Feed Compounder | September/October 2024

CFE Group holds a highly successful two day seminar at the Mercure Hotel and CFE’s pioneering facility in Haydock See page 26

RAW MATERIAL QUALITY

The smart alternative to propionic acid Selko Fylax Grain is a microbial inhibitor that is highly efficacious at low dosage rates saving you money. It is less volatile than straight propionic acid making its effects longer lasting, and it has the added benefit that it also has an inhibitive effect on enterobacteria.

Low Cost

Dual Action

Longer Acting

Highly efficacious at low dosage rates of 0.5-2kg / mT

Microbial inhibitor that also has an effect on enterobacteria

Less volatile leading to longer-lasting treatment

Learn more at www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

FEED

September/October 2024

COMPOUNDER

Vol. 44 No. 5

PUBLISHED BY: Pentlands Publishing Ltd Plas Y Coed Velfrey Road Whitland SA34 0RA United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 1994 240002 Web site: www.feedcompounder.com E-mail: mail@feedcompounder.com

EDITOR: Ryan Mounsey

COMMENT

Contents Opinion: Living with the Consequences of Progress

2

Ryan Mounsey: Feed Production Update

4

Colin Ley: View from Europe

12

Matthew Wedzerai: Scientifically Speaking …

16

Christine Pedersen: Milk Matters

18

Robert Ashton: Ten Ways to Broaden Your Horizons

20

Green Pages

22

Feed Trade Topics From the Island of Ireland

ForFarmers First Half Results

25

A Highly Successful Two Day Seminar Held by CFE Group

26

CFE CEO 1,000+ Mile Charity Cycle

27

Myycotoxin Risks Call for ‘Ultimate’ Action

28

With Patrick Beyeler

Meta-Analysis on Mycosorb® and Layer Performance

30

By Dr. Alexandra Weaver

ADVERTISEMENT/SALES MANAGER: Fiona Mounsey

Company Profile: Lallemand Animal Nutrition

32

Effective Grain Preservation Brings Economic and Sustainability Benefits

34

By Lauren James

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: Sophie Mounsey

Attention to Detail Needed to Get the Most from Silage

35

Mycotoxins General Information, Emerging Mycotoxins and Co-Occurrence

36

By Jolien van Soest

Energising Cows Goes a Long Way

40

By Dr Philip Ingram

SUBSCRIPTION RATES: One year: £80 Two years: £150 Three years: £200

Plan for Mycotoxin Threat

42

With Alicia Wilson

In Brief

44

What Makes a Good Premix

47

With dsm-firmenich ISSN 0950-771X Views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Publisher. © Feed Compounder 2024

Feed Ingredients: Protein Products

48

Are Companies Mismanaging Feed and Waste Priorities?

51

With Richard Lee

Feed Production Machinery, Pelleting & Extruding

52

EuroTier 2024 Trade Fair’s Topics Attract Interest

54

Preview of Eurotier

56

People

60

Buyers’ Guide

62 Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 1

Opinion LIVING WITH THE CONSEQUENCES OF PROGRESS One step forward and two steps back is obviously a negative. How

The second report featured another two steps forward, one step

about two steps forward and one step back? While not ideal, this is the

back, scenario, in which the development of free-range egg production,

sort of development compromise that often gets signed off in search

so loved by consumers, found itself under close examination for possibly

of ‘the greater good’.

adding to soil and water quality concerns in the Wye and Usk River

The fact that food and feed producers often have to cope with

catchment areas of England and Wales.

such dilemmas, usually created by a new policy directive or consumer

Commissioned by the British Egg Industry Council (BEIC), the

pressure, was highlighted recently by a couple of developments where

report covered 42 pages of detailed investigation into the impact of 14

the pursuit of a seemingly progressive objective turned out to include

different free-range egg production units, all of which had been identified

more than a share of downsides.

as ‘high risk’ within the Wye and Usk catchment.

First up was a report from Hertfordshire-based Rothamsted

Based on a number of paired soil samples, taken on 17 separate

Research which revealed that modern wheat varieties, bred for all the

occasions, and water samples, taken on 11 occasions, it was

best forward-looking reasons, have been found to be lacking some of

concluded that the majority of poultry units studied had no significant

the sustainability qualities which existed in their ancestral counterparts.

direct impact on the quality of the relevant watercourses, which were

Apparently, while modern wheats were bred to thrive in high-input

also sampled.

systems, their forward-facing success was gained at the expense of

BEIC’s subsequent comment stressed that causes of pollution

a significant reduction in the numbers of beneficial bacteria living on

in both the Rivers Wye and Usk had fuelled an on-going debate

or around their root systems. That was fine, of course, for as long as

for some years, alongside allegations made that nutrient run-off

producers were able to rely on nutritional inputs to maintain yields but

from free range egg production units was a major contributor to the

not so good now that the same farmers are being urged to transition

deterioration of the rivers’ water quality. The Council report was

back to more climate sensitive and lower-input cropping systems.

carried out therefore to address what was described as a lack of

Where modern wheats have complex genomes with either four

scientific evidence concerning such allegations, to better understand

(tetraploid) or six (hexaploid) sets of chromosomes, due to extensive

what impact free-range production may be having on river water

crossing and interbreeding, ancestral varieties relied on simpler

quality and, thereby, what steps might be taken to ameliorate any

genomes with only two (diploid) sets of chromosomes.

identified problems.

While there’s a bit more science to work through to complete this

As it is, BEIC pointed out that the conclusion reached showed

story (for which there’s insufficient space here), the conclusion is that

that any increase in nutrient levels in the sampled soils was ‘relatively

the microbiota of ancestral crops may once again offer a way to enhance

modest’ and broadly as expected of managed agricultural soils across

sustainable food production. This could lead to the reintroduction of

England and Wales. In addition, neither the soil nor water samples

key genetic traits into modern wheat from their ancestors. Who would

showed any obvious indication of a link between water quality and

have thought that a few years ago?

free-range egg production.

A good lesson perhaps in not throwing anything away in case it

While this result is clearly positive for poultry farmers in this

comes back into fashion in the years to come. That’s the philosophy,

instance, the sector’s success in giving consumers the free-range

after all, which has driven various farming sectors to establish

systems they desired undoubtedly opened them up to an array of

genebanks over the years to conserve living plant samples from the

water allegations, requiring an extensive investigation to clear the

world’s ancient crops and their wild relatives.

industry’s name.

The potato genebank created by the International Potato Centre in

Both these examples stand as sharp reminders of the fragile

Peru, for example, maintains clonal and seed collections of potato,

balance between winning and losing when seeking to secure the next

sweetpotato, and Andean roots and tubers. Its treasures are kept

product advance or new system development.

secure for the global public good under the guidance of the International

The modern vs ancestral wheat issue was driven by a perception

Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture. Always

of crop improvements, which were entirely correct at the time. The

open to research, education, and breeding requests, the genebank’s

free-range egg move was also a hugely positive development, driven

contents have, to date, been used in breeding programmes in over

essentially by people power.

100 countries, helping to apply some very old solutions to modern

Getting it completely right in such circumstances is rarely easy

day needs to resist disease, provide enhanced nutrition, or survive the

though as, no doubt, those currently immersed in the pursuit of low-

world’s ever-changing soil and climatic conditions.

methane feeds and other low-carbon advances will confirm.

Page 2 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

Comment section is sponsored by Compound Feed Engineering Ltd www.cfegroup.com

Feed Production Update

An increase of 14,100 tonnes or 4.6 per cent from a year previous brought total cattle and calf feed production for June up to 323,400 tonnes, a record high for the month under review. Furthermore, the current total outpaced the decade long average for the month by 16,800 tonnes or 5.3 per cent.

All cattle and calf feed subsectors surpassed their year previous totals for the month under review. Both compounds for dairy cows and

By Ryan Mounsey

cattle protein concentrates were at all-time highs for June: the former had increased from a year earlier by 1,000 tonnes or 0.6 per cent to

GREAT BRITAIN June Production Overview

178,600 tonnes and the latter by 900 tonnes or 15.0 per cent to 6,900

Total production of compounds, blends and concentrates, including

tonnes of output. At 13,800 tonnes, total calf feed production bettered its 2023 return by 1,500 tonnes or 12.2 per cent and all other cattle

integrated poultry units, in Great Britain during June surpassed its year

blends outpaced its year earlier counterpart at a similar rate of 2,600

earlier counterpart by 41,800 tonnes or 3.7 per cent and increased to

tonnes or 11.8 per cent, up to 24,700 tonnes. Production of blends

1,175,000 tonnes, the fourth highest total for the month under review

for dairy cows was at its highest June level in 10 years at 61,800

on record. Additionally, the current total outpaced the 10 year average

tonnes, up 4,900 tonnes or 8.6 per cent on a year earlier. Lastly, all

for June by 11,600 tonnes or 1.0 per cent.

other cattle compounds production grew by 3,200 tonnes or 9.3 per

Total feed production during the month of June 2024 was made

cent from a year previous up to 37,600 tonnes.

up of: 50.6 per cent poultry feed; 27.5 per cent cattle and calf feed;

Total pig feed was the one sector in June that failed to better

14.2 per cent pig feed; 4.3 per cent sheep feed; 1.3 per cent horse

its year previous counterpart. Production fell for the second June in

feed; and 2.1 per cent other feed.

succession to 166,300 tonnes, down 2,500 tonnes or 1.5 per cent

At 594,300 tonnes of output for June, total poultry feed production had surpassed its year earlier return by 18,200 tonnes or

from 2023. This fall brought the current total 2,800 tonnes or 1.7 per cent below the decade long average for the month under review.

3.2 per cent. Despite this increase, the current total was lower than

Despite the sector wide drop, pig-growing compounds surpassed

all but three of the past decade and as such, was 5,000 tonnes or 0.8

its year earlier counterpart by a considerable 5,700 tonnes or 22.4 per

per cent lower than the 10 year average for the month.

cent, up to 31,200 tonnes of output. The sector’s largest element, pig

Chick rearing compounds was the only poultry feed subsector

finishing compounds, also outstripped its year previous total, doing

that fell below its year previous return. It decreased by 1,400 tonnes

so by 400 tonnes or 0.4 per cent and rising to 92,800 tonnes. In

or 11.9 per cent to 10,400 tonnes of output, its lowest for June since

contrast, link and early grower feed production dropped markedly to

2005. On the other hand, turkey feed production, at 6,900 tonnes, had

its lowest total for the month under review since 2005 of 5,700 tonnes,

bettered its year previous return by a considerable 1,300 tonnes or

4,100 tonnes or 41.8 per cent down on a year previous. There was

23.2 per cent and at 98,000 tonnes of output, layers compounds had

also a sizeable decline in the production of pig link and early grower

risen from its 2023 level by 1,600 tonnes or 1.7 per cent. Having fallen

feed from a year earlier as it fell 900 tonnes or 22.5 per cent down

for the previous two Junes, the output of broiler chicken compounds

to 3,100 tonnes, the lowest total for June since records were kept

increased by 11,300 tonnes or 6.3 per cent to 191,300 tonnes. Total

in their current form. Pig breeding compounds output was also at a

integrated poultry units production had surpassed its year earlier

long-term low for the month under review; production had decreased

counterpart for the fourth June in succession; the 214,100 tonnes

by 3,700 tonnes or 10.0 per cent to 33,200 tonnes, the lowest total

produced in the month under review was 3,400 tonnes or 1.6 per cent

for June since 2008.

in excess of a year previous. Finally, poultry breeding and rearing

At 50,600 tonnes, total June sheep feed production had

compounds output matched its year earlier level of 28,600 tonnes.

increased by a notable 11,200 tonnes or 28.4 per cent from a year earlier to its highest total for the month on record. In addition, the

Great Britain June Feed Production

current output outpaced the 10 year average for June by 10,000

1300 1200

tonnes or 21.9 per cent.

1100 1000

The standout figure from the sheep feed sector was a 5,600

900

tonnes or 207.4 per cent rise in the output of compounds for breeding

'000 Tonnes

800 700

sheep, up to a record high 8,300 tonnes. The blends for growing and

600 500

finishing sheep category was also at a record high for the month

400 300

under review. It surpassed its year previous return by 300 tonnes or

200 100 0

4.8 per cent and grew to 6,500 tonnes in production. Compounds for Cattle

Pig

Poultry

Sheep

Horse

Other

Total

2023

309.3

168.8

576.1

39.4

15.1

24.5

1133.2

2024

323.4

166.3

594.3

50.6

15.6

25.0

1175.0

10 year Average

306.6

169.1

599.3

40.6

14.7

33.1

1163.4

Page 4 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

growing and finishing sheep increased by 5,200 tonnes or 17.9 per cent from its 2023 output up to 34,200 tonnes and blends for breeding Comment section is sponsored by Compound Feed Engineering Ltd www.cfegroup.com

FEED INGREDIENT SPECIALISTS

PROCESSING Raw material is processed into finished product.

SHIPPING Chartered vessels transport products into the UK and Ireland.

STORAGE Products stored in strategic locations across both territories.

TRANSPORT Bulk and packed material delivered to mill.

MILL OR FARM Deliveries of any size direct to end user.

> Feed Phosphates

> Magnesium Oxide

> Feed Grade Urea

> Sodium Bicarbonate

> Sodium Carbonate

> Lithothamnium

> Oyster Shell

> Calcified Marine Shells

UK +44 1477 544400 sales@westendagri.com

Ireland +353 21 206 9855 www.westendagri.com

sheep production matched its 2023 return for June of 1,000 tonnes.

half of the calendar year, broiler feed was up 7,500 tonnes or 0.8 per

Total June horse feed production bettered its year previous

cent on a year previous, however, the total under review was still the

output by 500 tonnes or 3.3 per cent and climbed to 15,600 tonnes.

second lowest for the period in eight years. Finally, a 16,800 tonnes

In addition, the total under review was 900 tonnes or 5.9 per cent in

or 3.3 per cent rise in layer feed from a year previous brought the

advance of the decade long average for the month.

current half year total up to 533,700 tonnes.

At 25,000 tonnes of output, total other feed production had risen

Total first half cattle and calf feed production bettered its year

for the second June in succession, in this instance by 500 tonnes or

previous output by 87,700 tonnes or 4.5 per cent and rose to 2,054,700

2.0 per cent. However, due to significantly higher production levels

tonnes. Moreover, the total under review outpaced the decade long

at the beginning of the decade, the current total was a considerable

average for the period by 16,700 tonnes or 0.8 per cent.

8,100 tonnes or 27.9 per cent below the 10 year average for June.

All cattle and calf feed subsectors surpassed their respective

The release of the June figures completed the feed production

year earlier totals and compounds for dairy cows, at 1,062,700 tonnes

statistics for the first half of 2024 which shall be analysed below.

was at its second highest level for the period on record and 15,600 tonnes or 1.5 per cent up on 2023’s H1 output. All other cattle blends production was at its highest level for the time frame in 10 years, its

Half Year Production Overview

output having risen by 38,500 tonnes or 28.0 per cent from a year

Total production of compounds, blends and concentrates, including

earlier to 176,200 tonnes. Having dropped for the past two first half

integrated poultry units, during the first half of 2024 amounted to

periods, total calf feed increased by 7,700 tonnes or 8.8 per cent

6,748,400 tonnes, an increase of 288,000 tonnes or 4.5 per cent from

from a year earlier to 90,400 tonnes. The remaining three sectors all

the corresponding period a year earlier. However, as a result of the

increased from their year earlier at similar rates: blends for dairy cow

higher levels of production in the middle part of the past decade, the

production rose by 15,300 tonnes or 3.9 per cent to 412,200 tonnes;

current total was 110,400 tonnes or 1.6 per cent lower than the 10

all other cattle feed production grew by 8,800 tonnes or 3.4 per cent to

year average for the period under review.

265,700 tonnes; and lastly, the output of protein concentrates for cattle

Total feed production during the first half of 2024 was made up

and calves rose by 2,000 tonnes or 4.4 per cent to 47,400 tonnes.

of: 45.0 per cent poultry feed; 30.4 per cent cattle and calf feed; 13.6

After a sizeable drop in production in the first half of 2023, total

per cent pig feed; 7.5 per cent sheep feed; 1.6 per cent horse feed;

H1 pig feed output surpassed its year earlier return by 14,100 tonnes

and 1.8 per cent other feed.

or 1.6 per cent. Despite this rise, the total under review was 18,300

At 3,039,800 tonnes, total H1 poultry feed production bettered its year earlier counterpart by 156,900 tonnes or 5.4 per cent. Despite this increase, the total under review was 42,300 tonnes or 1.4 per cent down on the 10 year, half year average.

tonnes or 2.0 per cent below the decade long average for the first half of a calendar year.

A greater number of pig feed subsectors fell below their year earlier counterparts than rose above them in the first half of 2024. Pig

Chick rearing feed production was at its lowest H1 level since

starters and creep feed’s first half output was at its lowest level on

2008 of 59,500 tonnes, a decrease of 1,500 tonnes or 2.5 per cent from

record of 16,500 tonnes and was 4,300 tonnes or 20.7 per cent down

the corresponding timeframe of 2023. Poultry breeding and rearing

on its year previous counterpart. Moreover, link and early grower feed

feed was more or less in line with its year earlier equivalent at 150,700

production declined by 18,300 tonnes or 37.2 per cent from its year

tonnes, down just 200 tonnes or 0.1 per cent. Total integrated poultry

earlier return to 30,900 tonnes, its lowest H1 return since 2006. First

units production during the first half of 2024 increased from its year

half pig breeding feed production also declined from a year earlier

previous counterpart by a considerable 122,800 tonnes or 11.9 per

to 196,300 tonnes, 6,100 tonnes or 3.0 per cent down on 2023. In

cent up to 1,152,500 tonnes. There was also a significant growth in

contrast, pig growing feed, at 165,300 tonnes of output, had surpassed

H1 turkey feed production, up 8,400 tonnes or 29.1 per cent from a

its year previous counterpart by 32,400 tonnes or 24.4 per cent. The

year earlier to 37,300 tonnes. At 986,600 tonnes of output in the first

sector’s largest component, pig finishing feed, had also increased from its year earlier levels, doing so by 10,500 tonnes or 2.1 per cent up

Great Britain Half Year Feed Production

to 508,600 tonnes, the second highest H1 return on record. Protein

7000 6500

concentrates for pigs matched its year previous level of 1,400 tonnes.

6000 5500

An increase of 34,200 tonnes or 7.2 per cent from the

5000

corresponding period of 2023 brought total first half sheep feed

4500 '000 Tonnes

4000

production up to 507,700 tonnes. Despite this increase, the total under

3500 3000

review was lower than all but three H1 totals in the past decade and

2500 2000

as such, sat 22,400 tonnes or 4.3 per cent below the decade long

1500 1000

average for the period.

500 0

Cattle

Pig

Poultry

Sheep

Horse

Other

Total

2023

1967.0

904.7

2882.9

473.5

103.4

129.1

6460.4

2024

2054.7

918.8

3039.8

507.7

105.1

122.5

6748.4

10 year Average

2038.1

937.1

3082.05

530.1

98.1

176.4

6858.75

Page 6 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

Compounds for growing and finishing sheep production increased by 11,100 tonnes or 4.8 per cent from a year earlier to 242,000 tonnes.

Comment section is sponsored by Compound Feed Engineering Ltd www.cfegroup.com

The output for both blends for growing and finishing sheep protein

subsectors dropped below their year previous returns. The output of

concentrates for sheep increased sharply from a year previous: the

beef cattle compounds dropped to its lowest level for March since 2016

former’s rose by 4,900 tonnes or 15.2 per cent to 37,100 tonnes and

at 13,200 tonnes, 1,400 tonnes or 9.7 per cent down on a year previous.

the latter’s did so by 700 tonnes or 21.9 per cent, up to 3,900 tonnes.

Production of dairy cow compounds also declined from a year earlier,

At 209,600 tonnes, compounds for breeding sheep production in the

doing so by 2.000 tonnes or 3.0 per cent to 62,400 tonnes. However,

first half of the year surpassed its 2023 counterpart by 16,800 tonnes

this was still the second highest output for the month under review.

or 8.7 per cent. Finally, blends for breeding sheep production rose

Additionally, both other calf compounds and all other cattle compounds

by 800 tonnes or 5.6 per cent from the corresponding period a year

decreased by 100 tonnes from the March of 1013: the former fell to 9,200

earlier to 15,2000 tonnes.

tonnes, a drop of 1.9 per cent and the latter declined to 400 tonnes, a

Total horse feed production surpassed its year earlier half year

drop of 16.8 per cent. In contrast, beef coarse mixes or blends surpassed

output by 1,700 tonnes or 1.6 per cent and rose to 105,100 tonnes.

its year earlier return by 4,900 tonnes or 20.6 per cent and rose to its

Furthermore, the current total was 7,000 tonnes or 6.9 per cent in

highest March total on record of 28,800 tonnes. Moreover, output of

excess of the 10 year H1 average.

dairy coarse mixes or blends increased to its highest level for March of

At 122,500 tonnes of output, total first half other feed was the

30,700 tonnes, up 1,000 tonnes or 3.3 per cent from a year previous.

only feed sector where production fell below its respective year

Protein concentrates for cattle and calf remained at its year earlier output

previous total, doing so by 6,600 tonnes or 5.1 per cent. Additionally,

of 300 tonnes for the month.

this decline dropped the total under review 53,900 tonnes or 36.1

An increase of 3,400 tonnes or 4.1 per cent brought total poultry

per cent below the 10 year average for the timeframe, the fourth

feed production for the month under review to an unmatched 85,400

successive year where this has occurred.

tonnes. This rise brought 2024’s output 12,100 tonnes or 16.6 per cent

Feed production in the first half of 2024 returned near to the long

above the 10 year average for March.

term average and with all sectors asides from other feed bettering

All poultry feed subsectors bettered their year previous returns. Both

their year previous total this trend looks set to continue throughout the

layer and breeder feed and chick rearing feeds outputs were at record

remainder of the year.

levels for March; the former had risen by 1,500 tonnes or 4.5 per cent from a year previous to 34,600 tonnes and the latter had done so by 200 tonnes or 8.4 per cent to 3,000 tonnes. Broiler feed production was at its

NORTHERN IRELAND March Production Overview

second highest total for the month at 44,800 tonnes, an increase of 500

Total production of compounds, blends and concentrates in Northern Ireland during March rose by 6,100 tonnes or 2.3 per cent from the corresponding month a year previously to a record high of 270,300 tonnes. Additionally, the total under review was 27,800 tonnes or 11.4 per cent greater than the decade long average for March.

Total feed production during the month of March 2024 was made up of: 53.6 per cent cattle and calf feed; 31.6 per cent poultry feed; 8.3 per cent pig feed; 3.8 per cent sheep feed; and 2.8 per cent other feed.

Total cattle and calf feed production was at a record high for March of 145,000 tonnes and had bettered its year previous return by 2,200 tonnes or 1.6 per cent. In addition, the current total outpaced the decade long average for the month by a significant 15,700 tonnes or 12.1 per cent.

Despite the overall upturn, the majority of cattle and calf feed

earlier, up to 3,100 tonnes, the highest output for the subsector since 2020.

Having fallen for the last two Marches in succession, total pig feed production matched its year previous output of 20,100 tonnes. The total under review was just 50 tonnes or 0.1 per cent lower than the decade long average for the month.

At 2,900 tonnes of production, pig breeding feed output was 300 tonnes or 12.1 per cent greater than in the corresponding month a year previous. In addition, both the pig link and early grower feed and pig finishing feed subsectors bettered their year earlier production by 400 tonnes, a growth of 12.3 per cent up to 3,400 tonnes and of 16.1 per cent up to 2,600 tonnes respectively. In contrast, the output from the remaining two categories decreased by 500 tonnes apiece. Pig growing output dropped by 6.3 per cent to 7,900 tonnes.

280 260

Total sheep feed was the one sector where March output decreased

240 220

from its year previous total. Current production, at 11,600 tonnes was

200 180 '000 Tonnes

output increased by a substantial 1,200 tonnes or 60.1 per cent from a year

feed output fell by 14.0 per cent to 3,000 tonnes and pig finishing feed

Northern Ireland March Feed Production

500 tonnes or 4.3 per cent lower than in 2023 and, moreover, was 400

160 140

tonnes or 3.4 per cent down on the 10 year average for March.

120 100

Production of breeding sheep compounds declined for the third

80 60

March in succession as the total under review had decreased by 500

40 20 0

tonnes or 1.2 per cent from 2023. Lastly, turkey and other poultry feed

tonnes or 7.4 per cent to 6,600 tonnes. Coarse mixes or blends for sheep Cattle

Pig

Poultry

Sheep

Other

Total

2023

142.7

20.1

82.0

12.1

7.2

264.2

2024

145.0

20.1

85.4

11.6

8.2

270.3

10 year Average

129.3

20.1

73.2

12.0

7.9

242.5

Page 8 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

output also fell from its 2023 level to 1,600 tonnes, down 200 tonnes or 13.3 per cent from a year earlier. However, production of growing and Comment section is sponsored by Compound Feed Engineering Ltd www.cfegroup.com

CJ BIO Booth No. CJ BIO Booth No.

21C26 21C26

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 9

finishing compounds for sheep rose to its highest March return in four

up 12,000 tonnes or 5.4 per cent from a year earlier. Furthermore, the

years at 3,400 tonnes, up 300 tonnes or 8.3 per cent from a year previous.

total under review bettered the decade long average for the timeframe

Total other feed production surpassed its year earlier counterpart by

by 28,400 tonnes or 13.7 per cent.

a considerable 1,000 tonnes or 14.3 per cent and rose to 8,200 tonnes.

All poultry subsectors surpassed their year previous returns for

As a result, the total under review was 300 tonnes or 4.3 per cent greater

the period under review. Broiler feed output was at a record high of

than the decade long average for March.

126,700 tonnes, up 5,600 tonnes or 4.6 per cent from its 2023 level.

With all sectors, bar sheep feed, matching or bettering their 2023

Layer and breeder feed and chick rearing feed production were both also

outputs for March and total output at a record high for the month under

at unprecedented outputs for the quarter: the former surpassed its year

review, Northern Irish feed production for the first quarter was rounded

previous total by 4,00 tonnes or 4.5 per cent and rose to 91,800 tonnes

off in strong fashion. The quarter as a whole is analysed below.

and the latter did so by 1,200 tonnes or 5.1 per cent up to 8,900 tonnes.

Finally, Q1 turkey and other poultry feed production, at 8,200 tonnes,

First Quarter Production Overview

surpassed its corresponding year earlier return by a considerable 1,300

Total production of compounds, blends and concentrates in Northern

tonnes or 18.7 per cent.

