Doubt over weather FTA deal will move forward

Doubts over the new Free Trade Deals (FTA's) as the Senate Committee is moving forward with mock markups of Columbia, Panama and Korea's Free Trade Agreements. The President of the American Farm Bureau Federation said that these three FTA's are worth an estimated US$2.5 billion (€1.728 billion) in new agriculture exports.

This could also generate support for up to 22,500 jobs in the US agriculture community and hopefully would eliminate trade tariffs that has plagued US ranchers /farmers. Congress is being urged to act quickly and pass the bill by the August recess. Farm Bureau President Bob Stallman says "losing this opening will come at a cost to the nation's farmers and ranchers". Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Soybeans yellowing what are the causes?

A number of fields of soybean are showing a slight yellowing on the leaves, the reason for this could be due to the stressful growth conditions they are experiencing. “Many soybean fields are starting a rapid shoot growth phase.  Meanwhile, the root system, which in some instances has not developed very well, is not yet able to meet the increasing nutrient demands, causing what is likely a temporary nutrient deficiency,” Fernandez said.

Also the wetter than normal conditions are not helping, especially for the unhealthy soybean. “Temporary nutrient deficiencies can be observed when excess water in the soil depletes oxygen and builds up carbon dioxide levels.  Although oxygen is needed by roots to grow and take up nutrients, high carbon dioxide levels are toxic and limit root growth and activity,” Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Legislation relieves regulation on agricultural transportation

A bill introduced by Senator Pat Roberts, that is intended to ease the pressure and exempt those who transport agricultural products from costly regulations that will stifles their ability to carry out their business quickly and effectively

"Eliminating this endorsement is a common sense way to provide more flexibility for these industries that are already weighed down with too many needless regulations," said Roberts "This is just another example of an overly burdensome regulation that needs to be eliminated, and I will continue my fight to review and repeal other oppressive regulations that negatively affect agriculture and our economy." Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Is the End in sight for the Canadian Wheat Board?

The Conservative governments intends to end the single desk marketing powers of the Canadian Wheat Board (CWB), this was confirmed by the Canadian Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "Our Government is supporting the grain sector through our commitment to marketing freedom for wheat and barley growers in western Canada," Minister Ritz said in a news release highlighting his comments made at the Grain Growers of Canada summer meeting in Winnipeg.

"We know that grain farmers will be able to make their marketing choices based on what is best for their own business, and opening up the market will attract investment, encourage innovation, create value-added jobs and build a stronger economy." Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Animal feed producer signs license and research deal with Dyadic

Dyadic International, a global biotechnology, signed a research , development and license agreement with a major provider of animal nutritional solutions around the world (the "Commercial Partner") to develop, manufacture and commercialise animal feed enzyme products. The identity of the Commercial Partner under the agreement with Dyadic will remain anonymous.

As part of this agreement, Dyadic has granted the Commercial Partner a worldwide license to use the developed C1 fungal strains to manufacture and sell animal feed enzyme products. Dyadic will receive an upfront access fee and be eligible to receive a commercial milestone payment as well as royalties based on the Commercial Partner's worldwide sales of products which utilise the C1 technology platform. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Ugandan poultry farmers livelihood threatened by feed prices

The ever rising prices in animal feeds are have a serious effect on the Ugandan poultry farmers and processors. The prices also vary depending on where you buy them from, there is also the problem of fake feeds coming onto the market, these fake feed have a serious effect on egg laying production.

It has been found that fake feeds contain fishfin, scales and bones and some of these fake feeds  even contain sorghum flour which has no nutritional value for chickens. The poultry feed dealers attribute the rising costs to the transportation and exportation of maize and high fuel costs. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Laboratory seeks drought tolerant traits

Texas AgriLife Research scientists in Corpus Christi are taking a closer look at why some cotton varieties do better than others in drought conditions. They are trying to better understand how some can plants can control water usage, once we understand this mode of use then we can alter plants to utilise water in a more efficient way.

