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Archbold-Alltech research alliance results confirm environmental benefits of grazing ruminants

Submitted by jnorrie on Mon, 04/22/2024 - 12:38

New six-part video series explores the cattle-grazing carbon cycle and the role of cattle in mitigating climate change

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Alltech and Archbold formed a strategic research alliance in 2019 to jointly develop beef management approaches, specifically to increase the quality and quantity of beef produced in subtropical regions while maintaining and enhancing the environment. The Archbold–Alltech Alliance brought together scientists from two different disciplines — ecologists from Archbold and ruminant nutritionists from Alltech — to understand the impact that cattle production at Archbold’s Buck Island Ranch has on the ecosystem and the ability to sequester carbon.

Over the past five years, the research alliance has created a model for estimating the ranch’s carbon footprint — and the results have been astounding. On average, Buck Island Ranch sequesters more carbon each year than it emits. It is a net-carbon sink.

This research shows that grazing ruminant animals on land benefits the environment and improves carbon cycling. The results confirm that carbon-neutral — and even net-positive — beef production is possible at Buck Island Ranch, a 10,500-acre ranch in Lake Placid, Florida, and that same potential likely extends to environments around the world.

To showcase the work taking place at the Buck Island Ranch, the Archbold-Alltech Alliance have released a six-part Planet of Plenty™ video series that explores the cattle grazing carbon cycle, the role of carbon sequestration in mitigating climate change and other insights the collaborative research alliance has unveiled.

“This research alliance brings together scientists from several disciplines to collaborate on climate-change solutions and demonstrate agriculture’s great potential to positively shape the future of our planet,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech. “These exciting findings at Archbold’s Buck Island Ranch prove that we capture more carbon when cows are grazing the land. That is profoundly powerful.”

“Every year, we sequester 1,201 tons of CO2 equivalent at Archbold’s Buck Island Ranch and all of this work is scalable to other parts of the world,” said Dr. Betsey Boughton, director of agroecology at Archbold. “The narrative people have heard is that cows are bad for the environment, but grazing animals can actually change the function of grasslands. Cows are eating the grass and not allowing as much decomposition to happen on the ground. Without cows, we actually see more carbon emitted.”

“We’re trying to let people know that it is not just this black-and-white answer,” she added. “It is complicated, and we need to think about the whole story.”

Though it is a complex issue, the research has shown that agriculture can be one of the most powerful weapons in the fight against climate change.

This collaboration has discovered a deeper understanding of the grazing-cattle carbon cycle, one that is not solely focused on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the animal but also on natural GHG emissions from the land and the sequestration of carbon in the soil. Discussions around GHGs and global warming often center around agriculture emissions, but it is important to think beyond emissions and look at the full cycle.

The soil’s ability to sequester carbon is a critical part of the story. Alltech Crop Science and Ideagro, which joined the Alltech family of companies in 2023, are studying how microbial populations can enrich soil chemistry and nutrient density, leading to increased carbon sequestration in the soil. The potential to capture carbon in the soil presents a significant opportunity for the agri-food community to embrace its critical role in combatting climate change while simultaneously improving soil health, boosting crop yields and promoting biodiversity.

For more information and to watch the six-part Planet of Plenty™ video series, visit https://www.alltech.com/planet-of-plenty/stories/video/can-cattle-combat-climate-change.

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A research alliance between Archbold and Alltech brings together two scientific disciplines, with ecologists from Archbold and ruminant nutritionists from Alltech, to understand the impact that cattle production can have on an ecosystem.

Alltech announces structural refresh of its U.S. marketing team

Submitted by jnorrie on Thu, 04/18/2024 - 10:04

Alltech is pleased to announce a new marketing structure designed to better serve both the company’s customers and the needs of its internal teams. These new roles and responsibilities will allow for increased agility in meeting stakeholder needs while cultivating closer alignment and collaboration across Alltech’s U.S. business. 

 

The Alltech team members taking on new marketing roles and responsibilities include (in alphabetical order by last name):

 

  • Nicole Bangasser, Western U.S. Marketing Specialist, Alltech

Bangasser has been with Alltech for two years. Her family has been active in many sectors of agriculture, with farms in South Dakota and Minnesota. Bangasser holds a degree in agri-business from South Dakota State University. She lives in Winnebago, Minnesota.

  • Cece Blythe, Western U.S. Marketing Manager, Alltech

Blythe joined Alltech over three years ago. She also serves as the chair of the communications committee for the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef, as her county’s chair with the Kansas Livestock Association, and on several committees for the Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef. Blythe holds a degree in agri-business and applied economics with a minor in production agriculture from Ohio State University. She lives in East Central Kansas on her husband’s family’s cattle ranch.

  • Anna Burnett, U.S. Dairy Marketing Lead, Alltech

Burnett has been with Alltech for four and a half years and is based at Alltech’s global headquarters in Nicholasville, Kentucky. She previously served as the director of consumer affairs for the Kentucky Beef Council. A native of Central Kentucky, Burnett has had a passion for agriculture since childhood, when she showed lambs and was active in Future Farmers of America (FFA). Burnett holds both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in science with a focus on the economics of raising dairy heifers from the University of Kentucky. She lives in Frankfort, Kentucky.

  • Leslee Burns, Western U.S. Marketing Specialist, Alltech

Burns has been with Alltech for almost 14 years out of its office in Brookings, South Dakota. She began her career at Alltech as an administrative assistant before being named the Midwest marketing assistant and, later, the regional marketing specialist for the South Dakota region. Burns grew up in Southwest Minnesota, where her family farmed and raised pigs and cattle. She holds a degree in digital arts and design from Dakota State University in Madison.

  • Zach Gilles, Eastern U.S. Marketing Specialist, Alltech

Gilles first joined Alltech eight years ago. He is highly involved with his family’s diversified farming operation, where he has helped raise a herd of purebred registered Angus cattle, row-cropped corn and soybeans, and worked at his brother’s farm store selling local beef, pork and poultry products. Gilles is a member of the Kentucky & Daviess County Cattlemen’s Association and is also active in the state and Daviess County chapters of the Farm Bureau. He holds a degree in marketing from the University of Kentucky and lives in Owensboro, Kentucky.

  • Bailey Irick, Marketing Lead, Show-Rite

Irick has been with Alltech since September 2022. She is based in Markle, Indiana, where she was born and raised on a family farm that submersed her in agriculture and fostered her love for the show livestock industry — specifically show pigs — from a very young age. Irick was an active member of 4-H, FFA, National Junior Swine Association (NJSA) and Team Purebred during her junior career. She is actively involved in agriculture on her family’s farm, in the show barn and through judging livestock shows. Irick holds a bachelor’s degree in agriculture and a master’s degree in business administration from Western Illinois University.