Ireland during the first quarter of 2024 amounted to 753,900 tonnes, a

Having fallen significantly in 2023, total first quarter pig feed

record total for the period and 39,300 tonnes or 4.9 per cent up on the

production rose by 2,300 tonnes or 4.0 per cent from a year previous to

year previous first quarter. Moreover, the total under review was 66,200

60,100 tonnes. Due to greater outputs for a number of years at the turn

tonnes or 9.6 per cent in excess of the decade long average for the period.

of the decade, the current total was a less considerable 1,000 tonnes or

Total feed production during the first quarter of 2024 was made

1.8 per cent greater than the 10 year average for the quarter.

up of: 54.1 per cent cattle and calf feed; 31.3 per cent poultry feed; 8.0

A decline of 1,000 tonnes or 9.5 per cent from a year earlier dropped

per cent pig feed; 3.8 per cent sheep feed; and 2.9 per cent other feed.

Q1 pig growing feed production to 9,500 tonnes, its lowest return for the

For the second year in succession, total Q1 cattle and calf feed

period in 10 years. First quarter pig finishing feed also fell below its year

production reached unparalleled highs. The current total, at 407,700

previous counterpart, down 300 tonnes or 1.1 per cent to 23,800 tonnes.

tonnes, surpassed the previous record by 19,300 tonnes or 5.0 per cent.

The remaining subsectors all increased considerably from their respective

Furthermore, the 10 year average for the first quarter was bettered by

year previous outputs: pig breeding feed for the period under review rose

38,300 tonnes or 10.4 per cent.

by 700 tonnes or 9.0 per cent to 8,100 tonnes; pig starter and creep feed

Despite the overall increase, the output of all other cattle compounds

production grew by 1,500 tonnes or 23.0 per cent to 8,300 tonnes; and

dropped 100 tonnes or 3.3 per cent to its joint lowest level for the period

lastly, Q1 pig link and early grower feed rose by 1,300 tonnes or 14.9 per

of 1,300 tonnes. Beef cattle compounds production also fell below its year

cent to 10,300 tonnes, the second highest total for the timeframe on record.

previous counterpart by 1,400 tonnes or 3.3 per cent to 41,100 tonnes, its

At 28,400 tonnes of production, total sheep feed was the only sector

lowest total for the timeframe since 2017. On the other hand, all remaining

in which production had declined below its year previous counterpart. The

cattle and calf subsectors were at record high levels for the period apart

drop of 1,400 tonnes or 4.8 per cent brought the total under review 1,100

from cattle protein concentrates, which surpassed its year previous return

tonnes or 3.7 per cent lower than the decade long first quarter average.

by 200 tonnes or 20.5 per cent and rose to 1,000 tonnes. The sector’s

In spite of this decrease, Q1 growing and finishing sheep

largest category, dairy cow compounds, rose by 400 tonnes or 0.2 per cent

compounds production rose for the third year in succession to 8,800

up to 170,300 tonnes; beef coarse mixes of blends production increased

tonnes, an increase of 700 tonnes or 8.5 per cent from a year previous.

by a notable 15,100 tonnes or 21.2 per cent from the corresponding period

However, output of coarse mixes fell by a significant 1,600 tonnes or

a year previous to 84,000 tonnes; and lastly, other calf compounds output

26.1 per cent to 4,500 tonnes, the lowest total for the period since 2001.

rose by 600 tonnes or 2.5 per cent to 26,700 tonnes.

In addition, production of breeding sheep compounds dropped for the

Total poultry feed production in the first quarter of 2024 was also at a record high for the period. The current total of 235,600 tonnes was

its year previous counterpart by 3,100 tonnes or 16.2 per cent. However,

750

this rise was not great enough to lift it above the 10 year average for the

700 650 600

period, which it remained 500 tonnes or 2.1 per cent below.

550 500 '000 Tonnes

cent from the corresponding total in 2023.

At 22,200 tonnes, total first quarter other feed production outstripped

Northern Ireland Q1 Feed Production 800

Following record outputs in both March and February and with

450 400

January production in 2024 at its third highest level, it is unsurprising that

350 300

first quarter feed production is at unmatched levels. Only the sheep feed

250 200

sector fell below both its year earlier output and the long term average

150 100

whereas cattle and calf feed and poultry feed production were both at

50 0

third first quarter in a row to 1,000 tonnes, a fall of 500 tonnes or 3.5 per

Cattle

Pig

Poultry

Sheep

Other

Total

2023

388.3

57.8

223.5

29.8

19.1

718.6

2024

407.7

60.1

235.6

28.4

22.2

753.9

10 year Average

369.3

59.0

207.2

29.5

22.7

687.8

Page 10 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

record highs. As such it seems likely that Northern Irish feed output could reach record levels this year.

Comment section is sponsored by Compound Feed Engineering Ltd www.cfegroup.com

oral

Supporting manufacturers since 1976 with solutions in bulk handling, storage, and pneumatic and mechanical conveying, we have a wealth of experience for you to rely upon.

Design and Implementation     

Ongoing Support     

New system solutions Modifications to systems Software improvements Minor ingredient additions Water dosing solutions

Servicing and Maintainance     

Critical Spares and Parts Emergency repairs DSEAR Reports Site surveys Fault finding

croston-engineering.co.uk

Equipment Servicing Silo and pipeline cleaning Infestation works Calibration and certification Continuity and Earth testing

01829 741119 admin@croston-engineering.co.uk

Global intelligence, localised. Result,

SERIOUS PROCESSING

POWER In your quest for profitable, sustainable production draw on our global resources and leading-edge science. They provide you with relevant insights to help you make complex decisions with confidence. We’re just a phone call or an email away.

The most important additive is intelligence

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 11

biomass tank. There was also a call for greater attention to be applied to

View From Europe

By Colin Ley

alternative protein sources, such as insects or algae with low agricultural land requirements. The argument was that these need to be more widely used in the production of feed for livestock such as cattle, pigs or poultry.

Many within our industry will argue that we are already well down the insect/algae development road. Insect protein, after all, has been authorised by the European Union as supplementary feed for pig and poultry since 2021.

Autumn pursuits, pleasures, and pressures This is the point in the year when anyone in the feed business who is fortunate enough to attend specialist industry events for a living, switches from their summer holidays to a new autumn round of conferences and exhibitions.

Not so much fun, I guess, if you end up spending a week on a sales stand which fails to draw the crowds you were hoping for, but generally a few days at SPACE in northwest France or EuroTier in Hannover, Germany, adds a certain appeal to the coming schedule. Other events are available, of course, and plenty of them.

As a long-time observer and commentator on the industry, I’ve always had the luxury of being able to choose what to focus on at such events and what to ignore. The free-range approach always worked best for me, rather than trying to understand or appreciate something

The EuroTier point, nevertheless, was that important questions for the sector remain, one being that many insect species eat the same things as humans. This raises the challenge for product developers to use insects that feed on substances that are inedible to humans as their base for the next generation of alternative proteins. That will involve dealing with the potential lowering of feed quality from such sources if we’re to avoid an equivalent lowering of economic efficiency.

For those who are gearing up for a week on a EuroTier sales stand, hopefully fully loaded with visitors at all times, the feed-focused blurb concluded with the promise that ‘leading companies from the national and international animal feed industry, plus start-ups, will be demonstrating how innovative feed and new production processes can be used to meet the demands of responsible livestock feeding’. So, there you have it. It’s good to know what your potential customers will be expecting when they appear on your EuroTier stand.

just because it was billed as a ‘headline act’ or had been funded by a ‘look at me’ budget. Often, the genuinely good stuff is tucked away in

SPACE

the corner of an expo hanger, largely because it’s a piece of innovation

Lining up to attend SPACE, located next to Rennes, are no fewer than

created by a visionary developer who has already spent all his or her

163 animal feed exhibitors, all listed for the September 17-19 programme

cash on merely being there.

and chasing an estimated 12,000 visitors, drawn from 120 countries.

Adopting a similar look and see approach to event previews also

In addition to promising a vast array of both innovative and

works. For example, a recent animal feed sales pitch for EuroTier

established feed products and processes, the event’s programme

(November 12-15) proved to be a particularly engaging read. Headlined

includes a two-part seminar focus dealing with the use of Agri-Food

a ‘Showcase for innovative animal feed solutions’ the publicity blurb

Co-Products in Animal Feed.

addressed the challenge of reducing land for feed cultivation, the need

The first session is backed by the ‘taster comment’ that agri-food

to apply efficient feed management to livestock production, and the task

co-products represent good technical, financial and local opportunities.

of exploring alternative protein sources.

It is also declared that seminar one speakers will examine ‘the crucial

The call for action for farmers to make feed production fit their

importance of co-products to agriculture’s circular and sustainable future’.

available land resources was delivered with the sharp reminder that the

Session two, meanwhile, will address the current regulatory

amount of arable land available per person worldwide is decreasing at

framework for co-products, looking at how standards and regulations

an enormous rate. This is due, of course, largely to farmland being lost

are evolving in relation to sustainable food production and the use of

to urbanisation to accommodate the world’s burgeoning population. In

agri-food co-products in livestock farming.

1970, for example, the then global population of four billion had 3,800 square metres each available to be used on their behalf by food and feed

SIAL

producers. By 2023, the equivalent people-to-land figure was down to

Another attractive stop on the autumn exhibition round is SIAL, the

1,800 square metres each. It can only get worse as the century progresses.

Paris-based international food and farm products event which will be

The EuroTier blurb also pointed out that farm animals currently

celebrating its 60th anniversary on October 19-23.

consume around a third of the world’s grain harvest and more than 80%

This is an annual coming together of a massive number of exhibitors

of the world’s soya bean production, going on to declare that competition

and delegates in the French capital with a tried and tested reputation for

between humans and animals for scarce resources must be avoided or

quality. The preview item which recently caught my attention, however,

at least reduced.

probably for negative feed sector reasons, carried the headline: Alternative proteins on the rise.

Alternatives

The piece went on to declare that one of the most exciting SIAL

One proposed solution was that biomass needs to be used in order of

innovation trends this year has been a definite surge in alternative

priority: first for humans, second for animals, and third for placing into a

protein products.

Page 12 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

Comment section is sponsored by Compound Feed Engineering Ltd www.cfegroup.com

MetAMINO® ATLAS Edition 2 – out now!

Download the MetAMINO® ATLAS here:

F Dow ree meta nload at mino .com

The cited SIAL example was a range of 3D-printed plant-based steaks which were described as having caught the attention of industry experts and consumers alike. They were also presented as being part of a new wave of plant-based products which were proving crucial in overcoming past consumer scepticism.

“This new wave of more complex products will help get consumers back on track and showcase the promise of even more cool and tasty stuff to come,” added SIAL.

Visit EUROus at TIER Hall 2 2 | Boo

th C1

8

As someone who has toured the Paris exhibition venue over many years (not the full 60, I hasten to add) the thought of exchanging a printed steak for the wonderful ‘real’ offerings provided by red meat trade associations representing farmers in France, Germany, The Netherlands, Britain, and so on, just doesn’t add up.

IMPROVE ANIMAL PERFORMANCE WITH OUR KNOWLEDGE AND SOLUTIONS Orffa develops, customizes, sources and offers feed additives and feed additive concepts for the global animal nutrition market

£38 million boost Unfortunately, for our industry at least, the alternative proteins movement also got a boost in late August with the announcement that a £38m centre is to be created in the UK to focus on the development of alternatives to animal proteins made from plants, fungi, algae and meat grown in labs.

The planned National Alternative Protein Innovation Centre (NAPIC) will be backed by £15m from the UK’s Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and Innovate UK. Additional funding will be provided by three English universities (Sheffield, Leeds and Imperial College, London) and the Scotland-based Hutton Institute, all of whom will be involved in the Centre’s future development.

There was a ‘real meat’ positive in the NAPIC announcement,

At Orffa we are committed to advancing animal health and nutrition through our innovative solutions in:

GUT HEALTH & IMMUNITY Enhancing animal well-being and resilience

however, namely that with the global population projected to reach nearly 10 billion over the next 25 years, meat consumption, in the broadest sense of that description, is forecast to grow by up to 50 per cent by 2050.

Cats and dogs The Council of the European Union and the European Parliament are working together to prepare the groundwork for future legislation to

FEED EFFICIENCY Optimizing feed utilization for better productivity

improve the welfare of cats and dogs, focusing on how they’re bred, kept by breeders, and traded.

Under current proposals, for example, anyone who wants to place a cat or a dog onto the EU market will have to ensure that it is

MINERAL NUTRITION Ensuring balanced nutrition for optimal growth and performance

microchipped for traceability purposes, a move designed to establish minimum standards to harmonise the EU market.

The move recognises the enormous growth in pet ownership in recent years, a development which has obviously led to an equivalent growth in petfood products.

Currently, according to official Council figures, EU citizens own

Join us as we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in animal health and nutrition.

more than 72 million dogs and more than 83 million cats. The estimated value of cat and dog sales is €1.3 billion annually with 74% of Europeans reported to believe that the welfare of companion animals in their own countries needs to be better protected.

Existing EU legislation only applies to cats and dogs which are either

Engineering Feed Solutions www.orffa.com - Follow us on

Page 14 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

intended for scientific purposes, transported for commercial purposes or to prevent the spread of rabies and other contagious diseases. Member states’ national rules vary greatly in each of these areas. The new Council proposal is designed to create a ‘level-playing field’ for all sector operators.

Comment section is sponsored by Compound Feed Engineering Ltd www.cfegroup.com

As a closing word on this, while there is no mention of feed in relation to this particular Council/European Parliament plan, history tells us that although most new pieces of EU legislation invariably start small, few stay that way for long.

Farmer-Centred EU Agricultural Policy Remaining with the Council of the European Union, the arrival of Hungary as the latest holder of the body’s rotating presidency, appears set to herald a fresh farmer-centred approach to EU farm policy.

Stating that European agriculture may have never faced as many

NEWPORT

FEEDS

challenges as it does today, the new presidency has declared that it is essential to view agriculture not as a cause of climate change, but as part of the solution. This, it was suggested, will be achieved by engaging farmers in adopting more sustainable production practices.

During the Hungarian presidency, therefore, which runs until December 31, the aim is to ‘encourage’ the European Commission’s Agriculture and Fisheries Council to pursue the creation of future policies that will produce an EU agriculture industry that is competitive, crisisproof and farmer-friendly.

Giving each member state its turn at the top of the Council certainly expands the scope for fresh ideas and attitudes. They may not work, or be deliverable in a mere six months, but at least there’s a chance for something new to be given an airing. That must be a positive, surely.

A NEW BULK SUPPLY CHAIN FACILITY

SODIUM BICARBONATE SODIUM CARBONATE CALCINED MAGNESITE PHOSPHATES

EU yield cuts Finally, back to the here and now in Europe with the region’s cereals harvest beginning to reveal the production ‘woes’ that were always going to follow this year’s largely damaging weather patterns.

According to the European Commission’s late August MARS report on crop development in EU member states and neighbouring countries, the outlook for total cereals this year remains poor with yields estimated to be 5.36 tonne per hectare, which is 0.12 t/ha below the five-year average.

Although harvest is still in process across the EU, the Commission has, therefore, already reduced yield estimates for soft wheat, barley (winter and spring), and maize.

As analysed by the UK’s Agricultural and Horticultural Development Board (AGDB), the downward yield revision for winter crops can be largely attributed to excessively wet conditions across western and northern Europe, aligned with dry weather in eastern Europe.

Unfavourable weather conditions also continued during the summer with the Baltic countries being hit by ‘considerable rainfall’ which has impacted grain quality.

“Furthermore,” added AHDB, “in the north-west of mainland Europe, rainfall has persisted and interrupted harvesting, leading to further pressure on crop conditions.”

In addition, the continuing impact of Russia’s war on Ukraine, including the recent launching of missiles into the port infrastructure in Odesa, is inevitably raising fresh concerns over grain shipments from Ukraine. Even though, according to AHDB, reports suggest that this latest attack is unlikely to be part of a more aggressive move against Ukrainian exports, the level of current market anxiety

Contact us: +44 (0)20 8332 2519 +44 (0)20 8940 6691 sales@newport-industries.com

is understandable.

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 15

Scientifically Speaking …

Inducing stress in broilers Because broilers experience higher needs for functional AA when facing intestinal challenges, identifying nutritional solutions to optimise AA benefits is of particular interest. In this study, researchers evaluated the effects of supplementation of arginine,

By Matthew Wedzerai

threonine, and glutamine together with grape polyphenols on the gut integrity and functionality of broilers facing stress conditions.

The stress was induced by administering corticosterone (CORT), the primary corticosteroid in birds produced during the stress

Benefits of combined polyphenols and functional

hormonal cascade. Birds were randomly allotted to 3 experimental

amino acids in broiler diets

groups as follows:

Stressors are common in broiler farms during breeding, handling, and transportation; innovative solutions remain crucial to mitigate

•

additives.

the damaging effects of stress on the health and welfare of birds.

In their study published in Nature (2024), researchers indicate how a balanced diet supplemented with functional amino acids and

Control diet: a standard diet with no stress challenge or

•

CORT diet: a standard diet with a corticosterone challenge.

•

CORT+MIX diet: a standard diet supplemented with 1 g

polyphenols confers intestinal barrier integrity in broilers following

per kg functional AA (arginine, threonine, and glutamine)

stress exposure.

together with grape extract polyphenols and challenged with

The gut acts as a sentinel in charge of a controlled uptake of

corticosterone.

nutrients while preventing the passage of unwanted macromolecules and bacteria across the mucosa. These functions can be achieved

Enhancing growth performance

by a complex crosstalk between the intestinal epithelial cells, the

Growth performance measured during the grower phase showed a

immune system, and the microbiota. Gut microbiota plays a key role in

decrease in body weight of 21% following the corticosterone challenge

maintaining gut health and influencing overall performance. However,

compared to the control birds. However, adding the mixture of amino

stressors can affect this sensitive balance and impair the transport

acids and polyphenols improved the weight of the challenged birds by

of nutrients, the gut barrier function, and the immune response,

6%. During the finisher period, the differences were minimal.

representing a risk factor for digestive diseases.

For several decades, nutritional strategies in broilers aimed to

Improving intestinal permeability and integrity

use feed-grade free amino acids (AA) associated with a low protein

As expected, researchers observed an increase in gut paracellular

diet to reduce feed cost and environmental impact while maintaining

permeability after the administration of exogenous corticosterone

performance. To date, findings also suggest that dietary AA could be

in drinking water in non-supplemented animals; this was associated

used for their regulatory role in metabolism homeostasis, leading to the

with a downregulation of genes coding for tight junction proteins and

concept of functional amino acids (AA), where beneficial contributions

the gene coding for mucin 2, the glycosylated protein that forms a

to gastrointestinal integrity and the immune system can be achieved by

physical barrier, which protects epithelial cells from stress-induced

increasing specific AA concentrations above the needs for production

damage.

performance. The protective effect of functional AA on the digestive

However, to fully comprehend gut permeability, researchers

system during enteric challenges is related to their targeted actions on

suggested that a transversal gene expression panel related to intestinal

the four pillars of gut health (i.e. oxidative stress, epithelial functions,

health (genes for barrier function, immune response, oxidation, and

microbiota, and immunity).

digestive hormones) could be used in the future to better capture this

On the other hand, polyphenols have been shown to exert

complexity. In the current study, gut permeability was assessed by

antibacterial, antioxidant, immunostimulatory and prebiotic properties.

measuring the amount of fluorescently labelled dextrans (FITC-d). The

In the current study, researchers evaluated the use of specific

supplementation of AA and grape extract polyphenols suppressed the

amino acids in combination with grape extract polyphenols with the

long-term adverse effects of CORT challenge on intestinal permeability

expectation of an effective association because of (i) the polyphenols’

as indicated by a decrease of plasma FITC-d, normalising the gut

separate beneficial effects on the gut microbiota and epithelium and

paracellular permeability.

(ii) through the binding of AA to tannins, ensuring the protection of AA degradation in the upper side of the digestive tract.

Page 16 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

The mucus layer is composed of highly glycosylated proteins called mucins that act as a protective layer on the epithelial cell lines, Comment section is sponsored by Compound Feed Engineering Ltd www.cfegroup.com

thus strengthening the physical and chemical gut barrier. In the current study, the addition of AA with polyphenols in the diet restored the secretion of mucin-2 as indicated by an up-regulation of MUC2 gene expression shortly after the CORT challenge. “This effect could be partly related to the threonine supplementation, as this amino acid is directly involved in mucin secretion through regulations of MUC2 transcription,” the researchers concluded.

Gut morphology and microbiota Compared to the control birds, the challenge with corticosterone induced adverse effects on crypt structure measured at the end of the finisher phase; these negative effects were counteracted with the supplementation of the mixture of functional amino acids and polyphenols, indicating higher epithelium proliferative activity with the supplementation.

At day 35, the relative abundance of bacteria belonging to the genus Roseburia was significantly lower in the CORT group compared to the control group while its abundance was improved in the CORT+MIX group. Other genera remained unaffected by the dietary treatments. Roseburia intestinalis is an anaerobic,

New

gram-positive, slightly curved rod-shaped flagellated bacterium that produces butyrate in the colon, thus, R. intestinalis has been shown to prevent intestinal inflammation and maintain energy homeostasis by producing metabolites.

“Since our findings did not show strong modulations of the gut microbiota with polyphenol supplementation, further experimental dysbiosis models would be appropriate to investigate the role of the gut microbiota, mediated by polyphenols and functional amino acids.”

It’s Time to Detox!

Revitalize Performance.

Protect Your Animals.

However, they added that polyphenols and arginine can both exhibit antimicrobial activities, while glutamine contributes to oxidative defence as reported in similar polyphenol studies. Besides these independent benefits, previous evidence suggests that polyphenols could positively interact with AA intestinal functions by targeting the large intestine as polyphenols are poorly absorbed in the small

With products for every kind of mycotoxin, B.I.O.Tox® Mycotoxin Binders can protect your animals from clinical and subclinical intoxications and performance drops.

intestine and therefore represent substrates available to the lower

B.I.O.Tox® Activ8 is specially formulated with activated substances and

tract of the intestine, they said.

natural detoxifiers to boost health, performance, and liver function.

Concluding remarks The administration of amino acids together with polyphenols was

It is scientifically proven to have a superior binding capacity of Fusarium toxins, especially Deoxynivalenol.

Contact us: caiger-smith@biochem.net . +44 7722 019727

shown to protect birds from corticosterone challenge, especially the long-term adverse effects on the gut barrier function.

“The bioactive compounds tested seemed to directly act on the intestinal mucosa functions barrier, by stimulating wound healing processes such as restoration of crypt depth, enhancing mucus

biochem.net

gel secretion and by normalising pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression levels.”

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 17

Milk Matters

2023/24 milk season (Apr 23 – Mar 24) was only 0.2% lower than the previous year.

The average Farm Gate milk price in June has recovered to

By Christine Pedersen Senior Dairy Business Consultant

38.4ppl after the dip to 37.9ppl in May. Seasonally improving milk

The Dairy Group

quality together with higher milk prices should mean prices continue

christine.pedersen@thedairygroup.co.uk

to rise. August is set to see 40ppl and September 41ppl, but with

www.thedairygroup.co.uk

the average cost of production over 44ppl, declines in producer numbers are not expected to slow down. Although the remaining producers will continue to absorb many of the cattle released by the retirees, the cost of reinvestment and environmental compliance/

UK DAIRY INDUSTRY CHANGES The implementation of the Fair Dealings Obligations (Milk) Regulations 2024 to regulate contracts between milk producers and processors in UK came into force in July 2024. The Dairy Regulations will apply immediately for all new contracts while

improvement will limit herd expansion. Improved, fairer contracts will help give some confidence to producers but is no substitiute for a fair milk price that allows producers to operate profitably and to continue to reinvest.

existing contracts have 12 months grace to make the necessary changes to become compliant; lawyers will be hard at work over the

KEEP THE SILAGE YOU HAVE PAID FOR….

winter to ensure that compliant contracts are ready next year. The

Maize harvest is fast approaching and I recently read an article in

key features are a minimum 12 months’ notice processor termination

Hoards Dairyman titled “Keep the silage you make”. I would actually

period, a 21-day cooling off period without penalty, A&B pricing

go a step further than this, hence the title of this sub-section! Growing

can no longer be coupled to exclusive supply contracts and the

maize or indeed any crop requires a significant investment and

Agricultural Supply Chain Adjudicator will enforce the regulations

having made that investment, attention needs to turn to capturing

on behalf of Defra.

as much nutrition as possible from the crop. Key areas to consider

GB Dairy Producer Numbers have been declining for decades with ebbs and flows driven by many factors including low profitability.

are outlined below: •

The target whole-plant dry matter (DM) at harvest should be

AHDB published their latest survey of GB Producer numbers which

30 – 32%, allowing for 2-4% DM typical clamp losses to achieve

shows between April 23 and March 2024, the number of dairy

the target silage DM at feeding of 32 – 35%. Start assessing

producers declined by 440. As the table below shows, this represents

crop dry matter in August and follow up weekly until the target

a significant acceleration in exits from the industry compared to

dry matter is reached. To accurately assess dry matter, a

recent years:

representative sample of plants is key; assess all fields and

Table 1: Annual cahnge in GB Dairy Producers

representative samples across the whole field taking account

Month

of soil type and field aspect.

Number of GB

Annual

Annual %

Producers

change

change

April 2021

8,040

-340

-4.1%

the whole harvest team to ensure the optimum timing of harvest.

April 2022

7,880

-160

-2.0%

Monitor the crop as it is harvested; it is vital that all kernels are

April 2023

7,570

-310

-3.9%

processed. If this is not achieved subsequent feed utilisation

April 2024

7,130

-440

-5.8%

What is evident is that milk prices are a key determinant in helping producers to decide when to retire from dairying, but probably not the more fundamental question of whether to retire.

Milk prices in 2023/24 fell significantly compared with the peaks

•

Clearly communicate plans for harvest with the contractor and

will be reduced with poor starch digestion.

•

Cutting height and chop length are also key considerations to be agreed with your contractor: •

Cutting height is a balance between quality and quantity.

of the previous year and in conjunction with continued inflationary

The lower part of the plant is of low feed value and

pressure on key inputs, put dairy profitability under severe pressure.

is relatively wet so increasing the cutting height will

If faced with significant capital investment to meet infrastructure

improve the nutritive value. However, if higher yields are

regulations, or succession or staffing issues, the combination of

required to fill silage clamps, crops could be cut as low

these factors is likely to have been a driver for some to leave the

as 15cm if there is no soil contamination. Low cutting

industry. Despite falling producer numbers, milk production in the

not only reduces the quality of the crop but can also

Page 18 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

Comment section is sponsored by Compound Feed Engineering Ltd www.cfegroup.com

introduce soil and contaminants, from rain splash, into

the clamp leading to ideal anaerobic conditions.

the silage clamp therefore compromising fermentation

•

quality.

•

weight per hour to roll the clamp, i.e. if 100 tonnes per hour

Chop length will affect clamp consolidation and rumen

is harvested, you will need 25 tonnes weight of machine

function. A shorter chop length will aid dense packing in

rolling the clamp.

the clamp but may be detrimental to rumen function so

•

a balance must be met. Where maize forms 50% or less

Sheet well with side walls overlapping with the top sheet. An oxygen barrier sheet is recommended below the top sheet.

of the forage, the chop length could be as low as 10mm.