"All plants are treated equally," Fernandez said. "They all have the exact same amount of high-absorbent soil to remove that as a variation factor. Each also gets exactly the same amount of nutrient solution. We irrigate them daily up to a point when we stop or reduce irrigation to see how the plant reacts to the water deficiency." Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Food prices set to increase and rich countries could be hurt the most

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) food out look analysis points to rising demand for food and absorbing the higher output which will keep food prices high and volatile despite record food production. The report from the FAO highlights the difference ways in which investors behaved in price surges.

Also the World Bank has cut its forecast for global growth stating that rising food and fuel prices are impacting the the global economy. This impact will have a possible benefit for some Asian countries like Thailand, China and India who will see an increase in their annual income. But for the more developed countries (South Korea, Hong Kong, and Singapore) it will have a negative impact seeing a reduction in their income. read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Living antibiotics potential for animals and humans

Researcher are testing the potential benefit of a living antibiotic for humans and animals Bdellovibrio, a predatory bacterium, has the potential to be used as a living antibiotic against some major human and animal pathogens, such as E.coli and other gram-negative bacteria.

Previous tests have shown that Bdellovibrio is very effective against other bacteria. Dr Hobley continued "We think that Bdellovibrio could be particularly useful as a topical treatment for wounds or foot rots but we wanted to know what might happen if it is ingested either deliberately as a treatment, or by accident." Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

UK crop watch aphid numbers increase

In both cereal and pulse crops aphid numbers are increasing, which may require some controlling. David Martindale of Arable Alliance (Yorkshire) says aphid numbers have been increasing in peas, which required controlling with an insecticide. "Keep monitoring crops as recent warm weather can soon allow aphid numbers to increase quickly above the 20 percent of plants infested threshold," he advises.

"Disease levels are still low, but it has been noticed that Septoria tritici is beginning to appear on the middle of the leaves and some crops are showing signs of mildew". He also said that poor blackgrass control is also apparent in many crops. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Nitorgen loss expected due to heavy rains

With the heavy rains that has inundated the Upper Midwest from South Dakota to Minnesota, University of South Dakota Extension Soil Specialist Ron Gelderman says "some fields may experience nitrogen (N) loss. Whether N leaching has occurred depends on many factors". 

He also said "There are many considerations including: soil type, amount of rainfall, rainfall intensity, when Nitrogen was applied, nitrification inhibitors used, organic matter levels and many more". Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

New Product from Perten Instruments

AM 5200

The AM 5200 is a second generation 150 MHz grain moisture meter and provides improved accuracy, repeatability and handling.

Its predecessor, the AM 5100, is used by more than 1,000 grain traders and processors around the world. The new AM 5200 is the best moisture meter available and meets the speed and connectivity requirements of today’s grain industry.

• A newly designed, updated die-cast aluminium cell combined with modern RF-electronics provides even better accuracy.
• The larger sample size analysed in the AM 5200 improves repeatability 100 percent.
• A modern colour touch screen improves handling.
• Flow-through analysis allows use in automatic sampling systems.

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

French animal feed company attracts bids from several companies

American agricultural giants Cargill, are among several companies showing interest in the French animal feed company Provimi SA. Other companies showing interests in Provimi are Chinese giants New Hope Group as well as Dutch animal feed company Nutreco and Dutch life science company DSM.

The sale of Provimi could fetch more than €1.8 billion (US$2.59 billion). Market experts believe that the animal feed industry is fragmented and a candidate for consolidation. A second round of bidding is expected in about six weeks. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Pesticide bill passed by Senate Agriculture Committee

The bill that was passed is one that protects farmers from needing a apply for more permits to apply pesticides to their land. This legislation clarifies that National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits are not required when applying pesticides according to their Environmental Protection Agency approved label. The legislation was passed by House of Representatives in April.

"The NPDES permitting system jeopardises the farm economy without providing any real protection to water quality," said National Corn Growers Association president Bart Schott, a farmer in Kulm, North Dakota "NCGA supports this common sense legislation and urges the Senate to vote in favour of H.R. 872 when it is considered on the floor." Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

PAVA's flour exports account for Uzbekistan's flour imports

The Russian flour producers PAVA ships graded flour produced at its milling plants to Uzbekistan "We pay close attention to flour quality when we work with our foreign partners such as those from Uzbekistan. Foreigners prefer very white flour and we provide them with high quality standards. This is why PAVA has a good reputation. People know and buy our flour." - says PAVA commercial director Angela Kiseleva. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Largest soybean processing plant in Vietnam opened

Agricultural processor Bunge Ltd has started production in the largest soybean crushing plant in Vietnam, the US$100 million (€69.862 million) plant built by Bunge Ltd is designed to produce one million tons of soybean a year or more than 3000 tons daily to turn out 600 tons of crude degummed soybean oil and 2,500  tons of soymeal.

