Tabs from ida+

Having a quick, immediate remedy to hand helps to spare the nerves of both dog and owner in such moments. That’s why ida+ has developed the perfect solution: Diar-Stopp Tabs. These chewable tablets provide relief during and after acute diarrhoea and, thanks to their compact form, are the ideal companion for day trips, hikes and that big summer holiday. Their broad spectrum of active ingredients works in two ways: thanks to bentonite, psyllium husks and rice flour, they help maintain normal digestion during acute episodes – whilst selected probiotics and prebiotics containing the gut bacterium Enterococcus faecium promote the balance of the gut flora.

The combination of ingredients can have a positive effect on your dog’s gut health. This helps your four-legged friend get back on their paws quickly, so you can carry on with your holiday together.

These warning signs require veterinary attention

Acute diarrhoea is generally not unusual in dogs and, in many cases, clears up after one or two days. In summer, however, the heat can quickly lead to dangerous dehydration. If the diarrhoea lasts longer than 24 hours, or if the dog appears listless, has a fever or refuses to drink, veterinary advice should be sought immediately.

Diar-Stopp Tabs are a dietary supplement for dogs and cats designed to alleviate acute intestinal malabsorption.
Recommended duration of use: 1–7 days. It is recommended that you seek advice from a vet before use. Avoid simultaneous oral administration of macrolides. Feed only the recommended daily amount.

About ida+

ida+ is a brand of Dr. Hesse GmbH & Co. KG, which has been developing animal health solutions since 1959. Since 2017, ida+ has been offering dietary supplements tailored to the individual needs of dogs. With in-depth expertise, high-quality ingredients and production in Germany, ida+ creates holistic, effective and practical solutions for health, vitality and wellbeing – for every dog and at every stage of life.

Further information: www.idaplus-dogs.de

Der Beitrag The beach, the heat, the stress of travelling: how to keep your dog’s tummy happy in summer erschien zuerst auf petfood pro Technology & Marketing.

Der Beitrag When the tarmac gets too hot: Pets need protection from the heat right now erschien zuerst auf petfood pro Technology & Marketing.

The international event connected technology suppliers, producers, researchers and decision-makers through trade, innovation, knowledge sharing and new market development

“Connecting minds, shaping futures”

During the press lunch with the media in Nuremberg, some previews of Zoomark 2027 – taking place in BolognaFiere from 11^th to 13^thMay 2027, were unveiled

 The pet world is evolving, and Zoomark is always one step ahead. With exactly one year to go until Zoomark 2027, the latest news and developments concerning the 22nd edition of the international pet food and pet care trade fair were presented in Nuremberg. The event is scheduled to take place at BolognaFiere from 11^th to 13^th May 2027.

“At a time when supply chains are being reorganised on a global scale, Zoomark is strengthening its role as an international platform supporting the evolution of the pet industry by connecting innovation, business and market access. The growth of the exhibition confirms the value of a trade fair model that goes beyond bringing together supply and demand, acting instead as a relationship of infrastructure for the entire industry ecosystem. For BolognaFiere, Zoomark represents a strategic asset within the Group’s international growth path and a global hub capable of generating connections, fostering new business opportunities and supporting the competitiveness of a sector undergoing profound transformation.”

The remarks of Antonio Bruzzone, CEO of BolognaFiere, introduce the strategic framework and the main topics addressed during the press conference held in Nuremberg on Thursday 14^th May 2026.

Chaired by Enrico Zannini, General Manager of BolognaFiere Cosmoprof, and Luisa Bersanetti, Exhibition Manager of Zoomark, and Pascale Sonvico, Show Office and Sales Manager of Zoomark, the conference featured two distinguished speakers: Giorgio Massoni, President of Assalco and Sahiba Puri, Global Manager Pet Care at Euromonitor International.

The pet market in Italy in the Assalco-Zoomark Report 2026

The presentation of the Assalco-Zoomark Report 2026 captured the attention of those present: the pet market (pet food + pet care) in Italy is worth €5.3 billion in 2025, up +2.5%. In the pet food segment, there has been a return to organic volume growth, following a two-year period of stability and caution driven by price increases.

On the performance of the pet food and pet care sector in Italy and the outlook for the coming months, Giorgio Massoni, President of Assalco, provided an overview: “The new omnichannel interpretation of our sector, coupled with positive market indicators, reaffirms the importance of pets in Italy. The survey conducted among pet owners confirms their widespread presence across all types of households, particularly among families with young children. Given that pets are so deeply woven into the social fabric, we believe it is essential to advocate for fiscal policies aimed at supporting owners in the purchase of pet food — everyday products that ensure the nutritional needs of companion animals are properly met — as well as veterinary services, which are essential to safeguarding pets’ health.”

Zoomark launches PetBridge India

The global success of the Zoomark brand has prompted BolognaFiere to look beyond Italy and Europe, focusing its strategic efforts on Eastern and non-European markets, particularly India, where Zoomark has officially launched PetBridge, a brand-new B2B trade fair designed to literally build a bridge between India’s rapidly expanding pet care sector and the global industry. The event will make its official debut in Mumbai on 25^th and 26^th November 2026 at the NESCO Center.

“India’s pet care sector  – has explained Sahiba Puri , Global Manager Pet Care at Euromonitor International who provided several highlights in her presentation India’s Pet Care Market – is entering its transformation era. It leads the world in large dog population expansion and rising pet cat ownership levels. Driven by stronger pet humanization levels and a thriving start-up landscape, Indian pet care is transitioning from basic care to a wellness-minded ecosystem.”

“Strengthened by our global vision,” said Luisa Bersanetti, “I am delighted to announce this important milestone for our Group. The partnership with PetBridge represents a valuable step in the internationalisation journey undertaken by Zoomark, which today even more concretely embodies a bridge between Europe and the rest of the world.”

The global pet economy will gather at Zoomark 2027

In 2027, Zoomark is expected to welcome more than 1,500 exhibitors and 33,000 high-profile visitors from across the globe, further reinforcing the event’s strong growth trajectory, which has risen by 23% over recent editions.

Zoomark 2027 will further expand the presence of buyers from key established and emerging markets, thanks to several partnerships and the valuable support provided by Italian Trade Agency (ITA/ICE) through its incoming buyer programme, thereby offering genuine growth opportunities for exhibiting companies.

Zoomark will also strengthen key partnerships with leading international trade fairs, including Petzoo Eurasia in Turkey and Saudi Pet&Vet Expo in Saudi Arabia, both serving as strategic gateways to the Middle Eastern market. Zoomark will coordinate the participation of Italian companies in the Italy Pavilion at Pet Fair South East Asia in Thailand and will be exhibiting in China at TOPS and Marca China within the Pet Pavilion, in addition to attending Global Pet Expo, SuperZoo, and Petzoo Africa.

The future of the pet industry at Zoomark 2027

The conference served primarily as a platform to preview the innovations slated for Zoomark 2027, highlighting its new strategic positioning as a creative nerve centre —one capable of capturing emerging trends and projecting them onto the global stage.

In this light, Zoomark 2027 is already poised for success, as demonstrated by the promising results of the registration campaign so far, with more than 50% of exhibition space already secured.

“Zoomark 2027 is already fully engaged in preparations for its next milestone edition” – highlighted Pascale Sonvico, Show Office and Sales Manager – “Our event is a powerful benchmark for the global pet food and pet care market. It is the ideal venue where the industry forges vital connections, distribution embraces innovation, and the future of the sector is shaped.”

Zoomark Days 2026

Despite there being a full year to go before the 22nd edition, Zoomark is already in full swing.

“We are firm believers that professional dialogue must be an ongoing process; it is with this in mind that we have launched Zoomark Days,” explained Pascale Sonvico. “This initiative comprises a series of day-long events scheduled at various locations across the length and breadth of Italy throughout 2026. Tailored to both the industry and the retail sector, these sessions are designed to foster networking, explore shifting market dynamics, and discuss strategic business opportunities.”