Adequate weight in the sheet is important to avoid sheet

If maize is the predominant forage or there are concerns

movement leading to oxygen ingress.

over rumen function (high concentrate feed rate, acidosis •

or SARA and low milk butterfat), lengthening the chop

•

As a rule of thumb, you need 25% of the harvested crop

The main reason for using an additive on maize silage is

to 20mm can improve fibre characteristics. Longer chop

to help control aerobic spoilage; consider using an additive

lengths should be avoided if the crop is too dry (over

to help maintain silage in a cold and stable state if maize

35% DM) as achieving good consolidation becomes

silage will be fed during the warmer summer months, if the

increasingly difficult.

rate of use is slow or the dry matter is higher than desired.

An additive will not compensate for poor clamping and

Availability of labour and time are typically the biggest

consolidation practices.

challenges to clamping, consolidating and sheeting maize quickly to preserve nutrients which is a critical phase of the

If there is any risk of run-off, post-harvest cover crops should be

process:

established as soon as possible. They offer environmental benefits

•

Fill the clamp in thin layers no more than 15cm deep and

by aiding soil and nutrient retention while building soil organic matter.

constantly roll to consolidate - aim for a clamp bulk density

In doing so the risk of soil erosion and water course pollution is

of 800 kg/m3. This will ensure oxygen is eliminated from

significantly reduced.

Micro

g ra

nula

Capitalize

r

on Olmix’s expertise to manage mycotoxin risk

MYCOTOXIN RISK

Olmix’s exclusive technology Unique microgranulated form Full set of technical tools for diagnosis

distributed by olmix.com

Ten Ways … to broaden your horizons

By Robert Ashton

4. Make time to challenge yourself in ways that don’t matter – I work with a personal trainer once a week, and at our last session dead-lifted more than I had ever managed to lift before. Does it matter? Not a jot, other than reassuring me that I can still build my strength when well past middle age. Set yourself silly challenges and see what you never knew you could do. See if others will join you and get competitive.

5. Learn something new – it could be a language, a craft skill, or just how to dance the polka. We all see ourselves differently

My wife and I have just booked a four night city break, but as yet we

when we step outside our normal lives and try something new.

do not know where we are going. Does that sound odd? Yes, it is,

Who knows, you might just find yourself taking up a new hobby!

but the company we’ve booked the trip through do not tell you where

6. Learn to cook- It could be that like me, you live with an excellent

are going until three days before you leave for the airport. An online

cook, so have never really had the incentive to cook yourself.

questionnaire collects your likes, dislikes and places you’ve been

But cooking can be fun, and even when you get it wrong, you

before. The travel company then choose somewhere that matches

can usually eat your mistakes. Cooking also gets you closer to

your interests and budget.

food and farming, particularly if you grow your own produce, or

It’s a very clever business model, that gives them buying

at least buy it direct from the farm.

power, and customers like us, an opportunity to go somewhere we’d

7. Read a book by a new author – We all have favourite authors,

probably never think of on our own. We’re baby-boomers, so past

but why not try a book by an author you’ve not encountered

retirement age, but not yet ready for a life of slippers, geraniums and

before? I will often buy a popular book, just to see if I can

bowls matches. If this trip is successful, we’ll book more because

see what about it is making it a best-seller. I also make a

it’s all too easy to just go back to the same familiar places time and

point of buying and reading books by almost forgotten East

time again, to do the same familiar things. It will I think broaden

Anglian authors, perhaps because in 100 years’ time, I’ll be

our horizons and introduce us to an unfamiliar, albeit European,

one of them!

culture, art and food.

8. Do something you always thought impossible – I’ll admit

And having paid the deposit and committed ourselves this morning,

that this one I find really challenging. For example, I cannot

I’ve been thinking about how you too might like to broaden your horizons

and do not sing. Could I join a choir and overcome what for me

and climb out of the familiar routines that nearly all of our lives become.

has become a phobia? Maybe I can. Perhaps if you succeed

Here then are ten ways you too might broaden your horizon:

at something you thought was impossible, and tell me about it,

1. Stick a pin in a map – That in a way is what we have just

you might just embarrass me into action!

done, but with a computer algorithm applying a little science

9. Grow your hair – A while back I bumped into a friend I’d not

to what might otherwise be completely random selection. But

seen in 40 years. His face had picked up lots of wrinkles, but his

seriously, try this for a day out and see where you end up. Even

hair was cut the same way as it always was. I grew a beard a few

the most dismal places have something good about them, and

years back, and now would not be without it. Why not change the

conversations with strangers can be quite revealing.

way your hair is cut and see how different that makes you feel.

2. Book tickets for things you don’t think you’ll like – Many

10. Start writing – a good way to broaden your horizon is to write

of us do this all the time if our partner has different tastes to

creatively. This gives you an opportunity to explore new places

our own, but too often, we decide we don’t like something and

and activities before you commit to any action. As an author, my

then 30 years later, still give it a wide berth. Times change, we

tip is to write in the past tense, as if you have just completed and

change and so too do sporting and arts events. Go for what you

are reflecting on the new activity. I’d also suggest you exaggerate

think you’ll like the least, go with an open mind and be prepared

the scenario you describe, because then what you actually choose

to be surprised.

to do, won’t appear quite so daunting.

3. Talk to the next rough sleeper you meet begging on the

I started by saying that my wife and I have booked a four night

street – some are professional beggars, but many have an

break at an as yet unknown destination. As the date nears, we’ll be

interesting story to tell. It will make you appreciate what you have

sent clues that will encourage us to try to guess where we’re going.

all the more, and sometimes you will hear a story that makes you

Anticipation is important, and might be the subject of a future checklist

realise how little it can take to turn an orderly life upside down.

column. Now it’s time for you to be bold and break new ground. Let

And if you also buy them a coffee, you will also make their day.

me know how it goes!

Page 20 Septmebr/October 2024 Feed Compounder

Comment section is sponsored by Compound Feed Engineering Ltd www.cfegroup.com

The only European producer of amino acids by fermentation dedicated to animal nutrition: L-Lysine (liquid & powder), L-Tryptophan L-Valine, L-Arginine L-Isoleucine, L-Leucine and more!

We are by your side to support sustainable livestock production through the development of precision nutrition, the improvement of animal welfare and the reduction of environmental impact.

Your Sales Contact : Herman.claassen@eurolysine.com

Are you tired of juggling efficient operations, product quality, and profitability?

You don’t have to anymore! The solution is here!

Check out the e-book “7 Cost-Saving Strategies in Feed and Pet Food Production” and discover the strategies that work best for you.

Grab your FREE copy:

www.bestmix.com Feed Compounder Spetmber/October 2024 Page 21

Green Pages Feed Trade Topics from the Island of Ireland NIGTA SUPPORTS PLANS TO IMPROVE WATER QUALITY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

sustainable levels without adversely impacting animal performance.

The Northern Ireland Grain Trade Association (NIGTA) has confirmed

economically damaging but also harmful to the environment.

its commitment to work towards the securing of better water quality standards.

The organisation’s acting chief executive, David Garrett, said: “It will have come as a disappointment to everyone that Lough Neagh has again developed an algal bloom in recent weeks.

Over-supply of P and N (protein) in diets is not only wasteful and “NIGTA will have an important role in supplying much of the relevant expertise in formulating and supplying nutritionally precise diets to trial farms,” Garrett said.

In dairy cow diets, P target levels have been reduced safely over the past twenty years and due to the mineral composition of typical feed

“Given its importance as a source of drinking water for so much of

ingredients, rarely does a dairy diet need phosphorous supplementation.

Northern Ireland, it is more important than ever to address this issue.”

“Late stage monogastric diets now seldom have any requirement for

To this end, agriculture minister, Andrew Muir has published a

elemental phosphorous as phytase enzymes have become ever more

37-point plan to address the issues around water quality in the Lough

efficient in extracting the locked up phosphorous in the feed ingredients.

Neagh catchment area.

“Where these measures relate to agriculture, they will need to be

“Over the years, this type of progress has mitigated the impact of food production here in Northern Ireland on the local environment.

actively supported by NIGTA members and their customers,” he said.

“It is vital that we act together on the challenge to improve our

According to Garrett, the plan is science-led and offers a way

water quality whilst maintaining our important food industry,” he outlined.

forward to begin to reverse the high levels of phosphorous (P) ending up in waterways and lakes.

Key elements of this plan include education, incentivisation, regulation, enforcement and governance.

NIGTA members also believe that Northern Ireland’s Soil Nutrient Health Scheme (SNHS) will play a key role in delivering enhanced levels of water quality.

ACA WANTS CORE FUNDING FOR THE SERVICES IT PROVIDES Ireland’s Agricultural Consultants Association (ACA) is calling on government to provide core funding in recognition of the services the organisation provides to Irish agriculture.

The request is the key driver within ACA’s Budget 2025 submission.

“This scheme aims to optimise nutrient application by establishing

Organisation president, Michael Ryan, further explained. “ACA

the nutrient profile of every field so that tailored fertiliser applications

members are working with 55,000 farming businesses at the present

can be made and excess applications of key nutrients, especially

time, delivering a wide range of services.

phosphorous, can be avoided.

“It will be important that the findings from each farm and field are acted upon and fertiliser applications tailored accordingly,” Garrett continued.

There will be a consultation exercise on restricting the use of chemical fertilisers containing phosphorus on grassland, guided by science and evidence including the SNHS. “What this could mean, is that if phosphorous fertiliser use is not reduced to more acceptable levels, then it could be controlled by legislation,” he added.

Meanwhile, a dairy demonstrator project will be undertaken to evaluate on-farm livestock diets which reduce ammonia emissions, P losses and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Led by the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), this initiative has been specifically developed to meet the needs of Northern Ireland’s milk sector.

Its stated aim will be to reduce P and nitrogen (N) inputs to more

Page 22 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

“And, yes, we do receive government funding for specific projects: the roll out of the organic farming programmes being one of them.

“But, for the most part, ACA is funded by its own members. There is a huge job of work t be done where water quality is concerned and the implementation of the schemes that government has developed to address this issue.

He continued: “Individual farmers will be expected to participate in the scheme. But the significant input of ACA consultants will be required in many cases to make all of this work.

“And on that basis alone, government must consider the issue of delivering core support to our organisation.

“ACA is fully recognised by government as an official stakeholder organisation.”

Ryan went on to confirm the growth of organic farming within Irish agriculture.

“A combination of changing consumer habits and European Union support is driving this process,” he commented.

“Ireland’s organic sector is starting from a very low baseline, in terms of land base: probably in the region of one per-cent.

“And it will probably plateau out at around seven per-cent. The various livestock sectors have seen most of the growth in organic output up to this point.

“The one exception here is dairy, which has yet to catch up. The same principle holds, where crops are concerned.”

Bobby Miller points to the fact that many Irish tillage farmers realise that 2024 has been a year to forget in terms of both yields and crop margins.

“It’s now a case of looking ahead, hoping that the remainder of the current harvest can be completed as efficiently as possible and then getting on with the next winter cereal planting season,” he commented.

The IGGG chairman concluded: “But it’s still very galling for Irish tillage farmers to see large quantities of imported cereals coming into

IGGG’S BUDGET 2025 SUBMISSION NOW UNDER SCRUTINY BY GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS

their market at a time when there is so much locally produced grain of the highest quality available.”

The Irish Grain Growers Group (IGGG) has published its Budget 2025 “We have since received official confirmation to the effect that the

FACTORS THAT WILL IMPACT ON IRISH TILLAGE INCOMES IN 2024?

document is now being scrutinised by staff within both the departments

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) is projecting

of fiancé and agriculture,” added IGGG chairman, Bobby Miller.

that Irish tillage incomes will remain, basically, unchanged in 2024.

submission.

“Our plan is to call for meetings with both relevant government ministers.

“But it’s unlikely there will be any progress, where this matter is concerned, until the 2024 harvest is completed.”

Courtesy of its Budget 2025 submission, IGGG is calling for a range of measures to be agreed by government on behalf of the tillage sector.

These include the raising of the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS) investment ceiling on tillage farms to €200,000 and a number of tax changes.

These should be based on eligibility linked to environmental

This puts the expected figure in the region of €20,00.

A number of factors have been assessed by DAFM analysts in coming up with this projection.

Where European Union (EU) feed wheat production in 2024 is concerned, output is expected to come in at 122.3 million tonnes. This is down on 2023/24.

Meanwhile, demand for animal feeds and EU exports are expected to decrease due to lower availability.

It is also anticipated that there will be moderate recovery in human/ industrial demand for wheat in the EU this year.

measures (namely water quality, soil health, biodiversity, and carbon

Where barley is concerned, 2024 EU production levels are forecast

footprint); include accelerated capital allowance rates to enable faster

to reach 51.3 million tonnes in 2024, compared to 47.5 million tonnes

cost recovery; and include bonus allowances based on early adoption.

in 2023.

Meanwhile, the 2024 harvest continues apace.

Bobby Miller again: “Winter crops have been very disappointing: winter barley, wheat and oilseed rape.

“Yields of winter barley on many farms have come in below 3 tonnes/ ac. The highest yield figure that I have heard of is 3.7 tonnes.”

EU maize production is estimated to decrease slightly in 202 to 62 million tonnes, compared to 62.6 million tonnes in 2023.

Significantly, DAFM is projecting that total production of cereals in 2024 will likely be down by 139,000 tonnes, which represents a 7% decrease on the 2023 levels

He continued: “Grain prices are also very challenging at the present

Current world grain markets are subject to decreasing global

time. The reality is that tillage incomes in 2024 will be well down again,

harvests on the one hand, with demand continuing to be influenced by

relative to previous years.

inflation on the other.

“Crops grown on rented ground will be significant loss making operations for tillage farms this year.

“Oats are the only winter cereal to have performed well in Ireland in 2024.”

According to the IGGG representative, a small area of spring barley that was planted in March has been harvested up to this point.

“The main push behind the spring cereal harvest will get underway in a week or so. Let;’s hope for better yields from these crops.”

Choose the proven leader for all of your feed additive needs

Specific wheat and barley signals at present indicate another decrease in harvest price in 2024 relative to 2023.

In addition, farm gate ‘on account’ cereal prices on offer in the third week in July 2024 are between 5% and 10% lower than prices paid at harvest 2023.

With a forecast reduction in world ending stocks to use ratios, European wheat and barley prices may increase for the current year as a whole.

Alltech.com/ireland

AlltechNaturally

@Alltech

Sarney | Summerhill Road | Dunboyne | Co. Meath

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 23

However, harvest pressure will continue to be exerted and will likely prevent prices from rising sharply in the near term.

On the positive side, of the equation, DAFM is forecasting that total costs on a whole tillage farm basis for 2024 will be about 8% lower compared to 2023.

IN MY OPINION … RICHARD HALLERON Modern farming practices must be made safer Modern farming practices are centred on the use of machinery and equipment that are both powerful and sophisticated.

They also require in-depth knowledge and experience on the part of

This takes account of decreases in fertiliser, seed and electricity

operators in order to secure the highest levels of performance from them.

costs. Bucking this trend is the strengthening of some fuel and plant

All of this was highlighted, yet again, courtesy of the recent Farm

protection costs.

The end result of these projected trends is a steady-as-she-goes scenario for tillage incomes: 2024 versus 2023.

With lower cereal prices and a decrease in production volume,

Safety Week initiative.

And hats off to everyone involved in communicating such relevant health and safety priorities to farmers, farm workers and contractors.

But is it not time to take all of this to the next level?

Irish cereal market based output value is forecast to fall again in 2024.

Take tractors as a case in point. The models available today are

Total production costs in 2024 are forecast to decrease, but not

comparable to Formula One racing cars, relative those that were coming

enough to compensate for the decline in market based output value.

on to the market ten years ago.

CLARENCE CALDERWOOD APPOINTED GENERAL MANAGER OF UNITED FEEDS

safety risk. Moreover, gone are the days when a tractor engine could

United Feeds has appointed Clarence

super quick and super silent.

And all of this horsepower brings with it a very obvious health and be heard from some distance away. Today’s models are super sleek,

Calderwood as General Manager.

As a consequence young children and even older adults may not

Clarence will be responsible for leading

be aware of a tractor coming at them from inside a building for all of the

the business, which is part of Dale Farm,

reasons referenced above.

the largest UK farmer-owned dairy

Currently, young teenagers are allowed to drive tractors, within the

cooperative. With production facilities in

confines of their own farms, provided they have completed a recognised

Belfast and Dungannon, United Feeds

training course.

manufactures blended and compound feeds for the ruminant sector, as well as selling fertiliser, calf milk replacers, silage inoculants and oxygen barriers.

Clarence previously held the roles of Sales Representative and Sales Team Leader for east of Northern Ireland within the business, before taking up the role of Sales Manager in 2013.

Welcoming Clarence’s appointment, Keith Agnew, Managing Director, Agri Division at Dale Farm said:

But surely there is a need for farmers to secure ongoing – and formal education opportunities - on how to best manage and operate machinery throughout their careers.

Within other professions this is called continuing professional development (CPD). And one could also argue that a failure to undertake this commitment would have direct consequences for farmers in terms of the way their run their businesses.

Linking CPD to the attainment of insurance could be one possible direction of travel. Another option would be to link the attainment of CPD validation to the securing of farm support monies.

“Clarence has a wealth of experience having worked in the

Meanwhile, farming continues to ‘enjoy’ the dubious accolade of

industry since 1994 and is well known by producers across Northern

being the most dangerous profession that can be followed in the UK

Ireland. As the business continues to grow, Clarence will play a key

and Ireland today.

role in developing the team and building on the strong reputation

Years of advice programmes and communications-based initiatives

United Feeds has for high nutritional standards and excellent customer

have failed to really move the dial, where farm safety standards are

service.”

concerned.

Clarence Calderwood, General Manager, United Feeds added: “It is an exciting time for me to take up this new role within the business.

“Recent investments have enabled us to expand the business, and I look forward to continuing that growth.

“With unusual weather events, global market volatility and of course sustainability concerns, these are challenging times for producers.

“Working directly with farmers, our team has solutions that are delivering both improved production efficiency and sustainability gains.”

Page 24 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

Previously, construction was Ireland’s most dangerous industry to work within. This situation changed when previous governments decided to crack down hard on the abuses taking place within that sector.

Enhanced rates of inspection and follow-up prosecutions, when and where required, have acted to significantly improve health and safety standards on building sites.

Everyone agrees that one farm accident is one too many.

All it takes is for farmers and farm workers to take the one extra minute required to think through the health and safety implications of every job they are about to start.

Nobody can be so busy that taking such a small amount of time out of one’s working day cannot be justified.

ForFarmers Results for the First Half of 2024 ForFarmers has released its first half results for the six months ended

60% in underlying EBITDA and significantly higher underlying EBIT

June 30 , reporting Like-for-like growth of volume and strong increase

•

th

in profitability. Commenting on the results, Pieter Wolleswinkel, CEO

Net cash from operating activities increased to €25.5 million (H1 2023: €20.9 million)

ForFarmers:

•

“The positive trends of the first quarter have continued, with a

The ROACE ratio on underlying EBIT increased from 4.8% as at 30 June 2023 to 10.7% as at 30 June 2024 (7.1% as at 31 December

significant increase in profitability in the second quarter as well. We

2023)

strengthened our market positions in this first half of the year, resulting in

•

a satisfactory volume development. The right product and market choices

Agreement reached regarding the sale of two mills in the United Kingdom, formal transfer expected in the fourth quarter

underpin this result and our local approach is valued by customers. The

•

integration of Piast in Poland, acquired early this year, is well on track

Proposed acquisition of Van Triest Veevoeders is an important step in ForFarmers’ strategy to make the food chain more

and we are satisfied with the performance. We are also pleased with the

sustainable in an efficient manner by using more co-products

announcement of the intended acquisition of Van Triest Veevoeders, which

In the United Kingdom cluster, ForFarmers showed a growth of 1.5%

specialises in co-products. We are convinced that this will enable us to play

in total volume in the first half of 2024. The group reported that: “Good

an increasingly important role in providing sustainable feed solutions. With

performance in ruminants shows that specific needs in this market are well

this acquisition, we fully focus on a market with clear growth potential. I am

met and volumes have consequently increased. Pig volumes declined due

proud of this strong performance in the first six months and the contribution

to further structural market integration, with slaughterhouses producing

that everyone at ForFarmers has made to it. Despite macroeconomic and

their own feed. Poultry volumes increased in the first half of 2024.

(geo)political uncertainty, we are confident about the future.”

“Gross profit showed an increase and, partly due to the reorganisation

The group wide highlights H1 2024 are as follows.

•

• •

initiated at the beginning of this year, underlying operating expenses

Total volume, adjusted for the Belgian activities sold and the

decreased. This reorganisation is on schedule. The agreement for the

acquisition of Piast, increased by 2.0% compared to H1 2023;

sale of two mills has been signed and the transfer is expected in the fourth

Compound feed volume increased by 0.7%

quarter of 2024. The higher gross profit combined with lower operating

Gross profit increased by 6.0% to €249.0 million, driven by

expenses translates into a sharp increase in underlying operating

strategy execution

profitability. Underlying EBIT improved from a loss of €1.6 million in the

Higher gross profit and cost control, combined with a relatively low

first half of 2023 to a profit of €2.8 million in the first half of 2024. Underlying

comparison base in H1 2023, resulted in an increase of more than

EBITDA more than doubled to €9.8 million in the first half of 2024.”

2024

2023

Total change in %

Like-for-like

Total volume (incl. co-products & others; x 1,000 tonnes)

4,274

4,310

-0.8%

2.0%

Of which compound feed (x 1,000 tonnes)

2,998

2,995

0.1%

0.7%

Revenue

1,355.4

1,606.5

-15.6%

-15.3%

Gross profit

249.0

234.8

6.0%

5.4%

Underlying (1) operating expenses

-227.3

-226.7

0.3%

0.5%

Underlying (1) EBITDA

42.6

26.5

60.8%

49.1%

Underlying (1) EBIT

22.7

8.6

164.0%

129.1%

Underlying (1) profit

16.0

4.4

263.6%

239.5%

261.2%

Underlying (1) earnings per share (x €1)

0.18

0.05

Net cash from operating activities

25.5

20.9

22.0%

Net debt position (4)

55.7

21.4

160.3%

Underlying (1) EBITDA / Gross profit

17.1%

11.3%

ROACE (3) underlying (1) EBIT

10.7%

4.8%

1,355.4

1,606.5

Reported Revenue

-15.6%

-15.3%

Gross profit

249.0

234.8

6.0%

5.4%

Operating expenses

-234.0

-241.3

-3.0%

-0.5%

EBITDA

43.8

20.4

114.7%

71.6%

EBIT

19.7

-6.0

Profit/(loss) attributable to shareholders of the Company

4.0

-14.4

Basic earnings per share (x €1)

0.05

-0.16

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 25

A Highly Successful Two Day Seminar Held by CFE Group The British & Irish Lions. We are thankful to Geordan for sharing his experiences and to all who joined us, making it an enriching evening.

Con Lynch opening the two day seminar CFE Group held a highly successful 2 -day event at the Mercure Hotel and CFE’s pioneering facility in Haydock on 24th & 25th April 2024.

110 customers from the Feed Mill industry attended from Ireland, UK and Belgium.

Chris Webb centre with Carl Robinson, Jay Baldwin & Paul Gladwell

On the 24th, Speakers

On 25th, attendees had an opportunity to network with fellow

from CPM, IVS, Geelen

professionals and industry specialists, to foster connections and

and CFE had presentations

collaborations. The seminar also included tours of CFE’s engineering

on Conditioning/T-Shape Paddle

facilities at Arrox Park and Haydock Lane. At Arrow Park, participants

Technology,

viewed and examined a pellet station featuring Double Conditioning

Steam Utilization, Cooling

and a CPM 7936-12 Pellet Mill with Lineator and RSM. The Haydock

and New Dust Emission

Lane visit gave customers the opportunity to tour Europe’s most up-

Legislation, offering

to-date Die and Roll Refurbishing facility. Both visits were structured

attendees a comprehensive understanding

to allow customers, speakers, and industry professionals to have

of

Q&A sessions in an informal setting and to exchange ideas and

key challenges and opportunities in pellet milling operations.

share experiences.

Arthur vom Hofe introducing CPM conditioners On Wednesday night (24th, April), CFE Group hosted a seminar dinner at Mercure Hotel, where we invited a Guest Speaker: Geordan Murphy, who is the most decorated player of all time in English Premiership Rugby. Mr. Murphy shared insights from his journey in professional sports.

He played with Leicester Tigers, he played 81 times

Guest Speaker, Geordan Murphy

for Ireland and played for

Page 26 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

Showcasing the features of CPM pellet mills tower

CFE CEO climbs over 10,000 metres in a 1,000+ mile cycle over 10 days Con Lynch, CEO of CFE Group, recently completed a remarkable and mammoth cycling challenge to raise essential funds for charity.

From Thursday, 4th July to Saturday, 13th July, Con completed the 1,189 mile, 10-day cycling marathon from Land’s End in Cornwall to John O’Groats on Scotland’s north-eastern tip. His mission: to raise crucial funds for Aras Mhuire, a community-owned nursing home in Listowel, Co. Kerry which is dedicated to providing outstanding care for local residents.

Day 1 kicked off with a 97-mile (155 km) cycle with an elevation gain of 8372 feet (2552 meters). The first a.m. brew stop was at St Aubyn Arms in Praze-an-Beeble, followed by lunch at Griggs Country Store in Sticker, St Austell. The afternoon brew was at a layby opposite a caravan park on the other side of Looe.

There

were

some

significant milestones along the way, chief among them were his crossing of the Severn Bridge into Wales, the crossing of the border between England

Right: CFE Group CEO - Con Lynch and Left; Paddy Kelly

and Scotland, the crossing

colleagues in the industry validated his steadfast commitment and he

of the Firth of Forth Bridge

is hugely appreciative of the financial contributions made.

and the final leg into John

Reflecting on the challenge, Con said that although the journey was

o’Groats. This journey wasn’t

physically and mentally tough, the €16,000 which was raised made every

just physically challenging for

minute and every mile of the journey worth it. This money will contribute

Con and his fellow cyclists.

to the cost of replacing Aras Mhuire’s roof, essential works required in

Without a doubt, it demanded endurance and huge resilience of spirit.

its local community. “Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a

As Con cycled through the Cheshire countryside, he found

difference” Con emphasized, “I believe that, at the end of the day it’s

himself immersed in the beauty of landscapes with its green fields,

not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished… it’s about

rolling hills and beautiful villages. It reminded him of growing up

what you’ve made better and what you’ve given back.”

at home in Kerry, playing and working in busy summer months across the fields of their own and neighbouring farms. This part of the journey provided a respite from the more physically demanding parts of the ride. The Cheshire countryside was like a painting come to life really allowing him to appreciate the journey as much as the destination.

The final leg was a 95 mile (153 km) stretch with an elevation gain of 1,370 meters (4,495 feet). Stops included a layby along the River Naver and The Halladale Inn in Melvich, with the last p.m. brew at the car park of The Weigh Inn in Thurso.