  • Mallory Minnick, U.S. Pork Marketing Lead, Alltech

Minnick joined Alltech in May 2022. She grew up on a diversified livestock and row crop farm in Logansport, Indiana, and she and her fiancé continue to be involved in the livestock industry. Minnick holds a degree in animal science from Purdue University. She lives in Lubbock, Texas.

  • Alex Morcom, Head of Marketing, Ridley Block Operations

Morcom joined Ridley Block Operations, a member of the Alltech family of companies, in March 2023. She also serves on the board of directors for the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Foundation and is an alumnus of the OCA Cattlemen’s Leadership Academy. Morcom is based in Duncan, Oklahoma, where she and her husband own and operate a commercial cow-calf operation and raise cutting- and roping-bred quarter horses. In their cattle operation, Morcom and her husband focus on Angus and Angus-influenced cattle and offer ranch-raised beef direct to the consumer. Morcom holds a bachelor’s degree in animal science with a minor in agriculture business from Stephen F. Austin State University.

  • Mackenzie Peters, Marketing Specialist, Global Pet and Corporate Accounts, Alltech

Peters has been with Alltech for over six years. She is also a member of the Oklahoma Farm Bureau and the Diamond Hats. Peters and her husband grow wheat for crop and cattle grazing, and they also have a cow/calf operation and breed and train registered border collie stock dogs. Peters received a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary agriculture with a focus on business and leadership from Texas Tech University. She is based out of Union City, Oklahoma.

  • Terran Ronne, Head of Marketing, Global Pet and Corporate Accounts, Alltech

Ronne has been with Alltech for nine years and previously served as the company’s Midwest marketing specialist and Western U.S. marketing manager. She is the current president of the the National Agri-Marketing Association’s Northern Prairie chapter and served as the treasurer of its board for four years. Ronne holds an undergraduate degree in public relations and journalism from North Dakota State University and a master’s degree in agriculture from Murray State University. She is based in the Alltech office in Brookings, South Dakota.

  • Tieggan Rouleau, Marketing Lead, Lifestyle Feeds, Alltech

Rouleau joined Hubbard Feeds, an Alltech company, in October 2022 as a lifestyle sales representative based in Wyoming. She has owned horses her entire life and continues to compete at the professional level in team roping and breakaway roping. Rouleau received a bachelor’s degree in marketing and an associate’s degree in marketing from Lethbridge College. A native of Canada, she now calls Buffalo, Wyoming, home.

  • Katie Stenzel, Marketing Specialist, Feed and Block, Alltech

Stenzel joined the Alltech Feed Division in March 2018. She grew up near Wells, Minnesota, where her family grew corn and soybeans and operated a beef feedlot. She still lives near Wells today on her husband’s family’s crop farm. Stenzel holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications with a minor in marketing from South Dakota State University.

  • Jena Lee Wagner, U.S. Beef Marketing Lead, Alltech

Wagner joined Alltech in February 2023. She is involved with her family’s Angus cattle operation and actively participates in the Montana Angus Association. Wagner received a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from Montana State University. She lives in Billings, Montana.

  • William Wallis, Eastern U.S. Marketing Manager and U.S. Poultry Marketing Manager, Alltech

Wallis has been with Alltech for 12 years. He has served as the treasurer for the Carolina/Virginia chapter of NAMA for the past seven years. Wallis holds a degree in business marketing from Barry University in Miami, Florida. He lives in Apex, North Carolina.

  • Celsey Weiss, Head of Marketing, Feed and Premix, Alltech

Weiss has served in other roles within the Alltech Feed Division over the past two years. She is also the marketing chair for Pepin County Dairy Promotion and serves on the marketing committee for the Dairy Girl Network. Weiss holds a degree in marketing communications with a minor in animal science from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. She and her husband own and operate a 2,000-cow dairy with her husband’s family in Durand, Wisconsin.

  • Shannon Zika, U.S. Digital Content Producer, Alltech

Zika has served in a variety of marketing roles for the Alltech Feed Division and its family of companies since June 2001. She holds a degree in marketing with a minor in business administration from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Zika is based in Mankato, Minnesota.

 

For more information, visit alltech.com.

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Alltech announces new personnel updates for its U.S. marketing team.

Mycotoxin insights to empower your nutritional strategy

Submitted by tile on Thu, 04/11/2024 - 01:08

In a recent webinar to launch the 2024 Alltech Asia Import Risk Analysis, our experts shared the following insights during the Q&A session:

1. What specific strategies can livestock/feed producers and crop farmers employ to control mycotoxins in their feed?

Pre-harvest:

  • Fungus-resistant crops: Develop crop varieties that are resistant to fungal infestations.
  • Field management: Control fungal infections during crop growth.
  • Moisture control: Maintain a low moisture content in seeds during storage.
  • Temperature: Store commodities at lower temperatures when possible.
  • Fungicides and preservatives: Use various solutions to help inhibit fungal growth.

Post-harvest:

  • Drying and storage: Maintain optimal drying and storage conditions to prevent fungal growth.
  • Mold inhibition: A variety of solutions, including Mold-Zap®, are available to help reduce mold levels in stored grains.

The right combination of mitigation and control strategies is essential to effectively combat the mycotoxin threat. Some strategies have to do with management; for instance, suitable pre-harvest, harvest and post-harvest schedules are helpful. Other strategies rely on new innovations such as mycotoxin binders. A broad-spectrum mycotoxin binder such as Alltech’s Mycosorb®, which is based on leading-edge yeast cell wall extract (YCWE) technology, can be a game-changer, adsorbing numerous mycotoxins from the gastrointestinal tract simultaneously.

Adding to their efficacy, Mycosorb and other Alltech mycotoxin technologies are constantly being updated to reflect new research findings and to target new, emerging mycotoxins.

2. Does Alltech’s mycotoxin data include information about grains that have been genetically modified? If so, to what degree does mycotoxin contamination impact genetically modified crops/grains?

  • Agricultural biotechnology has made notable advances in reducing mycotoxins over the past few years. While transgenic Bt corn (corn that has been genetically engineered to contain Bacillus thuringiensis) has been known for years to reduce the threat of the mycotoxin fumonisin, new studies have revealed its ability to combat aflatoxin as well. Other transgenic and RNA-interference corn hybrids specifically target mycotoxin reduction, and gene editing through clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) has focused on preventing mycotoxin biosynthesis (Wu et al., 2022).
  • Analyses of GMO crops are certainly included in Alltech’s database — but most of the time, the producers who submit samples do not specify whether or not their crops are genetically modified. As such, we cannot generate statistics that fully answer that question.

