The Global Miller: September 2015

September 30, 2015

30/09/2015: Storage project: Westeel Bins completed by FWS in the first of four CWB sites

http://issuu.com/gfmt/docs/mag1506_w1/64

First published in Milling and Grain, June 2015

Westeel is pleased to announce its strategic alliance with the FWS Group of Companies whereby it will provide Westeel Centurion bins and Westeel Catwalk systems for four different CWB (formerly the Canadian Wheat Board) locations. FWS was contracted by CWB to construct four new grain terminals in the provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan in Canada.

The first of the four projects for CWB completed by FWS is in Bloom, Manitoba where two Westeel Centurion grain bins measuring 24 metres (78 feet) in diameter and 28 metres (91 feet) in height have been constructed with a 48-metre long (157 feet) Westeel Catwalk. The two bins include Westeel’s patented commercial roof and a total capacity of 609,140 bushels. The Catwalk system boasts a dual walkway, bar grating floor, and a conveyor path measuring 0.70 metres (27 1⁄2 inches) in width.

“We have a long-standing relationship with Westeel and appreciate the precise manufacturing and quality engineering that goes into their products,” said Rori Bouchard, Senior Project Manager with the FWS Group of Companies.

“FWS and CWB are industry leaders in agriculture and it’s a great opportunity for Westeel to partner with them and showcase the high quality manufacturing and construction capabilities we have here in the Canadian prairies” said Denis Tétrault, Business Manager, North America with Westeel.

The other three sites are in Colonsay, Saskatchewan; Pasqua, Saskatchewan; and St Adolphe, Manitoba.

Read the magazine HERE.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine GFMT
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

For additional daily news from milling around the world: global-milling.com

Symaga company profile

SYMAGA was created by a group of professional experts in 1985 as a company devoted to the manufacture of silos and livestock equipment.

The company possesses modern, fully automated machinery, which enables Symaga to manufacture high quality products at a reasonable price.

The company possesses 30,000 m2 of buildings and is located on a 300,000 m2 plot belonging to the company.   

Our professionals will advise you on the design and engineering of any project, providing you with suitable information for fast, safe installation.

Visit the website HERE.

30/09/2015: Benchmark tool for FEFAC soy sourcing guidelines now available

The benchmark tool allowing owners of responsible soy programmes to verify their compatibility with FEFAC’s Soy Sourcing Guidelines is now available.

FEFAC has sent invitations to responsible soy programme owners to apply for the benchmarking process, together with a guidance document on the online procedure. In order to undergo the full benchmarking process and be recognised as formally compliant with the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines, the responsible soy programme owners are requested to work with ITC (International Trade Centre, the joint agency of United Nations and World Trade Organisation). They need to reference their standard or programme in the Standards Map database, widely recognised as the global repository of information on voluntary private sector and multi-stakeholder sustainability schemes.

FEFAC is pleased with the interest already shown by several programme owners to undergo the benchmarking process. For FEFAC, the benchmarking exercise will show to what extent available responsible soy programmes comply with the European feed industry’s minimum requirements.

FEFAC President Ruud Tijssens says “We are confident ITC is up to the task to show us how all existing supplier programmes compare to our common feed industry requirements regarding good agricultural practices, the prevention of illegal deforestation, environmental stewardship and employee rights”.

FEFAC has been eager to emphasise that the Soy Sourcing Guidelines are not a new standard, but rather a starting point to engage with key soy supply chain partners in order to realise a physical mainstream market transition of responsible soy supplies to Europe.

“The publication of the Soy Sourcing Guidelines provides FEFAC with the possibility to enter directly into discussions with the soy farmers in exporting countries and trading companies. There is no 'quick fix' to the creation of a mainstream market supply of responsible soy, this is a long-term investment in sustainable sourcing”, comments Mr Tijssens.

FEFAC estimates however that reaching a 'critical mass' supply threshold of 10 million tonnes of responsible soy meeting the requirements of the Soy Sourcing Guidelines would allow FEFAC to envisage the next phase for improvement of the present Guidelines.

The online benchmark tool can be found HERE.

Visit the FEFAC site HERE.

30/09/2015: AFIA says proposed changes to fair labour standards are hurtful not helpful

In early September, the American Feed Industry Association submitted comments to the US Department of Labour stating the agency's Wage & Hour Division's proposal--Defining and Delimiting the Exemptions forExecutive, Administrative, Professional, Outside Sales and ComputerEmployees--is a "dramatic federal mandate" that is strongly "misguided."