The cycling marathon saw Con traversing diverse terrain across the UK and each mile cycled over these different landscapes and environments, represented one step closer to achieving his

Con Lynch presenting a cheque for €16,000 to Aras Mhuire

fundraising goal. The unwavering support from friends, family and

nursing home in Listowel, Co. Kerry

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 27

MYCOTOXIN RISKS CALL FOR ‘ULTIMATE’ ACTION With Patrick Beyeler, Formulation Nutritionist, Cargill UK

Mycotoxins in raw materials are always a challenge, and the levels of

have the binding capacities required by a mycotoxin binding product.

individual mycotoxins varies between seasons, regions and products.

However, specific technologies available through Notox Ultimate Pro

Damp, humid and warm environments and stressed conditions will

can reduce its impact on livestock production.”

encourage growth of moulds and therefore levels of mycotoxins. Levels will also be affected by storage and transport conditions.

“UK growing conditions for wheat and barley in spring and summer 2024 have been ideal for mould growth.” says Cargill UK’s formulation nutritionist Patrick Beyeler. “So it’s important to analyse ingredients and have access to accurate data on the levels of key mycotoxins. And where necessary, products that can help counter the harmful effects of these mycotoxins, which impact on animal performance, can be included in diets.”

Cargill has developed a solution, Notox® Ultimate Pro, that can help mitigate the impact of the six key mycotoxins affecting poultry

This action is particularly important in young animals that are more

production. It uses technologies to counteract the impact of Aflatoxin

vulnerable to the harmful effects of DON, such as chicks up to 10 days

B1, Fumonisin B1, Ochratoxin A, T2 Toxin and Zearalenone. It can also

old and in poultry breeding stock.

provide support for mitigating the impact of a sixth and the smallest mycotoxin Deoxinivalenol (DON).

“Notox® Ultimate Pro is a very comprehensive product,” he adds. “Its properties help to mitigate the harmful effects of all six key

“DON is an extremely small molecule that is easily absorbed - even

mycotoxins affecting poultry diets. In the case of DON, these products

in the mouth - before coming into contact with a binding product,” says

support liver function and provide antioxidant and immune support.”

Mr Beyeler. “Also, the size of the DON molecule means that it does not

Notox® Ultimate Pro technologies are shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1: NOTOX® Ultimate Technologies

Page 28 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

“The amount of Notox used in the diet will depend on the level and type of mycotoxin present. We advocate responsible use of these products – if there’s a low risk then low levels of product should be used, and in cases where there is no risk, then it is not required.”

Cargill UK Adds On Site Analysis To determine mycotoxin contamination levels in raw materials, Cargill UK has introduced quick scan analysis equipment at its manufacturing plant in North Yorkshire this month (September).

This machine has been tried and tested for its levels of accuracy alongside Cargill’s more traditional analysis tools, and it is already in use in other countries.

Feed produced by Cargill meets the legal requirements for

mycotoxin database. This is integral to the company’s mycotoxin

mycotoxin presence. But using Notox with any feed can further reduce

management programme, and it is constantly testing raw materials to

the impact of mycotoxins.

keep data current and relevant to markets across the world.

“The ability to analyse raw materials for mycotoxins at our site

To find out more about Notox® Ultimate Pro and the new Cargill

gives us a local capability for calculating the mycotoxin levels on behalf

UK analysis service contact Cargill’s additive technical sales manager

of our customers here in the UK,” says Mr Beyeler.

Chris Burton, C_Burton@cargill.com

“Quantitative results for six mycotoxin readings are available within a day, and it is highly cost-effective. Based on inclusion rates and the

Mycotoxin Threat

mycotoxin levels in these raw materials destined for poultry diets, we

Moulds and fungus produce mycotoxins to protect themselves, and

can gauge the amount of additional product required to counter the

they need energy to grow, so high energy ingredients like cereals are

impact of mycotoxins.”

typically more predisposed to contamination, as well as crops such as

Data from the UK analyses will also be added to Cargill’s global

Notox® Ultimate Pro is a carefully selected blend of high efficacy mycotoxin binding materials plus additional components to support animals against the full mycotoxin spectrum.

soya, peas and beans.

Large spectrum anti-mycotoxin agent

Cargill can analyse raw material samples using our analytical tools and defined mycotoxin risk levels. These results enable our in-house specialists to provide a risk level assessment on age and species, and provide advice on the management of raw materials and risk to feed.

Based on our risk assessment data we can advise which inclusion level of Notox® Ultimate Pro would be most effective in maintaining bird performance.

Cargill support package

More than 200,000 samples are analysed globally each year, providing a strategic view of mycotoxin contamination risks in grains and complete feed.

Inclusion level

Low risk

Medium risk

High risk

1 kg/t

2 kg/t

2.5 kg/t

For further information please contact: Cargill UK technical sales manager for poultry Chris Burton: c_burton@cargill.com Cargill Animal Nutrition Provimi Limited Dalton Airfield Industrial Estate Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 3HE www.provimi.co.uk

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 29

Unveiling Insights Meta-Analysis on Mycosorb® and Layer Performance

By Dr. Alexandra Weaver, Global Technical Support Manager, Alltech

Introduction

T2 is produced by Fusarium moulds. This mycotoxin can have

Mycotoxins are naturally occurring, toxic secondary metabolites

a strong impact on the digestive system, causing oral and gut

produced by fungi that can be found in feedstuffs such as cereal grains

lesions as well as hemorrhagic and other digestive disorders.

and their byproducts. The consumption of mycotoxins by poultry animals

Affected birds may also have poor growth or feed intake, damage

can result in several effects, both direct and indirect.

to internal organs, and increased mortality.

A recently published meta-analysis titled “Meta-Analysis of the

• Fumonisins (FUM): Produced by Fusarium moulds, often when

Effects of Yeast Cell Wall Extract Supplementation during Mycotoxin

dry and warm conditions during crop flowering are followed by

Challenges on the Performance of Laying Hens,” authored by Dr.

wet and warm temperatures closer to harvest. FUM can cause

Alexandra Weaver, Dr. Daniel Weaver, Nick Adams and Dr. Alexandros

digestive disorders, alter immune response, and damage internal

Yiannikouris, explores the impact of yeast cell wall extract (YCWE,

organs.

Mycosorb , Alltech) on laying hens facing mycotoxin challenges. ®

• Zearalenone (ZEA): Produced by Fusarium species, ZEA mimics the action of hormones as an estrogen analogue. This can lead

Understanding the study

to reproductive challenges. ZEA can also hamper immunity.

A meta-analysis is a statistical technique used in research to combine

To compare the mycotoxin scenarios included in the research

and analyze results from multiple independent studies on a particular

to real-life challenges, we can look at the results of extensive Alltech

topic. The process involves literature reviews, the use of inclusion and

37+® laboratory analysis over the past 3 years. A total of 848 samples

exclusion criteria, data extraction, statistical analysis, and interpretation

of finished feeds for layers/breeders, gathered from locations around

of the results. Meta-analyses are particularly useful when individual

the world, showed an average of 8.2 mycotoxins per sample, with

studies may have limitations, or when there is a need for a more robust,

97% of samples containing 2 or more mycotoxins. This is significant

reliable and comprehensive understanding.

because multiple mycotoxin challenges can increase the overall risk

25 trials investigating the use of YCWE in hens were found following the literature search, with 8 trials being selected that met

to the bird, combining to cause even greater damage than each toxin would cause on its own.

selection inclusion. These selected trials represent 12 treatments

Additionally, some of the most prevalent mycotoxin groups in these

involving 1,774 laying hens. The average length of the trials was 9.5

feed samples were similar to those used in the studies in this meta-

weeks. Treatments included control (CTRL), challenge with mycotoxins

analysis, including the type B trichothecenes (found in 86% of samples),

(MT), and use of YCWE during a mycotoxin challenge (YCWE+MT).

fumonisins (79%) and zearalenone (41%). As such, the results of the

A total of 8 mycotoxin types were identified:

meta-analysis could be applied to the typical laying/breeding hen.

• Aflatoxin (AF): Produced by Aspergillus flavus mould, typically

Other notable mycotoxins of high occurrence in feed samples

during warm and dry field conditions or in the presence of high

collected globally included emerging mycotoxins (89%) and fusaric

moisture levels during crop storage. AF causes a variety of

acid (85%), though, these were not included in the majority of tests

effects in animals, including organ damage, poor growth or

conducted for research trials.

efficiency, and higher mortality.

• Ochratoxin A (OTA): Produced by Penicillium moulds. Poultry

Key findings

that ingest this toxin may show reduced growth and immunity,

The meta-analysis revealed that layers fed mycotoxins experienced

damage to kidneys or other internal organs, dehydration, or

lower body weight, decreased egg production, and reduced egg weight

higher mortality.

compared to control-fed birds. However, birds supplemented with

• Deoxynivalenol (DON)/15-acetyl-DON (15ADON)/DON-3-

YCWE during mycotoxin challenges showed significant improvements

glucoside (DON-3-G): Members of the type B trichothecenes

in performance, with increased egg production and egg weight. Through

family, produced by Fusarium moulds. When consumed by poultry,

greater egg production and weight, total output per hen increases,

these toxins can cause digestive disorders, lower feed intake and

resulting in enhanced profitability. In fact, this meta-analysis indicated

growth, reduced immunity, and damage to internal organs.

that YCWE inclusion offered a 4.65:1 return on investment (ROI) when

• T2-toxin (T2): A member of the type A trichothecenes family,

Page 30 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

used during mycotoxin challenges.

Figure 1. Improvement in egg production and quality for hens

To the researchers’ knowledge, this is the first time a meta-analysis

fed yeast cell wall extract** during mycotoxin challenge versus

has been conducted with laying hens to evaluate the influence not only

feeding mycotoxins alone

of mycotoxins alone, but also of a mycotoxin mitigation strategy, on key performance parameters. These findings underscore the importance of addressing mycotoxin challenges in layer production and highlight the potential role of YCWE in doing so.

A proactive approach to mycotoxin management It is clear from these findings that efforts to minimize the risk of mycotoxins are crucial to supporting poultry health and performance.

As such, proactive measures should be introduced to better understand and control mycotoxin risk. A proper mycotoxin management program Figure 2. Estimated total eggs per hen over 9.5 weeks production based on results from the meta-analysis

should include: 1. Testing, to determine the current mycotoxin risk 2. Risk assessment, to better understand the mycotoxin challenge level and the potential outcomes of mycotoxin consumption 3. Mitigation, to reduce the challenge to the animal 4. Monitoring, to continue assessing the mycotoxin challenge over time

Conclusion This meta-analysis on the effects of yeast cell wall extract (YCWE) supplementation during mycotoxin challenges on the performance of laying hens sheds light on the intersection of mycotoxin management These results demonstrate that YCWE, in the form of Mycosorb, offers a direct and significant reduction of the impact of mycotoxins within the animal. This is because it is rich in complex insoluble carbohydrates, enabling it to interact with and mitigate the effects of a wide range of mycotoxins.

These results are significant not only for producers but for human health and environmental sustainability. Egg production is estimated to require less land and energy use than many other animal agriculture types, and it has a lower global warming potential. As such, eggs are a particularly sustainable way to provide multiple nutrients — including the protein increasingly needed to support a growing global population. When mycotoxins were consumed by hens, total edible protein production decreased by 43.9 grams per hen housed over 9.5

and layer production. The findings underscore the significant impact of mycotoxin exposure on body weight, egg production and egg weight in laying hens, while also highlighting the potential benefits of YCWE supplementation in mitigating these adverse effects.

By revealing the positive outcomes associated with YCWE supplementation, including increased egg production and egg weight, alongside a potential return on investment, this study offers actionable insights for poultry producers seeking to optimize their operations.

Furthermore, it underscores the importance of proactive mycotoxin management strategies, including testing, risk assessment, mitigation and monitoring, in safeguarding the health and productivity of laying hens.

weeks, but the inclusion of YCWE during these mycotoxin challenges

To read the full study, please scan the QR

increased edible protein output by a full 29.7 grams.

Code adjacent.

Figure 3. Estimated grams feed per egg calculated based on

Figure 4. Estimated edible protein output (g) per hen over 9.5

results from the meta-analysis

weeks based on the meta-analysis

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 31

PREVENTING OXIDATIVE STRESS

Are you underestimating the role of organic selenium?

By Hannah Elliott Lallemand Animal Nutrition

As a primary producer of yeast and bacteria and a global leader in the science of fermentation, Lallemand Animal Nutrition’s microbial solutions promote performance and wellbeing in livestock, companion animals and aquaculture. Typically aiding growth, immunity, profitability and sustainability, they promote microbial balance in feed, the digestive tract and the animal environment.

Lallemand is also committed to advancing antioxidant research and developing innovative solutions to prevent oxidative stress and restore oxidative balance in animals. Poor antioxidant status can lead to a loss of immune system efficiency and negative impacts on reproduction (fertility, parturition) as well as a reduction in zootechnical performance (growth, feed intake, mortality). Lallemand’s antioxidant solutions include an organic selenium source in the form of selenium enriched yeast (ALKOSEL) and a superoxide dismutase source in the form of freeze dried melon juice (MELOFEED).

Selenium transfer rate % (Se in bone / Se intake)

What is organic selenium?

Organic selenium (Se) is a generic term for selenium sources where the Se atom is chemically bound within an organic molecule as in nature (within plants and animals), as opposed to mineral Se sources. Numerous studies across all species have demonstrated the benefits of organic Se over inorganic Se e.g. sodium selenite, in terms of bioavailability and efficacy.

What is unique about selenium enriched yeast?

The two main types of organic Se are Se-enriched yeast and synthetic organic Se. Se-enriched yeast has been authorised for use in feed in Europe since 2006 and is used in both animal and human nutrition. In nature, plants use inorganic/mineral Se from the soil and incorporate it into amino acids, where Se atoms replace sulphur atoms to form selenoamino acids, for example selenocysteine (SeCys). Se-yeast fermentation relies on this principle, as yeast cells incorporate inorganic Se into organic seleno compounds. These seleno-amino acids can then be utilised to form seleno-proteins. Feeding Se-enriched yeast to animals can therefore be considered natural, as the profile of seleno-amino acids mimics what they find in plants.

Why is selenium source & quality important?

We have observed over time that the quality of organic Se sources available on the market is not consistent. To guarantee good quality before releasing each batch of organic Se, the supplier should perform and provide analysis of both total Se and selenomethionine (SeMet) content.

Even though SeMet is not the only bioavailable form of organic selenium in Se-enriched yeast, its content is the accepted indicator of organic quality, with the target being 63% of Se as SeMet. The combination of different seleno compounds, mainly SeMet and SeCys in Se-enriched yeast, has been shown to be more bioavailable than both inorganic sources and synthetic SeMet sources.1 (Figure 1)

2.5

a

2.0

ab bc

1.5 1.0

cd

cd

cd

de 0.5

e

0

SS

Se Pro

Inorganic Se

Zn-Sm

SM1

SM2

Synthetic organic Se

SY1

SY2

Alkosel

Se enriched yeast

Figure 1: Comparison of Se transfer rate into the tibia bone of broilers after supplementing 8 different Se sources for 14 days (a, b, c, d, e: P<0.001; Barbé et al 2017)

Se-enriched yeast’s role in oxidative defence The body is equipped with an antioxidant defence system to control and regulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. These highly reactive by-products of oxygen metabolism are not a threat to the body under normal physiological conditions, but if generated excessively the equilibrium between ROS formation and elimination becomes unbalanced, resulting in oxidative stress. There are three antioxidant enzymes produced naturally by the body as part of the antioxidant defence system, Glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT). These primary antioxidants neutralise free radicals in a 1:1 million ratio directly at the source and have an upstream, preventive effect. Secondary antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and E are provided from dietary sources. They play a scavenging role by donating an electron

References 1 Barbé F., Sacy A., Poulain S., Chevaux E., Castex M. (2017): Comparison of selenium bioavailability in laying hens fed different organic selenium sources. 21st European Symposium on Poultry Nutrition. 2 Zeng, H., Cao, J. J. and Combs Jr., G. F. (2013): Selenium in bone health: roles in antioxidant protection and cell proliferation. Nutrients, 5: pp. 97-110.3 Sun, H., Chen. J., Xiong, D., Long, M. (2023): Detoxification of Selenium Yeast on Mycotoxins and Heavy Metals: A Review. J. Biological Trace Element Research., 201: pp. 5441–5454. 4 Barbe, F., Sacy. A., Bonhommet, P., Chevaux., E. (2014): Effect of antioxidant supplementation to horses on muscle integrity and resistance to training. European Association of Animal Production.

to neutralize a free radical in a 1:1 ratio. This stops the downstream chain reaction in the cell, but they themselves require other molecules to donate electrons to regenerate their ability to neutralize free radicals.

SeCys is required for all seleno-protein and GPx enzyme functionality, as GPx is selenium dependent. By supplementing animals with selenium enriched yeast over inorganic selenium, levels of GPx can be enhanced, bolstering antioxidant defences. Furthermore, the additional increased storage of selenium in body proteins as SeMet acts a reservoir to be drawn on in the event of future oxidative stress.

Antioxidant defences & bone health Bones represent the second largest reservoir of Se in the body after skeletal muscles and the role of Se in bone mineralisation is becoming more understood. A literature review2 indicates that the involvement of Se in bone health has been attributed to its preventive function against oxidative stress, its role in the inflammatory and immune system, as well as its involvement in cell division, proliferation and apoptosis processes.

Trials in laying hens and broilers have looked at the effect of selenium source on bone mineralisation. In both studies, Se enriched yeast supplementation (ALKOSEL) was compared to inorganic Se (sodium

Antioxidant defence & mycotoxin detoxification

Tibial resistance parameters in laying hens

Recent research3 has highlighted the role Se-enriched yeast can play when it comes to mitigating the negative effects of mycotoxin ingestion. Cellular oxidative stress is one of the consequences of mycotoxin poisoning.

Experimental trials have demonstrated that organic selenium can help alleviate oxidative damage and inflammatory signaling by improving the activity of antioxidant enzymes.

+43%

180 160

+35%

b

140 120 100

a

+84%

80

selenite), at equivalent levels (0.2 ppm), on top of the basal diet that already contained 0.3 ppm Se from sodium selenite.

The laying hen study showed that ALKOSEL supplemented birds had a 4% increase in bone weight and improved tibia bone resistance, indicating more robust bones (Figure 2). The results of this study also indicated that supplementation with Se enriched yeast improves eggshell resistance, thus favouring the robustness of the skeleton of adult laying hens while improving eggshell strength.

A trial performed with broilers similarly showed that all three resistance parameters of the birds’ tibia were improved. In parallel to improved bone resistance, this study revealed an increased content of mineral substances (ash, +6%) including calcium (+7%) and phosphorus (+7%) in the tibia of broilers fed ALKOSEL (Figure 3). It also showed an increase in bone weight of 7%. These results demonstrate that supplementation with a highquality, highly bioavailable Se-enriched yeast improves bone resistance and mineralisation, driven in part by its preventive function against oxidative stress. Supplementation with Se-enriched yeast can therefore help address animal welfare issues and better meet the needs of modern poultry production. Further research is needed to confirm improvements in bone strength for other species from Se-enriched yeast supplementation.

60 40

Antioxidant combinations with Se-enriched yeast

20

Lallemand is exploring the advantages of combining several antioxidant solutions to obtain a synergistic effect rather than promoting a high level of one antioxidant. This has been demonstrated in a study with horses4 where ALKOSEL and MELOFEED (source of SOD) were combined to reduce muscular injuries and improve cartilage and joint health.

0

Fracture force (N)

Maximum force (N)

Stiffness (N/mm)

Figure 2: Tibial resistance parameters of laying hens in the CONTROL and ALKOSEL groups (a, b: P<0.1; Lallemand, 2017, internal data)

Ash (% of tibia weight) 23.0

Ca (% of tibia weight) 8.2

22.5

+6%

8.0

22.0

b

7.8

21.5 21.0 20.5

+7% b

7.6 7.4

a

Alkosel

+7%

3.9

b

3.8

a

3.6

7.0

SS

4.0

3.7

a

7.2

20

P (% of tibia weight)

Figure 3: Tibia mineralization in broilers after 32 days in the CONTROL and ALKOSEL groups (a, b: P<0.05; Lallemand, 2018, internal data).

3.5

SS

Alkosel

SS

2000ppm and 3000ppm product formats of ALKOSEL (Saccharomyces cerevisiae NCYC R397) are available in the UK and Ireland and are produced in Lallemand’s yeast plant in Felixstowe, Suffolk. To arrange a site visit, please email: animaluk@lallemand.com

Alkosel

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ALKOSEL R397

JOIN US ON

Effective Grain Preservation Brings Economic and Sustainability Benefits

By Lauren James, Product Manager: Feed Additives Trouw Nutrition GB

With increasing external focus on the efficiency and sustainability of

nutritive value has to be replaced in finished feeds, increasing overall

feed manufacture, coupled with tightening margin pressure, paying

raw material costs. In addition, the amount of raw material that is

more attention to the preservation of grains could have a big impact on

wasted will increase.

the economic and environmental performance of feed mills.

Taking action to reduce the actions of moulds and microbial

Fylax Grain is a new weapon in the armoury to help reduce the consequences of microbial action on grains and offers significant benefits on the current default treatment of propionic acid.

growth will limit the degradation of raw materials and grains. By so doing you can improve the sustainability of the supply chain.

In most cases, propionic acid has been the main material used for grain preservation, but Fylax Grain offers significant advantages over propionic acid.

Fylax Grain is a specifically formulated synergistic blend of free and buffered organic acids providing effective control against a broad spectrum of microbial agents. It is highly efficacious at low dose rates of 0.5-2kg/MT, making it a cost-effective alternative to propionic acid. In addition, it is effective in inhibiting enterobacteria such as clostridium and salmonella so providing a dual action approach.

Figure 1: Fylax Grain shows a 2.6 log reduction in mould counts

Acid preservation of grain is a proven way to reduce the

over a 14-day period t=0 t = 3 days t=7 t = 14 days

consequences of the action of bacteria and other micro-organisms present on all grain crops when in store. Storage conditions can encourage the growth of moulds which reduce nutritive content of feedstuffs and increase physical wastage.

As the ambient temperature and moisture of the grains rise, so the number of days of safe storage decreases. High initial moisture content of grains coupled with a rise in temperature and/or humidity poses a big risk to rapid mould growth which leads to deteriorated grain quality.

Daytime variations in temperature lead to natural fluctuations in moisture levels. As a result, moisture from grains evaporates and condenses on the walls and ceilings of silos and storage facilities as well as on top of the feed, creating an optimal environment for mould growth.

As moulds grow, they feed on nutrients in the feedstuff leading to a significant reduction in nutritive content (see table 1). This lost

*100 cfu/g is the minimum detection limit for analysis of mould counts.

All the 14-day results showed <100 cfu/g.

Being less volatile it remains effective for longer after treatment providing superior long-term benefits (see figure 1).

As our climate becomes warmer and wetter, we need to be more

Table 1

meticulous in preserving the nutrient value of grains Only recently

ME (Kcal/Kg)

CP (%)

Fat (%)

Good Corn

3.410

8.9

4.0

on grain. Using more efficient methods of grain preservation can

Mouldy Corn

3.252

8.3

1.5

play an important role in improving the environmental and financial

Nutrient loss

0.158

0.6

2.5

sustainability of feed manufacture, and through that, livestock

Nutrient loss (%)

4.6

6.7

62.5

farming.

Material

Page 34 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

AHDB has warned of an increased risk of fungal contamination

Attention to Detail Needed to Get The Most From Silage This Year The most comprehensive dataset of first and second cut grass silages

the diet to optimise rumen function alongside rapidly fermentable

from Trouw Nutrition GB confirms the impact of the growing season

protein to maximise microbial protein production.”

on feed values. However, the company emphasise that with regular

She advises keeping a close check on dry matter as fluctuations

analysis and careful balancing, it will still be possible to devise cost-

can significantly affect ration potential. “If the dry matter of the clamp

effective rations.

differs from the dry matter used to calculate the diet, the nutrients

Interpreting the results of over 1,000 first cuts and 500 second

supplied will differ significantly. For a cow targeted to receive 12kg

cuts analysed at the company’s analytical laboratory in Ashbourne,

silage DM, a 3% reduction in silage dry matter will reduce energy

Ruminant Advisor, Nacia Bonnick says the data give a clear insight

supply by the equivalent of one litre of milk meaning the ration will

into what will be needed to exploit grass silages.

need rebalancing.

Second cuts are drier than first cuts reflecting better growing

“The better picture you have of silages this year, the more

and harvesting conditions compared to the wet spring which affected

effectively you will be able to formulate cost-effective diets to meet

first cuts. While second cuts will be palatable, increased lignin and

your objectives. Central to this will be regular analysis of all opened

reduced rapidly fermentable carbohydrates mean these silages will

clamps, at least monthly, combined with detailed assessment of the

need careful balancing.

most effective supplements,” Ms Bonnick concludes.

“Compared to the earlier samples received, the main first cuts are slightly lower dry matter with lower D values and energy content.

Average 2024 first and second cut grass silages (source: TNGB)

However, lower lactic acid and volatile fatty acid contents indicate 1st Cut

that silages are well preserved.

“The results show lower levels of rapidly fermentable carbohydrates, but total carbohydrates are increased due to increased NDF content. Combined with a high fibre index this will reduce nutrient supply in the rumen.”

Units Dry Matter Protein D Value

2nd Cut

2024

2024

Average

Average

%

33.7

34.7

% DM

14.4

13.5

%

68.6

68.3

MJ/kg DM

11.0

10.9

NDF

% DM

46.7

47.0

ADF

% DM

29.7

30.0

Lignin

g/kg DM

38.4

37.1

challenging all supplementary feeds, buying on effective nutrition

Sugars

% DM

1.7

2.3

rather than price.”

pH

4.1

4.2

“With some positive movement in milk prices combined with the

ME

easing of some commodity prices, it will be crucial to ensure silages are regularly analysed and then supplemented with purchased feeds that supply what the cow needs to fully utilise forages. This may mean more regular fine-tuning of diets throughout the winter and

Looking at average first cuts, Ms Bonnick suggests that due to lower Total Fermentable Carbohydrate (TFC) and higher Total Fermentable Protein (TFP) levels, they will need careful balancing with supplemental carbohydrates to balance the higher TFP and ensure optimal microbial protein production and protein efficiency.

Conversely, second cut is higher in TFC and lower in TFP, meaning

Lactic Acid

g/kg DM

84.9

70.8

VFA

g/kg DM

24.9

26.1

%

3.3

3.1

g/kg DM

88.0

82.7

g/kg DM

103.4

97.0

g/kg DM

190.9

195.9

g/kg DM

434.2

449.6

Ammonia Rapidly Fermentable Protein Total Fermentable

they are better balanced than first. Consequently, balancing should

Protein

be slightly easier.