Even during the show’s off-year, Zoomark keeps its network closely connected while gathering pace for its return in 2027

Special Areas: Zoomark 2027 launches Beyond

Zoomark 2027 will see the return of its most successful formats, alongside hall events and thematic pathways developed through strategic collaborations—notably the ongoing partnership with the Pet Sustainability Coalition. The show’s dedicated special areas will be both retained and expanded: Factory, dedicated to the supply chain (suppliers of raw materials and semi-finished goods, machinery, packaging, and industry services); Next, focused on start-ups and innovation; Atelier, showcasing excellence in pet fashion, design, and beauty; Pawfect!, a live experience area designed for grooming professionals and pet wellness; Pet Vision, highlighting future trends; and Aqua Project, dedicated to the aquarium and terrarium industry.

There are also extraordinary new developments on the horizon. Among them, revealed for the first time, is the launch of a seventh special area.

“This new area is named Beyond,” explains Pascale Sonvico. “It will play host to companies operating within the bereavement and memorial care sector. Zoomark will be the first international trade fair in the industry to dedicate a specific thematic area and in-depth programme to this segment. It is a rapidly expanding field, driven by an increasingly profound need among pet parents for support when facing the loss of their pets and a desire to honour their memory in a meaningful way.”

The journey of innovation within the pet economy continues apace, building momentum towards the next edition of Zoomark, taking place from 11^th to 13^th May 2027.

www.zoomark.it

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This edition will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from across Asia and beyond for three intensive days of business networking, cutting-edge technology showcases, and knowledge exchange across the entire animal feed and health value chain from animal feed, poultry, aqua feed, pet food, along with state-of-art technologies and solutions covering feed additives and ingredients, feed milling, automation, formulation, health ingredients, packaging, data analysis, quality control and more.

Two Proven Events, One Powerful Experience
The co-location of VICTAM & GRAPAS Asia 2026 with VIV Health & Nutrition Asia will create a unique synergy: VICTAM's position as the world's largest dedicated event for the animal feed processing industry combined with VIV's extensive worldwide network in animal health and nutrition. Together, these shows will attract a diverse professional audience including feed formulators and mill managers, animal nutritionists and veterinarians, CEOs and operations directors, animal feed compounders, aquafeed producers, integrators, health solution providers, and pharmaceutical specialists.

For 2026, VICTAM & GRAPAS Asia 2026 also introduces Themed Days designed to enhance visitor engagement and deliver focused learning experiences. In cooperation with feed associations from Thailand and Southeast Asia, feed millers with specific buying intentions are exclusively invited. To match need and demand and stimulate valuable contacts between visitors and exhibitors, each day will also spotlight specific sectors and products through live machinery demonstrations, technical presentations, and expert-led training sessions.

Feed Milling Focus will emphasize hammer mills and dryers, focusing on energy efficiency and product consistency. Perfect for feed mill operators, factory managers, and engineers seeking to boost production performance and sustainability.

Flour Milling Focus will highlight roller mills and storage systems, showcasing solutions for safe and efficient grain handling. Ideal for grain processors, storage facility operators, and logistics professionals looking to enhance safety and streamline operations.

Pet and Aqua Feed Focus will concentrate on extruders, bagging, weighing, and dosing technologies, demonstrating precision and innovation in feed formulation. Tailored for nutritionists, formulators, and equipment specialists aiming to optimize feed quality and production accuracy.

VICTAM Asia 2026, co-located with VIV Health & Nutrition Asia and GRAPAS Asia 2026, is expected to welcome 300+ exhibitors and over 9000 visitors from around the world and will spotlight companies introducing breakthrough technologies that promote sustainability, automation, and precision in industrial production. Some spotlighted exhibitors and innovations include:

Environmental & Sustainable Process Technologies

● Geelen Counterflow (Netherlands) – Provides counterflow dryers and coolers achieving up to 80% energy savings and zero emissions, setting new benchmarks in heat recovery and carbon reduction.

● Cimbria Heid GmbH (Denmark) – maximizing production with low-energy consumption, minimal dust emissions, and optimized process efficiency to ensure consistent feed quality and sustainable performance.

Automation, Digitalization & Precision

● KSE Process Technology B.V. (Netherlands) – Developer of the PROMAS ST process automation platform, integrating dosing, weighing, and batching for Industry 4.0-ready, waste-free operations.

● ANDRITZ Feed & Biofuel A/S (Denmark) – offers an extensive line of equipment and complete plant solutions for the production of high-quality feed and biomass products

● Hydronix Ltd (United Kingdom) – A global leader in microwave moisture sensors, enabling real-time quality control, improved product consistency, and energy-efficient production.

● iGrain ApS (Denmark) – Introduces IoT-based post harvest monitoring systems that measure temperature, humidity, and CO₂, preventing spoilage and improving food safety.

Turnkey & Mechanical Innovations

● Amandus Kahl GmbH & Co. KG (Germany) – Pioneers in pelleting and conditioning technology for feed, biofuel, and recycling applications, featuring odor reduction and energy recovery capabilities.

● Ottevanger Milling Engineers (Netherlands) – is a leading global supplier of production equipment and processing lines for the grain processing and compound feed industry.

● YEMMAK A.S. (Turkey) – Designs turnkey feed plants with integrated energy recovery, waste reduction, and renewable fuel systems, supporting circular economy initiatives with 50% less assembly time.

● Vibrafloor (France) – Developer of the self-emptying silo floor system using vibration for complete, dust-free discharge, improving safety and hygiene in bulk handling.

Thermal & Environmental Control

● FrigorTec GmbH (Germany) – Producer of Granifrigor™ grain cooling systems that maintain ideal storage conditions without chemicals, reducing spoilage and extending grain shelf life.

“VICTAM Asia 2026 is excited to be in co-location with VIV Health and Nutrition Asia again to host the complete animal nutrition event for the region; it’s a movement toward smarter, safer, and more sustainable feed and grain industries,” said Mr. Sebas van den Ende, General Manager of Victam International. “We invite all exhibitors, visitors, and members of the media to join us in Bangkok to explore innovation, connect with global leaders, and help shape the future of animal nutrition and food production in Asia.”

Building on this vision, VICTAM Asia 2026 aims to enhance the quality and engagement of the exhibition, attract the right mix of exhibitors and buyers, and foster collaboration and knowledge exchange across the feed and grain sectors. With special themed days, live demonstrations, guided sessions, and technical presentations, the event will deliver a more immersive and business-focused experience for all participants. Through close cooperation with regional associations and industry experts, VICTAM Asia continues to strengthen its role as Asia’s leading meeting point for the feed, grain, and flour processing industries.

In addition, the Thai Feed Mill Association announced plans to collaborate closely with the event organizers by co-hosting technical seminars focusing on feed safety, energy management, and sustainable production practices. “We encourage all our members to take part in Victam Asia 2026 to explore new innovations and build meaningful partnerships with both local and international players. This is a platform where knowledge becomes opportunity and innovation drives business growth” Mr. Somphob Auesongtham, Secretary General of the Thai Feed Mill Association concluded.

With a strong focus on innovation, knowledge exchange, and business growth, VICTAM Asia, VIV Health & Nutrition Asia, and GRAPAS Asia 2026, offers unparalleled opportunities for companies to showcase their latest technologies, network with key decision-makers, and explore new market potential, further reaffirming Bangkok’s position as the agrifood technology and development in the region.

Register to visit the show now and begin planning your visit to Bangkok this March.

The current situation is still not as optimal as it was estimated. Above all, the health of exhibitors and visitors and the successful outcome of the event are most important to the organizers.

In light of the recent increase in COVID-19 cases, which has forced the Royal Thai Government to implement new strict measures to control the spread of the pandemic, and the delays of the vaccination programs in several Asian countries, VICTAM and VIV do not see the opportunity to realize a large-scale event on the short term. Looking at the ongoing travel restrictions from and to Asia, the organizers also believe that it is not possible to guarantee the event quality as we know them for. The postponement to the third quarter of 2022 is in the interest of the whole industry.

VICTAM Asia in co-location with Health & Nutrition Asia are thus rescheduled to September 7-9, 2022. The new venue selected is IMPACT Halls 9-10, in Bangkok, Thailand. The objective remains the same: to realize the Total Animal Feed and Health event.

The dates secured in September 2022 will give all stakeholders room to breathe and pay attention to other vital issues. The organizers’ mission is to present a strong, value-adding event to the industry with high benefits for all parties.