3. How has the methodology behind Alltech’s mycotoxin assessments changed with the increasing unpredictability of adverse weather conditions and recent geopolitical events?

We are always working hard to implement the most up-to-date analytical methods for as many mycotoxins as possible in our service portfolio. The Alltech 37+® methodology is continuously evolving; we are currently lowering our limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) levels and are also adding new mycotoxins to the panel of toxins analyzed by the lab. Alltech® RAPIREAD™ is another valuable asset, providing quick insight into mycotoxin risks on-farm so that producers can continually protect their feeds.

4. How accurate is Alltech’s risk equivalent quantity (REQ), and why is it a useful tool?

Alltech’s REQ is a calculation used to assess the risk of multiple mycotoxin challenges. The logic behind maintaining an REQ is that this number can help us better understand the threat these mycotoxins, both individually and in combination, pose to animal performance and health. With this knowledge in hand, producers can make better management decisions on-farm.

5. Some farms utilize mycotoxin binders or mold inhibitors. Are any of these solutions made specifically for sows? If so, how should they be offered to help reduce the number of sow abortions, stillbirths and weak piglets?

As breeding animals, sows can benefit from being offered Mycosorb A+®. If clinical signs of mycotoxin contamination appear, we recommend utilizing a treatment dosage of 1.5–2 kg/ton, and we also recommend testing the sow feed through the Alltech 37+ lab as soon as possible.

6. How often should I be sampling incoming grains with rapid test kits?

Regularly and routinely testing each new batch of feed entering the feed mill or farm is important. We also recommend testing raw materials again if they have been stored for a while, as the mycotoxin profile can change over time. To mitigate mycotoxin contamination during storage, we recommend using liquid mold inhibitors for raw materials and dry mold inhibitors for finished feeds.

Feed mills sometimes use stale grains, which are more likely to be contaminated with mold and bacteria than other raw materials are. Testing through Alltech RAPIREAD and/or the Alltech 37+ laboratory is crucial here, and we recommend testing these types of high-risk ingredients more often.

7. What is the lowest inclusion rate you recommend when using a mycotoxin binder?

The lowest inclusion rate recommended for Mycosorb A+ and Mycosorb® LR is 0.5 kg/ton or 10 g/cow/day.

8. How quickly does Alltech update its mycotoxin risk data if a major global event disrupts grain shipments?

We prioritize prompt response to field challenges and other potential obstacles. With a network of over 37 laboratories worldwide, we can ensure expedited delivery of results. To bolster our capacity for swift mycotoxin risk assessment, we've deployed over 200 Raptor® test machines globally; these yield results within a mere 15 minutes. Additionally, in the event of supply chain disruptions, our globally distributed local teams are poised to swiftly employ rapid testing methods to assist customers.

9. The threat of mycotoxins is always present. Besides adsorbents, what other products are effective at combatting the intestinal damage and immunosuppression caused by mycotoxins?

We recommend Sel-Plex®, Actigen® and Yea-Sacc® to counteract mycotoxin damage and maximize health and productivity overall.

10. What is the best solution for controlling deoxynivalenol (DON)?

It’s important to realize that DON is only one mycotoxin of many that may be present in feed. Its metabolic activity and impact on animal health and productivity will very much depend on whether other mycotoxins are present. The best strategy is prevention. First, conduct mycotoxin testing to assess risk, and avoid giving feeds that are highly contaminated with DON to your animals. Then employ a mycotoxin binder, which can reduce the risk by approximately 70%. Alltech’s Mycosorb line of solutions includes multi-mycotoxin binders that can bind a wide range of mycotoxins, including DON.

11. What is the best method for correctly collecting and testing samples, and how frequently should sampling and testing take place?

For best results, follow Alltech's guide to best-practice sampling techniques for mycotoxin testing. Contact your Alltech sales representative for a copy of the guide.

For more information about mycotoxins and how to address the mycotoxin threat for your business, please get in touch with our team. You can also find resources at knowmycotoxins.com.

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2024 Alltech Agri-Food Outlook shares global feed production survey data and influential trends in agriculture

Submitted by jnorrie on Mon, 04/01/2024 - 10:48

*The 2023 numbers were adjusted on April 15, 2024 

World feed production remains steady, with a slight decrease of 0.01%* to 1.29 billion metric tons

Lower demand attributed in part to more efficient use of feed

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Global animal feed production remained steady in 2023 at 1.29 billion metric tons (BMT), a slight decrease of 140,000* metric tons (MMT) — or 0.01%* — from 2022’s estimates, according to the 2024 Agri-Food Outlook, released today by Alltech. The annual survey, now in its 13th year, includes data from 142 countries and more than 27,000 feed mills.

The overall lower demand for feed was due, in part, to the more efficient use of feed made possible by intensive production systems that focus on using animal nutrition, farm management and other technologies to lower feed intake while producing the same amount of protein, or more. A slowdown in the overall production of animal protein, in response to tight margins experienced by many feed and animal protein companies, also contributed to lower feed demand. Changing consumption patterns caused by inflation and dietary trends, higher production costs and geopolitical tensions also influenced feed production in 2023.

Top 10 countries:

The top 10 feed-producing countries are China (262.71 MMT, +0.76%), the U.S. (238.09 MMT, ‑1.13%), Brazil (83.32 MMT, +1.84%), India (52.83 MMT, +13.43%), Mexico (40.42 MMT, +0.02%), Spain (36.22 MMT*, -3.28%*), Russia (35.46 MMT, +3.83%), Vietnam (24.15 MMT, -9.63%), Japan (23.94 MMT, -1.15%) and Türkiye (23.37 MMT, -11.48%). Together, the top 10 countries produced 63.1% of the world’s feed production (same as in 2022), and almost half of the world’s global feed production is concentrated in four countries: China, the U.S., Brazil and India.