The proposed changes to the Fair Labour Standards Act would increase the overtime threshold from US$23,660 to US$50,400, which, if adopted as it is, would result in fewer entry-level hires in the animal food industry, reclassification of certain executive, administrative and professional positions, and additional record-keeping woes.

The effects; however, would not only be felt by the feed manufacturer (especially smaller firms), but also the consumer as, "In all likelihood, these additional costs would be passed along to consumers, causing an increase in food prices," wrote the organisation in its comments.

Image: Sean MacEntee

"AFIA believes the Department of Labour took a 'short cut' upon drafting the proposed rule as it is composed as a one-size-fits-all approach, and that simply will not work for our industry," said Richard Sellers, AFIA senior vice president of legislative and regulatory affairs.

"It modifies salary thresholds for exempt employees but it fails to recognise the regional differences in median incomes. This is particularly concerning as a majority of our members are rurally located where competitive salaries cannot be compared to metropolitan wages."

"The proposed rule...would provide a disincentive to invest training resources in entry-level managers because training time would count against an employee's 40-hour workweek. Withholding training opportunities could reduce an employee's effectiveness and limit an employee's career advancement opportunities," AFIA commented.

In an unofficial survey conducted by the organisation, one-third of AFIA member firms indicated the proposed rule would deter companies from hiring trainee/entry-level employees; more than half of the respondents said the Fair Labour Standards Act would result in an additional US$200 or more per week on management expenses associated with monitoring employee overtime. Survey respondents did agree--by three-fourths--the overtime threshold should vary, ranging from US$29,000-US$40,000 per year.

AFIA also opposes provisions in the proposed rule that would link the overtime exemption salary threshold to the 40th percentile of salaries earned by U.S. workers.

"Many of our members, just like companies of various sectors, are known to develop budgets years in advance in an attempt to remain profitable in a low-margin industry. They cannot be expected to factor in the possibility of annual fluctuations in the overtime exemption salary threshold. It is unreasonable. During the 77-year history of the Fair Labour Standards Act, the overtime exemption has never been tied to a particular threshold," commented Sellers.

AFIA expects the final rule to be published in 2016 and urges the DOL to consider the organisation's comments in the interim.

Visit the AFIA site HERE.

30/09/2015: AFIA Announces Agenda for Ninth Annual Pet Food Conference at IPPE

The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) will host its ninth annual Pet Food Conference January 26, 2016, as part of the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) in Atlanta, Georgia.

The education-packed conference is designed to inform pet food industry representatives about the latest industry initiatives, including speakers from government entities, private companies and universities.

Attendees will engage with a well-rounded cast of presenters to discuss industry issues including country of origin labelling, pet obesity trends, allergen research and the newly published Food Safety Modernisation Act and its implications on the pet food industry. To view the full agenda, click HERE.

“Every year attendees from around the world congregate at the Pet Food Conference to acknowledge, discuss and rectify pertinent issues affecting the pet food industry,” said Leah Wilkinson, AFIA director of ingredients, pet food and state affairs.

“The conference offers an opportunity for industry professionals to unify and learn about the latest in the field.”

Image: ann-dabney

To register online, click HERE. On-site registration will also be available.

IPPE is expected to attract more than 28,000 attendees and is a collaboration of three trade shows—International Feed Expo, International Poultry Expo and International Meat Expo—representing the entire chain of protein production and processing.

The event is sponsored by the American Feed Industry Association, US Poultry & Egg Association and the North American Meat Institute. More information about IPPE, including registration details, lodging and education offerings, is available HERE.

September 29, 2015

29/09/2015: AGI announces completion of Westeel acquisition

http://issuu.com/gfmt/docs/mag1506_w1/62

First published in Milling and Grain, June 2015

Ag Growth International Inc. ('AGI') (TSX: AFN) is pleased to announce that the previously disclosed arrangement to acquire the Westeel division of Vicwest Inc. (TSX: VIC) was completed on May 20, 2015.

Headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Westeel is Canada’s leading provider of grain storage solutions offering a wide range of on-farm and commercial products for the agricultural industry.

“The strategic acquisition of Canada’s leading brand in grain storage further establishes AGI as a global leader in grain handling and storage solutions,” said Gary Anderson, AGI’s Chief Executive Officer.