"The plant will reduce the financial pressure with exchange rate for Vietnamese buyers, cut the ratio of cargo loss during transportation while the quality of the freshly produced soymeal is higher at delivery," a soymeal trader in Ho Chi Minh City said.  The trader also said that supply from "Bunge Vietnam would also help save time for importers, instead of waiting for a longer shipment time from India or South American nations such as Argentina". Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Agri Vision hosts dialogue for food strategy

The Agri Vision 2011 hosts a dialogue about the future of global food strategy during the dialogue several factors essential to feeding the world of 2050 sustainably were identified. The factors include sustainable intensification, decoupling productivity from environmental impact, enabling rural entrepreneurs, broad partnerships, system transformation and greater investment in research.

Agri Vision 2011 was the sixth in the biennial series of multi-stakeholder agri-business conferences organised by Nutreco together with Rabobank. Nutreco has organised the alternating multi stakeholder business conferences Aqua Vision and Agri Vision since 1996. read more ....

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

European Union allow GM material into animal feed imports

A new set of rules has been adopted by the European Union pertaining to GM trace amounts in animal feed imports. "The regulation addresses the current uncertainty EU operators face when placing on the market feed products imported from third countries," the Commission said in a statement. Fefac said they are happy with these rules but “Trade problems resulting from asynchronous approval will remain serious threat to supplies for EU livestock and feed sector,” Feed manufacturers association president Patrick Vanden Avenne said.

“EU feed and livestock producers may lose access to maize products from Brazil and the US in the autumn of 2011 and possibly soy products from Brazil in spring 2012 due to the cultivation of new GM maize and soy events which have not yet and may not receive full EU approval prior to harvest in these countries. Read more ..


This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Pig producers in the EU get more value from wheat based diets

Danisco Animal Nutrition has received permission from the European Union Commission for the use of its heat stable Xylanase (Danisco Xylanase) in feed that is wheat  based to piglets and pigs for fattening. Danisco Xylanase is a heat stable product it can maintain efficiency even up-to 90 degrees. In trails it was shown to improve bodyweight  gain and feed conversion in piglets. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

France's proposal to reduce food prices gets backing from China and India and Brazil

India Brazil and China were among the G20 countries to back the French proposal on new rules for global agriculture at the meeting in Paris. Agriculture ministers from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and Argentina have yet to make their decision public.

The proposals to limit export curbs and start a database would be “especially sensitive,” Le Maire said. Sarkozy said, World leaders risked making this “the century of hunger” unless they could agree to new rules on food supply. He also said that “Volatility is a plague on farmers and consumers,” Sarkozy said in a speech to the ministers yesterday. Surging commodity prices “can plunge entire populations into famine and poverty”. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

President Sarkozy calls for action on agriculture market volatility

Sarkozy called on the group of G20 to adopt a common action against the issues of price volatility in the agriculture market. Welcoming ministers from the twenty most influential countries at the Elysee Palace, Sarkozy urged the participants to adopt a common action plan based on "reinvestment, transparency, coordination, regulation" to ensure food security in the world.

"By adopting this plan, you can change not only the lives of over one billion peasants, but also the course of capitalism. The whole world relies on your decision, your action, the world can't wait any longer," he said. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Rising food prices don't blame fuel costs

The rising prices of fuel at the pumps with costs rising at the grocery store, but Ohio State University agricultural economist say the two are not related as much as people think. "Besides transporting food from the farm to processors and then to retailers, fuel prices can affect the cost of food production in many ways, says Ian Sheldon, a researcher with the University's Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center.