Notable species results and outlook:

  • Poultry experienced an increase in broiler feed production (386.33 MMT*, +12.81 MMT*, +3.43%*) and remained flat* for layers (171.29 MMT*, +0.01 MMT, 0%).
    • Broiler feed now accounts for 29.8%* of the total feed tonnage in the world thanks to a 3.43%* increase in overall tonnage in 2023. While this growth was not uniform across all regions, the poultry sector is poised to keep holding strong in 2024 thanks to a combination of regional successes and global market dynamics. Some of the biggest factors that will contribute to the resilience of the broiler sector include reduced costs for inputs, such as feed and energy, and increases in margins and profitability.
    • For layers, there are industry-wide efforts to optimize feed efficiency and to keep pace with changing dietary trends and new purchasing power. Some markets around the globe were significantly impacted by macroeconomic challenges and disease outbreaks, which can disrupt production cycles. Still, the general outlook for the layer industry remains positive thanks to its resilience in the face of difficult circumstances, when other protein sectors often struggle to adapt.
    • The poultry sector is poised for continued strength, driven by a blend of regional successes and global market dynamics. The broiler forecast remains optimistic thanks to lower input costs, increased industrial margins and shifting consumer behaviors. For layers, challenges persist, but there are pockets of resilience and growth.
  • The global pig feed production sector faced many challenges in 2023, which led to an overall decrease in pig feed production of 1.26%* (323.04 MMT*, -4.41 MMT*).
    • Latin America stood out as the only region that achieved an increase in pig feed production in 2023, while Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America — which have traditionally been the top pig feed-producing regions in the world — all faced challenges. African swine fever (ASF) continues to wreak havoc on pig production in China and Southeast Asia, where repopulation efforts are slowly proceeding.
    • The trends highlight the complex relationship between economic factors, supply dynamics and disease management in the global pig feed industry. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for sustaining animal agriculture and ensuring food security.
  • Dairy feed tonnage decreased by 1.12%* (127.92 MMT*, -1.45%*), primarily due to the high cost of feed combined with low milk prices, which led farmers to make strategic adjustments that included reducing their cow numbers and/or relying more on non-commercial feed sources.
    • In Europe, dairy producers will continue to grapple with stricter environmental policies in the years ahead, and they will need to find new ways to continue growing.
    • Asia-Pacific managed to buck the downward trend and emerged as the only region that increased its dairy feed tonnage in 2023. This growth was fueled by a continued increase in the consumption of milk products there, as well as an expansion of feed production in co-operatives.
    • This shift reflects the delicate balance between economic factors and the need to sustain dairy production. Lower feed costs and higher milk prices would help right the ship.
  • Beef feed production decreased by 3.78%* (119.56 MMT*, -4.70 MMT*) globally — the most pronounced downward change among all species sectors last year. Changes in cattle cycles in the United States and stricter sustainability policies in Europe had major impacts, with the Asia-Pacific beef sector notably surpassing Europe’s in 2023.
    • The substantial decline in North America was the result of lingering droughts and high production costs, among other issues.
    • While the European and North American beef industries are expected to continue declining in 2024, growth is expected in China, Brazil and Australia — highlighting the complex dynamics and landscape of beef feed production around the world.
  • The aquaculture sector experienced a decline of 4.41%* (52.09 MMT, -2.40 MMT*).
    • This decline was driven in part by a significant drop in China’s supply of aqua feed due to lower fish prices, which had a far-reaching impact.
    • Latin America grew by 0.27 MMT (3.87%). Despite adverse weather conditions in that region, the demand for aqua products is still strong in Latin America, which helped aqua producers there remain resilient.
  • The global pet feed industry continues to grow, albeit at a slower pace of 2.66%* (35.44 MMT*, +0.92 MMT*) in 2023. Demand for high-quality pet products and services remains high from pet owners who want only the best for their animal companions.
    • The Latin American and European* markets were the primary drivers of this growth.
  • The equine feed industry experienced a decrease of 4.69%* (7.98 MMT, -0.39 MMT*) in 2023.
    • The top challenges in the equine sector include high labor and material prices.
    • The top technologies impacting the sector are biosecurity, microchipping, genetics and nutritional solutions.
    • Survey respondents said the biggest opportunities for nutritional solutions are gut health management and feed efficiency.
    • Equine feed is expected to decrease both in price and in volume during the coming year.

Notable regional results:

  • North America saw a decrease of 2.8 MMT (259.26 MMT, -1.1%), with beef feed tonnage down significantly. The pig and dairy sectors also slipped slightly, but the broiler, layer and pet sectors more than made up the difference. Feed tonnage in the broiler sector was up nearly 2.9%.
  • Latin America experienced growth in 2023 by 2.46 MMT (200.67 MMT, +1.24%). Despite high production costs, geopolitical tensions and changing consumer behavior due to economic reasons, the region continues to be among the global growth leaders*, mainly because of its export-driven aquaculture, poultry and pork markets.
  • Europe continued its downward trend in feed production, with a decrease of 7.59 MMT* (261.89 MMT*, -2.82%*) due to issues that included the invasion in Ukraine and the spread of animal diseases such as African swine fever (ASF) and avian influenza (AI).
  • Asia-Pacific led feed production growth in 2023, with an increase of 6.54 MMT (475.33 MMT, +1.4%). Feed production growth in the region’s ruminant sectors offset a setback in the aqua sector. The region is home to several of the top 10 feed-producing countries, including China, India, Vietnam and Japan.
  • Africa experienced continued but slower growth with an increase of 1.94%*, nearly 1 MMT to total 51.42 MMT.
  • The Middle East saw a slight decrease of 0.12 MMT (35.93 MMT, -0.32%).
  • Oceania grew 3.71% or 0.39 MMT to total 10.78 MMT.

Alltech works together with feed mills and industry and government entities around the world to compile data and insights to provide an assessment of feed production each year. Compound feed production and prices were collected by Alltech’s global sales team and in partnership with local feed associations in the first quarter of 2024. These figures are estimates and are intended to serve as an information resource for industry stakeholders.

To access more data and insights from the 2024 Alltech Agri-Food Outlook, including an interactive global map, visit alltech.com/agri-food-outlook.

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The 2024 Alltech Agri-Food Outlook revealed global feed production survey data and trends.

Preventing cattle health issues through proactive nutrition

Submitted by tile on Thu, 03/21/2024 - 01:02

Health issues can result in significant economic losses for cattle producers. By taking a proactive approach to preventing health problems, producers can reduce monetary loss associated with treating sick animals.

Meeting cattle’s nutritional requirements is the first step. The second step is maintaining a healthy gastrointestinal tract (gut). With 70% of the immune system being located within the gut, it plays a crucial role in animal health. With this knowledge, we can develop proactive supplementation strategies to prevent animal health issues before they become a problem.

Dietary nutrients required to maximize immune health

For an animal to respond properly to an immune challenge, we must meet the nutrient requirements needed for the immune system to function optimally, including dietary protein, energy, vitamins and minerals.

Protein and energy are required in the largest quantities. Protein provides the necessary amino acids needed for production of immune proteins such as cytokines and also antibodies that mediate immune response. Energy is required for every system in the body, but an immune challenge increases energy demand. Therefore, enough dietary protein and energy must be available for the animal to both meet its maintenance requirements and respond to a health issue.

