Alloa pupils win University of Stirling climate competition with composting plan

Pupils from Alloa Academy who plan to turn leftovers from the school's cafeteria into compost have been awarded first place in a University competition to propose solutions to environmental challenges.

Ben Moore and Ross Mclnally, both aged 15, were recognised for their entry to the Young Pathfinders Climate Competition, which concluded the second year of the Young Pathfinders initiative, an educational outreach programme led by Scotland's International Environment Centre (SIEC) at the University of Stirling.

The S4 pupils want to use the compost to grow fresh produce on the schools grounds to support food banks in Clackmannanshire. The approach is designed to tackle both the environmental problems caused by excessive food waste, and the challenges resulting from food poverty in the local community.

Rebecca Pankhurst, SIEC Manager at the University of Stirling, said: "Ben and Ross presented a simple and effective solution which can make an important contribution to sustainability in and around their school. The judges were impressed by the extent of their research into a complex issue, and the clear and persuasive way in which they presented their response. Entries from all the participating schools were of a high standard, which is testament the students' hard work and creativity."

The University will gift the winning school with a Hydro Grow System, a classroom-sized tank for growing crops without soil, and will continue to work with the pupils and develop their proposals.

Sam Stewart, Deputy Headteacher at Alloa Academy, said: "It is fantastic to see Ben and Ross recognised for their talent and original thinking, and to secure a Hydro Grow System for Alloa Academy. Their success in the Young Pathfinders competition will be an inspiration the their fellow students, who will benefit from this fantastic new learning resource."

Pupils from nearby Lornshill Academy were also highly commended for their entry, which involved using tree stumps and wildflowers to encourage greater biodiversity on their school campus.

The Young Pathfinders programme empowers pupils from schools across Stirling and Clackmannanshire to respond to a future shaped by climate change. A year-long calendar of events includes a focus on enhanced environmental awareness, knowledge of green skills and green career pathways, and opportunities to hear directly from inspirational speakers, researchers and practitioners working in environmentally focused careers. The Pathfinders are also supported with developing employability skills, including teamwork, leadership, communication and problem solving. 

Clackmannanshire Council Leader Councillor Ellen Forson said: "Congratulations to the young people of Alloa Academy on winning this year's Climate Competition. I'd also like to recognise the efforts of all the young people who have participated in Young Pathfinders for working so hard to develop their environmental awareness. This is a wonderful programme which not only develops the young people's understanding of the challenges associated with tackling climate change, but it gives them employability skills and vital insights into green careers, which can only stand them in good stead for the future." 

"Stirling Council Leader, Councillor Chris Kane said: "It has been really encouraging to see the positive feedback from our young people on the Young Pathfinders programme, who have learned a wide range of new skills and gained valuable experiences that will help them thrive in the future as the region moves to a Net Zero economy. Well done to all the participants for their achievements, and congratulations to the winning pupils."

Established as part of the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal, Scotland's International Environment Centre is a pioneering collaboration that will create an innovation community in the Fourth Valley, driving the creation of a net zero regional economy and acting as a global exemplar of low-carbon growth.

The Stirling and Clackmannanshire City region Deal is a £90.2m investment from the UK Government and Scottish Government in innovation and infrastructure that will drive inclusive economic growth throughout the region.

Regional partners, including Clackmannanshire Council, Stirling Council, and the University of Stirling, will invest up to 123.8m, resulting in a Deal worth more than 214m, to be delivered over the next 10 to 15 years.

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

New Research Proves Animal Food Manufacturers Vital to US Economy

June 27, 2023 - Across America each day, nearly 5,650 animal food manufacturing facilities produce millions of tons of livestock, poultry and aquaculture feed and pet food, providing animals with safe and adequate nutrition while supporting an abundant U.S. food supply. Now, new research from the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) shows that these facilities drive economic growth, not only across our national economy but also in the countries and states where they are located.

"We've always said that animal food manufacturing is at the intersection of plant and animal agriculture, uniting crop farmers and animal producers, but now we see that intersection is actually the main artery in town, driving economic value throughout rural and urban communities," said AFIA President and CEO Constance Cullman. "Despite the stresses put on the animal food industry over the past few years, from the COVID-19 pandemic to supply chain hurdles to animal disease to high inflation, it is clear that it is stronger than ever before and growing."

The economic contribution study conducted by Decision Innovation Solutions (DIS), an economic research and analysis firm, estimates that in 2023, the total animal food industry, including indirect and induced effects, will generate $267.1 billion in sales. This figure includes an estimated $98.4 billion in value added revenue (i.e., labour income, taxes on production and imports, and other property income). The industry will employ roughly 760,000 full and part-time and contract employees, paying out $55 billion in salaries and employee benefits before year end. At the local, state and national levels, the industry will file $18.5 billion in taxes in 2023.