VICTAM Corporation and VIV worldwide will also continue their partnership in Europe in 2022 by co-locating VICTAM International and VIV Europe at the Jaarbeurs venue in Utrecht, the Netherlands, from May 31 – June 2, 2022. With the high percentage of vaccinations in Europe there is no reason to doubt that this show can successfully go on as planned.

For more information, please visit the official websites www.victamasia.com and www.vivhealthandnutrition.nl. 

Sebas van den Ende                                                  Heiko M. Stutzinger

General Manager                                                         Director VIV worldwide and Managing Director

VICTAM Corporation                                                 VNU Asia Pacific and VNU Europe

Press contacts.

For more information, please contact:

• Mrs. Frederiken van Hilten, fvanhilten@victam.com (Marketing and Communications Manager VICTAM)
• Ms. Elena Geremia, elena@vnueurope.com (Senior Marcom Manager VIV worldwide)
• Ms. Saengtip Techapatiphandee, saengtip@vnuexhibitionsap.com (Assistant Marcom Manager VNU Asia Pacific)

Save the date:

IFTC 2022: 31 May/1 June 2022, Utrecht, the Netherlands

The 2^nd International Feed Technology Congress (IFTC 2022), organized by Wageningen University and the VICTAM Foundation will be held from 31 May/1 June 2022 during the VICTAM International 2022 in Utrecht, The Netherlands.

            After the successful 1^st edition, brought together 120 researchers from 26 different countries of all continents in Cologne, Germany, the 2^nd edition again will focus on bringing together researchers from universities, research institutions and industry to discuss the latest developments in feed technology. During the 1^st IFTC, valorization of raw materials by technology, current process developments and outcomes of feed technology with respect to feed formulation were major topics. A special Workshop was organized to discuss current and future issues of importance in feed manufacturing technology. Contributions and the results of the Workshop were recently published as a special issue of the ‘Animal Feed Science & Technology’ journal. The successful format of the 1^st IFTC will guarantee high quality presentations by world-renowned experts, open discussions, and publication of the latest scientific and practical developments in feed technology during the 2^nd IFTC.

The 2^nd IFT Congress will be held in Utrecht, the Netherlands during the VICTAM International Exhibition in 2022. Please save the date of the Conference (31 May/1 June 2022) and share this message with your contacts or any person who might be interested in presenting their paper. The topics of the conference and speakers will be published soon.

Further announcements on the submission organization will come by August/September 2021.

By Dr A.F.B. van der Poel,

Wageningen University & Research,

Animal Nutrition group, Wageningen,

The Netherlands

Potential speakers are invited to submit noncommercial abstracts on topics including:
• New research on companion animal nutrition;
• Novel ingredients and their potential applications in pet food or treat formulations;
• Data, trends and predictions for the pet food market, focusing on Europe and including opportunities for innovation;
• New pet retailing information pertinent to the selling or distribution of pet food, including via e-commerce, in Europe;
• New information or ideas for marketing pet food, including via social media;
• New information, techniques or processes for product development in pet food;
• Update on regulatory information relevant to pet food in the European Union;
• New research, technology or processes for pet food production;
• New research, technology or other information on pet food packaging;
• New, specific information on one focused aspect of pet food safety (no general overviews of regulations or pet food safety programs).

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this exciting conference!

The aim of the training is to provide the necessary information to the participants on the revised version and cover the following topics:  
- FAMI-QS Certification Process 
- FAMI-QS Code 
- FAMI-QS Process Documents
- FAMI-QS Regulatory Compliance 

Who should attend the ‘FAMI-QS: Awareness in Feed Safety’ training program?
- Anyone involved in the implementation of the FAMI-QS Certification System (Quality Managers, Consultants, etc.)
- Internal FAMI-QS Auditor 
- Producers, Suppliers and Traders of Specialty Feed Ingredients 
- Individuals who want to get further information on FAMI-QS Certification 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION:
- Venue: LE MERIDIEN BANGKOK, 40/5 Surawong Road, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand 
- Schedule: 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM 
- Admission Fee: 150 € per participant (the fee includes training material, coffee breaks and lunch) 
- Binding registration: 16th February 2018. 
- To register, please fill in the attached registration form and email it to info@fami-qs.org. 

Besides its market value, a credible/ accredited Third Party Certification could also be a useful tool in hands of competent authorities, regarding, e.g. planning of the official controls or “granting” market access to products or operators.   

Third Party Certification is not meant to substitute the responsibilities of competent authorities, but has been increasingly recognized by a number of them as an important element, which not only supports their enforcement role, but can also help setting state-of-the-art practices at global level and, as such, facilitate understanding and exchanges worldwide.  

To enhance better understanding of the role of Third Party Certification in Feed and Food Safety and the role of FAMI-QS in feed safety, a one day workshop on the 4th of April 2018 in Jakarta, Indonesia will be organized. 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION:  
- Venue: JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta, Jalan DR Ide Anak Agung Gde Agung Kav E.1.2 No 1&2, - Kawasan Mega Kuningan Jakarta, Indonesia 12950  
- Schedule: 10:00 - 16:00 
- Binding registration: 15 March 2018 
- For more information on the workshop please contact FAMI-QS Secretariat at +32 2 550 3452 or info@fami-qs.org. 
- Please complete the Registration Form and return it to: FAMI-QS secretariat, info@fami-qs.org. 

Read all about the FVG Select 2017 event, the VICTAM Asia 2018 preview, the Global feed survey from Alltech, Industry news, the Nutrition and feed survey by WATT Global Media and much more. Subscribe here if you would like to receive the next edition via e-mail. Please add in the message if you would like to receive the printed version of Showtime.

You can now book your stand for VICTAM Asia 2018! You can find all the detailed information on our website: http://victam-asia.com/exhibitors.  

The floor plan will be online as soon as possible. Please mention your preferred location on the comments box of the application form. If you book before October 1st you will receive an early bird discount! 

The last edition in 2016 was sold out. You can read all about the facts & figures of VICTAM ASIA 2016 here. We expect this edition to sell out as well so secure your stand space as soon as possible. 

For any further questions, please feel free to contact us at expo@victam.com or via +31 33 246 4404.

We look forward to meeting you in Bangkok, Thailand, in March 2018!

Read more by clicking on "visit website".

The EU-28 (Greece, Malta and Luxembourg excluded) figures show that poultry feed production grew by 2%, whereas pig feed fell by 1% and cattle feed remained stable. On the pig feed side, after 2 years of moderate growth, the production decreased by 1% in 2016. This can partly be explained by the effects of African Swine Fever in Eastern Europe, which weighed heavily on the development of pork production, but also by low market prices for pork the first half of 2016 and large availability of feed grade cereals at low prices which benefitted on-farm mixing.  

Read the full article from AllAboutFeed here.

“Als organisatie maken wij al jaren een gestage groei door”, laat Operationeel Directeur Wouter Kuijpers weten. “In het verleden is er om diverse redenen nooit voor gekozen om over te gaan naar een ISO 9001 certificering. Door de nieuwe ‘High Level Structure’ (HLS) van de normering is nu echter het moment gekomen om aan te tonen dat de processen binnen Dinnissen voldoen aan de gestelde eisen van ISO 9001:2015. Voor de bestaande en toekomstige klanten zal deze certificering onderschrijven dat kwaliteit en het continue verbeteren hiervan in het DNA van Dinnissen zit.” 

Lees hier het complete artikel van De Molenaar.

Against this backdrop, the European Biomass Association (AEBIOM) and its sectorial network the European Pellet Council (EPC) will host an International Pellet Conference on the 14th of June, 2017 in Cologne, Germany. The “European Pellet Future” conference will be held in conjunction with the FVG Select 2017. During this conference, technical and financial topics will be addressed, including but not limited to; pellet quality, pellet safety, cost and energy optimisation and risk management. One of the benefits of attending such AEBIOM conferences is to receive updates on ongoing EU legislative processes as well as statistical information on bioenergy. This provides participants with a comprehensive overview of the most recent advancements in the sector. 

The full article by Suzi Dominy, Executive editor/Publisher, Aquafeed.com can be downloaded below. 