Micronutrients such as copper, zinc, selenium and vitamins E and A are also necessary for proper immune function. They are important components of the antioxidant system, and they are required for enzymes to function properly in the immune system. The forms in which copper, zinc and selenium are supplemented play a role in how well the minerals are utilized. Alltech offers two solutions in the ideal forms for mineral uptake and efficacy:

  • Bioplex® trace minerals, including copper, zinc, manganese, and cobalt, are part of the Alltech mineral management program. Bioplex minerals are trace minerals that are bound to amino acids and a range of peptides. They are easily absorbed and readily metabolized, optimizing immune health and thus improving performance.
  • Sel-Plex® is Alltech’s proprietary organic form of selenium. The selenium in Sel-Plex supports metabolic processes, acts as an antioxidant, supports against infection, and boosts overall immune health.

Benefits of a healthy gut

Much focus has been aimed at maintaining rumen health. Although the rumen of cattle is the main site for microbial fermentation and energy production, the entire digestive tract needs to be considered when discussing gut health.

The small and large intestines contain a single lining of cells protecting the body from infection, and this lining is susceptible to damage when the gut is unhealthy. A healthy microbial ecosystem aids in maintaining the gut lining. In addition to digestion, absorption and production of nutrients, gut microbiota contribute to regulation of energy homeostasis, prevention of mucosal infections and modulation of the immune system. A healthy gut microbial ecosystem and lining will prevent colonization by potentially pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, Cryptosporidium, Clostridium and coccidia. Preventing damage to the gut lining will prevent pathogenic bacteria, toxins and other harmful substances from entering the bloodstream and the lymphatic system. This reduces the animal’s susceptibility to diseases such as bovine respiratory disease (BRD).

What causes gut damage, and how can it be prevented?

Many factors can compromise gut health. The main ones are associated with periods of stress. This can include illness or injury, weaning, transportation, challenged feedstuffs, weather, feed changes, poor management, and quality of feed and water. In addition, disturbances in gut microbiota can have severe effects on the digestive system, including metabolic disorders such as bloat, ruminal acidosis and scours. These can have profound effects on health.

The right feed additives, supplied in the most effective forms, can make all the difference in protecting gut health. Alltech’s leading-edge research and technology is the basis for the Alltech Gut Health Management program, which includes such solutions as:

  • Bio-Mos 2®, a unique product derived from a select strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast using Alltech’s proprietary process. Bio-Mos 2 promotes beneficial bacteria and builds natural defenses, helping to build a foundation for performance by reinforcing a healthy gut microbiome without antibiotics at all stages of production.
  • Integral A+® protects animal health, performance and reproduction during feedstuff challenges caused by molds and toxins, which are increasingly common — and increasingly dangerous — due to more extreme weather patterns and changing agricultural practices.

Summary

The best way to support animal health and productivity is to be proactive, not reactive. Preventing health problems before they occur starts with providing the nutrients necessary for immune function, in a form the animal can metabolize. This should be followed by supplementation with feed additives that aid in maintaining gut health.


About the author:

Dr. Cadra Krueger is a territory sales manager for Kansas and Colorado at Alltech. In that role, she focuses on all aspects of beef nutrition, from cow/calf production to growing/finishing feedlots, and provides guidance about sales, nutrition and management to help producers and feed mills reach their ultimate production goals.

Cadra has been involved in the cattle industry since she was 10 years old, when she first began raising and showing cattle in 4-H and helping her younger siblings with their show calves. While pursuing her graduate degrees, she managed the Beef Cattle Research Center at Kansas State University. She previously served as a beef nutritionist for Hubbard Feeds before joining the Alltech beef team.

Cadra holds a bachelor's degree in equine science from Colorado State University and master's and doctoral degrees in ruminant nutrition from Kansas State University. In her free time, she enjoys riding horses and spending time with family and friends.

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How critical production decisions affect the fate of our cow herd numbers

Submitted by tile on Wed, 03/20/2024 - 05:27

As we enter 2024, the talk among economists and producers seems to center around the decreasing beef cow herd. The 28.2 million head of beef cows posted in the USDA biannual cattle inventory report is the smallest in decades. When considering factors like feed and equipment cost, supplemental nutrition and mineral decisions, continued dry and drought conditions in many areas, regional lack of feed inventory, age of the average producer, complex considerations in herd management decisions, and elevated interest rates, we need to consider: Is that cow number only going to get smaller?

2023 saw higher prices — at record or near-record levels — for feeder cattle and calves, along with cull cows and bulls selling for over $1 per pound. Some producers are sharing that they are getting more for their cull cows than those cows originally cost. And, with the smaller cow herd leading to tighter feeder cattle numbers, some are predicting even higher prices this year and for years to come.

The key to success during this uncertain time is getting the information you need to make savvy decisions about the health and productivity of your herd.

Could there be an opportunity for the herd to expand?

Could the prediction of higher prices change the tides? With the current costs of production, the outlook for higher prices has some producers thinking that there is opportunity and it may be time to expand their herds.

The conversation with these producers tends to lead to important questions:

  • Should I keep my heifer calves back this year and develop my own?
  • Should I wait that long?
  • Should I buy bred cows or bred heifers now?
  • Should I wait and buy higher-priced pairs right before grass turnout?
  • Should I do some or all of the above?

As they start to find answers for what will work best for their financial, labor and feed situations, and what makes sense for their facilities and land base usage, I offer a few things to consider.

Is it a cost or an investment?

What is your mindset when it comes to deciding to purchase cows or heifers versus developing your own? Are you looking at that animal as a cost or as an investment? There’s a big difference. Cost is simply the amount paid to buy something, but investment is the action of paying money today in order to reap greater rewards later. Producers often look at these herd decisions as simply a cost instead of an investment, but if you invest in that cow or heifer today, she may give you back more in the long run.

A few questions to ask yourself:

  • Is the cow or heifer the better investment to maintain your cow herd and keep production high?
  • Is your supplementation program, including minerals, a cost or an investment?
  • Do you know the return on a given bag of mineral?
  • If you don’t currently supplement with minerals, would adding that to your nutritional program pay off well?
  • If you are already supplementing, would a better-quality mineral and/or a year-round program return you more?
  • What about protein supplementation when appropriate?
  • Is your vaccine program up to date? Could an updated program pay dividends later?

Good supplementation is an investment — and a worthy one

Fetal programming research shows that cow nutrition and mineral status can directly impact the longevity and productiveness of offspring. A good mineral program for the cow herd contributes to more productive and profitable heifers that stay in the cow herd longer. The data shows that a heifer whose dam received a good mineral program year-round tends to reach puberty earlier, breed earlier in the cycle, and stay in the cow herd longer.