“AGI and Westeel share a deep commitment to product quality and customer service and combined we create a Canadian-based global agricultural leader with a long history of serving the needs of our customers. Westeel’s complementary product offering expands our growth platform within North America and around the world and we look forward with enthusiasm to bringing this outstanding company into the AGI family.”

“AGI places the highest value on the contributions of its employees and we look forward to meeting and welcoming all of the people at Westeel,” said Tim Close, President of AGI.

“We are very excited to get to work on growing Westeel along with AGI and realising upon the enormous potential of the combination of these great companies.”

Read the rest of the article in Milling and Grain HERE.

Selis company profile

Since 1964 Selis has been one of the most dynamic and innovative companies in the flour and semolina manufacturing industry, undertaking turnkey projects in every capacity as well as the modernisation of existing plants.

High quality equipment is manufactured to ISO 9001/2000 quality standards by experienced technical and managerial staff and an equipment pool endowed with the latest CNC machine technology. Thanks to careful quality control insights, the company offers its customers the highest quality equipment.

Customer satisfaction is always of paramount importance to Selis. High quality after sales service is given with experienced technical personnel.

Many products have been developed and have been secured with patent registrations with the budget allocated for R&D activities. Selis has always been at the forefront of the industry, with the principle of following new technologies as well as developing them.

Widely known for its innovation, the Group has gained numerous awards in the fields of technological development and applications. A strong emphasis on detail and high quality advanced technology combine to make the Group outstanding in its sector.

Visit the company site HERE.

29/09/2015: GAIN: The Arusha Statement on Food Fortification

The following statement was delivered by Her Excellency Tumusiime Rhoda Peace, Commissioner for Rural Economy and Agriculture, African Union on 11 September at the closing of the ♯FutureFortified Global Summit on Food Fortification in Arusha, Tanzania:

"I am pleased to make this Arusha Statement on Food Fortification on behalf of the Summit co-convenors in my capacity as a member of the board of directors of the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN).

"The first ever Summit on fortification was opened by the Prime Minister of the United Republic of Tanzania, the Rt Hon Mizengo Pinda, and addressed by HRH King Letsie III of the Kingdom of Lesotho, the African Union Nutrition Champion. 450 delegates from 57 countries attended, including 29 country delegations, as well as leaders from business, academia and international organisations.

"We took stock of global food fortification and assessed its role and potential in addressing public health goals, by tackling 'hidden hunger' or micronutrient deficiencies - which cause 10 percent of global disease, inhibit human development and perpetuate poverty and deprivation.

"Preventable deficiencies of critical vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, D, iron, iodine, folic acid and zinc contribute to up to 3m child deaths annually. The best available estimates are that 2 billion people are affected by micronutrient malnutrition, but the true burden is probably even greater, as we lack precise data. This has far-reaching effects on individuals and impedes the economic development of nations. GDP losses from undernutrition can be 2-3 percent per year.

"The central message of this Summit is that food fortification should become a critical pillar of national food and nutrition security plans. Unless we can rapidly scale up the availability and consumption of fortified foods in countries, the achievement of some Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will be impossible. Food fortification is a vital tool to make progress towards the World Health Assembly goal to reduce anaemia among women of reproductive age.

"In the words of HRH King Letsie III, the African Union Nutrition Champion, we need to put food fortification back on the development agenda.

"According to the Copenhagen Consensus, the return on investment of food fortification is one of the highest development dividends. For example, in the case of iodine, saving as much as US$30 in higher medical and non-medical expenditures for every US$1 spent. Salt iodisation costs pennies – US 20 cents per person per year. A rough estimate for low- and middle-income countries suggests the cost benefit of fortification is around 30:1.

"Progress has accelerated in the past decade. Today there are salt iodisation programs in approximately 140 countries worldwide, 83 countries have mandated at least one kind of cereal grain fortification, 20 countries edible oils, 9 countries sugar, and several others rice, milk, and condiments.

"But without further investment, we risk losing this momentum. We have the unprecedented opportunity to virtually eliminate iodine deficiency if we scale up salt iodisation efforts. Through effective fortification with iron of grains we can expect to achieve a 2.4 percent reduction per annum in anaemia. Fortification of wheat flour with folic acid in 18 countries in Africa and Asia could prevent over 50,000 debilitating neural tube defects annually. We cannot lose these opportunities.

Image: Rod Waddington

"Food systems and eating habits are changing rapidly due to urbanisation, changing climate, land and water use and a younger population. While food fortification alone cannot end malnutrition, it is critical to micronutrient deficiency prevention and control strategies, and is an underexploited public health tool.