The 8th edition of the FIAAP Animal Nutrition Conference aims to address the most pressing issues facing today’s nutritionists and animal feed producers. The one-day event, held on June 14, 2017 in Cologne, Germany, will circle around several key topics: antibiotic elimination strategies, animal feed additives, alternative ingredients and monogastric gut health. Download the flyer for more information or go to www.fvgselect.com. 

The Hydro-Mix HT is a high temperature sensor that will measure moisture in materials that have a process temperature of up to 120°C.  This makes it ideal for installation before or after dryers or in mixing systems. Typical applications include animal feed production, rice and grain processing or other similar applications that need to control moisture in high temperature materials. 

The Hydro-Mix XT is a digital moisture sensor that has measurement modes that optimise results in materials such as grain, rice and other similar materials. This sensor has an external seal enabling it to be installed in dusty or liquid processes or applications, from 1 Bar Vacuum to 5 Bar pressure. 

Both of our new sensors, unlike other systems available in the market, comprise a single unit that contains all on-board functionality such as signal processing, smoothing and averaging.  These sensors come with fixing plates that makes them easy to install flush with the internal wall in drying, ducting, conveying and mixing systems.  

All Hydronix sensors are designed for use in flowing materials with readings being taken 25 times per second as the material passes across the ceramic sensing face.  With Digital Inputs/Output, a choice of measurement modes, free configuration and calibration software and a global sales and support network, Hydronix is already the supplier of choice for many OEM equipment manufacturers, system integrators and end-users. 

Figure 1: Hydro-Mix HT                         Figure 2: Hydro-Mix XT

Please visit our website for further details: www.hydronix.com. Email us on enquiries@hydronix.com or by calling +44 1483 468900. 

For enquiries regarding the press release please contact: Melany George, Marketing Executive: mgeorge@hydronix.com. 

changed but applications have. Read more in the downloadable article (click below this message).

Bulkwagenproducent Welgro in Groenlo speelde al langer met het idee om een 4-asser te bouwen zonder in te boeten op het totale laadvermogen, vertelt marketingmanager Jarno Meijer. “De afnemers kozen tot nu toe nog allemaal voor de traditionele drie-asser. De Hoop Mengvoeders is de eerste voerleverancier die de overstap naar de nieuwe bulkwagen maakt. De eindontwikkeling hebben we in nauw overleg met De Hoop gedaan.” 

Meer over de ontwikkeling van de nieuwe 4-asser van Welgro in een van de komende edities van De Molenaar. 

This is not the only benefit for KSE. “We supply various machines, each with its unique features. This means one and the same part can differ per machine. By using 3D printing, we can produce very flexible. This allows us to deploy developments much better and faster in a shorter time”, Willemse adds enthusiastically.

KSE sees a lot of future opportunities for 3D printing. With a brand new assembly hall and many product innovations it continues to invest in the future to meet customer requirements.
About KSE Process Technology

Founded in 1973, KSE Process Technology is a family business that has grown to a worldwide concern. It supplies everything a factory needs to dose, weigh and transport materials. Besides the ALFRA dosing and weighing systems, it provides PROMAS automation solutions and services for the animal feed industry and related industries.

For more information, visit www.kse.nl or follow KSE on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.

Media Enquiries
KSE Process Technology B.V.
Marijke Vreugdenhil
Marketing & PR
Tel: +31 (0)497 383818
Marijke.Vreugdenhil@kse.nl

Ben jij(*):
-    Een 3e of 4e-jaars HBO- student met een bovengemiddelde interesse in data management?
-    Bekend met het organiseren van evenementen?
-    Zelfstandig, initiatiefrijk, sociaal en communicatief vaardig?
-    Een goede mix van een denker en een doener?
-    De Nederlandse en Engelse taal in woord en geschrift machtig?
(*) Als je alle bovenstaande boxen hebt afgevinkt ben jij de man/vrouw die wij zoeken!

Je werkt vooral aan:
Het in kaart brengen, analyseren en op orde brengen/opschonen van onze huidige data. En je helpt mee met het opzetten van de nieuwe datastructuur. Tegelijkertijd verwachten we dat je bereid bent waar en wanneer nodig bij het organiseren van de evenementen te ondersteunen. Tot slot krijg je de tijd en begeleiding om aan je afstudeerscriptie te werken.
Je kunt full time aan de slag vanaf december 2016 of januari 2017, voor een periode van 6 maanden.

Onze stagevergoeding:
Is € 400 tot € 500 bruto (op basis van 32 tot 40 uur) per maand. Ook ben je 2 dagen per maand vrij (op basis van 40 uur per week).

Wij zijn Victam International BV:
En organiseren onder de noemer FIAAP, VICTAM en GRAPAS internationale vakbeurzen in de diervoeding, rijst- en bloemverwerking en biomassa industrieën in Europa en Azië. Op 13 en 14 juni 2017 lanceren wij een nieuw evenement in Keulen, Duitsland: FVG Select 2017.  FVG Select is een nieuw format bestaande uit drie elementen: een uitgebreid congres programma, een matchmaking programma en een vakbeurs voor een geselecteerd aantal bedrijven. Voor meer informatie over Victam International BV ga naar www.victam.com.

Stuur je motivatie en CV naar:
erikheemskerk@victam.com. Vermeld hierbij ook de gewenste startdatum, stageduur, aantal dagen en eisen vanuit school. Voor inhoudelijke vragen kun je contact op nemen met Erik Heemskerk op 033-246 4404 of 06-3343 7945.

Victam International B.V. is the organizer of FIAAP/VICTAM/GRAPAS International in Cologne, Germandy and FIAAP/VICTAM/GRAPAS Asia in Bangkok, Thailand. Victam also organizes the brand new FVG Select Event in Cologne, Germany, from 13014 June, 2017.

For more information: www.victam.com

Important dates:
- FVG Select 2017, June 13 – 14, 2017 New event!
- FIAAP/ VICTAM/ GRAPAS Asia 2018, March 27 – 29, 2018, Bangkok, Thailand
- FIAAP/ VICTAM/ GRAPAS International 2019, June 12 – 14, 2019, Cologne, Germany.

Victam International B.V. is de organisator van de vakbeurzen FIAAP/VICTAM/GRAPAS International in Keulen, Duitsland en FIAAP/VICTAM/GRAPAS Asia in Bangkok, Thailand. Zij organiseert tevens het gloednieuwe FVG Select evenement in Keulen. FVG Select wordt op 13 & 14 juni gehouden in de KoelnMesse in Keulen.

Voor meer informatie: www.victam.com

Belangrijke data:
- FVG Select 2017, 13 – 14 juni, 2017, Keulen, Duitsland.  Nieuw evenement!
- FIAAP/ VICTAM/ GRAPAS Asia 2018, 27 – 29 maart, 2018, Bangkok, Thailand
- FIAAP/ VICTAM/ GRAPAS International 2019, 12 – 14 juni, 2019, Keulen, Duitsland.

Descripción del trabajo:
• Vender metros cuadrados y productos relacionados (publicidad, patrocinio) para nuestras ferias a (posibles) expositores en España
• Gestionar las relaciones con los clientes en España
• Representar a VICTAM durante eventos relacionados en España
• Ofrecer apoyo en la promoción de los visitantes
• Establecer y mantener relaciones con asociaciones, medios de comunicación, etc.
• Supervisar y notificar desarrollos y tendencias relevantes del mercado en los sectores de piensos, granos o biomasa en España

Perfil:
• Tener experiencia relevante en ventas en relación con ferias, conferencias y eventos
• Estar orientado al cliente
• Ser hispanohablante y tener buen dominio del inglés
• Tener afinidad con ferias
• Estar dispuesto a viajar
• Tener afinidad con los sectores de piensos, granos o biomasa

Características:
• Persona emprendedora, con destrezas comerciales y sociales, creativa y curiosa, representativa, con capacidad para soportar el estrés y estable.

Se llegará a un acuerdo con el candidato adecuado sobre la base de comisiones sobre productos vendidos. Si procede, se reembolsarán los gastos de desplazamiento.