"But many other factors influence food prices at the grocery store", says Sheldon, who is also the Andersons Professor of International Trade in Ohio State's Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Development Economics and has an appointment with Ohio State University Extension. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

DSM opens the first premix plant in Russia

DSM Nutritional Products, part of Royal DSM (Netherlands), opened the first premix plant in Tatarstan Russia under its newly created affiliate DSM Nutritional Products Russsia. It was officially opened on the June 24, and was attended by Elena Skrynnik, Federal Minister of Agriculture of the Russian Federation, Ilshat Fardiev CEO of Tatenergo, Antonio Ruy Freire, President Animal Nutrition & Health and Enzo Trimigliozzi Vice President Eastern Europe, both DSM Nutritional Products.

Ilshat Fardiev, CEO of Tatenergo, said at the opening ceremony, “This is a significant moment for Tatenergo, for DSM, and for agribusiness in Tatarstan. It provides the basis for developing a state-of-the-art agribusiness in Tatarstan that will not only serve the needs of our own country but also make a major contribution to the animal health & nutrition sector of the entire Russian Federation.” Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

German feed company invests in Saxony Anhalt

A new feed mix plant was opened over the weekend in Haldensleben near Magdeburg by Greman based premix and mineral feed company Vilomix. This new plant has a capacity of 20,000 tons a year. The plant was built on a plot of 16,000 square meters and required an investment of €7.5 million (US$10.6 million) 15 new jobs were created in administration, production and sales.

This expansion was fuelled by demand from the German eastern states and from foreign countries. "We are responding to the needs of customers", reports managing director Dr. Bernhard Wesseling. The limits of our capacity at our facilities at Neuenkirchen-Vörden and Hessisch-Oldendorf have been reached." Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Antibiotic use and resistance in animal data to be collected

A Belgium food and feed chains stake-holders have made a commitment to collect all the data available on the use and resistance of antibiotics in animals. The industry supports this initiative, it will act as a knowledge centre for information related to antibiotic use and resistance. The Belgium federal agency for medicines and health products (FAMHP) signed the papers founding the knowledge centre of antibiotic use and resistance in animals (AMCRA) on June 15.

The founders and funders of AMCRA are the Agricultural Flemish and Walloon farmers Organisation the Association of Feed Manufacturers (Bemefa), Pharma.be, the Supreme Council of the Order of Veterinarians in conjunction with the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Ghent University, the Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FAVV) and the Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products (FAGG). Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

11,080 farm positions need to be filled or else agricultural loss looms

In the State of Georgia when the Governor Nathan Deal's decided to replace migrant workers in the fields with probationers he got a shock because his plan has seriously backfired. Some of the Criminals started to walk off the job because it was too hard for them. Now with a shortfall of field workers to do the job, some 11,080 people are needed.

“The thing that you gotta have when you have crops in the field, you have to have a dependable work force,” Hall said. “You got to work through enough people. If you need a crew of six, you may have to start with 20.” In prior years, Hall said, “you probably had a crew leader who had people who worked with him. He put six people in the field and he got your squash picked.” Bryan Tolar, president of the Georgia Agribusiness Council, said farms have already lost US$300 (€211,237.8) million and could lose up to US$1 (€0.704) billion if it does not get access to a reliable workforce. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Ministers at the G20 Summit agree to fight the volatility of agriculture prices

Farm ministers from 20 of the most powerful economies today agreed an action plan to fight against the volatility of agricultural prices. "The need for market transparency and consistency with science-based rule-making systems among our nations and the international community is stronger than ever," said US Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack.

"Purposefully then, we support establishing the groundwork for an international agricultural market information system, or AMIS, that if fully supported and utilised, will mitigate volatility and reduce market distorting signals by promoting greater shared understanding of food production and price information." "This is a tour de force for the international community," French Minister of Agriculture, Bruno Le Maire added. Read more ..

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Nutreco gathers top animal nutrition specialists at InnoVision

A biennial meeting arranged by Nutreco, InnoVision and attended by top animal nutritionists, saw promising evidence that there is a far greater potential for functional feed ingredients to support animal health giving both benefits for farms and the environment .

Professor Leo den Hartog, Nutreco's Director R&D and Quality Affairs: "Research into the status of the animal gut and the role of its microbial population is revealing clear evidence of crucial roles in animal health and well being. “For example, the scientists agreed that natural ingredients can maintain the balance and moderate disruptions of the intestinal microbiota with beneficial effects on the immune system and disease resistance. Read more ..