Rapidly Fermentable

“Acid load and Fibre Index values mean both first and second

Carbohydrates

cut silages look safe to feed and should promote reasonable levels

Total Fermentable

of butterfat without the need for huge amounts of additional buffer.

Carbohydrates

Given the higher fibre index in both cuts, especially first, it will be vitally

Acid Load

47.5

47.3

important to ensure rapidly fermentable carbohydrates are added into

Fibre Index

186.7

188.7

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 35

Mycotoxins General Information, Emerging Mycotoxins and Co-Occurrence

By Jolien van Soest, Central Technical Manager, Orffa Additives B.V.

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites that are produced by certain

showed that about 48% of all feed samples (7,049 in total) contained

filamentous fungi. They are found to be common contaminants of food

two or more mycotoxins (Rodrigues and Nachrer, 2012). Most studies

and feed sources. There are three main genera of fungi associated

show synergistic or additive effects when there is co-occurrence

with the production of mycotoxins, which are Aspergillus, Fusarium

of multiple mycotoxins, and these effects are generally regarding

and Penicillium (CAST, 2003). In 2019, it was shown in a survey that

decreased animal performance. (Grenier and Oswald, 2011).

88% of all tested feed samples contained at least one mycotoxin

In general, it is considered difficult to interpret toxicity data

(Gruber-Dorninger et al. 2019). Therefore, the economic impact of

of co-occurring mycotoxins. It is expected that mycotoxins which

mycotoxins is severe. Economic effects can be related to animal

have similar toxicity mechanisms cause synergistic and additive

mortality, disease and reduced production, but also crop losses and

effects (Speijers and Speijers, 2004). However, besides the toxicity

mycotoxin analysis (Zain, M.E. 2011). The mycotoxins that are most

of each mycotoxin separately, there are many factors that could

relevant for animal production are aflatoxins, fumonisins, zearalenone,

influence the final toxicity of the cooccurring mycotoxins such as

trichothecenes (deoxynivalenol, T-2 toxin) and ochratoxin (Richard,

toxicokinetics, toxicodynamics, mechanism and chemistry in cells,

J.L. 2007).

and experimental design (Lee and Ryu, 2017). It was shown, based

Emerging mycotoxins can be defined as mycotoxins that are

on data from literature including 127 feed samples, that the most

not routinely determined, nor regulated by legislation. Even though

frequently occurring combinations of mycotoxins are co-occurrence

little attention is given to this group of mycotoxins, their incidence is

of aflatoxins and ochratoxin A (21%), aflatoxins and fumonisins (20%)

increasing (Vaclavikova et al. 2013). Based on this definition, it can

and DON and zearalenone (13%). Other combinations of mycotoxins

be expected that many mycotoxins with (potential) toxicity are part of

were also shown to co-occur but are less frequent (Smith et al. 2016).

this group. Some of the most studied emerging mycotoxins appear to be enniatins, beauvericin, fusaproliferin, culmorin, moniliformin,

In-feed solutions

fusaric acid, emodin, alternariol, butanolide, tenuazonic acid,

A wide variety of products, intended to reduce the negative effects

sterigmatocystin, mycophenolic acid and alternariol monomethyl

of mycotoxins, are globally available. A common mode of action for

ether. For many of the members of the emerging mycotoxin group,

such products is the binding of mycotoxins, also called adsorption

there are knowledge gaps, highlighting the need for more research

(Kolosova and Stroka, 2011). Clay minerals are considered to be

and attention towards these mycotoxins, so that a risk assessment

natural adsorbents of mycotoxins and are generally available at quite

can be done (Gruber-Dorninger, 2017). When risk assessments of

low prices. Montmorillonite, bentonite and zeolite are examples of clays

these mycotoxins have been made, it will be possible to set legislation

that have the capacity to bind aflatoxins in the gastrointestinal tract, and

and guidance levels around these mycotoxins (Kovalsky et al. 2016).

therefore reduce the absorption of aflatoxins. Such clays are generally

The knowledge gaps are still present in all three main factors for risk

non-nutritive and non-toxic for the animals but allow for a protective

assessment; occurrence, toxicity and toxicokinetics. For some of the

effect against certain mycotoxins (Oguz and Kurtoglu, 2000). Aside from

emerging mycotoxins, such as enniatins, alternariol or moniliformin,

the inorganic adsorbents, such as zeolites, bentonites and other clays,

toxicity data is available. However, this data mostly originates from in

organic binders can be used, for example, yeast cell wall constituents

vitro studies, while in vivo data remains limited (Fraeyman et al. 2017).

(Kolosova and Stroka, 2011). In general, it can be stated that mycotoxin

It is possible that a feed sample is contaminated with more than

binders can vary in efficiency, depending on the mycotoxins in the

one mycotoxin at a time, this is called a co-occurrence. There can

feed, as well as on the binder itself. Polarity, size, solubility, shape and

be different reasons for co-occurrence; several fungi are capable

charge are important characteristics of the mycotoxins, that determine

of producing more than one mycotoxin at the same time, feed

the efficacy to which they can be adsorbed by the binder product. Also,

(ingredients) can be contaminated with more than one fungi at a time,

the external pH, of the environment to which the mycotoxin binder is

and finished feed usually consists out of several ingredients (which can

added, is important in the adsorption process (Dakovic et al. 2005).

all contain different mycotoxins) (Smith et al. 2016). A recent survey

Clays can be defined as naturally occurring minerals with a particle size

Page 36 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

smaller than 2μm (Subramaniam and Kim, 2015). Most types of clays are

A second function of the product is that it aims for the adsorption

phyllosilicates, meaning that they consist of layers. Such phyllosilicates

of mycotoxins in the gastrointestinal tract of animals, via the inclusion

can be subdivided into two groups, depending on the number, type and

of two aluminosilicates and yeast in the product. The combination

charge of the layers.

of these three ingredients allows for a synergistic effect, with high

The kaolin group (for example nacrite, kaolinite and dickite) have

binding efficacy for different types of mycotoxins.

a 1:1 structure, with a tetrahedral Si sheet that is linked to an octahedral

The third function is the strengthening of the intestinal barrier via

Al sheet via a covalent bond (Subramaniam and Kim, 2015). Another

the inclusion of betaine in Excential Toxin Plus. Many mycotoxins,

type of structure is the 2:1 group, consisting out of one octahedral

such as DON, reduce villi length intestinal barrier function (Pinton et

sheet (generally Mg, Al or the combination of Mg and Al) fitting in the

al. 2012), causing the animal to be more susceptible to pathogens.

middle of two tetrahedral Si sheets. This type of structure is called the

Betaine can accumulate in intestinal cells and is known for having a

smectite group (for example montmorillonite, saponite or hectorite)

protective effect on the intestinal cells during a challenge (Kettunen

(Subramaniam and Kim, 2015). Next to phyllosilicates, another type

et al. 2001). In research published by Kettunen et al. (2001), it was

of clay can occur with a three-dimensional structure. This group is

shown that betaine can reduce the harmful effect of a challenge on

called the zeolites, and the three-dimensional structure (of SiO44−,

intestinal villi, allowing for longer villi during challenges compared to

and AlO45-) is linked via shared oxygen atoms (Subramaniam and

the challenged group without betaine.

Kim, 2015). Via the three-dimensional pores, exchange of cations

The liver is an organ that is often negatively affected by

and water can occur. These clays are negatively charged, making

mycotoxins in the diet (Domijan and Peraica, 2010). Besides

them very effective cation exchangers for positively charged toxins.

accumulation in intestinal cells, betaine is also known to accumulate

Due to the small pore size of zeolites, they are considered to be

in liver cells (Kettunen et al. 2001). Wen et al. (2021) showed that

very selective in adsorption, with a high affinity for toxins and other

betaine allows for improved liver health in broilers fed mycotoxin

contaminants (Subramaniam and Kim, 2015).

(zearalenone) contaminated feed. The fourth function of Excential

Orffa developed Excential Toxin A as a single-spectrum solution,

Toxin Plus can therefore be stated as the hepatoprotection by betaine.

containing one ingredient and aiming at binding the mycotoxins in

Finally, as described in the first section of this paper, mycotoxins

the feed. The product consists of one specific zeolite, tectosilicate

often reduce immune function (Sobrova et al. 2010, Tao et al. 2018).

(clinoptilolite), which is mined in Europe. As a zeolite, it has the

Yeast has been extensively described in the literature for its immune

typical 3-dimensional framework with small pores, as mentioned

stimulating effects (El-Boshy et al. 2010). As such, the fifth function

above. The focus of Excential Toxin A is to bind the mycotoxins

of Excential Toxin Plus is the strengthening of the overall immune

in the gastrointestinal tract of the animal, in order to prevent the

function through the inclusion of yeast. This yeast has a dual function

mycotoxin from being absorbed on an intestinal level and entering

in the product; adsorbing mycotoxins and immune support.

the bloodstream. The product has been shown to have complete

Some mycotoxins, such as the trichothecenes, are known to be

binding of aflatoxins (>90%), both at pH 3 (simulating the stomach

difficult to bind. For such mycotoxins, it is important to include other

environment) as well as pH 7 (simulating the intestinal environment).

strategies that contribute to reducing the negative effects of these

Also, for the enniatins, one of the emerging mycotoxins, binding was

mycotoxins. Excential Toxin Plus is a broad-spectrum solution, with

shown to be over 90% in the full pH range of the gastrointestinal

functions not only aimed at adsorption but also aimed at prevention,

tract. For fumonisins, the product shows complete binding at pH

intestinal support, hepatoprotection and strengthening of the immune

3, but strongly reduced binding at pH 7. When, besides aflatoxins,

system. It can therefore provide protection against the full range of

fumonisins or enniatins, a) other types of mycotoxins are present in the

mycotoxins.

feed, b) contamination levels are high or c) there’s co-contamination, it’s advised to switch from Excential Toxin A to Excential Toxin Plus.

Binding efficacy trial

Excential Toxin Plus is Orffa’s broad-spectrum mycotoxin

In collaboration with the Centre of Excellence in Mycotoxicology and

adsorbent, aimed at the full spectrum of mycotoxins. This product

Public Health at the University of Ghent (Belgium), Orffa designed an

consists of five ingredients and focuses on five functions to reduce

in vitro model to analyse the binding capacity of different commercial

the negative effects of mycotoxins.

mycotoxin adsorbents, using liquid chromatography with tandem

First, the product includes organic acids aimed at preventing

mass spectrometry (LC-MS/ MS). The assay mimics the conditions

the growth of mould and mycotoxins in stored feed. Literature shows

in the gastrointestinal tract by testing the compounds both at pH 3

that the inclusion of calcium propionate can reduce the growth of

(which represents the pH level in the stomach) as well as pH 3-7

Aspergillus flavus and reduce the production of AFB1 by Aspergillus

(resembling the pH in the intestine). This trial compared the binding

flavus (Alam et al. 2009).

capacity of the 8 premium mycotoxin binders that are globally

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 37

Table 1: Mycotoxin binding efficacy of Excential Toxin Plus compared to 8 premium mycotoxin binders

Complete binding (“+++” >90%) Partial binding (“++” >50%; < 90%) Limited binding (“+” >10%; <50%) No significant binding (“0” <10%)

available, to the binding efficacy of Excential Toxin Plus for different

the product shows equal or better binding efficacy compared to 8 of

mycotoxins: trichothecenes (DON, HT-2, T-2), zearalenone (ZEN),

the commercially available premium mycotoxin binders.

aflatoxins (AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2), ochratoxins (OTA), and fumonisins (FUM B1, FUM B2) (published at the World Mycotoxin

Trial in laying hens

Forum Amsterdam, 2018).

In collaboration with the CERSA and the University of Lomé in Togo,

The binding efficacy for the trichothecenes (DON, HT-2, T-2) is

a trial in laying hens was performed to study the effects of Excential

considered to be low, which is also shown in the results of this trial

Toxin Plus in an aflatoxin-contaminated layer diet (published at World

(Table 1). It is shown that the adsorption capacity for the trichothecenes

Poultry Congress, Paris 2022). The trial included 840 hens, in cages

is low for all tested products. Aflatoxins, on the other hand, are shown

(3 per cage), in open houses, that were randomly assigned to 24

to be bound to a high extent for all of the tested products, both at pH

pens. There were two treatments; T1: control diet, T2: control diet

3 as well as pH 3-7. Some of the tested products are shown to bind

+ 1.5 kg of Excential Toxin Plus/tonne of feed. It was shown (Table

ochratoxins, but in general binding capacity at pH 7 is quite low for

2) that Excential Toxin Plus significantly improved egg production,

this type of mycotoxin. For fumonisins, similar results were found,

especially in old hens (+8.7%, p<0.05); +2.4% for young hens), and

also showing that some products have high binding capacity at pH

significantly reduced FCR for both old (-9.2%, p<0.05) and young

3, but low binding at pH 7. When considering Excential Toxin Plus,

(-4.6%, p<0.05) hens. In old hens, Excential Toxin Plus was shown

Table 2: Effect of Excential Toxin Plus on performance and egg parameters in hens with different ages (young hens 47-59 weeks, old hens 62-74 weeks)

Page 38 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

to improve egg weight by +4.0 g, due to a significant improvement in

of VH cases (-54%) in T1. In T2, groups B and Excential Toxin

albumen and shell weight (p<0.05).

Plus reduced VH cases in more than 30%, with group A increasing appearance of VH.

Trial in swine A recent trial (published at World Mycotoxin Forum Parma, 2022),

Conclusions

performed on a commercial farm in the Philippines, investigated

Mycotoxins are already present as a major challenge for animal

the effects of three different broad-spectrum mycotoxin binders on

production worldwide, accounting for substantial economic losses.

reducing the effects of zearalenone on growth performance and

Due to the changing climate and intensive agricultural practices, the

incidence of Vulva Hypertrophy (VH) in gilts. The study consisted out

mycotoxin challenge is expected to increase in the coming years.

of two trials, T1 performed in nursery gilts and T2 in growing gilts.

Not only the most commonly known mycotoxins, such as aflatoxins,

Both trials started when the gilts showed signs of VH. Gilts from the

fumonisins, zearalenone, ochratoxins, DON, T-2 and HT-2 present

same batch were allocated into three groups and fed three different

a challenge, but also the emerging mycotoxins. This highlights the

types of multi-component mycotoxin adsorbents A, B or Excential

need for more research into toxicity mechanisms and also into means

Toxin Plus. For both trials, weight and feed intake were recorded and

for mycotoxin prevention and reduction.

feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated. Vulva hypertrophy was

The market for mycotoxin solutions already includes different

noted per animal, initially and at the end of the trial period. Both trials

commercially available products. Orffa developed Excential Toxin

lasted until the gilts were 180 days old and were selected, either as

A, a single spectrum solution focussed mainly on the binding of

replacement gilts or sold as finishers, with selection criteria being the

aflatoxins and fumonisins. A second product, Excential Toxin Plus,

occurrence of oestrous during these first 180 days.

is a broad spectrum solution with high in vitro binding efficacy to

In both trials, considering the overall period, gilts from the

different types of mycotoxins, and on top, prevention, intestinal

Excential Toxin Plus group had higher final body weight and daily

support, hepatoprotection and strengthening of the immune system.

gain, and lower FCR compared to groups A and B (Figure 1). The

Both products have been demonstrated to reduce the negative effects

Excential Toxin Plus group also resulted in the highest reduction

of mycotoxins.

Figure 1: Performance results in A) body weight (BW), B) average daily gain (ADG), C) feed conversion ratio (FCR), and D) reduction percentage of VH cases, receiving three different commercial mycotoxin binders; A, B or Excential Toxin Plus.

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 39

ENERGISING COWS GOES A LONG WAY

By Dr Philip Ingram, Cargill Technical Ruminant Specialist

The transition period is the

If cows are over-conditioned, they’ll eat less. They’re already

biggest hurdle a cow faces

inclined to eat less as they approach calving because there’s less

during her annual production

rumen space, so this will be compounded if the cow is on the fat side.

cycle. And success here

The big picture is that the cow’s body condition score governs how

translates to both short- and

much she wants to eat.

long-term improvements in cow

Data from a recent trial show that close-up cows with condition

performance. But all too often

scores above 3.5 BCS spent 30 minutes less time feeding a day

the transition management is

compared with their herd mates with a condition score of 2.5 to 3.

sub-optimal, and cows fail to reach their production potential and

This study also showed those over-conditioned cows ate 1.5kg less

experience fertility and health setbacks.

dry matter and, therefore, had a reduced energy supply.

Mitigating any shortfalls usually comes down to a combination of diet and management.

Many studies have also shown that over-conditioned cows go on to eat less and lose more BCS in early lactation.

A well-balanced diet and easy access to fresh feed are equally

The close-up dry-cow diet warrants as much attention as the milking-

essential for these transition cows. But she also needs a good appetite

cow diet, with the correct quantity and quality of fibre, protein and energy

to maintain intakes of the right nutrients and in sufficient amounts.

to encourage good rumen function and digestibility of nutrients.

Correct body condition score is crucial to this taking place.

We can check the efficiency of these functions either very quickly by assessing manure, which should be slightly stiffer than milking-

Risk ‘hot spots’

cow manure, or in more depth by using a digestion analyser. The

I often ask groups of farmers and nutritionists where they see the main

digestion analyser can be used to sieve manure on farm to assess

risk areas in transition cow management that may affect performance,

fibre digestion.

and they’ll typically cite excess body condition loss, pen-to-pen movements and feed availability.

We can add feed sorting by cows at the trough to this list. Dry cow rations will often have a higher straw content and, unless it’s well chopped and mixed, cows will sort the diet and fail to consume a consistent or balanced ration. Also, long straw takes up too much room in the rumen.

Easy access to feed is key and it should be made as available and inviting as possible. The checklist to achieve this includes sufficient trough space; fresh feed regularly pushed up, and old stale feed removed; and easy, wide access points between the lying and feeding areas.

The risks of falling short in any of these areas will impact intakes

Dry-cow diets are higher in fibre than milking-cow diets, but they

and, therefore, energy availability to cows when they need it most.

pass more slowly through the rumen. This means that they should be

This energy provision does not come from simply increasing the

digested at least as well, if not better, than diets fed to their milking

energy density of the diet. This won’t usually work.

herd mates.

Instead, it requires a good appetite, a balanced diet, good cow

So if the transition-cow diet and its presentation are right, then

comfort and environment and, importantly, ensuring both rumen and

we should see the same reading from the digestion analyser as from

liver are working in top condition.

a milking-cow diet.

As nutritionists and advisers, we should look at all these factors.

Good digestion is essential to unlock energy from the feed. This energy is built up in the liver into glucose, which is the energy format

Body condition vs appetite

that the cow can use. If the rumen and liver are working well, intake

BCS as cows approach calving should be 2.5 to 3. Dry cows at this

is stimulated, and good performance follows. This is particularly

stage are often too fat.

important in early lactation.

Page 40 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

Primed for action

the Netherlands when used in milking cow rations.

Transition cows will benefit from having their liver primed to build

High-quality transition cow management is akin to a good start

glucose to provide them with the increased requirement for energy

in a marathon. If cows are well-prepared and not challenged as they

to carry them through calving and into the milking herd. A lack of

calve and begin their lactation, there will be lasting benefits.

available energy is so often the root cause of issues in early lactation associated with production and fertility.

An enhanced diet with liver priming capabilities close to calving and in early lactation will smooth their journey.

Also, the immune system runs on energy in the form of dietary glucose. If challenged with an infection, which transition cows are more prone to than those in the milking herd, then the immune system is activated and can require up to 1kg of glucose a day.

Ensuring a good transition - Key Facts •

Investing in the transition period will have lasting benefits.

•

Getting the transition stage right by preparing cows well and ensuring a good energy supply mitigates the risks of

Energy boost In most cases, transition cows will benefit from extra energy, and this can be achieved by improving diets with feed products known to

cows ‘melting away’ in early lactation •

appetite, a balanced diet, good cow comfort and

prime the liver and improve its function.

environment and, importantly, ensuring both rumen and

Although the process of extracting energy from the cow’s diet

liver are working in top condition.

starts in the rumen, the key to its success is the cow’s liver.

The rumen converts feed to volatile fatty acids including propionic

•

eat for two

A plentiful supply of propionic acid, achieved by a well•

maintenance and milk and is essential to prevent excessive mobilisation of body fat.

The liver has many functions, including energy management

The cow’s BCS governs how much she wants to eat – 2.5-3 is ideal approaching calving. Cows don’t naturally

acid, which is then converted to energy by the liver. functioning rumen, ensures the cow has enough energy for

Energy provision for transition cows relies on a good

Cows tend to eat less as they get closer to calving so a high- quality diet needs to be fresh and easily accessible

•

Boosting cows’ energy with liver priming feed products such as LiFT® and Turbopro® during the transition period

and detoxification of the blood. Around 85% of the cow’s glucose is

and in lactation are proven to improve performance.

actually built in the liver from propionic acid produced during rumen fermentation. Additionally, fat mobilised from body reserves must be processed there before it can be used for energy.

An increased mobilisation of body fat puts a lot of pressure on the liver and can lead to the problems associated with fatty liver, such as ketosis, and sub-optimal performance in early lactation.

There are several ways where we can ‘support’ the liver, including through her diet.

Feed supplements – LiFT® and Turbopro® – can help to ‘prime’

LiFT with a turbo charge boosts energy LiFT® is a feed ingredient with a unique combination of vitamins and essential cofactors designed to stimulate liver function and improve the organ’s efficiency. It helps the cow to utilise energy more efficiently by supporting the liver in its metabolism of free fatty acids. It will also help to reduce the production of excess

the liver and promote energy production during transition and lactation.

ketones and transport fat from the liver, so supplying more energy

These products have been proven to have a positive effect on milk

to the udder.

production.

LiFT® in action:

LiFT® is designed for feeding in the dry period, for a minimum

•

of three weeks pre calving. But the main advantages are seen in the transition period and in early lactation where they assist in priming the liver for optimal function, and in facilitating additional energy that

reserves are mobilised.

•

•

fed LiFT in the close-up period. ®

Drives glucose production –85% of this happens in the liver.

Glucose is a key ingredient in milk production.

Trials have consistently shown yield improvements of 3.1kg of milk per cow per day recorded in the first 150 days in groups of cows

Keeps the pathways clear and enables the liver to function efficiently.

is much needed by the cow at this stage. This is where most cost benefit is seen.

Exports fat from the liver, which is prone to build up as body

•

Includes Turbopro®, which is a blend of rumen protected B-vitamins and palatability enhancers which provides

The feed supplement Turbopro® was developed for including

additional glucose building capabilities in the transition

in milking-cow rations, but it is now also incorporated into LiFT® for

period. Turbopro® can also be included in milking cow rations

additional glucose building capacity. It has been shown to give an

throughout lactation.

additional 1.2kg of milk per day across studies in the UK, France and

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 41

PLAN FOR MYCOTOXIN THREAT With Alicia Wilson, Ruminant Technical Sales Manager Feed Additives, Trouw Nutrition GB.

Livestock farmers and nutritionists are being advised to keep a close eye out for the signs of mycotoxins this year to minimise the impact on growth, yield, health and fertility.

“Mycotoxins are harmful, naturally occurring substances produced by certain moulds and fungi,” explains Alicia Wilson from Trouw Nutrition GB. “These fungi commonly grow on feedstuffs and tend to multiply during adverse weather conditions.

“The climatic conditions we have seen this summer with a high number of warm, humid days means that it will be a favourable year for fungal growth, therefore creating a higher risk from mycotoxins.

Heavier than average rainfall can also result in increased impact of

Symptoms of mycotoxin contamination can be non-specific, hidden

some mycotoxins.”

and vary between different mycotoxins. Table 1 shows the effects

Moulds can grow and produce toxins when the crops are still in the field. High humidity and temperature during crop growth

of mycotoxins on dairy cows and Table 2 the impact on pigs and poultry.

and harvesting can increase mould growth and mycotoxin risk in

Mycotoxin problems are often chronic and the impact on

feed ingredients. Contamination and growth can also occur during

performance and health is often underestimated. In ruminants they

storage.

commonly cause poor rumen fermentation and reduced dry matter

“The moulds that produce mycotoxins are sometimes visible

intakes, resulting in a reduction of milk production. Immune depression

when crops are harvested, or when the store is opened. Only recently,

can result in an increase in disease incidence and a further reduction

AHDB reported higher levels of fungal contamination on cereal crops.

in performance.

The mycotoxins themselves are invisible, meaning they can only be

Lastly, they can cause hormonal imbalances leading to poor

identified in forages, or prevented from contaminating finished feeds

fertility. These symptoms can also be caused by many other diseases

if ingredients are being analysed.”

or management factors, meaning it is not always easy to link problems

While there are a significant number of potential mycotoxins, six are most commonly associated with problems in livestock.

on farm with mycotoxin contamination. Overall, livestock will just not be performing as expected.

Table 1: Effects of major mycotoxins in dairy cows

Page 42 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

Table 2: Effects of major mycotoxins on pigs and poultry Mycotoxin

General effects and symptoms

Aflatoxin

Immune suppression, liver damage, reduced technical performance

Deoxynivalenol

Immune suppression, reduced gut integrity, reduced feed intake, vomiting in pigs

T-2

Immune suppression, mouth and intestinal lesions, reduced egg production

Ochratoxin

Immune suppression, kidney damage,

Zearalenone

Reproduction and fertility problems in pigs,

reduced gut integrity, eggshell problems prolapses in pigs, reduced feed intake Fumonisin

Immune suppression, reduced feed intake, liver damage

The Selko Toxo range of binders are effective against the major classes of mycotoxins affecting livestock including aflatoxins, fumonisins, zearalenone, Ochratoxins, T-2 toxins and DON. •

Selko Toxo MX consists of smectite clays, which have been

“Together the lack of distinct and unique symptoms and visible

shown to have a high binding capacity for aflatoxin B1. With

signs of contamination mean it is not easy to confirm mycotoxins

the bioavailability of aflatoxin B1 reduced, the production of

are a problem on farm, so the most cost-effective strategy is to take

aflatoxin M1 is diminished, meaning lower levels are excreted

preventative measures to reduce any potential impact, especially in

into the milk.

years where the potential risk is greater.”

•

Selko Toxo contains bentonite a mycotoxin binder with at least 50% smectite, which has strong binding capacity for aflatoxins, ergot toxins and LPS, in combination with glucose biopolymers which maintain gut tight junctions to reduce the translocation of mycotoxins into the blood stream.

•

Selko Toxo XL contains bentonite with at least 50% smectite, which has a strong binding capacity for aflatoxins, ergot toxins and LPS, glucose biopolymers which improve gut barrier function, reducing uptake of mycotoxins in combination with purified β-glucans that improve the immune function.