As you look to invest up to $3,000 for a commercially bred heifer, consider this:

  • Do you know how the dam of that heifer was supplemented and what she was supplemented with?
  • Was the heifer given the best opportunity from the start to work for you?
  • Will she be ideally equipped to breed back, and to do so in a timely manner?
  • Will she raise a calf every year and stay in the cow herd long enough to pay for herself?

And what about the home-raised heifer calf you want to retain and develop? You will have invested a lot of time, effort and energy by the time she calves. How can you give her the best chance to give you a high return on that investment?

In short, when it comes to the decision of breeding versus buying, are you consistently investing so as to maximize your return?

Data and insights vs. “what we’ve always done”

Consider what criteria you are using to make your decisions. Do you have the records to justify your decisions, or is it, Well, this is what we’ve always done?

Recently, I was talking with a banker who works with a father/son operation. The father and son were considering expanding their herd and were debating on buying young bred cows or bred heifers. The father was leaning toward buying heifers because he felt that they were the better value.

The banker reviewed their purchase and sale records and then advised them, “Don’t spend more than $2,600 for a bred heifer, because that heifer will never pay for herself.” He explained that in their operation, heifers tended to “fall out” in 3–4 years due to management constraints; namely, the operation didn’t have the facilities or labor to keep the heifers separate from the cows. In this particular operation, cows returned more money because they stayed in the cow herd longer.

What data do you have, and what data do you need, to make the best decisions?

Tough decisions will determine the direction of the cow herd

With current prices and the price outlook, producers have some tough decisions to make about whether to get out now or try to expand. If they decide to expand, they need to know how to make the most informed decisions along the way. Those who see the opportunity to expand, if they use their data wisely and invest where they are most likely to get the biggest returns, stand the highest chance of success.


About the author: 

Bryan Sanderson grew up in Lake Preston, South Dakota, and spent most of his childhood working on pig, crop and cattle farms. After receiving a degree in animal science from South Dakota State University, with minors in ag marketing and ag business, Bryan began his impressive career in animal agriculture. With experience in livestock production, feedlot supervision, sales and finance, Bryan is currently the U.S. beef business manager for Alltech.


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Championing sustainability: Alltech-supported team wins cattle-rearing competition

Submitted by tile on Wed, 03/20/2024 - 03:20

In the heart of County Meath, Ireland, four ambitious students from Dunshaughlin Community College embarked on a journey that would not only showcase their dedication to agriculture but also highlight the power of sustainable farming practices. Meet Liam Byrne, Eric Allen, Eoin O’Sullivan and David Malone, the dynamic quartet whose passion for farming propelled them to victory in the 10th annual Certified Irish Angus School’s Competition.

Under the guidance of Alltech nutritionist Dr. Mj Doran, these students adopted a data-driven approach to their project, which was called “A Holistic Approach to Improving Animal Performance.” Armed with a mission to merge production efficiency with environmental sustainability, they set out to rear four Aberdeen Angus steers and minimize their carbon footprint throughout the process.

Alltech E-CO2 was an essential tool used in this approach. Utilizing the Alltech E-CO2 audit, the students meticulously analyzed every aspect of their cattle-rearing process, from nutrition to on-farm trials and soil analysis.

Particularly, they predicted how much CO2 would be produced as a result of rearing their Angus cattle to slaughter. Then they ran multiple scenarios through the E-CO2 audit, fine-tuning their approach in order to ensure maximal efficiency and minimal environmental impact. This involved nutritional advice from Dr. Doran, who formulated the cattle’s diets and collected the data required for the E-CO2 report. Yea-Sacc® was used in the animals’ diet.

The culmination of the students’ efforts came with the final CO2 emission figure: a remarkable 8.5 kg CO2 per kg of liveweight, significantly below the Irish national average. This achievement not only secured the students’ victory in the competition but also served as a testament to the transformative power of science-based sustainable farming practices.

“Liam, Eric, Eoin and David demonstrated just how useful the E-CO2 sustainability report can be in planning for farming with a lower environmental impact,” Dr. Doran said. “This, along with precision nutrition advice from InTouch, was key to the students achieving beef production with a lower environmental impact. Comhghairdeas to the lads, they are great ambassadors for their school, their local area and Irish agriculture.”

As a global leader in animal nutrition and sustainability solutions, Alltech is proud to support initiatives that empower the next generation of farmers to embrace sustainable practices and drive positive change in the world.


About the author: 

Tien Le received her bachelor’s degree in advertising and marketing communications from the University of Greenwich, London, with the University Merit Award for Outstanding Achievement. She started her career at Alltech in 2016 as part of the Corporate Career Development Program, spending time in both the U.S. and Ireland before taking a role in Vietnam, her home country. Tien presently serves as the editorial content manager for Alltech, a role that allows her to fulfill her passions for writing, innovation and sustainable agriculture.


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From left to right: Mj Doran, Alltech nutritionist; David Malone, Eric Allen, Eoin O'Sullivan and Liam Byrne, students at Dunshaughlin Community College; Cathal McCormack, Alltech Ireland country manager.

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2024 Alltech Asia Import Risk Analysis: Mycotoxin insights

Submitted by tile on Tue, 03/19/2024 - 23:59

Mycotoxin contamination poses a growing concern for animal feed producers worldwide. Asian feed production, for example, has been steadily increasing, with a significant reliance on imported grains. As this trend is projected to continue, understanding the mycotoxin risks associated with these imported grains is paramount. The Alltech Asia Import Risk Analysis provides insights into the prevalence and types of mycotoxins present in grains sourced from various regions globally.

Accurate mycotoxin analysis is essential for identifying and mitigating contamination risks in animal feed. Various analytical methods, such as Alltech 37+®, Alltech® RAPIREAD™, and collaborations with organizations such as SGS, Masterfeeds and Stratford Labs, form the basis of the Alltech Asia Import Risk Analysis report.

The analysis assessed the mycotoxin risks in grains — such as corn, wheat, barley and byproducts — sourced from Europe, North America, Canada and Latin America for feed and livestock producers in the Asia-Pacific region.

Europe

In 2023, Europe faced significant mycotoxin challenges, especially in small grains like barley. Adverse weather conditions, including prolonged rainfall, exacerbated contamination levels in Northern and Western European countries. Fusarium toxins, such as deoxynivalenol, rapidly multiplied in barley and wheat due to these severe conditions and posed challenges for crop growers.