"What are the critical areas for action highlighted at this Summit?

"First, modest but new investment is essential. Fortification is cost-effective and largely self-sustainable, costs are built into markets and typically do not require further or continuous public subsidy. Governments need to invest in technical support, oversight and compliance.

"The new investments are needed to build, improve and sustain fortification programs. They are small in relation to leveraged costs, cost per beneficiary and overall returns, and tiny as a proportion of health spending.

"For example, it was estimated that the additional donor costs over 15 years to build, improve and sustain fortification in 25 low- and middle-income countries for multiple food vehicles would be US$150m. This could effectively cover an additional billion people. Further investment in fortification would trigger significant co-investment by the private sector and motivate national governments to allocate resources.

"Second, there is need for a major effort to improve oversight and enforcement of food fortification standards and regulations. Poor compliance with laws and regulation limits potential for impact and undermines effectiveness. Available data show adequate compliance with standards as low as 50 percent in many contexts. Governments should improve their inspection and enforcement systems to ensure high quality fortification and a level playing field for the producers. Effective regulatory monitoring and enforcement will notably require more robust national budget allocations.

"Third, there is a need to generate more evidence to guide fortification policy and program design, to continually improve programmes and demonstrate impact. For example, there is a lack of detail of foods consumed by various target groups, limiting our understanding of potential food vehicles, use of fortified foods and quantification of the dietary gap we must address for some nutrients.

"Fourth, progress requires more transparent accountability and global reporting. We support the call for a global observatory or annual report of the state of fortification.

"Fifth, continuing advocacy is a high priority, and we will work together with stakeholders such as the SUN movement and African Union to advocate for greater attention by governments.

"Finally, we ask the Summit Technical Advisory Group to continue to work together post Summit, and to consolidate and elaborate these recommendations and chart a path forward by January 2016.

"Achievement of these recommendations needs to be underpinned by better leadership and accountability within the sector. Increased attention to policy support, quality control, monitoring compliance and assessing impact are needed to extend and maximise potential for health impact via food fortification.

"We leave Arusha with a determination to build a new movement, a future fortified with improved food and nutrition security. We have the tools, we need to finish the job started a hundred years ago and make the benefits of this simple and cost effective approach to an improved diet available to all."

Visit the GAIN website HERE.

29/09/2015: Yara Prize winners honoured for their profound impact on African farming

The Yara Prize 2015 is being awarded to Dr Ousmane Badiane, Director for Africa, IFPRI, and Mr Eric Kaduru, Founder and CEO, KadAfrica.

The Yara Prize Committee has selected two prominent African laureates for their work related to African agricultural development, food security and the continent's green revolution. Both laureates have, through their personal commitment and special efforts, translated ideas on the development of African agriculture into impactful results in their respective areas of work. They are both examples of the 'can-do attitude' and drive that will continue to play a vital role in transforming agriculture in Africa.

The 2015 awards recognise effective entrepreneurial work, which has helped build communities of resilient young women actively engaged in commercial farming and honour African thought-leadership, which has been instrumental in transforming the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) agenda from a mere concept into decisive actions.

"Africa needs to do more to foster entrepreneurial agriculture and the interests of women and youth in agriculture. More smallholder-oriented policy changes are needed to meet growth and poverty alleviation targets in rural areas. In 2015, the Yara Prize honours two leading African change agents with transformational power. I wish to extend my personal congratulations to both laureates," Svein Tore Holsether, President and CEO of Yara, said.

The two laureates will be celebrated during a Yara Prize Ceremony in Lusaka, Zambia, on 30 September in connection with the AGRF 2015.

Eric Kaduru

Mr Eric Kaduru's award - changing the lives of young women through agribusiness
Mr Kaduru is awarded the prize for his vision, his great courage and commitment to changing the lives of young out-of-school girls in Uganda. Through his comprehensive approach to passion fruit farming, he has managed to strengthen these girls' belief in themselves as entrepreneurs. Building on this newly-gained confidence, he has equipped them with the financial, technical, and entrepreneurial skills that have allowed them to develop into commercial farmers.

Mr Kaduru's passion for engaging African youth in agriculture as a positive and sustainable livelihood is exemplified through the fact that in less than two short years he has partnered with more than 1500 out-of-school girls (aged 14-20) to begin their own passion fruit farms. Mr Kaduru and his organisation, KadAfrica, are rapidly building communities of resilient young women actively engaged in Uganda's agriculture sector and who are economic drivers of their communities.