Las personas interesadas pueden ponerse en contacto con Erik Heemskerk de Victam International , llamando al número +31 33 246 44 04 o enviando un mensaje a erikheemskerk@victam.com

Stellenbeschreibung:
• Verkauf von Quadratmetern und von damit verbundenen Produkten (Werbung, Sponsoring) für unsere Ausstellungen an (potenzielle) Aussteller in Deutschland
• Kundenbeziehungsmanagement in Deutschland
• Vertretung von VICTAM bei Events im Zusammenhang mit dem Unternehmen in Deutschland
• Unterstützung bei der Besucherwerbung
• Aufbau und Aufrechterhaltung von Beziehungen zu Assoziationen, Medien, etc.
• Beobachtung relevanter Marktentwicklungen und Trends im Bereich der Futtermittel-, Getreide- und Biomasseindustrie in Deutschland und diesbezügliche Berichterstellung

Profil:
• Relevante Vertriebserfahrung im Zusammenhang mit Messen und Events
• Kundenorientiert
• Deutschsprachig mit guten Englischkenntnissen
• Affinität zu Ausstellungen
• Reisebereitschaft
• Affinität zur Futtermittel-, Getreide- und/oder Biomasseindustrie Charaktereigenschaften:
• Unternehmerische, kaufmännische und soziale Fähigkeiten; kreativ und wissbegierig, repräsentativ, belastbar, stabile Persönlichkeit.

Mit der/dem geeigneten Kandidatin/en wird eine Vereinbarung auf Kommissionsgrundlage im Hinblick auf verkaufte Produkte getroffen. Falls anwendbar, werden Reisekosten zurückerstattet.

Bei Interesse bitte bevor 16. September Kontakt aufnehmen mit:
Victam International, Mr. Erik Heemskerk, Tel. +31 33 246 44 04 oder erikheemskerk@victam.com.

The Aquafeed Innovation Award was won by Kemin Industries (Asia) Pte. Ltd. It was accepted on their behalf by Michael van den Dries.

The runner up for the GRAPAS Innovation Awards was Agentis Innovations. The award was accepted by Yiannis Christodoulou.

The winner of the GRAPAS Innovation Awards was Eye-Grain Aps. The award was accepted by Peer Hansen.

The Animal Feed Technology & Nutrition Award was won by Huvepharma. The award was accepted by Lode Nollet.

More pictures of the exhibition can be found in this Google Photos album.

The conference, which draws the aquafeed industry together from throughout Asia Pacific and beyond, focuses on advances in feed processing and formulation that bring practical solutions to the commercial aquaculture feed sector.
Early Bird registration is now open and offers a discounted registration fee in addition to group and other discounts. Special rates are also available for students and Thai speakers.

"We are grateful to Buhler, Nutriad, Olmix and Wenger for stepping forward to support this year's conference as sponsors", said Suzi Dominy, Aquafeed.com's publisher and the conference organizer. "We applaud their commitment to helping us bring information and knowledge to this specialized and vital sector of the aquaculture industry; they help us reach more people who can benefit from the expertise our presenters bring".

PROGRAM±
- INTERACTIONS OF EXTRUSION AND INGREDIENTS FOR AQUATIC FEEDS - Joseph P. Kearns, Vice President Aqua-Feed Div., Wenger Manufacturing, Inc., USA       
- DURABLE SINKING FISH FEED WITH LOW STARCH FORMULATIONS AND AN EXAMPLE WITH INSECT MEAL AS ALTERNATIVE PROTEIN - Urs Wuest, Product Management Aquafeed & Petfood, Business Unit Nutrition, Bühler AG, Switzerland
- PRE-PROCESSING OF FEEDSTUFFS TO IMPROVE THEIR FEEDING VALUE FOR AQUACULTURE FEEDS - Dr. Dominique P. Bureau, Professor, University of Guelph, Canada
- GART AS A PLATFORM TO INVESTIGATE DISEASE CONTROL STRATEGIES AGAINST AHPND/EMS IN SHRIMP - Dr. ir. Margriet Drouillon, Business Developer Aqua UGent, Belgium
- ADVANCES IN AMINO ACID NUTRITION OF SHRIMP - Dr. Alexandros Samartzis, Regional Technical Sales Manager, Evonik (SEA), Singapore
- PLANT EXTRACTS IN AQUACULTURE FEEDS: FROM MODES OF ACTION TO PRACTICAL APPLICATION - Clementine Oguey, Aqua Product Expert, PANCOSMA & Associates, Switzerland
- EFFECT OF AN ALGO-CLAY BASED BIOCATALYST ON THE DIGESTIVE AND GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF JUVENILE SHRIMP (LITOPENAEUS VANNAMEI) - Maarten Jay van Schoonhoven, Aqua BU manager, Olmix, France
- FEED FOR THE FUTURE: THE CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR A BETTER AND SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE INDUSTRY - Dr. M A Kabir Chowdhury, Global Product Manager - Aquaculture, Jefo Nutrition Inc., Canada
- FUNCTIONAL FEEDS – BAD BUG BUSTERS TO REDUCE THE IMPACT FROM DISEASE IN FARMED FISH AND SHRIMP - Dr. Peter Coutteau, Business Unit Manager – Aquaculture, Nutriad International NV, Belgium

Press contact: Suzi Dominy email: suzidominy@hawaii.rr.com

The GRAPAS Awards organised by Milling and Grain had joint winners.

Alapala (pictured above) won the award for their Similago II Rollermill.

Buhler AG (pictured above) won the award for their Antares Plus Rollermill.

The Aquafeed Innovation Award organised by Aquafeed.com was won by Tovalia Intelscan SARL (pictured above) for their iScan Silo Moisture Sensor.

The FIAAP Animal Nutrition Award organised by AllAboutFeed was won by Adifo (pictured above) for their One tool - MultiModel - MultiSpecies tool.

More pictures of the award ceremony and the exhibition can be found in this album.

Submissions to the call for papers for oral presentations are due November 1, 2014. The FIAAP 2015 content advisory board is seeking noncommercial abstracts on the latest research and information on topics such as animal nutrition, formulation and new developments in the ingredient and additives industry.

The topic should be original to FIAAP International 2015 and the information should be new and innovative. The submission must include evidence of past speaking experience. For more information, please visit www.wattagnet.com/169305.html

About FIAAP
FIAAP exhibitions and conferences cover the ingredients and additives used within the formulation of animal feeds and are attended by senior executives from all over the world. The conference is geared toward the interests of nutritionists, veterinarians, feed formulators, CEOs, feed mill directors, integrators, co-operatives, hatcheries, etc. across the poultry, swine and dairy industries. 

Presented by WATT Global Media and Feed International magazine, the 6th FIAAP International Conference will take place June 9, 2015, in Cologne, Germany, and will be co-located with VICTAM International together with the 8th Aquafeed Horizons Conference on June 9, 2015, and Petfood Forum Europe on June 10, 2015. The 2015 VICTAM International event combines the FIAAP, VICTAM and GRAPAS exhibitions (and their respective conferences) under one roof at Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany, June 9-11, 2015.

The EU depends for 75% of its needs for protein-rich ingredients for feeding purpose on the global world markets. Some of these GM products, maize, soy and rapeseed are already commercialized abroad, others will be harvested and made available in the key exporting regions to the EU as from autumn 2014. Further delays in the EU authorization process may, therefore, lead to significant shortage and trade disruptions due to unavoidable presence of these GM events in our supplies of both GM and non-GM material. This would trigger uncertainty on import flows, supply chain disruptions and price hikes for basic food products and major feed ingredients as well as undermine the competitiveness of the EU food, feed and livestock sectors, if a decision is not taken in July 2014.

The 8 GM products have been deemed safe by the European Food Safety Authority (ESFA) and have reached the final stage of the risk management process. The decisions for the related EU import authorizations lay in the hands of the EU Commission: some of them are awaited since the end of 2013.

Footnote:
(1) Maize MON 87460, Rapeseed GT 73, Soybean 305423, Soybean MON87708, Soybean MON87705, Soybean BPS-CV127-9, Maize T25 and Cotton T304-40

The Aquafeed Innovation Award was won by Norvidan for their NODS - Norvidan On-line Density System.

FUMzyme, a purified enzyme from Biomin to detoxify mycotoxins in animals has won the FIAAP Animal Nutrition Award. The runner up was Kemin with its multi-enzyme product. More information can be found on this AllAboutFeed page.

4B Braime Elevator Components won the GRAPAS Award with their Hazardmon product. Recommended were Morillon for their Super SHG Hydrascrew and Buhler for their Combistoner.