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Dioxin-warning system goes into operation in Germany

As a response to the Dioxin scandal and fiasco in Germany, there is now in place a warning system. The Federal Council on Friday 17, June, agreed to impose stricter regulations for dioxin monitoring in food and feed law (LFGB).

"Action Plan of consumer protection in the animal feed chain," which is being implemented by federal and state governments. Food and feed business operators are now required by law to report all results of dioxin research from its own controls. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Bocm Pauls expands operations in Finland

The International division of Bocm Pauls has expanded its sales operation in Finland with the appointment of two well known Finish companies as sales agents and distributor for its range of pig feeds.

“We have been researching the market opportunities for pre-starter feeds with VetAgro for over two years and have carried out many trials based on our Bocm Pauls' feeding programs. Results have been exceptional and with Feedex now distributing the products in one of the key pig producing areas in Finland. Our market share is predicted to grow rapidly, “commented Bocm Pauls' International Director Tony Suckling. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Association of Pork Producers from Colombia go to US to update feed expertise

13 members of the Colombian Association of Pork Producers are heading to North Dakota to get up-to speed with the feed industry. The seminar was sponsored by the North Dakota Corn Utilisation Council, Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council, and the US Grains Council (USGC).

"The US Grains Council has strongly promoted DDGS (dry distillers grains with solubles) in Colombia as a feed ingredient. If the US and Colombia sign a free trade agreement, this will be a great opportunity to move US DDGS into Colombia," said John Crabtree, NCI interim director. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Grain reserves in China are free from contamination

A nationwide inspection was carried out on China's grain reserves, and it was found that they were free of contamination and therefore safe for consumption. A senior official of the State Administration of Grain (SAG) said. According to a statement by SAG deputy head Zeng Liying, "the inspection indicates that the state's grain reserves are well-preserved and grain inventory is trustworthy".

China's grain output rose by 2.9 percent in 2010 to reach 546.41 million tons, showing the seventh consecutive years of growth. Another inspection, this time of wheat reserves that were purchased in 2010 summer in provinces of Jiangsu, Anhui, Hubei and Henan, found that 1,656 of the inspection's 5,378 samples contained an excessive amount of mycotoxins, according to the SAG statement. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

FIAAP, Victam & GRAPAS Asia 2012

FIAAP, Victam & GRAPAS Asia 2012, February 15–17, 2012. Over 50 percent of exhibition area is already sold at the new venue BITEC, Bangkok, Thailand. The event has a similar format to the successful 2010 show which attracted 6000 industry executives from throughout Asia/Pacific.

There will again be a FIAAP exhibition (feed ingredients, additives & formulation), a Victam exhibition (feed processing & biomass technology) and a GRAPAS exhibition (rice milling & grain processing). All three trade shows will be co-located within one hall which will enable visitors to view the products and technology they require in order to formulate and operate safe and economic animal feed production and grain processing facilities. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

GEAPS Exchange 2011: A great success

GEAPS Exchange 2011, held in Portland, Oregon, February 27, through to March 1, 2011 was a huge success for everyone involved. As predicted, Exchange 2011 welcomed a large number of attendees: over the Expo’s three days, 2,065 delegates, exhibitors and guests came to Portland for Exchange 2011, and 368 booth spaces were occupied by 264 companies.

Attendees enjoyed countless hours of networking and the largest-ever student day program, as well as 30+ hours of educational programming.

 Looking ahead to Exchange 2012 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, March 3-6, 2012 booth sales are already breaking records. During Exchange 2011, all 383 booths in the main hall were sold to 212 companies. An annex with an additional 62 booths will be opening later this summer and there are already many companies on the waiting list to select their booth location for 2012 once the annex becomes available. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Fungicides may not increase corn yields unless diseased

A study by Purdue University shows that fungicides might not always be a good idea as they may not increase corn yields,unless disease develops. Kiersten Wise, an assistant professor of botany and plant pathology, said "fungicides used in fields where conditions were optimal for fungal diseases improved yields and paid for themselves".