The next stage is to take steps to reduce the growth of moulds

in stored feed. Ensure clamps and feed bins are properly cleaned Mrs Wilson says there are a range of actions that can help

before crops or silages are stored. Optimise storage conditions, to

reduce the consequences of mycotoxins. Reducing animal exposure

reduce the level of moisture and ensure humidity is controlled. Make

to mycotoxins in feed is key, identifying sources of contamination and

sure silage clamps are properly sealed and opened gradually to avoid

avoiding feeding them. It is possible to analyse feeds for mycotoxin

exposure to air.

contamination. This can be a useful starting point and something your

“Identifying the specific mycotoxins affecting performance and

nutritionist would be well advised to do if stock are not performing

then selecting the most appropriate binder will greatly reduce the

as expected.

risk of mycotoxins compromising performance this winter across all

“For example, never feed ruminants mouldy silage from the top,

livestock species,” Mrs Wilson comments.

shoulders and sides of clamps but it is important to remember that toxins can contaminate material even where visible moulds are not present.

“For this reason, it is important to consider feeding a mycotoxin binder. As the name suggests, binders fix to certain toxins, preventing them from being absorbed through the gut and into the blood. Instead, they are safely excreted. Some binders will also help maintain gut wall integrity and reduce the risk of unbound toxins crossing into the bloodstream. Finally, some binders can help boost the immune system.

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 43

VOLAC LAUNCHES NEW FEED ADDITIVES WEBSITE Volac has launched a new website for its Feed Additives division, which highlights the company’s expert technical support services and range of evidence-based products designed to improve the efficiency and sustainability of livestock production systems around the globe.

According to Rebecca O’Sullivan, Volac product manager for Feed Additives, the new website highlights the company’s credentials in a variety of specialist areas.

“With core competencies in microbiology, biochemistry, enzymology and immunology, we provide valuable scientific solutions for mycotoxin risk management and some exciting new phytogenic and nutraceutical products. These global market offerings support good animal health, resilience and productivity in both the ruminant and monogastric sectors, ultimately bringing improved profitability and sustainability to the international feed industry,” she said.

For further information visit: https:// www.volac.com/feed-additives.htm

ADM OFFERS FULLY VERIFIED, SEGREGATED, TRACEABLE SOYBEAN MEAL AND OIL TO EUROPEAN CUSTOMERS ADM announced that it is offering fully verified, segregated, traceable soybean meal and oil to meet the needs of European customers as EU deforestation regulations come into effect on December 30.

“Thanks to the critical participation of our farmer network as well as our dedicated U.S. elevators and segregated transportation and logistics capabilities, we are in a position to supply all of our existing customers in Europe with soybean meal and oil once new rules go into effect at the end of this year,” said Sebastian Kuck, general manager, EMEA Soy Crush.

In March, ADM launched a fully traceable North American soybean program, re:source™, which enrolled almost 5,300 farmers encompassing more than 4.6 million acres across 15 states for the 2024 season.

The program utilises cutting-edge technology – such as the FBN® Gradable digital platform – as well as ADM’s origination and transportation capabilities to verify, trace and segregate participating beans from farms to their final destination. The company will utilise the sustainability measurement platform TRACT, an industry-led joint venture, to provide enhanced traceability solutions to its customers across the supply chain.

Beyond North America, ADM continues

to work across other key regions to pilot soybean crushing and exporting of both beans and meal to the EU in fully traceable and segregated supply chains.

“Although industry continues to await final implementation guidance from the European Commission on the EU deforestation regulation’s requirements, this program will ensure we can continue to give U.S. farmers the choice and the opportunity to add value by supplying global markets, while meeting our customers’ needs through ADM’s fully segregated and dedicated supply chain,” said Jon Turney, president, EMEA Oilseeds.

European customers can now contact their local ADM office for pricing and more information on traceable soybean meal and oil.

SRUC AWARDED £700K TO MEASURE CATTLE EMISSIONS SRUC researchers have been awarded nearly £700,000 for equipment* which will form part of an ultra-modern research facility to measure emissions from beef cattle, supporting the UK Government’s goals to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The winning project, titled ‘UltraGreenCow: Comprehensive greenhouse gas and ammonia emissions measurement capacity for large ruminant production’ has become one of 29 projects to receive a portion of the £13 million of funding available from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) for mid-range equipment for biosciences research.

The UltraGreenCow project, led by SRUC researchers Dr Gemma Miller, Professor Rainer Roehe and Prof CarolAnne Duthie, will build upon SRUC’s existing GreenCow facility. UltraGreenCow is set to be one of the few locations in the world which can measure all emissions from livestock (including methane, nitrous oxide, ammonia and carbon dioxide). The increased knowledge of trade-offs between these pollutants will provide essential data for mitigation measures, such as feed additives, at a time when farmers are under intense pressure to reduce emissions.

Project co-lead Dr Miller, Research Fellow at SRUC, said: “In the UK, agriculture is responsible for 11% of Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) and 87% of ammonia emissions. Around 50% of GHGs and 75% of ammonia emissions from agriculture are associated with livestock or their wastes.

Therefore, reducing emissions of these gases from agriculture is vital to meeting these ambitious commitments. However, there is a real risk that implementing a mitigation measure to reduce one gas could lead to increases in one or more of the others.

“Currently there are very few facilities with the capability to measure emissions

Page 44 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

of all these gases simultaneously from individual animals, which is apparent in the low number of studies reporting all of them.

“Gaining comprehensive data supporting reductions in all emissions will improve cohesion between different policy objectives and help improve farmer and consumer confidence, leading to greater uptake of mitigation measures.”

BASF DECLARES FORCE MAJEURE FOR SELECTED VITAMIN A, VITAMIN E, AND CAROTENOID PRODUCTS AS WELL AS SELECTED AROMA INGREDIENTS As a result of a fire that occurred in a BASF plant in Ludwigshafen, Germany on July 29, 2024, BASF SE has declared Force Majeure on deliveries of selected vitamin A, vitamin E, and carotenoid products as well as selected aroma ingredients, with immediate effect and until further notice. The selected aroma ingredients are Ionones, Pyranol, DL-Menthol, Rose Oxides, Ethyllinalool, Nerolidol, and Isophytol R. BASF is in close contact with customers to share updates and the developments regarding the supply capability of the affected products.

The fire occurred in a BASF plant that manufactures aroma ingredients and precursors for the vitamin A, vitamin E, and carotenoid production. All slightly injured employees could leave the Medical Center on the evening of the incident. There was no contamination of air, water, or soil. BASF’s environmental monitoring vehicles were underway inside and outside the site and did not detect any product residues. The relevant authorities have been informed.

The incident has unfortunately caused damage to the plant, which led to a shutdown and a supply disruption of the aforementioned products. Cleaning, inspection and repair work of the plant has started.

SUPPORTING DAIRY COW GUT HEALTH KEY TO PRODUCTIVITY AND PROFITABILITY Gut health is a crucial factor affecting the health and performance of dairy cows, and is therefore key to farm productivity and profitability, producers are being advised.

“During stress periods, the dairy cow’s gut wall becomes more permeable, or ‘leaky’.

When this occurs, undesirable bacteria and toxic substances can pass into the blood stream, initiating an inflammatory response,” explains Anna Millar, Trident MicroNutri ruminant technical manager.

Milk yield and reproduction are very easily influenced by stress, due to the high energy and protein demands of lactation, and the complexity of the reproductive processes and organs involved.

“Inflammatory responses require

energy. As this energy will be taken from the available measure the cow would use for production, we can see negative impacts on productivity, fertility and overall health,” she adds.

reducing the endotoxin load and likelihood and severity of an immune response,” concludes Ms Millar.

Acidosis and Endotoxins When there is an imbalance of rapidly fermentable carbohydrates in the diet, causing a decrease in ruminal pH to a level below 5.6, cows will also be at high risk of acidosis.

“When the rumen environment becomes more acidic, the balance of digestive microbes changes, with increased starch digesters and less fibre digesters.

Continually increased starch digestion further decreases pH,” continues Ms Millar.

“This results in a significant imbalance in nutrient utilisation and has also been associated with reduced milk yield and butterfat, alongside health issues. The financial impact is substantial due to decreased production, and costs of treatment.”

The reduction in ruminal pH stimulates the gram-negative bacteria present in rumen fluid to die, and release endotoxins or lipopolysaccharide (LPS). These gramnegative bacteria can also be present further along the digestive tract.

“It has been well proven that subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) and stress have been associated with increased permeability of the gut wall, and increased inflammation markers in the blood, likely due to the transfer of LPS from the gut,” Ms Millar explains.

“Circulating LPS and increased permeability of the gut wall results in an activated immune system, which reprioritises the channel of energy to immunity and away from production, growth, and fertility.”

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN TRANSITION COW MANAGEMENT AND NUTRITION

Two-step approach To reduce the risk of leaky gut and minimise the release of endotoxins in the digestive tract, Trident MicroNutri advises a two-step approach to support animals during stress periods.

“Firstly, we can support the stability of the rumen pH with AcidBuf, the unique marine sourced buffer, with highly available mineral sources,” says Ms Millar.

“By stabilising rumen pH, the risk of acidosis and leaky gut is reduced, and proliferation and lysis of gram-negative bacteria are minimised, hence reducing endotoxin load.”

Secondly, Ms Millar suggests binding the LPS in the rumen with Ultrasorb R. “The recent reformulation of Ultrasorb R has considered both existing and newly available raw materials for both binding and detoxification,” she says.

The upgrade of the yeast extract and the addition of a new live yeast has improved fusarium mycotoxin binding, while the addition of new clays has increased the endotoxin binding capacity from 40% in the old formulation to 70% in the new Ultrasorb R. “By providing endotoxin binding and detoxification, we support the cow through

Some of the country’s leading dairy nutritionists, producers and industry influencers converged on Stoke-onTrent earlier this summer to discuss new developments in transition cow nutrition.

Hosted by Balchem Animal Nutrition & Health, the UK leg of a series of events across Europe was organised in partnership with Trident MicroNutri, and brought some of the leading voices in the industry together, to not only share research findings, but also look at practical trial results in a farm setting.

The ‘New Developments in Transition Cow Nutrition’ seminar saw renowned researcher and professor, Dr Jose Santos from the University of Florida, share some of the newest research demonstrating the many benefits of feeding rumen-protected choline to transition dairy cows.

Dr Santos was joined at the UK seminar

by Anna Millar, Trident MicroNutri’s ruminant technical manager, as she shared insights from the field.

Ms Millar looked at how the highly concentrated form of rumen-protected choline, ReaShure XC, affects colostrum yield and quality. This included a look at the successful field trial work with the renowned Gold Cup winning dairy operation, Metcalfe Farms. At the time of the trial, starting in April 2022, the dairy herd at Metcalfe Farms consisted of 1300 pedigree Holsteins with 1100 in milk, showing an average yield of 39kg per cow at 3.3% protein and 3.9% butterfat.

As high-yielding cows, averaging around 12,500 litres, their livers needed all the support they could get through transition.

“The overall aim was to improve the transition of the cows and to increase threeweek milk yields, so they could get the cows hitting the ground running and being more productive at the beginning of the lactation, achieving their full potential,” explained Ms Millar.

The close-up dry and fresh cow groups were fed ReaShure XC, at 21 days pre- and post-partum, via addition into TMR in a preblended pre-mix.

“The results saw colostrum quality increase, and metabolic incidences remained low,” said Ms Millar. “Cows at 21days in milk lifted their milk yield by about 2.3kg. Heifers also transitioned well with a similar improvement.”

The level of metritis and displaced abomasum (DA) also reduced, with a lot healthier cow seen through the transition period.

Return on Investment From an economic point of view, Ms Millar

looked at approximate costs of feeding the rumen-protected choline product on farm.

“At 40p per day, based on a 42-day transition, three-weeks before and threeweeks after calving, which we think is best protocol for feeding ReaShure XC, this works out at £16.80 per cow per transition,” she explained.

“In comparison to other approaches to supporting the energy balance of cows around calving, such as a bolus or bypass fats, the costs stand up extremely favourably, before even considering the additional benefits achieved, such as health and fertility.”

Studies have proven that delivering choline during transition leads to substantial ROI, up to as much as 23:1, in terms of combined benefits to full lactation milk production, reduced metabolic disorders and improved calf health and growth.

“So, we can conclude that feeding ReaShure XC both pre- and post-calving delivers ROI, while supporting higher peak milk and lactation yield, healthier transitions, improved calf growth and health and increased colostrum production,” concluded Ms Millar.

EXPANSION OF EVONIK’S METAMINO® PRODUCTION IN SINGAPORE IS COMPLETED The expansion of Evonik’s MetAMINO® (DLmethionine) production facilities in Singapore has been completed. The MetAMINO® production on Jurong Island is again running at full capacity, after shutdowns in Q4/2023 and Q2/2024. The production capacity has been increased by 40,000 metric tonnes, bringing the total to 340,000 metric tonnes per year. The expansion was accomplished ahead of schedule.

Through process intensification, Evonik has optimised its methionine production plants, generating a surplus of steam that is used to produce on-site electricity.

Linde, one of Evonik’s partners on Jurong Island, has designed, constructed, and is operating a nine-megawatt alkaline electrolyser plant, which is the largest of its kind ever installed in Singapore. The unit enables Evonik’s efforts to use green hydrogen required for the MetAMINO® production and reflects the company’s commitment to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact.

Evonik’s DL-methionine plants in Singapore have reduced the product carbon footprint of MetAMINO® at this site (Scope 1+2+3) by six percent compared to before the expansion.

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 45

D S M - F I R M E N I C H MYCOTOXIN SURVEY REVEALS ONGOING MYCOTOXIN RISKS IN KEY REGIONS dsm-firmenich has released the results of the World Mycotoxin Survey from January to June 2024.

11,520 samples were collected and analysed from 77 countries around the world. The results concluded that Fusarium mycotoxins, deoxynivalenol, zearalenone and fumonisins are most frequently found, with the highest regions of mycotoxins found in North- and Central America, South Asia, South East Asia and China and Taiwan.

The survey also includes further details on: •

Prevalence levels for mycotoxin in each region

•

Global and local risk levels for each mycotoxin

•

Risk levels posed to each species

•

Comparison of prevalence levels from January-June 2023

•

More information about Spectrum 380®, the most powerful mycotoxin detection method used as a research tool and performed at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna (BOKU)

•

each

Overview on the occurrence of the most frequent mycotoxins, their masked and modified forms as well as emerging mycotoxins; based on results delivered by the most comprehensive commercially available multi-mycotoxin method, Spectrum Top®50

Additionally, the global contamination of key by-products and alternative feed components is summarised in the dsmfirmenich mycotoxin survey on by-products and alternative feed components.

A range of key by-products and alternative feed components were tested, analysing metabolites found and their prevalence. Numerous mycotoxins are discovered and highlighted in charts and graphs to draw attention to areas of concern.

Ursula Hofstetter, Head of Mycotoxin Risk Management at dsm-firmenich stated “The persistent presence of mycotoxins continues to pose a threat to animal welfare, productivity, and sustainability in agriculture. These results once again underscore the critical need for effective mycotoxin management strategies.

Implementing such strategies is crucial for maintaining the profitability of both the feed industry and animal protein production sectors.”

To download to the dsm-firmenich World Mycotoxin Survey from January to June 2024, follow the QR Code below.

To download the dsm-firmenich mycotoxin survey on by-products and alternative feed components, foscan the QR code below.

Developed in cooperation with experts such as the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), Sustell™ for beef adheres to the most up-to-date standards, including the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) 2019 guidelines, ensuring robust and credible assessments.

With this new development, Sustell™ offers customized environmental footprinting for feed, aquaculture, poultry, swine, dairy and beef production, enabling companies in the value chain to take control of their sustainability data, meet reporting requirements and unlock new business opportunities.

David Morris, Global LCA Director at dsm-firmenich Animal Nutrition & Health said: “By introducing Sustell™ for beef, producers gain access to a powerful platform for conducting comprehensive lifecycle assessments at scale using their own feed and farm data. This enables them to make informed decisions, achieve a strong return on investment, and ensure credible and accurate environmental footprinting. Sustell™ opens up new value opportunities, ranging from enhancing farm productivity to pursuing ecolabeling and sustainable finance initiatives. Our commitment to innovation continues as we strive to advance sustainable farming.”

2024 SFT SCHOLARSHIP DSM-FIRMENICH EXPANDS E N V I R O N M E N T A L FOOTPRINTING TO BEEF INDUSTRY WITH SUSTELLTM dsm-firmenich,has expanded SustellTM, the leading life cycle assessment (LCA) platform for animal protein, to meet the environmental footprinting needs of the beef industry.

Sustell™ now empowers beef producers to measure and understand the full environmental footprint of their operations, enabling targeted reduction programs that are both cost-effective and tied to genuine sustainability improvement.

Sustell™ for beef encompasses all stages of beef production, including cow/ calf operations for breeding and growing stages for replacement and beef cattle.

It covers feedlot, housed, and pasture, range, and paddock production systems.

Page 46 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

EDGAR

PYE

Applications are now open for the Edgar Pye Scholarship 2024.

The Edgar Pye Research Scholarship Trust was founded following the untimely death of R. Edgar Pye in July 1989, President of the Society of Feed Technologists, to perpetuate his memory by offering research scholarships relating to the animal feed industry.

The Trust welcomes applications from anyone studying agriculture or a related subject, or who is already employed in the Animal Feed Industry in the UK or Ireland, and is resident in the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland.

In 2023, an award of £2000 was given to one lucky applicant.

Applications need to be sent through to secretary@sft.uk.com by the 31st October 2024 For full details and information on how to apply, please visit the Society of Feed Technologists website.

What Makes a Good Premix With dsm-firmenich Animal Nutrition & Health

carrier constitutes more than 50% of the premix, a 50:50 mixture of rice hulls/wheat middlings to calcium carbonate is recommended.

Conversely, formulations with less than 50% carrier content should adopt a 60:40 or 70:30 ratio. Adjustments in the quantity and type of carrier may be necessary to attain the desired bulk density, which directly influences flowability and homogeneity. Premixes containing

Premix composition: A premix constitutes a blend of micro ingredients, such as vitamins, minerals, and/or enzymes, evenly dispersed within a carrier

predominantly heavy trace minerals typically incorporate calcium carbonate exclusively to optimize bulk density. To improve handling of the premixes we include a small amount of mineral oil, between 0.5-2% to aid with dustiness.

substance. Micronutrients are typically used at levels less than 200 grams per tonne of feed. Micropremixes serve as a supplementation strategy for animal feeds under various circumstances, including instances where synthesis by the animal is insufficient, there is variability in vitamin or mineral content, feed processing results in the degradation of vitamins and minerals, or to fulfill specific metabolic requirements. The primary objective of incorporating a premix is to ensure a more uniform dispersion of active particles within the feed.

Occasionally, premixes may require dilution or concentration to achieve an optimal blend. High-quality premixes are characterised by favourable flowability and mixability traits, typically manifested by consistent particle size and density across all ingredients. Particle size analysis, often conducted using a standard sieve, reveals a desirable bell-curved distribution.

An Example of a Good Standard Vitamin Premix – 20% Cal Carb, 50% Rice Hulls

Mineral and vitamin sources: Careful consideration of vitamin and mineral sources is imperative during formulation to ensure optimal bioavailability and stability, particularly concerning the intended species. The choice of ingredient form significantly impacts bioavailability and should be deliberated upon during the formulation process. Good quality products, such as those in the ROVIMIX line can be used as stable and reliable vitamin sources. Commonly utilised forms of minerals include oxides, sulfates as well as chelated sources depending on customer inclusion and specifications. dsm-firmenich offers a large portfolio of products that can be mixed to create an ideal premix. Our Nutritional Services Team can be consulted at the time of formulation to assess the premix characteristics and to provide feedback on potential improvements.

Carrier choice:

Overall, it is important to understand the characteristics of a

The selection of an appropriate carrier is pivotal in achieving

good premix. For more information on available premixes or product

optimal premix characteristics. Common carriers, such as rice hulls

related questions please contact a dsm-firmenich representative. For

or wheat middlings, along with calcium carbonate, are utilised to

questions about your current formulations and to assess their quality

enhance the properties of the premix. In formulations where the

please contact your assigned Nutritional Services Specialist.

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 47

Feed Ingredients …

Protein Products ALLTECH

AZELIS

Optigen® by Alltech

Azelis offers a range of plant-based

Boosting the limits

protein products.

of your protein stock

Highly concentrated and digestible

sustainability

potato, pea, wheat and corn proteins

Ongoing pressures around protein supply and pricing, coupled with increasing environmental demands, makes for a complex situation for all U.K. dairy and beef enterprises, both now and looking to the future.

A vital component in overcoming this challenge is supplying modern productive ruminants with optimal levels of ammonia for their rumens to function effectively. Excess ammonia leads to excreted nitrogen waste, whilst a deficit impacts fibre digestion.

can be used as alternatives to or partly replace traditional proteins.

TUBERMINE® GP potato protein provides protein enrichment and is known for its richness in essential amino acids available in higher amounts than in traditional proteins. The outstanding digestibility is particularly well suited to the young, newly weaned animal’s high protein requirements and is well recognised as an excellent source of protein for piglet feed.

LYSAMINE® GPS concentrated protein extracted from peas,

Optigen® provides a slow release of non-protein nitrogen (NPN)

is a valued nutritional ingredient in many applications. Its excellent

to the rumen over time. This leads to better fibre digestion, increased

digestibility along with its naturally low antitrypsin activity makes it a

microbial protein production, and greater efficiency in milk and meat

protein of choice in the nutrition of young animals particularly piglets.

production.

Recent meta-analyses on Optigen evaluated the results of 17 dairy studies carried out in 6 countries, as well as 17 beef studies carried out in 9 countries. The research found Optigen to be a viable substitute or supplementation for plant protein sources in ruminant rations.

The proven benefits of Optigen in dairy cows

VITEN® Vital wheat gluten natural protein extracted from wheat, is a water-insoluble complex protein.

Recognized especially for its high glutamic acid content, the plant-based protein shows exceptional digestibility and can be used in the formulation of high-performance feeds by limiting the risk of non-digested protein in the large intestine.

It is a useful alternative protein source which is appreciated in milk substitutes and piglet feed for its excellent digestibility, colour and palatability.

GLUTALYS® corn gluten meal is a highly digestible protein

•

Reduces soybean meal use by 21%

•

Improves feed efficiency by 3%

concentrate rich in sulphur amino acids (methionine cystine). A

•

Improves nitrogen use efficiency by 4%

polyvalent protein source, it offers advantages in formulas for ruminants

•

Increases production profitability of a 1,000-dairy herd by

because of the low natural degradability of the protein fraction in the

£13,035 •

Lowers the carbon footprint of feed use for milk production by 14.5%

rumen and its high post ruminal digestibility.

For further information please contact Leia Trotman at Azelis on: +44 (0)7792116659 or via email: leia.trotman@azelis.co.uk

The proven benefits of Optigen in beef cattle •

Improves both feed efficiency and liveweight gain by 8%

BENEO

•

Reduces time to slaughter by 9 days

A complete portfolio of vegetable proteins for nutritious and

•

Increases production profitability of a 1,000-beef herd by £13,700

•

Reduces the carbon footprint of beef production by 2.2%

For more information, please contact: Tel: +44 (0) 1780 764512

sustainable animal feed

Email: ukenquiries@alltech.com

With supply challenges and price volatility for some raw materials, as

Web: www.Alltech.com/uk/

well as the increased scrutiny on feed sustainability, feed manufacturers

Page 48 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

are looking for alternative ingredients like protein sources to complete

proteins, essential and functional amino acids such as the umami-

and secure their ingredients portfolio.

tasting glutamic acid, nucleic acids as a source of nucleotides, and

BENEO’s versatile range of vegetal proteins features rice protein,

minerals. The combination of increased palatability, with the addition of

vital wheat gluten and faba bean protein concentrate, each offering

nucleic acids, gives both improvements in feed intake and improved gut

specific nutritional and technical benefits. With this portfolio of solutions

functionality, resulting in animals which consume more and can make

that can also be combined, BENEO provides manufacturers with

better use of nutrients. TechnoYeast® has applications for all animal

high-quality concentrated and non-GMO protein sources, with good to

species where increased feed intake is beneficial.

excellent digestibility and balanced amino acid profiles.

For more information visit: www.biochem.net

BENEO’s rice protein is the most concentrated protein of the portfolio with a guaranteed protein content of 79% as fed, 89% on dry matter.

BORREGAARD

It is a well digestible and tolerated plant protein, making it suitable for

Borregaard is a leader

the most sensitive like young animals. BENEO’s vital wheat gluten

in bypass protein

offers a high protein content of 82% on dry matter and an exceptional

technology, supplying

digestibility. It is particularly fueled with amino acid glutamine which is

markets worldwide for

the preferred nutrient of gut cells and conditionally essential in period

more than 30 years. Our products SoyPass, RaPass and amipro

of stress like weaning. Finally, BENEO’s faba bean protein concentrate

feature high levels of undegradable, yet highly digestible protein that

completes the portfolio and benefits from strong sustainability credentials,

are perfect for today’s ration balancing programs.

as well as exceptional dispersibility/solubility for liquid applications

Soybean meal and rapeseed meal are known to be high value

such as milk replacers. With the construction of a brand-new faba bean

protein sources for animal feeds. During digestion, however, some of

factory in Obrigheim being in full swing, BENEO will soon house its

the vegetable protein is broken down in the rumen of the cow, far too

entire production process of the faba bean ingredients, a faba protein

early in the digestive system for the high yielding cow to fully use it.

concentrate, starch-rich flour and hulls over there.

Bypass products overcome this problem by protecting the protein

These quality ingredients, produced in BENEO’s state-of-the-art

while in the rumen, but allowing it to be fully digested within the small

European facilities, offer manufacturers a secured supply of alternative

intestine. Consequently, better utilisation of the essential amino acids

protein sources for the development of nutritious and sustainable feed

occurs resulting in improved milk production.

SoyPass, RaPass and amipro are manufactured and sold by our

formulas.

approved licensees. All of our bypass proteins are produced according

Web: www.beneo.com/animal-nutrition

to our strict quality requirements, and are among the most consistent bypass proteins on the market.

Borregaard UK Ltd

BIOCHEM RumiPro® Urea – a high quality slow-release urea for optimising protein supply in ruminants.

Clayton Road, Warrington Cheshire, WA3 6QQ United Kingdom.

Tel: +44 (0)1925 285400

Release the full power

Email: animalfeed@borregaard.com

of your cows by the use

Web: www.borregaardfeed.com

of RumiPro ® urea and produce more milk solids.

RumiPro ® Urea has a high-quality non-palm-based fat coating for a constant release of nitrogen in the rumen. It offers additional options to optimise the protein supply of the rumen microbes helping to maintain an efficient rumen fermentation.

RumiPro® Urea increases microbial protein yield and supports cellulolytic bacteria to improve fiber digestibility. The high nutrient density is crucial to create a well-balanced diet for high producing dairy cows and opens additional possibilities in case of suboptimal forage quality.

TechnoYeast - Kluyveromyces fragilis for function and flavour ®

CHERWELL VALLEY SILOS LIMITED Cherwell Valley Silos Ltd have a long well established reputation for providing specialised cooked protein and oilseed products to the animal feed industry. We are pleased to announce the appointment of Max Grafton as Sales Manager.