The Aquafeed Horizons Asia Conference presents advances in formulation and processing technology, while the FIAAP Conference focuses on feed additives and ingredients. Both meetings feature presentations by international teams of industry experts.

The full programs, presentation summaries, speaker biographies and registration can be found at: www.feedconferences.com

Petfood Forum Asia 2014 will feature numerous experts sharing their knowledge and insights on pet nutrition and ingredients, the Asian and global petfood markets, new product development, petfood safety and production and much more. Registration is now available for Petfood Forum Asia, which will be held April 9, 2014, at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre, in conjunction with Victam Asia/FIAAP Asia 2014.

View the full conference agenda here.

Petfood Forum Asia 2014 is co-located with VICTAM Asia/FIAAP Asia, one of the largest agrifeed trade shows in the world. Victam Asia is scheduled for April 8-10, 2014, at the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre.

Petfood Forum Asia does not have any exhibits; all exhibits are part of VICTAM Asia/FIAAP Asia, which Petfood Forum Asia co-locates with at the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre. Petfood Forum Asia 2014 participants will be able to visit all VICTAM Asia/FIAAP Asia exhibits. Registration is separate and free if you register in advance.

VICTAM Asia/FIAAP Asia has arranged for special discounted rates at four hotels in Bangkok -- all easily accessible to the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre via convenient public transportation. Find details and further travel information on the Victam website.

Thai Union Feedmill is also studying the use of enzymes in fish and shrimp feeds to increase nutrient digestion and maximize nutrient utilization of fish and shrimp.

Application of enzymes also enables the company to reduce the use of fish meal in aqua feeds in order to respond to customer’s concerns over sustainability of natural resources.

“The extrusion technology is more suitable in making both fish and shrimp feed as it treats the feed with high temperature and in a short time. We apply enzymes in the feed through a coating process, and this way the enzyme efficacy remains intact,” said Bunluesak Sorajjakit, managing director of Thai Union Feedmill.

Thai Union Feedmill installed an extruder from Wenger of the US at its feed mill in Samutsakhon province, about 90km west of Bangkok, late last year.

Supplies of extruders and other milling equipment from across the world will showcase their latest technology at VICTAM Asia and FIAAP Asia 2014 at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre in Bangkok (BITEC), Thailand during 8-10 April 2014.

The two events are Asia’s biggest and most important exhibitions dedicated to the region’s feed industry.

“This is a historic bulk delivery of US soybeans to Vietnam,” he said, adding there are three more bookings for US soybeans fully loaded in handymax vessels by importers in Vietnam later in the year.

Handymax is a type of cargoship for transporting goods in bulk such as grains with its capacity ranging from 40,000-50,000 DWT (deadweight tonnage).

The crushers in Vietnam process soybeans into soybean oil. A co-product from the processing is soybean meal, which is sold to feed milllers across the country. 

Soybean meal is the main source of amino acids, which are building blocks of proteins in animals. That is why it is one of the most important ingredients in animal feed.   

Soybean meal from different origins contains a varying level of nutrient contents, particularly in amino acids and energy.   

To provide the latest studies on soybeans in animal nutrition, the US Soybean Export Council will take part in the FIAAP Conference 2014 held alongside FIAAP Asia 2014 at the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (Bitec) in Bangkok, Thailand on 9 April 2014.

The conference will also address various issues related to efficient use of novel feed additives for boosting health and growth of animals.

FIAAP Asia 2014 is an international event focused on feed ingredients and additives. It will take place at Bitec from 8-10 April 2014 together with VICTAM Asia 2014 and GRAPAS Asia 2014.

VICTAM is an exhibition dedicated to feed production technology, while GRAPAS focuses on grain and rice processing.

To shed light on this opportunity, Bioenergy International Magazine will organise a one-day conference titled ‘Pellets & Biomass Update Asia’ during Victam Asia 2014, an exhibition on feed and biomass technology that will be held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 8-10 April 2014.

The conference will look at how husks, shells, nuts, EFB’s (Empty Fruit Bunch), fines, dust or other residues from feed and food industries can provide internal energy cost reductions, waste management solutions or become valuable revenue streams.

The conference aims to describe the potentials, explore the opportunities and provide, for the region and the sector, relevant examples and case studies.

Victam Asia 2014 will be held alongside GRAPAS Asia 2014 (grain and rice processing) and FIAAP Asia 2014 (feed ingredients).

However, it is somewhat problematic in applying the right dose of enzymes due to their non-linear effects. Adding an enzyme at a wrong dose or at a higher level than those recommended by the manufacturer could lead to uneconomical results.

To fix this, Adifo, provider of software solutions for the feed industry from Belgium, has developed an enzyme module that defines the non-linear effects separate from the ingredient matrix, which is provided by the enzyme manufacturer as a reference for the user.

"The enzyme module that we develop is very unique. It sets up all the effects of the enzyme outside the feed formulation and the ingredient matrix," said Hans van der Wal, Adifo's Market Development Manager.

"This means that you just define in the system what the effect of the enzyme will be for a certain animal group, a certain nutrient and a certain ingredient. So, you can see right away what effect the enzyme has on energy, protein and other nutrients," he explained. 

Based on these unique features, the enzyme module of Bestmix accurately calculates the optimal inclusion rate of the enzyme.

Adifo will showcase its solutions for feed formulation at Victam Asia 2014, which will be held in Bangkok, Thailand from 8-10 April 2014.

Driving the demand is the power sector. The report said since 2012 the South Korean government has imposed power companies with a generating capacity of 500MW or more to use renewable energy by 10% within 2022. 

To meet this target, a number of power producers in South Korea are turning to import biomass pellets as they are the most economical solution.

The sector used 55,000 tonnes of pellets in 2012, and their use is expected to jump to 400,000 tonnes in 2013, the report said.

Russia was the biggest supplier of pellets to South Korea in 2012, supplying 34.1% of its total import, followed by Malaysia 25.1%, Vietnam 24.7% and Indonesia 7.3%.

With its abundance in agricultural by-products such as rice husks, corn stalks and cobs, straw and more, Vietnam has a great opportunity to produce pellet fuels serving the energy sector in South Korea and worldwide.

To get an update on the biomass pellet business in Asia, the Bioenergy International will organize a conference on “Pellets & Biomass Update Asia” on 10 April 2014 in Bangkok, Thailand.

It will take place at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre or Bitec. The conference is a part of VICTAM Asia 2014, FIAAP Asia 2014 and GRAPAS Asia 2014.

Besides, he said, the expander technology also offers other advantages such as improving feed hygiene due to its high temperature, short-time treatment.

Currently, Trang Wattana Farm produces about 1500 tonnes/month of pellet feeds for use in its farm that rears 2500 sows and produces 4500 commercial pigs.

On average, the pigs (18-100kg) achieve an average daily gain (ADG) of 780g/day and FCR 2.4-2.5.

Mr Rawat targets to increase the ADG of the commercial pigs to over 800g/day and lower the FCR to below 2.4. And he hopes that the expander feed could enable him to achieve this target.

He will visit FIAAP and Victam Asia 2014, which will be held during 8-10 April 2014 at Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC) in Bangkok, Thailand, in search of the expansion technology and learn more about its benefits from suppliers, his fellow pig farmers and feed millers who gain experiences in this technology.

Issued by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) in November 2013, the report said Indonesia produced sufficient corn for making feed. However, feed millers preferred to procure corn from abroad because of its superior quality.

“Poor post-harvest handling, inconsistency in quality and high moisture content make local corn unfavourable for feed millers,” the report said, citing the Indonesian Feed Millers Association.

USDA forecasts that corn demand for feed in Indonesia would increase 6.4% to 6.6 million tonnes in 2013/2014 crop year, which started in November 2013.

The country’s corn imports in the year would increase by 12% to 1.9 million tonnes. Over 70% of Indonesia’s corn imports come from India, followed by Argentina, Brazil and the US.

To optimise the use of locally produced corn in Indonesia, feed millers and traders need to join forces with farmers to improve post-harvest handling, storage and preservation.

As the key ingredient in poultry feed, improving quality of local corn would significantly decrease the cost of poultry production, and make chicken and eggs more available at a more affordable price. 