"About five years ago, we never used fungicides in hybrid corn. Then there was this push to use fungicides for yield enhancement, even without disease problems," said Wise, who collaborated on findings that were published as an American Phytopathological Society feature article in the journal Phytopathology. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Poultry integrator files for bankruptcy in US

In the US a poultry integrator  business has filed for bankruptcy, Allen's Family Foods is struggling after 91 years as a poultry integrator, the CEO and President Robert Turley has set in motion 60 days of business restructuring and industry change. Turley said "the increase in corn from US$3.50 (€2.453) to US$8.50 (€5.958) was to blame, with poultry feed being it's highest input cost".

The company employs 2,273 people and packs about eight million pounds of poultry a week. Allen's Family Foods own 28 grow out farms and has contracts with 271 producers between Delmarva and North Carolina. a purchase agreement with Millsboro-based Mountaire Farms would buy Allen hatcheries in Seaford and Dagsboro, the Seaford administrative office, a Seaford feed mill, processing plants in Harbeson and Cordova and a rendering plant called JCR Enterprises in Linkwood. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Biofuels are a "tremendous job creator" for rural areas

US Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack spoke out over biofuels being a great job creator, ahead of the Global meeting in Paris. He defended biofuels saying that there impact on food price rises is small and that the biofuels actually boost farm incomes.

Speaking out against biofuels was Oxfam the international charity said, "G20 nations should scrap "damaging" biofuel subsidies and mandates on the grounds that they add to price volatility and global warming". In a report Oxfam said that national and regional food reserves should be supported in developing countries. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

USDA Grains stock report released end of June

On June 30 the United States department of Agriculture (USDA) will release its annual grain stocks report. The grain supply scenario has been in the forefront of what's thought to be driving the latest bullish movement in the trade. "This years report could have a major influence on the grains" says University of Illinois ag economist Darrel Good.

That makes the feed number a big one to watch, not just in next week's report but moving forward, Good says. "For the year, the USDA projects feed and residual use of corn at 5.15 billion bushels. "Subsequently, the September 1, 2010 corn stocks estimate came in larger than expected so that feed and residual use of corn during the final quarter of the year appears abnormally small. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Argentinean farmland get investment from China

Chinese investors are flocking to Argentina to invest in farmland, over the last three years China has invested in energy and minerals, but now farming is attracting more attention. During the last 12 months China has invested US$15.6 billion (€10.833 billion) in Latin America with about 60 percent going to Brazil and 40 percent to Argentina.

China's largest farming company Heilongjiang Beidahuang Nongken Group, has agreed a joint venture with Argentina's Cresud SA to buy land and farm soybean. Heilongjiang Beidahuang's chairman, Sui Fengfu, told Dow Jones Newswires in March that "the company plans to buy 200,000 hectares of overseas farmland this year, and that Latin America is a key target. The company is already farming 2 million hectares of land outside China". Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

G-20 Meeting to focus on price volatility

On June 22-23 in Paris the G-20 Farm Ministers will be meeting, to discuss measures allowing increase production and productivity for world agriculture production also developing efficient and sustainable feed and livestock production.

FEFAC President, Patrick Vanden Avenne, in an open letter sent to the EU farmers Commission stated that “Food security should become strategic policy goal both at EU and global level”. “Modern feed and livestock production provides key solutions to effectively deal with price volatility and supply of affordable food products for a growing world population”. Read more ...


This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Archer Daniels Midlands (ADM) to expand lysine and threoine production

Archer Daniels Midlands (ADM) have announced that they plan to expand production capacity of lysine and threoine amino acid at the company's Decatur facility. The completion of this expansion will be in the second part of 2013 and will allow 340,000 metric tons of lysine and threoine annually.

“ADM is committed to growing our lysine and threonine business to meet increasing demand for these feed amino acids,” said Kevin Moore, vice president and general manager, Specialty Feed Ingredients. “Our feed-grade amino acids are the building blocks of protein for swine, poultry and other animals and play a significant role in their diets.” Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

New Chief technology officer appointed at DSM

Royal DSM appoints Marcel Wubbolts as their chief technology officer, he currently holds the position of Vice President Of Research and Development at DSM Innovation center. Mr Wubbolts will take up his new role on October 1 as the Chief technology officer reporting to the Chief Innovation officer Rob van Leen.