Although the mycotoxin challenge in corn is lower compared to recent years, there are still pockets of higher risk in Central and Southern Europe. Aflatoxins, fumonisins and ochratoxins are the most prevalent mycotoxins in corn from these regions. Barley has the highest risk among small grains, with an average of six mycotoxins per sample and with 97% of samples containing two or more mycotoxins. Wheat samples, on the other hand, have an average of 3.5 mycotoxins per sample, with 90% of samples containing two or more mycotoxins. In Northwestern Europe, the average risk equivalent quantity (REQ) for wheat and barley is moderate to high, partly due to a delayed harvest and an increased presence of Fusarium toxins.

United States

Weather conditions in the U.S. had a significant impact on the mycotoxin profile of the corn samples analyzed. In the Southwest, a prolonged dry period resulted in a higher-than-usual fumonisin challenge. Whereas, in the East, lengthy periods of rainfall resulted in higher levels of deoxynivalenol (DON). This variation highlights the intricate interplay between climatic conditions and crop quality.

U.S. corn samples had an average of 4.4 mycotoxins per sample, with 87% containing two or more mycotoxins. In general, the mycotoxin challenge in corn grain is lower this year than in recent years. However, there are still pockets of higher risk in the Midwest and the South.

Canada

In Canada, dry conditions across the prairies led to a reduced overall crop output compared to the previous year. Fusarium toxins present the greatest challenge, with average DON levels of 1,882 ppb detected in wheat and barley samples, leading to a generally higher risk for this ingredient in pig diets. Additionally, high levels of zearalenone, predominantly observed in corn grain, are indicating potentially significant impacts, raising concerns for the pig industry.

Latin America

In Brazil, a favorable growing season led to an increase in overall corn yield. As with Canada, higher-than-average levels of DON and zearalenone could create challenges when corn from Brazil is included in pig diets. Zearalenone was present in 91% of samples tested, while the prevalence of DON was much lower. Although fumonisins were widely detected, with almost 70% of samples containing this type of mycotoxin, the levels are lower than for other mycotoxin groups.

Corn byproducts

Rising costs of raw materials commonly used for animal feed have led to an increased usage of byproducts. This poses challenges for mycotoxin contamination, particularly with corn byproducts having higher contamination levels compared to parent grains.

Using Alltech 37+ mycotoxin analysis, Alltech tested samples of corn gluten meal and dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) from North America, Asia and Europe. All had a minimum of two mycotoxins, with an average of 13.4. The most common and significant mycotoxins detected were emerging mycotoxins, type B trichothecenes, and Fusarium mycotoxins.

Monogastric vs. ruminant animals

While mycotoxin contamination poses a threat to both monogastric and ruminant animals, the animals’ digestive systems react differently to the threat. Understanding the nuances of mycotoxin risks for monogastric animals, such as pigs and poultry, compared to ruminants like cows and sheep, is crucial for effective feed management.

The Alltech Asia Import Risk Analysis report provides detailed insights into the impacts of specific findings on each species of animal, distinguishing between monogastric and ruminant species.

Conclusion

Mycotoxin contamination is a significant issue for animal feed producers globally, with impacts on various grains and byproducts from different regions. The 2024 Alltech Asia Import Risk Analysis report demonstrates the need for rigorous testing and quality-control measures and offers vital information to help producers make better decisions when purchasing ingredients and formulating animal diets. 

With widespread and rising contamination in raw materials being imported into the Asia-Pacific region, it is crucial to implement effective mycotoxin management strategies. Doing so will optimize both the safety and well-being of animals and the profitability of operations. A holistic approach is essential to managing mycotoxins correctly, so establishing a routine mycotoxin testing program when purchasing feed ingredients and developing nutrition plans is crucial.

To access valuable insights on managing mycotoxin risks, download your copy of the 2024 Alltech Asia Import Risk Analysis here. We also invite you to visit knowmycotoxins.com for further resources. Don't miss this opportunity to safeguard your animals and your production.

Discover more content:

Reducing the challenge of storage mycotoxins | Alltech

The heightened risk of Penicillium mycotoxins in European forage (alltech.com)

Protecting grain and forage quality this winter | Alltech

2023 harvest: Early insights into Europe’s mycotoxin landscape (alltech.com)


About the author: 

Dr. Ghazanfar Naseer is the regional ruminant and mycotoxin technical manager for Asia Pacific at Alltech. He is currently based in Australia.

Dr. Naseer was one of three people selected to participate in the Alltech Dairy Career Development Program in 2015. His current role in the company has taken him to countries around the world. Dr. Naseer has vast international experience and expertise in ruminant nutrition and management. He has worked with various dairy and beef producers across the globe, from small farms to large operations.

Born in Pakistan, Dr. Naseer earned his doctoral degree in veterinary medicine from PMAS-Arid Agriculture University in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, with a gold medal distinction. He is also certified as a CowSignals® Master Trainer in Thailand.

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Alltech celebrates 25 years in Thailand

Submitted by jnorrie on Fri, 03/15/2024 - 13:48

[BANGKOK, Thailand] — Alltech recently celebrated its 25th anniversary in Thailand alongside more than 120 industry partners and friends, including representatives of prominent agri-food companies.

 

In 1998, Alltech entered the Thai market. It was a time of financial crisis within the region yet Alltech could see the market’s potential and its increasingly important role in global food supply. Alltech Thailand began with two team members, and today more than 50 Alltech team members are dedicated to serving the country’s agriculture sector. An initial facility and warehouse in Thailand were established in 2006 and production operations were relocated to the current facility in Samutprakarn in 2015 to meet growing demand in both the Thai and Southeast Asian markets.

 

Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech, reflected on the company’s long-standing commitment to the country and its partnerships with Thailand-based customers.

 

“Within Alltech, we are committed to Working Together for a Planet of Plenty. Thailand represents some of our most enduring examples of this effort,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech. “Together, with our customers, we have advanced the efficient and sustainable production of nutrition and are cultivating a prosperous world of abundance through Thailand’s agri-food sector.”

 

Steadfast in its commitment to providing smarter and sustainable solutions for customers, including feed mills, integrators and animal farms, Alltech continues to invest in local production while leveraging the best of its global network and knowledge to the benefits of its customers. These efforts have catalyzed rapid growth in Thailand’s agricultural industry, positioning the nation as a key player on the global stage.

 

Over the past quarter century, Thailand’s agricultural sector has prioritized enhancing efficiency and productivity, advancing aquaculture and livestock production, fostering value addition for agricultural products, and ensuring food security.

 

Alltech has forged deep connections and established significant strategic partnerships within the local industry. Its long-standing relationships with market leaders have allowed Alltech — and its customers — to grow and navigate the evolving agri-food industry.