TechnoYeast® is a hydrolyzed yeast based on the strain Kluyveromyces

Products available are CV-Soy - full fat soya (Profat typically

fragilis, a specific strain of yeast suitable for feeding all species.

54%), and PURA LM (Profat 42%) - a mixture of domestic pulses

TechnoYeast® is produced by a gentle process in which all nutrients

and whole rapeseed recently upgraded with a lower moisture content

are released and made more available for high digestibility, meeting

for better handling characteristics and improved nutrient density.

the needs of young animals. TechnoYeast contains both components ®

of the yeast cell wall – mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) and β-glucans – along with the constituents of the yeast extract: highly digestible

The main soya product is conventional ‘Any origin’ Full Fat Soya (CV-Soy A/O) – supplied with SSS certification if required.

All manufactured products are accredited under FEMAS..

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 49

We can also supply raw whole soyabeans Any origin and NON GM in bulk bags or bulk.

is an opportunity for ruminants to produce more efficiently through increased protein utilisation and reduced nitrogen excretion, having

Centrally located in Oxfordshire, Cherwell Valley Silos are ideally situated to satisfy all customers nationwide. All products are available in bags and bulk ex stock and full fat soya is available in high quality pellet form for improved handling and storage characteristics.

Valley Trading our grain trading operation is managed by Russell

one of the biggest impacts on farm profitability and sustainability. The cow has specific requirements for individual amino acids and both Methionine and Lysine, which are the first essential limiting amino acids. An inadequate supply affects animal health and productivity.

Lake - and continues to specialise in local grain, rapeseed and pulses

Amino acid nutrition also provides flexibility in formulation when

for both consumption in house and third party trades and offers a high

selecting or substituting different feed materials due to either price

quality local independent service to the arable farming community and

or availability.

feed compounding industry.

Table 1 describes the ingredients and nutrient profile for three

Max Grafton, Sales Manager, Cherwell Valley Silos, Twyford, Banbury, Oxon, OX17 3AA Tel: 01295 816201, Fax: 01295 812531

diets, Control diet, Scenario 1, without soybean meal and Scenario 2, with soybean meal, but with 65% lesser amount than the Control diet. All meet the protein requirements for 35kg of milk at 4% and 3.5%

Email: maxg@cvs-ltd.com

milk fat and protein respectively. But Scenarios 1 and 2 also meet

Website: www.cherwellvalleysilos.co.uk

amino acid requirements by using KESSENT® Me and LysiGEM™ (rumen-protected Methionine and Lysine, Kemin Industries), saving

KEMIN Kemin’s amino acid program for better raw material allocation in ruminant formulation

84g of metabolisable protein.

The formulation with Kemin´s rumen-protected amino acids improved the nitrogen efficiency, by 2.1% from 28.8% (Control), to 30.9% (Scenarios 1 and 2), with a better allocation of available raw materials at less cost.

References are available upon request.

Contact

Rising feed prices, their high volatility and low availability are the most

Email: robert.hamilton@kemin.com

limiting challenges presently facing dairy farm viability. However, there

Web: www.kemin.com

Table 1. Ingredients (kg DM/head/day) and nutrient profile (CNCPS v6.55) of three formulation scenarios. 1ME, Metabolisable Energy; MP=Metabolisable Protein; CP=Crude Protein; MP balance = % requirements Ingredients

Control

Scenario 1

Scenario 2

Premix

0.205

0.205

0.205

Soybean meal 46 % CP

1.530

0

0.540

Rapeseed meal

2.670

3.649

2.937

Triticale grain

1.760

1.760

2.024

Corn grain ground

2.640

2.816

2.640

Wheat straw

0.517

0.517

0.517

Grass silage 16% CP

8.180

8.180

8.180

Corn silage 35% DM

4.900

4.900

4.900

Barley grain ground

1.760

2.112

2.112

®

KESSENT Me

0

0.009

0.010

LysiGEM™

0

0.022

0.018

Nutrient profile

Control

Scenario 1

Scenario 2

ME (Mcal)1

61.2

61.1

61.1

CP (%)1

17.2

15.9

16.0

MP (g)1

2,709

2,621

2,625

MP balance1

104

100

100

Met % MP

2.2

2.5

2.5

Lys % MP

6.5

6.8

6.8

Lys:Met

2.95

2.70

2.74

Page 50 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

Black Soldier Fly Are companies mismanaging feed and waste priorities?

With Richard Lee, Technical Manager, SugaRich and chair of the UKFFPA

Richard Lee, Technical Manager

Where things go wrong

of SugaRich, sheds light on the

The practice of feeding surplus food directly to livestock, such as using

misconceptions surrounding the

biscuit meal, has proven sustainable and effective. These practices

use of insect protein as animal feed,

replace higher carbon footprint feeds on a 1:1 basis, a direct and

emphasising how these practices

efficient approach. In contrast, diverting food to insect farming, where

often misalign with the principles of

conversion rates may only be 1:5 (20%), creates an unnecessary

the waste hierarchy.

complication in the feed model. This is especially perplexing for food sector organisations committed to sustainable practices. The waste

Wasteful detours in the feed chain

hierarchy advocates for direct routes: feed surplus food to humans

The black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) has gained attention as a

first, then animals if feasible. Redirecting it to insects contradicts this

solution to waste management, offering dual benefits as both waste

priority, particularly when black soldier flies can thrive on organic waste

digesters and animal feed. These larvae can consume a wide range

that isn’t suitable for human or animal consumption.

of organic matter, from food scraps to manure. However, the idea of diverting perfectly good surplus food to feed these insects—and

The legislative gap

then using the insects as animal feed—raises concerns. Does such a

Current TSE (Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies) legislation

practice create unnecessary “detours” in the food chain?

mandates that insects intended for feed must be raised on food that only

The optimal approach is straightforward: first, feed surplus food to

contains approved animal by-products (ABPs), creating competition

humans, and if not feasible, directly to animals. Diverting edible food

with conventional animal feed. To fully harness the potential of insects

to insects only to later use them as feed introduces an unnecessary

in waste digestion, these regulations must be reassessed. Otherwise,

step, undermining the waste hierarchy’s intent. The black soldier fly can

black soldier flies and other insects could pose a risk similar to that

thrive on organic waste, recycling nutrients back into the food chain,

of anaerobic digestion units, which can disrupt the most sustainable

without needing to compete with food that could be directly consumed

use of food.

by humans or animals.

Understanding the waste hierarchy

Achieving a truly circular economy

Organisations that redirect usable surplus food to insect farming

For a circular economy to thrive, we must avoid misusing surplus food

may misunderstand or neglect the waste hierarchy’s principles. This

in the insect feed model. Insects like the black soldier fly are natural

hierarchy, a cornerstone of sustainable waste management, prioritises

waste processors. Therefore, we must examine ways in which black

actions that minimise environmental impact:

soldier flies consume food that cannot be fed to livestock, converting

• • •

• •

Prevention: avoid waste generation by reducing losses in

food waste and by-products into high-quality protein and fats. The use

production and designing more durable food products.

of imported proteins such as soya have been targeted by integrated

Repurpose: sending to charity or repurposing it as an alternative

supply chains to increase their sustainability credentials. The upcoming

food

deforestation regulations in the UK and Europe should help to mitigate

Recycling: convert these nutrient rich foods into high quality

some of the environmental and socioeconomic concerns around soya

animal feed, conserving resources and reducing raw material

thus making feeding the black solider fly with surplus food even more

demand.

perverse.

Recovery: extract energy or materials from non-recyclable waste

We should embrace a logical approach: while black soldier flies

through processes like anaerobic digestion or energy recovery

have an important role in animal protein production, we must minimise

Disposal: as a last resort, safely dispose of waste that can’t be

unnecessary deviations. Usable food should be directed to those who

reused, recycled, or recovered.

need it most, then the next best option is to feed it directly to livestock

Adhering to this hierarchy ensures responsible waste management.

creating a truly circular loop that aligns with waste hierarchy principles

ignoring it undermines sustainability efforts and questions a company’s

and supports a sustainable future. Missteps in this process do not serve

commitment to environmental stewardship.

our collective goals.

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 51

Feed Production Machinery, Pelleting & Extruding CFE GROUP

CONDEX (UK) LTD

CFE Group Upgrades Roll

La Meccanica Pellet Mills since 1986

Assembly Manipulators for Enhanced Safety and Efficiency CFE Group has recently upgraded its assist mate manipulators to improve safety and efficiency in the stripping

La Meccanica pellet mills come with a 5 year, no major service guarantee.

and building of roll assemblies. These advanced machines, which

This means that as long as the machines are maintained and greased

run along the 15-meter by 6-meter roll line, handle all aspects of roll

in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines, there will be no major

management, from stripping to washing, building, and greasing.

servicing costs for the first five years; no seals, no bearings and most importantly no down-time.

With the large diameter, two roller design providing the optimum angle of nip and the main rotor having a high inertia, the La Meccanica pellet mills are one of the most efficient machines on the market, outperforming larger machines as a result of the design and main motor being utilised to its full potential.

No gearbox so no oil leaks around the pellet mill or more significantly into the feed; a major consideration now that UFAS directive states that food safe lubricants need to be used.

Condex also supply a n ex t ens i v e r ange of mixing, grinding,

The upgraded manipulators are equipped with telescopic arms that can securely grip rolls of various sizes, ranging from 140 mm to 580 mm in diameter. With the ability to rotate a full 360 degrees and tilt 90 degrees, these advanced machines provide technicians with the flexibility to work on rolls from any angle. This capability ensures precise handling and thorough maintenance, accommodating both small and large rolls currently in use.

conditioning and ancillary equipment, including being an official agent for Geelen Counterflow coolers. Ensuring our clients are able to meet the high demands of the industry with equipment designed and manufactured to the same high standards as our pellet mills.

Our in-house design and installation services enable us to tailor equipment and process lines bespoke to a client’s requirements. This gives our clients the confidence of knowing all aspects of the process are taken into consideration, whether this is upgrading a single machine or a complete production line. With a single point of contact the end user can be reassured there are no surprises, no hidden costs and no delays as a result of miscommunication between contractors.

Customer satisfaction is our number one priority; we achieve this

John Byrom CFE Group Machine Operator Designed with future growth in mind, these manipulators are

with UK based stock and service engineers, around-the-clock aftersales support and a die and roll refurbishment service second to none.

equipped to handle even larger rolls, preparing CFE Group for the next

Peace of mind at competitive prices.

generation of roll designs. This upgrade underscores CFE Group’s

Condex (UK) Ltd, White Cross, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 4XQ

commitment to maintaining safety and operational standards.

Tel: 01524 61601, Fax: 01524 381515,

Email: info@cfegroup.com

Email: info@condex.co.uk,

Website: www.cfegroup.com

Web: www.condex.co.uk / www.pelletmills.com

Page 52 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

DSL / DATASTOR SYSTEMS

Imperium4Feed is the new mill control system offered by DSL Systems and Datastor Systems combining their wealth of knowledge and experience to provide leading-edge process control, planning (MES) and information software for mills of all sizes.

Imperium4Feed’s pellet press and extruder control modules

•

Extruder

are designed to optimise quality, improve throughput and eliminate

•

Cooler control

•

Fats spray at the die

•

Downstream Fats Coater (PPLA)

•

In-line pellet tester

blockages. Imperium4Feed has a number of features to optimise pellet press control including automatic start-ups, flying bin-swaps, cooler fan speed optimisation, cold start-ups, anti-blockage detection, layered change overs and automatic flushing

“Changing control of our pellet presses to Imperium4Feed has increased throughput by 15%” For further information or to arrange a demonstration, please contact:

All configurations of pellet mills, extruders and expanders are

Matthew Swallow T: + 44 (0)1159 813700

catered for, including: Single pellet mill, Double side by side, Double in line, 3 pellet

E: matthewswallow@dsl-systems.com

mills per line

Web: dsl-systems.com

•

Up to 8 pre-pellet press bins per production line

Bill Wright – T: +44 (0) 1260 277025,

•

Hot start conditioner, long term conditioner, expander, HFC

E: billwright@datastorsystems.com

and BOA

Web datastorsystems.com

Kettle or Ripener

Web: www.imperium4.com

•

•

Winner of the New Product Showcase IPPE 2023 Best of the Best in Animal Feed

• Software for life • Optimise processes • Reduce labour • User friendly • 24/7 support • Performance monitoring • Flexible and configurable • Stock control and traceability Advanced control, planning and information software for feed and grain plants Tel: +44 (0)1159813700 Email: sales@dsl-systems.com Web: dsl-systems.com

Tel: +44 (0)1260 277025 Email: sales@datastorsystems.com Web: datastorsystems.com

Member of the Valsoft group

www.imperium4.com Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 53

EuroTier 2024 Trade Fair’s Topics Attract Great Visitor Interest 1,250 international farming visitors react to EuroTier 2024 in online

challenges facing the international livestock sector by placing the

survey: Housing and feeding technology as well as feed and operating

current topics of animal welfare, sustainability, automation, robotics and

resources rated highly - Focus topics: Animal welfare, sustainability,

digitalisation at the heart of the exhibition and technical program at the

automation, robotics, digitalisation - EuroTier from 12 to 15 November

world’s leading trade fair for livestock management. The high level of

2024 in Hanover, Germany - Guiding theme “We innovate animal farming”

visitor interest five months before the start of the trade fair shows that the

Five months before kick-off, interest in the EuroTier / EnergyDecentral

industry is focusing on innovation and development,” says Ines Rathke,

2024 trade fairs is already high among visitors. In a survey of potential

EuroTier Project Manager, who is very satisfied with the survey results.

professional farming visitors to the world’s leading trade fair for

“The high level of interest in new trends and innovations also shows

professional animal husbandry and livestock management, 60 percent

the importance of EuroTier as a leading trade fair for investments,” she

of respondents stated that they have already made firm plans to visit

added.

EuroTier in Hanover, Germany. Some 30 percent responded that they will be making a decision in the coming weeks. The exhibition areas

Visitors intend to spend several days at the trade fair

of housing and feeding technology as well as feed input and operating

Asked about the duration of their visit to the trade fair, around 60 percent

resources were particularly highly rated. When it comes to current

said they intended to spend at least two or more days at the world’s

industry topics, visitors from both Germany and abroad ranked as

leading exhibition for livestock management. The survey included

most interesting animal welfare, sustainability, automation, robotics

livestock farmers with 58 percent engaged in cattle and dairy farming

and digitalization. 1,250 respondents from both Germany and abroad

and 25 percent in pig production. Some 21 percent of respondents are

took part in the online survey. EuroTier, the world’s leading trade fair

poultry producers, 14 percent horse owners and 11 percent manage

for professional animal husbandry and livestock management, will take

sheep or goats. Insects are also mentioned as an on-farm production

place alongside EnergyDecentral, the leading international trade fair for

activity, a sector that appears to be increasing among livestock farmers.

decentralised energy supply, from 12 to 15 November 2024 in Hanover,

“The investment intentions over the next two years are encouraging.

Germany.

Currently, 50 percent of those surveyed are already planning to invest in

“We innovate animal farming - the guiding theme of this year’s EuroTier hits the nerve of the industry. The theme addresses the

Page 54 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

new technology and equipment within the next 24 months,” emphasizes Ines Rathke.

EnergyDecentral: High demand for solar energy, agrivoltaics and biogas

just to exchange views. As EuroTier also covers biogas

The current debate on sustainable energy concepts are reflected in the

Mark Kelly, Dungannon Co. Tyrone, Nortern Ireland, UK.

results of the online survey: “In addition to the topics of wind energy,

“Each visit to EuroTier has been a source of inspiration, introducing

biogas and biomethane, there is growing interest in solar energy and,

us to new innovations and technologies. This is very valuable

in particular, in agrivoltaics. As many as 32 percent of those surveyed

in our role as Dutch research and demonstration dairy farm

are explicitly interested in the potential of this relatively new and

Erve Mentink. EuroTier’s international character provides a

emerging energy alternative,” says Marcus Vagt, project manager of

valuable perspective on Dutch developments and innovations

EnergyDecentral, which takes in parallel with EuroTier. The survey also

within a global context, and helps us recognize the strength

shows that professional visitors continue to need updates on conventional

and potential of our own company on the international stage.“

solutions such as biogas, still a growing sector, as well as solutions for

Els & Gerard Uijterlinde, Deurningen, Region Twente, Niederlande

energy distribution and storage.

“I want to see new technologies for the barn and solutions that

Farmers‘ Voices – Voices of the visitors

plants I will be looking for mixers, pumps and any upgrades.“

can reduce manual labour. Three years ago, we built a barn with new equipment for our pigs. I want to use EuroTier to see what

“I farm in North Yorkshire, managing 2,000 sows. I have already visited

Big Dutchman has to offer in terms of new concepts and updates.”

EuroTier twice and plan to come again this autumn. It is a chance to see different

Henrik Mortensen, a Danish pig producer with 1,000 sows and on-farm

technical solutions from mainland Europe that we do not see in the UK.”

30,000 slaughter pigs annually

Matthew Wilkin, North Yorks, UK.

“As the operator of a biogas plant, I visit EuroTier 2024 primarily

“I have been visiting EuroTier for more than a decade, accompanying

because of EnergyDecentral, which takes place at the same time.

livestock producers and technicians. EuroTier stands out for its

Otherwise, I like to stroll through the halls with an open mind and

global reach, comprehensive coverage and focus on innovation.“

stop by small, inconspicuous stands in particular. In my experience,

António Ferreira, Zootechnical Engineer and Secretary General, ABLN

young and innovative companies exhibit there that can give me

, Portugal.

food for thought on topics that I wasn’t previously aware of.“

“This year, I am planning to visit EuroTier for the first time.

Felix Hollmann, pig farmer and biogas plant operator, Ense-Bittingen,

I am looking to have a good time with other dairy farmers

Germany

2024

GET YOUR TICKET NOW!

12 – 15 NOVEMBER HANOVER, GERMANY

THE WORLD‘S LEADING TRADE FAIR FOR ANIMAL FARMING

we innovate

animal farming

incl.

www.eurotier.com

ET24_178x124_FeedCompounder_EN.indd 1

28.06.24 11:40

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 55

A selection of companies preview the products and services they will be exhibiting at

EUROTIER 2024 12 - 15 November, Hanover, Germany AB NEO

countries, supported by five bioscience centers and more than 80

AB Neo is thrilled to announce

manufacturing facilities. Guided by a commitment to innovation and

our presence at EuroTier

environmental stewardship, Alltech’s 5,000 employees work together

in Hanover this November!

to create a sustainable future under the purpose of “Working Together

Focused on leading neonate nutrition through science and customer-

for a Planet of Plenty™.”

centric solutions, we are revolutionising the lifetime performance of

Stand: Hall 19-20, Stand D51

young farmed animals, with production hubs in four European countries

Website: Alltech.com

and exports worldwide. Visit us at booth H11, Hall 15, for the launch of our innovative new product for the piglet industry. Our experts are eager to show you how this breakthrough can benefit your business.

Don’t miss the opportunity to be among the first to experience our latest advancement. We look forward to welcoming you!

Learn more: ab-neo.com

ALMEX Almex BV specializes in manufacturing extruders and expanders, providing solutions for industries like fish feed, oil extraction, pet food, and animal feed. Since the 1970s, Almex has designed and produced single screw

AB VISTA

extruders in the Netherlands, known for their reliability and efficiency.

AB Vista is a global animal nutrition

Their Contivar Expanders are globally recognized for improving feed

technology company offering

quality through robust designs and precise control systems. Almex

pioneering products and technical

equipment ensures consistent product quality and durability. As part of

services to the global animal feed

the Triott Group, Almex contributes to innovative process technology

industry. Its mission is to advance nutrition through scientific research and ‘feed intelligence’. Since its establishment in 2004, the company has grown to be a top-three player in feed enzymes, specialising

solutions across the feed and food industries, supporting customers with expertise and excellent service.

Stand number: 12A10 Website: www.almex.nl

in innovative feed additives, solutions and services for all species.

Showcasing its expertise at EuroTier 2024, the AB Vista team will be present at Halle 21, Stand J10, with Technical and Sales Manager for Northwest Europe, Marieke van Hout, available for questions and insights regarding AB Vista’s extensive portfolio.

WEbsite: www.abvista.com/

BENEO-ANIMAL NUTRITION BENEO-Animal Nutrition offers a broad range of natural ingredients with nutritional benefits. The product range is comprised of vegetable proteins, digestible

ALLTECH Alltech is a global leader

carbohydrates, prebiotic chicory root fibres and specialty rice ingredients. BENEO-Animal Nutrition extends BENEO´s unique

in sustainable agriculture.

expertise in human food to the world of pet food, livestock feed and

With a focus on enhancing

aqua feed.

plant and animal health,

BENEO’s colleagues will be present at Eurotier to happily answer

Alltech offers a wide range

all your questions and give in-depth information on the full Animal

of science-backed solutions, including specialty ingredients, feed

Nutrition range. Visit us at booth number 21G08!

supplements, and biologicals. The company operates in over 120

Website: www.beneo.com/animal-nutrition

Page 56 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

BESTMIX SOFTWARE

EVONIK ANIMAL NUTRITION

Welcome to the Future

Evonik Animal Nutrition

- Today with BESTMIX

kindly invites you to meet

software!

us at EuroTier 2024 in

Step boldly into the future. From optimizing raw material buys to ensuring consistency on the back end, BESTMIX Software has you covered. Embrace the potential of BESTMIX Software and streamline your feed production operations. Discover what's possible, elevate your

Hannover, Germany. At our booth E20 / Hall 21 you can learn about our latest developments on the efficient use of natural resources and food safety as well as animal welfare.

Our pioneering technologies such as precision feeding and low

performance, and lead the charge in this exciting era of feed production.

BESTMIX Software guarantees Cost-efficient and Precise feed

protein diets help the global livestock industry to increase efficiency,

production with high quality end products, correctly labeled. Join us at

save money, improve animal health, and lower emissions. Additionally,

our booth E19 in Hall 19/20 to revolutionize the way you manage feed

our Gut Health Solutions enable the reduction of the use of antibiotics

production and connect with industry experts.

in animal farming.

Hall 19/20 - Booth E19

For more information, please visit animal-nutrition.evonik.com

Website: www.bestmix.com

CJ BIO

IVS

As a global leader in feed grade

With 40 years of experience,

amino acids and biotechnology,

IVS Dosing Technology

sole producer of 8 feed grade

BV develops sustainable

L-amino acids by fermentation,

and innovative custom

CJ Bio welcomes you to discover the novelties in its monogastric amino acid portfolio on Eurotier 2024. L-Isoleucine, L-Histidine and L-Arginine are serving global customers to obtain the highest performance in a more efficient, economic and sustainable way.

At Eurotier, CJ Bio proudly presents a newly developed fermentative

solutions for dosing liquids and steam in the compound feed industry. We focus on tailoring solutions through close collaboration with your technical staff and specialist partners to maximize your factory’s profitability. IVS stands for Innovation, Versatility, and Service, ensuring that every solution

L-methionine, which continues to fortify sustainable animal husbandry

meets your specific needs. As part of the Triott Group, we leverage

and further completes our amino acid portfolio Bestamino™.

extensive industry expertise to deliver advanced process technology

Booth n° Hall 21 C26

solutions across the feed and food industries.

Stand number: 12A10

DSM-FIRMENICH

As innovators in nutrition and health, dsm-firmenich reinvents, manufactures, and combines vital nutrients for the world’s growing

Website: www.ivsdosingtechnology.com

INTEQNION BV Inteqnion specializes in

population to thrive. With our comprehensive range of solutions, natural

designing, manufacturing,

and renewable ingredients, and renowned science and technology

and

capabilities, we work to create what is essential for life, desirable for

automation systems for

consumers, and more sustainable for the planet.

the feed, flour, and bulk solids industries. Focusing on innovation and

implementing

At Animal Nutrition & Health, we offer our customers a true end-

efficiency, Inteqnion delivers advanced control systems that optimize

to-end portfolio. This includes essential products that are fundamental

production processes and ensure reliable operation. Our solutions,

for the production of healthy, sustainable animal protein. Performance solutions, that create additional value and desire beyond the essentials.

And data-driven precision services that make the invisible visible by providing targeted insights to improve sustainability and animal health.

To know more about dsm-firmenich’s solutions and latest

including SCADA and PLC systems, enhance performance, reduce downtime, and provide comprehensive data insights. Serving a global market, Inteqnion offers customized automation solutions tailored to each customer’s needs. By combining industry expertise with cutting-

innovations, such as HiPhorius™, the dsm-firmenich’s new generation

edge technology, Inteqnion helps customers achieve smarter and

feed phytase, visit our stand A21 in Hall 22

more efficient production.

Hall 22 Stand A21

Stand number: 12A08

Website: www.dsm-firmenich.com/anh

Website: www.inteqnion.com

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 57

KEMIN

to create fully integrated feed mills, individual processing lines, and

Discover the power of

stand-alone machinery that will modernize your operations. With

curiosity with Kemin at

Ottevanger Milling Engineers, you’re not just investing in machinery;

EuroTier 2024!

you’re investing in the health, performance, and success of your

For over 63 years, we have

business and the animals it serves.

been a trusted market leader in the animal feed, beef, dairy, poultry, and

Stand number: 12A15

pig industries.Our EMENA-based team delivers cutting-edge products

Website: www.ottevanger.com

and services that help producers raise healthy livestock and poultry.

Our research and innovations help grow our customers' bottom line while meeting the ever-changing landscape of consumer expectations.

OTTEVANGER SERVICES

Together, Kemin’s industry-leading solutions improve and strengthen

Ottevanger

safety throughout various stages of the global food chain.

Services provides

Visit our booth F019 in hall 21 to discover how Kemin's trusted

comprehensive

expertise can optimize your operations and ensure a sustainable future

maintenance and support for your production equipment, including

for your business.

preventive maintenance, on-site repairs, and equipment upgrades.

Website: www.kemin.com/emena

We also offer a convenient webshop for the supply of original spare parts, ensuring quick access to high-quality components that keep

KSE GROUP At KSE Group, we are dedicated to delivering innovative solutions for dosing and weighing, and automation software tailored specifically for the solids handling industries. With

your operations running smoothly. With our global expertise, we help optimize performance, reduce downtime, and improve processes, making us a reliable partner in maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your equipment.

Stand number: 12A15 Website: www.ottevangerservices.com

our cutting-edge technology and commitment to excellence, we strive to empower our clients to optimize their processes, enhance efficiency, and achieve their goals. We are committed to maximizing the efficient utilization of skilled personnel, time, and raw materials. Our mission is to handle these valuable elements with care, ensuring that we extract their full potential.

We look forward to discuss any challenge you might face in your solids handling process. Drop by our stand A23 in Hall 12.