Indonesian feed millers, corn growers and traders can update the latest technology and knowhow in post-harvest handling, storage and preservation at Victam Asia, FIAAP Asia and Grapas Asia 2014.

"The competition in the south is very tough, but we're confident that we'll be able to penetrate into this market. We target to set up the new plant in Dong Nai because we've been selling a big volume of piglet feeds in the province and the farmers are very happy with the quality of our products," said Dao Manh Luong, Austfeed's CEO.

Austfeed started shipping its feeds for sales in Dong Nai and other southern provinces since the end of 2012. The feeds are shipped from its feed mill in the central province of Binh Dinh and stored at its warehouse in the province before distribution to the customers.

"It will be a big project in Dong Nai because we see a big potential in the southern market. We plan to build a large-scale feedmill and invest in the latest technology for the operations there," he said.

Austfeed started moving south since 2011 when it built a feed mill in the central province of Binh Dinh. 

Although livestock production in the central was not so well developed at that time, it saw a potential to grow the market there.

"Our feed sales in the central were very slow in the past, but they're increasing to the level that we have decided to build a feedmill there. The living standard of people there is getting better and meat consumption is increasing, boosting the demand for livestock feed," said Mr Luong.

Initially, the plant in Binh Dinh had a capacity of 50,000 tonnes/year, but its capacity had been fully utilised after a year of the operations.

This has led the company to install the second production line capacity 100,000 tonnes/year in 2012 with all the equipment supplied by Buhler of Switzerland.

"We made the right decision to expand in the central because livestock production in the region is growing up quickly. Many pig and chicken farms in the south are moving to the central as they can't find land to expand their operations due to rapid urbanisation in the south," he said.

To find out technology for expansion of his feed business, Mr Luong will visit FIAAP & VICTAM Asia 2014. The event will take place at the Bangkok Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC) in Bangkok,Thailand during 8-10 April 2014.

It is Asia's largest trade exhibition for the feed industry. Suppliers of milling technology and related equipment for feed manufacturing from over the world, along with international suppliers of feed additives and ingredients will participate to showcase their latest innovations at the event.

The plant, which also produces aquaculture feeds, has been operating at its full capacity of 8800 tonnes a month.

"It's time for us to build a feed mill dedicated to petfood production as we're seeing our petfood sales growing leaps and bounds. We have set aside USD 50 million for building the plant that will be equipped with the latest production technology," said Mr Narongchai.

The new petfood plant of Betagro will be located on its production complex in Lopburi and its construction will begin in late 2013.

Betagro has set up a team to study the petfood market in Thailand in order to develop the products that fit the need of the customers in the future. The team was also sent to learn about petfood technology in Europe.

Mr Narongchai said Betagro sold about 3000 tonnes of petfood/month. This accounts as about 12% share of the petfood market in Thailand. 

Thailand will rank the eighth fastest-growing market for pet care, which also includes petfood, in the world between 2013 and 2018, projects Euromonitor International, a market research firm.

It said pet care sales in Thailand will grow by about USD 300 million in the period, driven by rising incomes and levels of pet ownership. Increasing number of pets in emerging markets such as China, Thailand and India are switching to commercial petfood. 

In 2013, petfood accounts for 77% of the global pet care sales of USD 96 billion, said Euromonitor. 

To update petfood professionals in Asia on the global and regional petfood market trends, and advances in petfood nutrition and processing, FIAAP & VICTAM Asia 2014, Asia's largest trade exhibition dedicated to the Asian feed industry, will include a petfood conference during the event.

Called 'Petfood Forum Asia 2014, it will be held at the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC) on 9 April 2014.

For more information, visit http://petfoodforum.petfoodindustry.com/PetfoodForumAsia.

The rise in feed demand is motivating feed millers in Indonesia to build more feed plants in 2013 and beyond.

Charoen Pokphand Indonesia, a subsidiary of Thailand agri-food conglomerate Charoen Pokphand Foods Plc, is due to open its new feed mill in West Java, said Ong Mei Sian, directof of CP Indonesia.

Costing USD 30-40 million, the plant will have a capacity of 20,000 tonnes/month production of poultry feeds.

The company will build two more feed mills in Bali and Pandang in 2014 with an investment of USD 20 million for each plant.

CP Indonesia currently operates seven feed mills in Indonesia with a combined capacity of about four million tonnes.

In June 2013, InVivo Indonesia, a subsidiary of InVivo Group from France, opened its fifth feed mill in West Java, said managing director Felix Segalen.

Costing USD 15 million, the plant has a capacity of 150,000 tonnes/year and its capacity can be doubled in the future.

It has two production lines, one for livestock and the other for fish feeds. Stolz, French milling equipment manufacturer, supplied its latest technology for the plant, which is one of the most modern feed mills in Indonesia.

Stolz as well as other milling equipment suppliers from over the world will showcase its latest technology at VICTAM Asia 2014, which, along with FIAAP Asia,  is Asia's largest trade exhibition dedicated to the feed industry.

The owners, President and CEO Tom Tylutki, Vice President of Marketing and CFO Caroline Rasmussen, Vice-President for Development Vajesh Durbal, and Lynn Gilbert bring unique experience and skill sets to the company.

AMTS and Adifo will join forces to integrate the Cornell model into the cloud based FaaS (Formulation as a Service) ration balancing tool. This tool will enable nutritionists, consultants and all industry partners to communicate and share data in real time via the cloud, always providing up to date information to their customers and partners.

Tom Tylutki, President and CEO at AMTS says: "It is our mission to provide and promote integrated solutions that enhance the economic and environmental sustainabilityof animal agriculture and allied industries. We have known the BESTMIX® products for quite some time now and we are convinced that these tools bring great value to feed producing companies.”

Reaching the top
Following an intense ten-month period of training, Ernst Nef presented the graduates of this year’s course their Diplomas in the Hotel Uzwil, qualifying them as Feed Production Engineers or confirming their attendance of the course. In his entertaining address, Ernst Nef emphasized the high significance of training and continuing education. He expressed his admiration for the students’ decision to go back to school: “By making this far-reaching decision, you took up a challenge that you have now successfully met. Today, you have reached the top. With the knowledge you have acquired and your great commitment, you now have the right instruments available to satisfy the rigorous requirements of safe and economical animal feed production.” He said that the goal was on the one hand to meet consumers’ needs for hygienic feeds that are safe for humans and animals alike. On the other hand, he said that companies were increasingly facing the challenge of producing and marketing feeds more efficiently and especially more responsibly while meeting legal regulations and directives.

A Russian as the best in class
Ernst Nef personally handed each graduate their diploma, adding some amusing personal anecdote to his congratulations. It has become a tradition for the SFT to distinguish the student with the highest grade during each diploma-awarding ceremony. This year the award in the form of a commemorative plaque went to the Russian Grigory Khoroshchenko, who attended the course in German – a foreign language for him. Grigory Khoroshchenko works as an Area Manager Feed & Biomass in the Bühler branch office in Moscow. Peter Hofer, Vice President of the School Board of the SFT, congratulated the best in class for his outstanding average grade of 5.54 (out of 6) and handed him the traditional pewter plaque.

New concept
The Diploma Course on Feed Manufacturing Technology was held for the second time on the basis of a new concept. The course starts in the spring with a 15-week preparatory correspondence course. This is followed by a four-week intensive course in Uzwil. In the autumn, the second block is then held with a preparatory correspondence course of the same length and the final intensive block in Uzwil. In the two preparatory courses, the students must deal with 21 different subjects. During the two intensive courses, they must pass a total of 14 written exams. The highlight and completion of each individual block are the two verbal examinations in the core subjects in front of a panel of experts. The new concept reduces the students’ absence from their jobs.
The 33^rd Specialist Course in Feed Manufacturing Technology will start in January 2015 and be held in English.