 

On Feb. 15, Alltech finalized an agreement with Thai Wah Public Co., an agri-food business with operations in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and India, to collaborate on reducing carbon in Asian agri-food with precision nutrition, digital farming, waste management and carbon footprint assessments. This collaboration is the second formal partnership in two years to focus on sustainable farming in Thailand. On March 9, 2023, Alltech formed a partnership with the Dairy Farming Promotion Organization of Thailand (DPO) to pioneer nutrition innovation and sustainable dairy farming, leveraging global expertise and technologies to expand and develop dairy and beef cattle production in Thailand.

 

Dedicated to ensuring customers’ competitiveness and to driving innovation within the industry, Alltech Thailand remains committed to educating customers through seminars and workshops, enriching their knowledge and keeping them at the forefront of leading agri-food research and technologies.

 

Alltech Thailand and its 5,000 Alltech colleagues around the world share a commitment to supporting the agri-food sector in providing nutrition for all while supporting local economies and revitalizing the planet’s natural resources.

 

“Our devoted local team remains ready to provide unparalleled expertise to the Thai market,” said Jonathan Forrest Wilson, president of Alltech Asia-Pacific. “This reflects our dedication to forging long term mutually beneficial collaborations and contributing to the thriving business landscape in Thailand. As we celebrate this milestone, our commitment to lasting partnerships remains at the forefront of our mission.” 

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n February 2024, Alltech commemorated its 25th anniversary in Thailand alongside more than 120 industry partners and friends, including representatives from prominent agri-food companies.

Left to right: Heng Aik Jin, Alltech’s regional director for Malindo and Southeast Asia; Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech; Jonathan Forrest Wilson, president of Alltech Asia-Pacific.

Could your feed be contaminated with toxic heavy metals?

Submitted by tile on Tue, 03/12/2024 - 00:35

Understanding contamination risk in feed and ingredients

There is growing awareness of the presence of trace heavy metals in the feed industry and their potential impacts on animal and human health.

Trace metals are naturally occurring elements, used in many industries and needed for regular body function in animals and humans. Zinc, iron and copper, for example, are essential in trace amounts. However, they can be toxic even at moderately elevated levels, and heavy metal poisoning occurs when too much of a particular metal is absorbed by the body. Mercury, lead, cadmium and arsenic are the most common metals to cause exposure at toxic levels.

The general population can be exposed to heavy metal contaminants through drinking water, dust, and fumes and from a variety of food sources (Atafar et al., 2010). Toxic heavy metals can be transferred into edible animal products such as meat, milk and eggs, and thus be passed into the human food chain. High levels of exposure to these compounds in humans can be toxic, with many having carcinogenic properties.

The buildup of heavy metals within animal protein sources can be attributed to the contamination of certain feed ingredients (Vremane et al., 1986; Spragg, 2008), with the potential for contamination originating from:

  • Exposure to groundwater and soil with high levels of heavy metals during crop production (transfer into plant material)
  • Bioaccumulation higher along the food chain (e.g., mercury in carnivores)
  • Raw material processing (e.g., for inorganic mineral extraction and recycling)
  • Cross-contamination during processing or transport, or in the feed mill

Understanding the risks within the feed industry

The past decade has seen growing scrutiny regarding the potential for heavy metal contamination in animal feeds. This is due to a number of high-profile food safety alerts. For example, in both 2020 and 2021, batches of dog foods from Europe were found to contain excessive levels of cadmium, and inorganic mineral sources destined for the feed industry are often reported by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in the RASFF (Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed) Portal.

Other parts of the world, however, do not have such advanced monitoring or alert systems, and much of the risk may be missed or underestimated.

The Alltech 2023 Asia-Pacific Toxic Heavy Metal Survey

An ongoing effort to quantify the risk of toxic heavy metals to the feed industry has been carried out by Alltech in the Asia-Pacific region. Alltech initiated the survey in 2010 and has issued nine comprehensive reports so far, which have become essential benchmarks for assessing contamination risks in animal feed and trace minerals.

The survey analyzed 735 samples collected from 12 countries across the Asia-Pacific region, bringing the total number of samples analyzed to over 7,000 since the survey was launched in 2010.

Consistent with previous years, the survey evaluated lead, arsenic and cadmium levels, applying the European Union’s maximum allowable thresholds to determine contamination risks. The analysis encompassed complete feed, premix, and inorganic and organic trace mineral samples, spanning various agricultural categories including pig, poultry, ruminant, aquaculture and pet.

When completed, the survey revealed a contamination level of 14% across all these Asia-Pacific samples, with analysis showing that significant contamination was found in both organic trace mineral and inorganic mineral sources.

The survey highlighted that poultry premix exhibited the highest contamination levels at 13%, followed by aquaculture (9%) and ruminant premix samples (8%). In complete feed, swine diets demonstrated the highest contamination at 14%, followed by ruminant (9%) and poultry (5%). Certain samples displayed heavy metal levels surpassing EU regulations.

The collective results of all Alltech Asia-Pacific Toxic Heavy Metal Surveys since 2010 have revealed a persistent risk of elevated contamination in Asia-Pacific samples, with an average rate of 19%. This indicates serious and ongoing risks to both animal health and the safety of the entire food chain.

Managing feed contamination risk with reputable suppliers

To reduce the risk, it is imperative that feed and animal companies source their trace minerals from reputable sources. This involves working with companies that have robust quality systems, such as the Alltech Q+™ program, that focus on product safety, consistency and traceability for high-risk materials such as mineral sources. If we can reduce the risk of heavy metal contaminants entering the food chain, that will have flow-on effects to the human food chain.

For more information about the survey, please contact your local Alltech representative or email knowyourminerals@alltech.com.


About the author: 

Tara Tiller is the global project manager of corporate accounts and companion animals for Alltech. In this role, she oversees the growth of Alltech's pet and equine business as a member of the company's larger companion animal team.

Tara first joined Alltech as its quality assurance manager for the Asia-Pacific region. In that role, which was based in Thailand, she led the establishment of production facilities in Thailand, China, India and Vietnam and traveled extensively across Asia. She subsequently joined Alltech’s Mineral Management division, where she provided technical support and offered consultations, both internally and externally, across Asia-Pacific on trace mineral nutrition, with a focus on Alltech’s organic trace mineral range.

In 2018, Tara was named Alltech's global project manager. That role, which was based in Bangkok, combined her previous technical support responsibilities with the management of Alltech’s mineral projects and programs globally. In her current position on the company's companion animal team, she continues to develop and promote solutions and services related to mineral management.

Tara received a degree in animal science and aquaculture from the University of Tasmania in Australia.

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