Ousmane Badiane

Dr Ousmane Badiane award - thought leadership with profound impact
Dr Ousmane Badiane of IFPRI is awarded the prize for his important leadership role and influence on strategic debate and collaboration in Africa on agriculture and food security. Dr Badiane is a first-class scholar and leading authority on African development with 30 years of professional experience in economic and agricultural development. As a persevering strong African voice he has already had a profound impact on governments across the continent. Dr Badiane has played a pivotal role in the shaping of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) agenda from concept development to implementation.

About the Yara Prize
The Yara Prize for an African Green Revolution seeks to contribute to the transformation of African agriculture and food availability, within a sustainable context, thereby helping to reduce hunger and poverty. The Yara Prize is based on nominations of candidates who are carefully evaluated by the Yara Prize Committee. The Yara Prize consists of USD 60,000, which will be split between the laureates, a crystal trophy and a diploma. The Yara Prize was handed out in Oslo from 2005 to 2009. In 2012, it moved to Africa where it was handed out as part of AGRF 2012 in Arusha, Tanzania. The Yara Prize 2015 will be handed out during a ceremony in Lusaka, Zambia on Wednesday 30 September.

29/09/2015: VIV MEA, Abu Dhabi, February 15 - 17, 2016; Co-location with GFIA 2016

VIV MEA will be held in Abu Dhabi from February 15 - 17, 2016.

Global consumer attitudes to food are rapidly changing. There is a strong focus on health issues including healthier food. Packaging is becoming more important in the selling process; fresh foods should be conveniently packaged and easy to store.

Animal production and processing is facing quite a number of challenges. Consumers are sceptical and want guarantees about the meat they eat. Meat safety can only be guaranteed if every step in the meat production chain is carefully monitored and controlled. The trend is towards systems that cover the entire food chain from primary production to finished products: from feed to meat. And that’s where VIV comes in.

The international world of suppliers and buyers active in the Middle East and Africa will come together at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Company (ADNEC), located close to the international airport.

Image: Robert Couse-Baker

168 exhibitors have already confirmed, about over 150 from outside the MEA region, including the UK, France, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, China, Taiwan, India, Pakistan, Australia, the USA and Canada.

Co-location with GFIA 2016
The Global Forum for Innovations in Agriculture (GFIA) will also be present, staging its flagship global edition in Abu Dhabi for the third consecutive year.

Together the events expect to host over 500 exhibitors of innovative technology, making Abu Dhabi home to the largest sustainable agricultural events in the region.

First launched in The Netherlands in the 1960s, VIV events have a long history of excellence in serving the animal protein industry and have become a world standard for top quality in innovative livestock production. With established VIV events also in China, Thailand, Turkey and Russia, VIV shows host over 1000 international exhibitors and visitors from over 140 countries.

http://www.innovationsinagriculture.com/

Image: pixagraphic

Supported by some of the world’s leading players in the field of sustainable agriculture, GFIA works alongside organisations such as the United Nations, World Bank, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, USAID, African Union and the Clinton Climate Initiative to ensure its outcomes continue to accelerate the development of solutions to feed nine billion people by 2050.

“GFIA is unique in that it attracts all the players – from across the full food value chain – needed to effect real change in the way we feed the world,” says Mark Beaumont, Project Director of GFIA.

"The last edition of GFIA in Abu Dhabi saw 1473 orders made for sustainable agriculture technologies. This will lead to thousands of farmers improving productivity and food security back in their home countries."

Visit the VIV site HERE.

And the GFIA site HERE.

September 28, 2015

28/09/2015: Countdown to ILDEX Indonesia 2015

http://www.ildex.com/indonesia/indo-visitor.html

ILDEX Indonesia, the Second International Livestock, Dairy, Meat Processing and Aquaculture Exposition, will take place from Thursday 8th to Saturday 10th October 2015 at the Jakarta International Expo (JIEXPO), Jakarta, Indonesia.

Boasting a gross area of 5916 square metres (a net area of 2966), the event so far has 183 confirmed exhibitors, over 120 of them from abroad, including companies from France, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Spain, the UK, Italy, the US, Korea, Singapore, China, Malaysia, Taiwan, Vietnam, India and Australia.

Indonesia's economy is huge and has a bright economic growth outlook. With a population of 240 million (in 2011) and still growing, the market opportunities are enormous. Consumer demand for livestock products is increasing. Although the livestock industry is strong, there is room for further improvement.