Marcel Wubbolts gained his PhD from the University of Groningen he was post doc assistant and Professor at the ETH in Zurich. He joined DSM as senior scientist then went onto become Managing Director of DSM Biotech GmbH. He will succeed Jos Put who will continue to be an advisor at DSM in the area of material science. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Aviana 2011 will be one of the biggest Expo's in the Livestock Sector in Asia

Sri Lanka Livestock and Poultry Expo starting from July 7-9 in BMICH, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Aviana Sri Lanka 2011 will be one of the biggest Expo in Livestock Sector in Asia, showing live animal and poultry show. More than 100 foreign exhibitors participating from 20 countries will be offering a unique platform to exhibit innovative technologies in the growing Asian market.

His Excellency President of Sri Lanka will inaugurate the exhibition. There is a two day technical seminar on poultry and dairy industry, livestock show, also an exhibition of Vet Pharma, vaccines, equipments and feed additives are going to boast approx 15,000 people including farmers, distributors, veterinarians etc in the three days event. Visit avianaafrica or Email: info@aviana.co.ke

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Looks like a bumper crops for Australia

The Eastern states in Australia have started their winter cropping season, and it looks as if it will be a bumper season for wheat according to Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) Australian Crop Report for the June Quarter. ABARES deputy executive director, Paul Morris said "that good soil moisture in the eastern states and favourable grain and oilseed prices have encouraged Australian producers to increase winter crop plantings this year".

Due to recent rainfall over the cropping area which has boosted the winter crop even after a dry start to the season. However Morris also said that more rainfall is needed to complete this year planting. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

The House of Representatives approve US$125.5 billion

The US House of Representatives have approved the agricultural spending bill of US$125.5 (€87.49 ) billion. The new bill stops millions of dollars payments to Brazil and effectively bars the US government from invest in future ethanol blender pumps.

The bill has been severely criticised by the Obama administration for underfunding the efforts to beef up food safety initiatives. There is fear that by stopping payments to Brazil it could spark a trade war. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Jordan to import DDGS from United States

Jordan is the first country in the Middle East to import distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) from the United States, in May the first commercial shipment arrived in Aqaba. This is the first time that DDGS have been exported to the Middle East.

Two major obstacles stood in the way of DDGS being imported to the Middle East, the first was that ethanol was viewed with suspicion as a possible competitor to the oil industry. Secondly DDGS has been seen as as an offshoot of the forbidden trade in alcohol. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Japan Autumn recovery expected by CEO of Ajinomoto

Ajinomoto food and ingredients maker CEO expects Japans economy to recover by the Autumn from the effects of the tsunami and earthquake that devastated the region in March. Masatoshi Ito told the Dow Jones "that the Japanese economy was just about to get over the Lehman Brothers shock of 2008 and getting into a mode of growth".

He also said "The fundamental infrastructure was [there] for the recovery mode and, although there were effects from the earthquake, the final impact will not be that great,” he went to to say. "Especially in consumer goods, sales for April and May have been very stable," he said. "Although there are certain sectors of the industry that have been heavily affected by the earthquake, we believe that by the autumn much of the economy will recover". Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers

Press Release: GLOBALG.A.P tour 2011 Brazil

Sao Paulo, 8th June 2011: Participants of the TOUR 2011 event came from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Peru, Uruguay and others. They learnt about the progress of GLOBALG.A.P Certification activities in Latin America. The region is bringing about one of the biggest expansions into livestock and aquaculture certification coming from the traditionally strong base of fruit and vegetable certification, a number of initiatives are now focusing on aquaculture and livestock.

As host country, Brazil alone showed important advances in the implementation of Good Agricultural Practice in products like poultry (in particular for Europe), aquaculture (native species), palm oil, soya, maize, cattle and others. Brazil also proved how GLOBALG.A.P makes its products more competitive and increases clients’ trust.

A presented example of engagement was Nova Mutum. Nova Mutum presented the concept of Good Agricultural Practice for integrating a whole region within Mato Grosso. The standard MUTUMGAP, as main result of this work, was officially presented to GLOBALG.A.P to begin the benchmarking procedure. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little, The Global Miller, published and supported by the GFMT Magazine and the International Milling Directory from Perendale Publishers