Focus on practice
The SFT is a not-for-profit association that is recognized by the Swiss Feed Manufacturers Association (VSF) as an institution of training and continuing education. The goal of the SFT is to impart practice-oriented specialist knowledge on feed production to professionals from the feed manufacturing industry and related industries. Successful completion of the Diploma Course enables graduates to understand all the modern production processes in a feed manufacturing plant and to apply them meaningfully in practice. Bühler, the international Technology Group, is the partner of the SFT. More than 500 students from 65 countries have so far successfully completed the Specialist Course in Feed Manufacturing Technology. (pd)

Ernst Nef, School Director of the SFT (2nd from the right); Soeren Overgaard, Head of the Bühler Feed & Biomass Business Unit and President of the SFT School Board (right); and SFT Members of the School Board Urs Wuest (2nd from the left) and Peter Hofer (left) congratulate the best in class of the 32nd Diploma Course, Grigory Khoroshchenko from Russia (center).

The 12 students of the 32nd Specialist Course in Feed Manufacturing Technology with their instructors and the Managing Committee of the Swiss Institute of Feed Technology (SFT).

For more information, please contact:

Ernst Nef, School Director SFT, phone +41 71 955 33 63, e-mail sft.uzwil@buhlergroup.com

The company's location, next to the former flour mill Neumühle Otto Gräf, is situated in the Lahn valley of Hessen in Germany not far from Frankfurt/Main airport.

The company founder, Construction and master miller Dieter Otto Gräf started the company in 1992 with the patented vibration dampening technology to drastically reduce cereal temper time and energy cost.

To supplement its well known patented vibration dampening system for grain temper time reduction, the company offers a global assortment of systems for complete online process control:

• exact automatic moisture controllers and water dosage units ;
• precise continuous flow metering systems for granular or powdery bulk solids;
• accurate online temperature, moisture, protein and specific weight control systems;
• cereal and granular bulk solids heating cabinets;
• intensive powder hydration mixers;
• online colour control techniques for powdery bulk materials.

Analysts said the data may lessen the pressure on the central bank to ease its monetary policies to spur growth.

"Overall, the Thailand economy is in a pretty good shape right now," Rahul Bajoria, an economist with Barclays Capital told the BBC.

"It is unlikely that the central bank will cut rates anytime soon. The numbers clearly indicate that there is no urgent need to do that."

Inflation concerns

The floods in Thailand had an impact on some of the biggest industrial areas and resulted in many factories being shut.

That hurt Thailand's exports, one of the biggest drivers of its economic growth.

To make matters worse, a slowdown in demand from key global markets also hurt the export sector.

As a result, Thailand's government implemented various steps to help stoke domestic demand in an attempt to offset the decline in exports and sustain growth in the economy.

It raised minimum wages in various parts of the country, in some areas by as much as 40%.

The government also announced plans to spend 2tn Thai baht ($65bn; £40bn) on infrastructure projects after the devastating floods.

For its part, Thailand's central bank, the Bank of Thailand, cut interest rates in October last year, bringing down its key rate to 2.75% from 3%.

Analysts said that given the strong domestic demand and increased government spending, a rise in consumer prices remained a concern and may prompt the central bank to keep rates on hold in the short term.

"Domestic demand momentum is certainly picking up and this will spill over into 2013," said Eugene Leow of DBS Bank.

"The focus will likely turn towards inflation, especially considering the robust growth numbers."

Source: BBC News

Today, FEFAC states: "While pig feed production dropped by 2%, cattle and poultry feed have seen their production grow respectively by +1.5 and +1%. As a consequence, poultry feed consolidated its position of leading segment of EU compound feed production slightly above pig feed".

According to FEFAC, the most important factors which weighed on EU feed demand in 2012 were the still fragile economic situation of the pig sector and soaring feed material costs.

"Among the largest producing countries, Germany and UK performed rather well, with annual growth slightly above 2%, while France and Poland remained stable and Spain, Italy and the Netherlands saw their production fall at rates between -1 and -2%. Production of poultry feed in Southern Europe was affected in particular by the implementation of the new welfare standards for laying hens", stated FEFAC.

"The high cereal prices over the last two years contributed to improving the competitive market position of industrial compound feed production vs. home mixing. However, this gain was offset to a certain extent by the development of alternative pig feeding strategies based on roughly grinded feed and liquid feeding. As a result, Germany’s position as leading EU country in terms of total compound feed production before France was strengthened, with Spain scoring third place", added FEFAC.

For 2013, FEFAC expects a stabilisation in poultry feed production, a further reduction in pig feed production (-1%) and a slight increase in cattle feed demand (+1%).

"Further market uncertainties are linked to the impact of the implementation of the new group-housing requirements for sows. Overall, compound feed production is expected to remain unchanged vs. 2012", commented FEFAC.

FEFAC also warned that, with agricultural commodity prices expected to stay high, the average cost for supply of feed materials could be higher in 2013, as compared to 2012.

"After two major crop failures for soybean in South and North America, a record harvest for soybean is expected in Brazil in 2013, but its positive impact may be undermined by the storage and logistics issues it could trigger. On the cereals side, the uncertainty is still important regarding the quantity and quality of the next harvest, due to bad weather conditions in major exporting countries", it said.

Source: Feedinfo News Service

Alexandra de Athayde, IFIF Executive Director, explains, “the Feed Manual is designed to increase safety and feed quality at the production level both for industrial production and on farm mixing.” Ms de Athayde added, “We are very pleased that we have launched the Chinese language version of the Feed Manual. China is the number one producer of animal feed today and only by working together can we continue to ensure feed and food safety, while meeting the demands of 60% more food for 9 billion people by 2050 and to do so sustainably.”

The English and Chinese versions of the Feed Manual are available for download at www.ifif.org. An Arabic, French and Spanish language version of the Manual will be launched later in 2013.

The SFIS project is designed to measure and establish the role of specialty feed ingredients on the environmental impact of livestock production and the Scientific Council will provide independent expert advice on the project during the course of the work in order to ensure scientifically robust inputs in the analysis and prepare the ground for a future peer reviewed publication of the project output once it is completed.

Prof. Dr. Matthias Finkbeiner, Chair of Sustainable Engineering at the Technical University Berlin and Chairman of the SFIS Scientific Council, welcomes the “involvement of globally renowned experts in such an important project, which aims to contribute to global activities in the area of the environmental effect of livestock production.” Prof. Finkbeiner added “the Members of the Council would provide expert review for results of the projects, which will be shared with international stakeholders and with feed chain operators in order to encourage more sustainable livestock production globally.”

India’s millers have much to add to the efficient production of feedingstuffs in this diverse 1.3 billion population market. That is why Perenealde Publishers Limited of the UK and Assocom of India have joined together to bring the first Global Milling Conference, set down for Chennai, India from February 7-9, 2013.

“To gain first hand information, to network and to assess this important marketplace, a visit to the 1^st Global Milling Conference is a must for anyone working in the feed industry at a multi-national level,” says Roger Gilbert, publisher of Perendale Publishers’ magazine Grain and Feed Milling Technology.

He says the Indian market is so important internationally that his company has set up printing and distribution arrangements within India for its milling title this year.

“Attending this conference, which covers all aspects of milling, from feed to food, will not only be valuable in terms of understanding a market potential, but also offer presentations that deal with the latest developments in all aspects of milling in one place.”

The cost of attending is between US$1500-2000, including airfares, depending on your originating country. Details of the event’s venue, its program and other information can be found on its website at: http://assocom-india.com/gmc/index.php

Many companies have set up base in Asia Pacific, bringing innovative products and technological advancements to developing markets. Their state-of-the-art capabilities enable them to offer customised, efficient, cost-effective solutions with superior nutritional benefits to farmers in the region.

"These global participants' best practices have raised the standards and practices of the industry," said Frost & Sullivan Industry analyst Anjaneya Reddy. "However, with the outlook for the Asia Pacific economy still dim, feed suppliers have had to cut costs to maintain their customer base."

Farmers also prefer fresh feed over fortified or supplemented fodder for animals, as they have access to fresh feed across seasons. Additionally, farmers prefer alternatives to fortified food because their higher prices tend to shrink their already thin margins.

Concrete measures by the industry and the government to market the efficacy benefits of feed ingredients to farmers will boost adoption and expand the market.

"Suppliers must focus on creating awareness of the benefits of feed fortification, such as its ability to extend shelf-life, keep animals in good health, and provide quality products like meat and eggs," noted Reddy. "Organisations and various associations could also customize ingredients to suit the needs of the farmers, as well as take advantage of the safe image of various feed ingredients for branding purposes."

Courtesy of Far Eastern Agriculture