Many areas require technology in order to be able to produce locally, not relying too much on imported products. The modernisation of the livestock industry is to produce hygienic, safe and affordable products to meet domestic needs.

Indonesia also needs partnerships to complete the supply chain to meet growing demand. In addition, Indonesia has the ability to educate the public and children on the importance of animal protein intake.

It also has the Federation of Indonesian Poultry Society with 14 associations to support and drive the country towards sustainable industry growth.

Read more HERE.

28/09/2015: Key factors in bin usage

http://issuu.com/gfmt/docs/mag1506_w1/58

by Kirk Nelson, Director of Marketing and Sales, Behlen Mfg. Co.

First published in Milling and Grain, June 2015

In the second of a four part series, Milling and Grain take a closer look at the essential elements of bin maintenance.

The way you carry out the initial filling of a bin can have long-term effects over the rest of its life. And any accidents during the process could severely shorten yours. Preparation and initial execution are thus critical.

Everything must be in place - before you even think about putting anything inside the bin, the bin itself must be completely finished. Absolutely everything must be securely in place. First, the bin itself must be properly anchored to its foundation, with all bolts where they should be and properly tightened.

Guards and shields exist for a reason, and it’s not to annoy you. It’s to save your life. So put them where they should be. Stick safety decals in the right places too, making sure they’re legible. If people can’t read them, there’s absolutely no point.

You don’t know when you’re going to need to access any part of the structure, so all ladders, handrails, platforms, stair and steps need to be securely in place right from the start. And again: With all bolts where they should be and properly tightened.

Function and access are vital
It is also vital to be sure everything is working properly and prepared for any eventuality that might occur when filling the bin for the first time. The unloading equipment and unload gates must function correctly and they must be closed. The working areas surrounding the bin need to be clean and clear of clutter.

Electrical performance must be checked and lockouts installed (if needed) on equipment. Any temperature cables must be fastened to the floor according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to prevent displacement during filling. And it may sound obvious, but make certain that everyone is out of the bin before filling it.

Read the rest of the article in Milling and Grain HERE.

Golfetto Sangatti company profile

Over the last century, the Group’s history has followed the interweaving stories of its three consituent companies. These disparate paths have led to the current Golfetto Sangati, a company that represents the culmination of a long journey that started in the Twenties.

Golfetto, originally founded in Padua, specialized in the engineering of cereal manufacturing plants. Its foundation is the starting point from which all future events took place. It was followed by Sangati’s foundation, in 1929, a company that in just a few years became a renowned name in the milling industry.

In 1952, Berga S.p.A. was set up. At first the company specialized in milling machines and silos. It then widened its business to animal feed production. During the seventies it became a recognized leader in the engineering and building of mills, animal feed plants, cereal storage and handling for harbour terminals. The company expanded even further with the opening of new branches in Europe and Northern Africa.

Visit the website HERE.

28/09/2015: IX International Grain Trading Conference: Last chance for discount rate

Conference special guest: Abdolreza Abbassian, FAO Senior Economist and Secretary of Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS)

The Russian Grain Union would like to invite you to participate in the IX International Grain Trading Conference 'Global and Middle East grain outlook 2015' on October 27-30, 2015, at the Savoy Sharm El Sheikh, Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt.

The Russian Grain Union has organised the conference under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Russian Federation, the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation and the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

All current issues of the grain market will be discussed at the conference. The conference special guest is Abdolreza Abbassian, FAO Senior Economist and Secretary of Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS), among the invitee guests are Alexander Tkachev, Petr Fradkov, Aleksey Gospodarev, Ahmed Fadel Bedewi, Evgeniy Popov and others.

Over the past nine years the Conference has become a symbolic event for the participants of international grain market. Traditionally more than 1500 representatives from 52 countries including Russian Federation, Ukraine, Kazahstan, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Germany, France, Turkey,the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Syrian Arab Republic, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Lebanon, Tunisia, Jordan are expected to take part.

Discount available until September 30.

Read more and register HERE.

28/09/2015: Audio: USGC Manager of Global Trade discusses recent trip to China

Sorghum (Image: US Department of Agriculture)

US Grains Council (USGC) Manager of Global Trade Alvaro Cordero recently returned from a market servicing mission to China and shared with the National Association of Farm Broadcasting (NAFB) some of his impressions of China’s demand for US sorghum and distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS). Mr Cordero also discussed what the Council is doing to keep grain flowing to that important market.