PTN Pelleting Technology Netherlands

(PTN)

specializes in the design, manufacture, and service of pellet mills and related equipment for animal feed production. Since 1974, PTN has led the industry with innovative solutions that improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption. Our MonoRoll, an advanced pellet mill design, significantly reduces energy use while enhancing

ORFFA

performance and lowering maintenance needs. Serving industries such

Don’t miss out on our new strategy at

as compound feed, recycling, and biomass, PTN provides machinery to

EuroTier 2024! We’re excited to showcase

meet a wide range of needs. As part of the Triott Group, PTN leverages

our innovative solutions for Gut Health &

industry expertise to deliver cutting-edge pelleting solutions.

Immunity, Feed Efficiency, and Mineral

Stand number: 12A10

Nutrition. Come visit us at Hall 22, Stand

Website: www.ptn.nl

C18 to discuss your specific needs.

Webiste: orffa.com/solutions/#feedsolution-areas

TSC SILOS We have been building square silos for

OTTEVANGER MILLING ENGINEERS

more than two decades. All over the

As industry experts,

world, for every industry. We set the

we understand the

standard. Our professional team designs,

unique challenges you

calculates, manufactures, assembles,

face in the animal feed

installs, and sells square silos. Our silo

industry. That’s why we are committed to assist you throughout the

system can be a fully integrated and static

entire journey, from concept to complete installation. Our dedicated

part of the building. In this way, the available space is optimally used

team of skilled professionals is ready to collaborate with you, leveraging

for maximum capacity, saving a lot of material. One hand reaches the

our expertise in engineering, project management and manufacturing

other. More storage at the lowest possible cost. In addition, we can

Page 58 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

seamlessly integrate related constructions. By involving TSC at an early stage, we can guarantee optimal integration and save costs.

Stand number: 12A08 Website: www.tsc-silos.com

Optimized zinc biovailability thanks to magnesium protection

TIMAB MAGNESIUM CAPMAG® Zn: The latest-generation zinc supplementation CAPMAG® Zn is an innovative solution for maximizing the bioavailability of zinc. Numerous trials in piglets resulted in improved growth performances. Indeed CAPMAG® Zn demonstrated up to + 2kg final weight after post-weaning compared to ZnO, and + 1kg against a potentiated ZnO. A positive effect was also observed in gut health with a modulation of piglets’ microbiota in favor of good bacteria compared to ZnSO4 and Zn-Proteinate. An improvement in intestinal integrity and a better nutrient digestibility were assessed. These results were also associated with a lower Zn excretion in manure (-32%). www.timabmagnesium.com timab.magnesium@roullier.com EuroTier : Hall 20 Booth D52

VOLAC WILMAR Volac Wilmar will be launching their Mega-Fat 70 rumen-protected fat supplement at the Eurotier event. With 70% of the milk fat-boosting C16:0 fatty acids, and 20% of the C18:1 fatty acids

ATOMIC PROTECTION

BY MAGNESIUM

targeting improved body condition, fertility and fat digestibility, MegaFat 70 is perfectly placed as a multi-purpose fat supplement with specific emphasis on increasing milk fat over traditional calcium salt formulations. As a calcium salt, Mega-Fat 70 offers feed mills the potential to increase C16 concentration in pellets without sacrificing

Innovative technology INTESTINAL ABSORPTION IMPROVEMENT BETTER VALORIZATION of ZINC iN PIGLETS ZINC DISCARDS REDUCTION

pellet quality as happens with traditional ‘high-C16’ fat supplements.

TIMAB Magnesium, 57 Bd Jules Verger 35800 Dinard, FRANCE | +33(0)2 99 16 51 50 timab.magnesium@roullier.com

An ideal feed fat supplement for farmer and feed mill alike.

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 59

Mole Valley Farmers Announces New Chairman Mole Valley Farmers has announced the appointment of a new Chairman. Stephen Bone will take over from Graeme Cock, who decided to step down at the end of July after 13 years chairing the farmer-owned business. Mr Cock will continue to serve as

including the Covid pandemic and significant volatility in the market.

“Stephen brings a breadth of experience and strongly believes in the power of cooperation and collaboration. These are key to success for both farmers and our business. The appointment of Stephen, who is a strong leader and truly passionate about British farming, demonstrates the ambition of the Board to ensure Mole Valley Farmers continues to serve the best interests of our farming customers, ultimately helping them improve productivity, profitability and sustainability.”

a Non-Executive Director on the Mole Valley Farmers Board.

Mr Bone brings extensive experience to the role, having served as

NWF Group plc: Board Changes

a Non-Executive Director of the company since 2014, as well as holding

NWF Group has announced the following changes to its Board.

a number of other senior positions in national and regional organisations

Appointment of Chair elect

within the agricultural sector.

Amanda Burton has been appointed to the Board as an Independent

He said: “I am honoured to be given the opportunity to lead Mole

Non-Executive Director effective 18 July 2024, and as Chair with effect

Valley Farmers and look forward to working with the Board, Executive

from the conclusion of the Group’s annual general meeting to be held on

Team and our Farmer Shareholders at an exciting and challenging time

26 September 2024 (“AGM”). Amanda will succeed Philip Acton, who

for the industry.

as previously announced, will retire from the Board at the conclusion

“Our role as a farmer-owned business is to support our farming customers in producing the best possible milk, dairy products and

of the AGM. Amanda will also assume the responsibility of Chair of the Nomination Committee.

meat in the most profitable, productive and sustainable way. We must

Amanda brings considerable experience to the Board gained from

also champion British farming, ensuring food security and profitable,

senior positions across the public, private and charity sectors spanning

sustainable farming is at the centre of government policy.

multiple industries. Amanda holds non-executive directorships at HSS

“Our unique, cooperative business model delivers industry leading advice with competitive pricing through buying at scale to drive down

Hire Group PLC, Elevate Services Inc, Post Office Limited and is chair of Green Light Trust.

supply chain costs. To continue doing this we need the support of our

Amanda qualified as a lawyer with Slaughter and May before

Farmer Shareholders, Members and customers. I am excited about what

working in a variety of legal and operational roles spanning nearly 30

we can achieve as an industry if we come together, work in partnership

years, including the position of global Chief Operating Officer of Clifford

and support our shared aims and ambitions.”

Chance LLP and Group Legal adviser to Meyer International, overseeing

Graeme Cock said: “It has been an absolute privilege to lead Mole

its takeover by Saint Gobain in 2000.

Valley Farmers and help shape its development, working alongside great

Appointment of non-executive director

colleagues and with the ongoing support of our Farmer Shareholders

The Group is also pleased to announce that Tim Cooper has been

and Members. There are undoubtedly challenges affecting the sector,

appointed to the Board as an Independent Non-Executive Director

but we are well placed with Stephen and CEO Jack Cordery to drive the

effective 18 July 2024 and as Chair of its Remuneration Committee with

business forward in the coming years. I will continue as a Non-Executive

effect from the conclusion of the AGM. Richard Armitage, who had been

Director and do all I can supporting the Board and our three new Non-

acting Chair of the Remuneration Committee, will stand down from that

Executive Directors - Liz Haines, Rob Hues and Harry Pinsent - who

role but will continue as the Senior Independent Director and Chair of

have all joined in the last year, not to mention our commercial colleagues

the Audit Committee.

and our customers.”

In his executive career, Tim held a variety of management positions

Jack Cordery, CEO of Mole Valley Farmers added: “Graeme has

over a period of nearly 20 years, most recently as an executive director

made a significant contribution to Mole Valley Farmers and it has been

and a member of the executive leadership team at Victrex plc. Tim is

a pleasure to work alongside him. His guidance and support have been

currently a non-executive director of Pressure Technologies plc and

invaluable as the business has navigated its way through many challenges

Renold plc.

Page 60 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

NOVUS Celebrates New Thinking in Dairy Production During EAAP

NOVUS says Managos is a great example of the passion, knowledge, and

NOVUS will honor an outstanding researcher

inquisitiveness needed to help animals meet their growth potential while

during the 75th European Association for

maintaining a mindfulness for the system’s impact on natural resources.

Animal Production (EAAP) Annual Meeting in

“We’re honored to present this award to Markos who, in many ways,

Edwin Westreicher, Dr. sc. agr., technical services manager with

exemplifies NOVUS’ vision and mission – using scientific research to

September.

The EAAP Young Scientists Award is

help animals reach their full potential,” Westreicher says. “It’s imperative

presented to researchers born after September

that we as an industry support and encourage new perspectives in those

1, 1986 “who have demonstrated outstanding research performance with the European

who are already making an impact in their young careers. They are, after all, who aid in the sustainability of animal agriculture.”

dimension and perspective.” NOVUS representatives will present the award to Markos Managos, DVM, a doctoral student in the Department of Applied

ForFarmers UK Welcome New Trader to CirQlar Division

Animal Science and Welfare at the Swedish University of Agricultural

Christine Holman has joined the ForFarmers

Science (SLU). NOVUS dairy experts were especially impressed by his

team as Trader within its CirQlar division.

research titled “Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Dairy Cows Fed Best Practice Diets,” which Managos presented at EAAP in 2023.

Based at ForFarmers Shepshed site in Leicestershire, Christine will be helping

Managos’ field of study provides valuable insights into reducing the environmental impact of dairy production. He says dairy ration

customers secure cost effective and sustainable feed solutions such as Brewers Grains.

formulation is crucial for animal productivity and farm economics, but

Peter Lyon, Managing Director for

the environmental footprint of feed ingredients must also be considered.

ForFarmers CirQlar, commented: “We are

“By selecting feed ingredients with a lower environmental impact

delighted to welcome Christine to a team that recognises the importance

that complement human food production, we can reduce the overall

of providing UK farmers with nutritional co-products for the ruminant diet.

environmental footprint at the farm level. This approach offers the

“Christine’s previous experience in sales and marketing will stand

agricultural industry a significant opportunity to mitigate its environmental

her in good stead, and her energetic and positive attitude make her a

impact with the available resources,” he says.

great addition to the team.”

Transforming the stock inventory process for Animal Feed Mills • “Real-time” data regarding levels in silos can be viewed by all in the business, anytime, anywhere!

• Avoid costly downtime caused by run outs due to errors in reconciled methods of stock control • Improve production scheduling in your mill • Enhance health & safety by eliminating need to climb silos to inspect levels • Data can be directly integrated into ERP & CRM systems via API • Low level alerts can be set at agreed thresholds for added peace of mind

T:+ 353 89 2426825 E: info@lvlogics.com www.lvlogics.com

“We use SiloSpi on all our bins. It’s an excellent, reliable system” Mark Kiernan, Chairman, Kiernan Milling

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 61

Product and Service Finder for the Animal Feed Industry Also available interactive and online at www.feedbuyersguide.com

Trouw Nutrition GB, Blenheim House, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne DE6 1HA Tel: 01335 341100 Fax: 01335 341171 E-mail: customerservices.gb@nutreco.com Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk (See Acidifiers, Analytical Services, Animal Health Products, Antibacterials, Chelated Minerals, Enzymes, Feed Additives, Feed Supplements, Milk Replacers, Mould Inhibitors, Mycotoxin Binders, Salmonella Control, Silage Additives)

Promtek Ltd Fisher Street, Brindley Ford, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST8 7QJ Tel: 01782 375600 Fax: 01782 375605 E-mail: info@promtek.com Web: www.promtek.com (See Calibration and Weighing Services, Process Control Systems)

CLASSIFIED LISTINGS ACIDIFIERS Lallemand Animal Nutrition Limited 10 – 13 Spring Lane North, Malvern Link WR14 1BU Email: animaluk@lallemand.com Tel: 07827 228161 Trouw Nutrition GB, Blenheim House, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne DE6 1HA Tel: 01335 341100 Fax: 01335 341171 E-mail: customerservices.gb@nutreco.com Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

ANALYTICAL SERVICES DM Scientific Ltd, Main Site, Dalton, Thirsk, North Yorkshire YO7 3JA Tel: 01845 577757 Email: dmacmillan@dmscientific.co.uk Web: www.dmscientific.co.uk Trouw Nutrition GB, Blenheim House, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne DE6 1HA Tel: 01335 341100 Fax: 01335 341171 E-mail: customerservices.gb@nutreco.com Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

ANTIBACTERIALS Adesco Nutricines, 23 Strandside South, Abbeyside, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford X35 W778, Ireland Jack: +353 87 2208816 Seán: +353 85 1667512 Email: info@adesco.ie Web: www.adesco.ie Trouw Nutrition GB, Blenheim House, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne DE6 1HA Tel: 01335 341100 Fax: 01335 341171 E-mail: customerservices.gb@nutreco.com Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

ANTIOXIDANTS Adisseo Tel: +353 87 766 8848 E-mail: info.nauk@adisseo.com Web: www.adisseo.com

ALTERNATIVE PERFORMANCE ENHANCERS Adisseo Tel: +353 87 766 8848 E-mail: info.nauk@adisseo.com Web: www.adisseo.com

ANIMAL HEALTH PRODUCTS

Lallemand Animal Nutrition Limited 10 – 13 Spring Lane North, Malvern Link WR14 1BU Email: animaluk@lallemand.com Tel: 07827 228161

AUTOMATED BAGGING & PALLETIZING EQUIPMENT

Kernfarm B.V. De Corridor 14D 3621 ZB Breukelen, The Netherlands Tel: +31 (0) 346 785 139 Email: info@kernfarm.com Web: www.kernfarm.com

Mervue Laboratories Ireland Unit 9 Watergrasshill Business Park, Watergrasshill, Co. Cork, T56 HH98, Ireland Tel: +353 21 21 4391080 E-mail: info@mervuelab.com Web: www.mervuelab.com

Trouw Nutrition GB, Blenheim House, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne DE6 1HA Tel: 01335 341100 Fax: 01335 341171 E-mail: customerservices.gb@nutreco.com Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

Page 62 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

salesuk@fischbein.com Tel. +44 208 344 6600 www.fischbein.com

BAGGING EQUIPMENT Concetti S.p.A S.S. 75 Centrale Umbra, km 4, 190 Ospedalicchio 06083 Bastia Umbra, PG - Italy Tel: +39 075 801561 Fax: +39 075 8000894 E-mail: sales@concetti.com Web: www.concetti.com

BULK STORAGE AND HANDLING

FEED ADDITIVES

Croston Engineering Ltd, Tarvin Mill, Barrow Lane, Tarvin, Chester CH3 8JF Tel: 01829 741119 Fax: 01829 741169 E-mail: admin@croston-engineering.co.uk Web: www.croston-engineering.co.uk

Borregaard UK Ltd Clayton Road, Risley Employment Area, Warrington, Cheshire WA3 6QQ Tel: 01925 285423 Fax: 01925 285433 E-mail: glenn.dearsley@borregaard.com Web: www.lignotechfeed.com

CALIBRATION AND WEIGHING SERVICES Promtek Ltd Fisher Street, Brindley Ford, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST8 7QJ Tel: 01782 375600 Fax: 01782 375605 E-mail: info@promtek.com Web: www.promtek.com

Cargill Animal Nutrition Provimi Ltd., Dalton Airfield Industrial Estate, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 3HE Tel: 01845 578125 www.cargill.com/feed Inform Nutrition Ireland Ltd Whitescross, Cork, T23 KD50, Ireland Tel: +353 21 4394770 E-mail: info@informnutrition.com Web: www.informnutrition.com

CHELATED MINERALS Trouw Nutrition GB, Blenheim House, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne DE6 1HA Tel: 01335 341100 Fax: 01335 341171 E-mail: customerservices.gb@nutreco.com Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

www.kemin.com

Kemin UK Ltd Kemin UK Ltd. Castlethorpe Court, Castlethorpe, 34 Botanic Road, BRIGG NorthSouthport, LincolnshireMerseyside DN20 9LG, England PR9 7NG tel: +44.1652.65.10.10 Tel: +44fax:+44.1652.65.54.13 (0)1704 537702

COMMODITY CLAIMS MANAGEMENT

Orffa

RMC Commodity Claims Management 3 Clement Road, Fulwood, Preston PR2 9LG Tel: 07841 198733 E-mail: enquiries@rawmaterialclaims.co.uk Web: www.rawmaterialclaims.co.uk

Minervum 7032 51 Vierlinghstraat 4817 LZ Werkendam Breda 4251 LC The Netherlands The Netherlands

T +31 183 44 77 66 E info@orffa.com

Find your Orffa specialist at www.orffa.com

ENZYMES

Pancosma SA Voie des Traz 6, 1218 Le Grand-Saconnex, Geneva, Switzerland Tel : +41 22 929 84 84 Fax : +41 9259 84 95 E-mail: info@pancosma.ch Web: www.pancosma.com

AB Vista Edificio Twin Golf A, C/Perú, 6, 2º Floor, Office 4, 28290 Las Rozas, Madrid, Spain Tel: +34 91 859 1787 Email: info@abvista.com Web: www.abvista.com

Trouw Nutrition GB, Blenheim House, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne DE6 1HA Tel: 01335 341100 Fax: 01335 341171 E-mail: customerservices.gb@nutreco.com Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

Adisseo Tel: +353 87 766 8848 E-mail: info.nauk@adisseo.com Web: www.adisseo.com

FEED MILL DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

Danisco Animal Nutrition & Health, IFF PO Box 218 2300 AE Leiden, THE NETHERLANDS Tel: +31 6 1539 6689 Web: www.animalnutrition.iff.com

Croston Engineering Ltd, Tarvin Mill, Barrow Lane, Tarvin, Chester CH3 8JF Tel: 01829 741119 Fax: 01829 741169 E-mail: admin@croston-engineering.co.uk Web: www.croston-engineering.co.uk

Trouw Nutrition GB, Blenheim House, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne DE6 1HA Tel: 01335 341100 Fax: 01335 341171 E-mail: customerservices.gb@nutreco.com Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

Turner Process Equipment Ltd 5 De Grey Square, De Grey Road, Colchester, Essex CO4 5YQ Tel: 01206 752017 Fax: 01206 854484 E-mail: sales@turnerprocessequipment.co.uk Web: turnerprocessequipment.co.uk

FEED MILL SILO MONITORING Lvlogics Limited, Ballyhist, Carnaross, Kells, Co. Meath, Ireland Tel: +353 89 2426825 Email: info@lvlogics.com Web: www.lvlogics.com

Silo Monitoring

Van Mourik Group Boylestraat 34, 6718 XM Ede, The Netherlands Tel: + 31 (0) 318 64 11 44 E-mail: info@vanmourik-group.com Web: vanmourik-group.com

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 63

FEED MILL EQUIPMENT

FEED SUPPLEMENTS Inform Nutrition Ireland Ltd Whitescross, Cork, T23 KD50, Ireland Tel: +353 21 4394770 E-mail: info@informnutrition.com Web: www.informnutrition.com

The sole UK supplier for Feedtech and supplier of all new and used milling equipment Go Green Pelleting Solutions Ltd, Unit 8A Brindley Road, St Helens WA9 4HY Mick Swift – 07500887637 David Kelly- 07500335621 Office Number – 01744808600 www.gogreenpelletingsolutions.co.uk www.feedtech.com.tr

Premier Nutrition The Levels, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 1RD Tel: 01889 572500 Fax: 01889 577074 E-mail: info@premiernutrition.co.uk Web: www.premiernutrition.co.uk Trouw Nutrition GB, Blenheim House, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne DE6 1HA Tel: 01335 341100 Fax: 01335 341171 E-mail: customerservices.gb@nutreco.com Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

FEED PATHOGEN CONTROL

MANUFCTURING OPTIMISATION SOFTWARE

Adesco Nutricines, 23 Strandside South, Abbeyside, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford X35 W778, Ireland Jack: +353 87 2208816 Seán: +353 85 1667512 Email: info@adesco.ie Web: www.adesco.ie

Promtek Ltd Fisher Street, Brindley Ford, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST8 7QJ Tel: 01782 375600 Fax: 01782 375605 E-mail: info@promtek.com Web: www.promtek.com

Anitox Ltd 7 Regent Park, Booth Drive, Park Farm, Wellingborough NN8 6GR Tel: +44 1604 811228 Fax: +44 1604 811013 E-mail: anitoxEMEA@anitox.com Web: www.anitox.com

METHIONINE

FEED INGREDIENTS Azelis UK Ltd Axis House, Tudor Road, Manor Park, Runcorn WA7 1BD Tel: 01928 793090 Fax: 01928 716997 Email: nutrition@azelis.co.uk www.azelis.com

Adisseo Tel: +353 87 766 8848 E-mail: info.nauk@adisseo.com Web: www.adisseo.com

MILK REPLACERS Trouw Nutrition GB, Blenheim House, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne DE6 1HA Tel: 01335 341100 Fax: 01335 341171 E-mail: customerservices.gb@nutreco.com Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

MINERALS/PHOSPHATES Gemcom Ltd 66-68 Margaret Street, London W1W 8SR Tel: +44(0) 20 3928 6235 Fax: +44 (0)20 7580 8002 E-mail: info@gemcom.co.uk Web: www.gemcom.co.uk WestendAgri The Heath Business & Technical Park, Runcorn, Cheshire, WA7 4QX Tel: + 44 (0)1477 544400 Mobile: +44 (0)7961 977623 E-mail: sales@westendagri.com Web: www.westendagri.com

FLAVOURS & PALATANTS

WestendAgri The Heath Business & Technical Park, Runcorn, Cheshire, WA7 4QX Tel: + 44 (0)1477 544400 Mobile: +44 (0)7961 977623 E-mail: sales@westendagri.com Web: www.westendagri.com

MOISTURE MEASUREMENT & CONTROL Adesco Nutricines, 23 Strandside South, Abbeyside, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford X35 W778, Ireland Jack: +353 87 2208816 Seán: +353 85 1667512 Email: info@adesco.ie Web: www.adesco.ie

Adisseo Tel: +353 87 766 8848 E-mail: info.nauk@adisseo.com Web: www.adisseo.com

PELLETING EQUIPMENT

Inroads International Ltd Unit 4, Wem Engineering Centre Church Lane, Wem, Shropshire SY4 5HS Tel: +44 (0)1939 236 555 Fax: +44 (0)1939 236 450 Email: info@inroadsintl.co.uk Web: inroadsintl.com

Compound Feed Engineering Ltd 5 Haydock Lane, Haydock, St Helens, Merseyside, WA11 9UY Tel: +44 (0) 1942 728188 Fax: +44 (0) 1942 408430 E-mail: info@cfegroup.com Web: www.cfegroup.com

Page 64 September/October 2024 Feed Compounder

MOLASSES PRODUCTS

NUTRITION TOLL MANUFACTURE

E D & F Man Liquid Products UK Ltd Alexandra House, Regent Road, Bootle L20 1ES Tel: 0151 944 5100 Fax: 0151 944 3919 E-mail: info.mlpuk@edfman.com Web: www.edfmanliquidproductsuk.com

B2B Nutrition, Fordton Industrial Estate, Crediton, Devon EX17 3BZ (A division of the Denis Brinicombe Group) Tel. 01363 775115 Tom Butler (Technical) 07803 736194 Email: tbutler@brinicombe.co.uk Web: www.b2bnutrition.co.uk

United Molasses GB Ltd 48 Gracechurch Street, London EC3V 0EJ Tel: 0151 955 4850 Fax: 0151 955 4860 E-mail: molassesgb@umgroup.com Web: www.unitedmolasses.com

SALMONELLA CONTROL

MOULD INHIBITORS Adesco Nutricines, 23 Strandside South, Abbeyside, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford X35 W778, Ireland Jack: +353 87 2208816 Seán: +353 85 1667512 Email: info@adesco.ie Web: www.adesco.ie Trouw Nutrition GB, Blenheim House, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne DE6 1HA Tel: 01335 341100 Fax: 01335 341171 E-mail: customerservices.gb@nutreco.com Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

Adesco Nutricines, 23 Strandside South, Abbeyside, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford X35 W778, Ireland Jack: +353 87 2208816 Seán: +353 85 1667512 Email: info@adesco.ie Web: www.adesco.ie

Lallemand Animal Nutrition Limited 10 – 13 Spring Lane North, Malvern Link WR14 1BU Email: animaluk@lallemand.com Tel: 07815 483755

Trouw Nutrition GB, Blenheim House, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne DE6 1HA Tel: 01335 341100 Fax: 01335 341171 E-mail: customerservices.gb@nutreco.com Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

MYCOTOXIN BINDERS AB Vista Edificio Twin Golf A, C/Perú, 6, 2º Floor, Office 4 28290 Las Rozas, Madrid, Spain Tel: +34 91 859 1787 Email: info@abvista.com Web: www.abvista.com Adisseo Tel: +353 87 766 8848 E-mail: info.nauk@adisseo.com Web: www.adisseo.com Trouw Nutrition GB, Blenheim House, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne DE6 1HA Tel: 01335 341100 Fax: 01335 341171 E-mail: customerservices.gb@nutreco.com Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

PACKAGING SOLUTIONS Fischbein Tel: +44 (0)20 8344 6600 E-mail: salesuk@fischbein.com Web: www.fischbein.com

PROCESS CONTROL SYSTEMS

SELENIUM Adisseo Tel: +353 87 766 8848 E-mail: info.nauk@adisseo.com Web: www.adisseo.com

Lallemand Animal Nutrition Limited 10 – 13 Spring Lane North, Malvern Link WR14 1BU Email: animaluk@lallemand.com Tel: 07827 228161

SIEVING & PRECLEANING Turner Process Equipment Ltd 5 De Grey Square, De Grey Road, Colchester, Essex CO4 5YQ Tel: 01206 752017 Fax: 01206 854484 E-mail: sales@turnerprocessequipment.co.uk Web: turnerprocessequipment.co.uk

SILAGE ADDITIVES

DSL Systems Ltd Adbolton Hall, Adbolton Lane, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 5AS Tel: 0115 981 3700 Fax: 0115 981 3702 E-mail: sales@dsl-systems.com Web: www.dsl-systems.com

Lallemand Animal Nutrition Limited 10 – 13 Spring Lane North, Malvern Link WR14 1BU Email: animaluk@lallemand.com Tel: 07884 312382

Promtek Ltd Fisher Street, Brindley Ford, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST8 7QJ Tel: 01782 375600 Fax: 01782 375605 E-mail: info@promtek.com Web: www.promtek.com

Trouw Nutrition GB, Blenheim House, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne DE6 1HA Tel: 01335 341100 Fax: 01335 341171 E-mail: customerservices.gb@nutreco.com Web: www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

Feed Compounder September/October 2024 Page 65

At Condex you’re not just buying a pellet mill: Peace of mind: No bearings, seals or service down time … Guaranteed for 5 YEARS for UK Single V-Belt drive; High inertia, smooth and efficient No oil leaks into feed or on press floor Designed, fabricated and built in Italy

Support: Design and installation services UK based stock and engineers 2-3 day die and roll refurbishment Dies held in stock on request 24 hours, 365 days a year …If the phone works, we do

Experience: Sales technicians who understand the dayto-day requirements of a busy mill >50 years manufacturing at La Meccanica Condex Ltd - established in 1980 Working together since 1986

www.lameccanica.it

…… Contact us to discuss your requirements

WHITE CROSS, LANCASTER, LA1 4XQ Telephone: 01524 61601

Email: info@condex.co.uk Web: www.condex.co.uk