“According to USDA reports, we are expecting China to buy more than 11 million metric tons (433 million bushels) of US sorghum this year,” he said.

“The Council has been behind China’s growing interest in sorghum. In 2011, in conjunction with the United Sorghum Checkoff Program, we did an assessment, and then in 2012 we started ramping up USGC sorghum programs in the country. We found ways that made sense for China to be buying sorghum.”

The Council has been involved in China for more than 30 years and has helped expand its demand for all coarse grains to current levels. Through missions like this one, the Council continues to provide customer servicing to livestock producers in China who are eager to learn more about US grain, especially sorghum, and how to utilise it.

Click HERE to read more about the USGC recent mission to China.

28/09/2015: E-conference: ‘Utilisation of Food Loss and Waste as well as Non-Food Parts as Livestock Feed’ 1-30 October 2015

Approximately 1.3-1.6 billion tonnes of food is lost or wasted globally every year, which is estimated to have enormous environmental (about 3.3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent greenhouse gas emission/year, 305 cubic km water/year, 1.5 billion ha land to grow food that is wasted), social (US$936 billion) and economic (US$1055 billion) costs.

Also such food loss and waste has an impact on food security, natural resource availability, and local and national economies. FAO through the 'Save Food' initiative is working with partners to develop, plan and implement initiatives for efficient use of resources and harmonisation of methodologies, strategies and approaches.

Image: US Department of Agriculture

Globally many plant resources are being used either as food or as animal feed. This dual-purpose use raises questions how to consider a change of utilisation of plant resources from food to animal feed within the context of food losses and waste. Similarly if food gets lost or wasted a part of these losses can be converted to animal feed.

FAO is in the process of developing a framework and an action plan on ‘Food Loss and Waste plus Non-Food Parts to Livestock Feed’ with the objective to develop criteria for setting the boundaries between dual purpose use and food loss, and to enhance animal feed availability without compromising animal health and welfare and animal product safety and quality, and meeting legislative requirements.

The aim of the e-conference is to seek guidance on:
a) the aims, scope and boundaries of the framework;
b) implementation of the framework, and
c) role of different stakeholders, from academia, feed and food industries, civil societies, policy makers, extension workers to farmers in the implementation.

How to join
The e-conference is open to all persons interested in the topic, is free (there is no registration fee) and will be moderated.

To join the e-mail conference, send an e-mail to listserv@listserv.fao.org leaving the subject blank and entering the following text:

subscribe FAO-FoodLoss2AnimalFeed-L

After you have sent the email, you will get an email containing a link. You need to click on the link to complete your subscription.

What next
On 15th September 2015 a ‘Background Document’ was posted containing a draft framework and an action plan on ‘Food Loss and Waste plus Non-Food Parts to Livestock Feed’. It will set the scene for this e-conference. It will also provide information on how the conference will be run and how you can send your contribution.

It may please be noted that the Background Document and contributions from participants will be available only to those who have joined the e-conference by subscribing to the FAO-FoodLoss2AnimalFeed-L list by following the procedure given above. Also you will be able to contribute to the e-conference only if you have joined the e-conference.

Visit the FAO site HERE.

September 25, 2015

Mühlenchemie company profile

http://muehlenchemie.de/english/index.html

Established way back in 1923 and a member of the Stern-Wywiol Gruppe since 1990, Mühlenchemie is one of the world’s best-known enterprises in the field of flour improvement.

Mühlenchemie’s core field of competence is developing solutions for standardising and optimising flours – from classic flour treatment to concentrates for ready-mixed flours.

Mühlenchemie puts great effort into maintaining and strengthening its leading position in the market. We are constantly widening our know-how to ensure that we are always among the leaders in technical development.

Visit the company site HERE.

25/09/2015: Indian Food Processing Industries Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal launches skills training program

A special skills training program was launched by Ms Harsimrat Kaur Badal, the Union Minister for Food Processing Industries under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) at the Assocom Institute of Bakery Technology & Management (AIBTM), via video conferencing.

Raj Kapoor, Managing Director, AIBTM said, "The bakery industry is one of the largest among the processed food industries in India, which is estimated at US$200 billion".

Food Processing Industries also have a huge role in efficient utilisation of agricultural products therefore we are planning to launch skill training to help in preparing base for all the grain based businesses, and associated field.

Ms Harsimrat Kaur Badal, the Union Minister for Food Processing Industries, said that a bakery business is a lucrative endeavour which can be set up with a relatively smaller capital outlay. In order to remain a market leader, the Indian bakery industry needs skills training to be widely promoted throughout the country. Skills training is a must to support the rapid growth in demand for bakery products, and this program would definitely boost the industry.

The Assocom Institute of Bakery Technology & Management (AIBTM) was set up three years ago, with the backing of foundations in the USA, South Korea, Canada and Australia. This year AIBTM plans to train over two thousand persons associated with the bakery industry through different centres operated by the institute. It aims a training base for all grain based industries, hospitality and related fields.
Read more HERE.

25/09/2015: 66th JTIC International International Milling and Cereal Industries Show, 4-5 November 2015, Paris

On 4-5 November 2015, JTIC will hold a two-day event dedicated to cereal industry professionals at the Paris Event Centre at Porte de la Villette.
A meeting in a new and more spacious setting, but organised as always: the event will feature an exhibition welcoming more than 100 exhibitors, service providers and suppliers of products and equipment, and 4 half-days of plenary conferences.

About the conferences
Biorefining, the use of air in our industries, R&D in fine pastry and baking – The JTIC program aims at sharing scientific, technical and strategic expertise and advances, to enlighten cereal industry professionals. A JTIC partner, Arvalis Plant Institute will present, as it does every year, its view of the latest harvest in terms of technological quality of the grain. It will also explore the likely direction of future research projects.

Image: Roman Boed

Session 3: This year’s wheat quality, orchestrated by the Arvalis Plant Institute - 5 November, morning
A roundup of the exceptional 2015 soft wheat harvest, with record-breaking volumes exceeding 40 Mt, all considered good quality. That’s what JTIC is proposing to sketch out with a panoramic overview of the global market and an update on the technological quality of the harvest. The varieties are inspected under a magnifying glass and the characteristics of the harvest deciphered.

Protein content, specific weight, Hagberg Falling Number, productivity, and adaptation to global warming...

Research is working to improve varieties. Which means valuable progress towards meeting new social expectations, through the more efficient use of nitrogen additives, for example, but also commercial imperatives such as adapting to the demands of the domestic market as well as to export opportunities. A theme that will be developed by France Export Céréales, presenting its own experience of the expectations of key importing countries.

Also on the agenda:

Session 1: Air control and treatment in the cereal industries
Session 2: Milling and Biorefining, orchestrated by INRA
Session 4: Innovations in industrial baking: stakes and challenges of tomorrow

New: a Business Incubator area
Aemic is committed to giving young entrepreneurs a helping hand. To support them in their first steps and boost their visibility, the Association is offering a handful of them a shared space in the exhibition hall, which they can use to present their activities and meet potential prospects. The selected businesses are all less than two years old and are supported by Aemic members.

Read more HERE.

25/09/2015: Ingredion names Martin Sonntag Senior Vice President, Strategy and Global Business Development

Ingredion Incorporated, a leading global provider of ingredient solutions to diversified industries, today announced the appointment of Martin Sonntag to senior vice president, strategy and global business development, effective November 1, 2015.

Mr Sonntag will lead the development of Ingredion’s global strategy, including the execution of strategic acquisitions and alliances to further drive global growth and deliver shareholder value.

Mr Sonntag joined Ingredion in 2014 as vice president and general manager, EMEA (Europe, the Middle East and Africa). Prior to Ingredion, he served as an executive investment partner and portfolio manager at ADCURAM Group AG where he oversaw investment strategies for a broad industrial-business portfolio. He also held a variety of positions at Dow Chemical, where over his 24-year career he advanced to become general manager of DowWolff Cellulosics.

“I am delighted to welcome Martin to Ingredion’s executive leadership team. His combination of internal and external experience make him uniquely qualified for the position. At Ingredion he has continued the EMEA region’s strong business performance and shaped and refined our approach to markets and customers in the region. And, his experience negotiating acquisitions will be extremely valuable to support our trajectory as a leading global ingredient solutions provider,” said Ingredion Chairman and CEO, Ilene Gordon.

Mr Sonntag holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the Hamburg University of Technology in Germany and is a graduate of the INSEAD Advanced Management Program.

About Ingredion
Ingredion Incorporated is a leading global ingredients solutions provider specialising in nature-based sweeteners, starches and nutrition ingredients and biomaterial solutions. With customers in more than 100 countries, Ingredion serves approximately 60 diverse sectors in food, beverage, brewing, pharmaceuticals and other industries.

Visit the company site HERE.

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