The 83 page report showed that the top five states for feed and pet food sales this year will be California, with an estimated $19.5 billion; Missouri, with $18.6 billion; Texas, with $17.1 billion; Iowa, with $16.5 billion; and Kansas, with $16.2 billion. The top five congressional districts across all economic measures this year will be Kansas-02, Texas-13, Iowa-04, Nebraska-03 and Missouri-07, which are districts with high levels of livestock or poultry production and are home to many feed mills and pet food manufacturing facilities.

The states with the most feed mills included Texas (647), Iowa (376), Minnesota (347), Wisconsin (263) and Pennsylvania (258), whereas the states with the most pet food manufacturing facilities included Pennsylvania (59), Michigan (33), Wisconsin (28), Nebraska (27) and Washington (26). Missouri employs the most animal food manufacturing employees with over 54,350, followed by California, Texas, Iowa and Pennsylvania.

The research also found that in addition to purchasing the farm-grown crops and other inputs needed to make feed and pet food, the industry generates economic activity up and down the supply chain by utilising related services and industries including truck and rail transportation services, financial institutions, advertising and more.

The full report, along with state and congressional district fact sheets, is available HERE.

 

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This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
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Alltech releases 2022 Sustainability Report supporting its commitment of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty

Alltech has released the 2022 Alltech Sustainability Report, which demonstrates the actions the company is taking to align the business with its commitments to the United Nations Global Compact, the U.N. Ten Principles, the U.N.'s Sustainable Development Goals and Working Together for a Planet of Plenty.

"Today, climate change threatens agricultures ability to feed the world's growing population. Fortunately, the world's best problem solvers are on the case," said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech. "We believe agriculture has the greatest potential to positively shape the future of our planet and that is why Alltech is uniting the agri-food community in Working Together  for a Planet of Plenty. It's not just our mission, it's our purpose."

Alltech is committed to the efficient production of nutritious food while working to minimise its carbon footprint and helping producers worldwide find and implement solutions to their sustainability challenges.

Through data and stories from Alltech team members around the world the 2022 Alltech Sustainability Report emphasises the role of agriculture in combatting climate change and creating healthy, sustainable food systems. It also included information about Alltech's emissions reduction goals, efforts to promote sustainability and the ways in which Alltech is advancing environmental actions in the industry.

additionally, the report outlines the steps Alltech has taken to promote an inclusive work environment and highlights its team members' efforts to make a difference in the communities in which they live and work.

"By adopting new technologies, improving business practices and embracing innovation, the agri-food industry is working together to harness the power of human ingenuity and the sustainable science of agri-food to create a planet of Plenty, and we are honoured to be part of it," said Dr. Lyons.

Highlights include:

• Alltech invested $4.5 million in efficiency projects in 2022, resulting in a reduction of 7,600 metric tons of CO₂e.
• One hundred percent of production team members are trained in health and safety procedures.
• The Alltech mini-MBA, Alltech's advanced management development program, has 576 graduates - 25% have been women. In the 2023 Mini-MBA class, 52% of participants are women.
• Seventy percent of office-based team members have received role-related training and development.
• Alltech's climate advisory service, Alltech E-CO₂, supports 30 countries and has conducted over 20,000 on-farm environmental assessments.
• Alltech Coppens' new sustainability scoring index reflects the carbon footprint of feed on packaging.
• Alltech Serán received Empresa Socialmente Responsible (ESR) certification and reduced CO₂e by 650 tons through its photovoltaic system and use of compressed natural gas (CNG).
• Alltech was reaccredited by the Pet Sustainability Coalition.
• Alltech São Pedro received the Paraná Climate Seal for its emissions reduction.

"Through collaboration and innovation, the agri-food community can create a world where science-based solutions help ensure sustainable food production for the global population," said Dr. Lyons. "Agriculture has already made huge strides in sustainability. Imagine what is possible when we all work toward the shared goal of creating a world of abundance for future generations."

For more information and to download the 2022 Alltech Sustainability Report in full, visit HERE.

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This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
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Animal by-products provide opportunity to cut carbon footprint of feed

Lifecycle analysis has shown the carbon footprint benefits of using animal by-products (ABP) in feed. For European feed compounders, locally produced Processed Animal Proteins (PAPs) and rendered fat can replace soymeal and palm oil with a net reduction in carbon emissions.

Conducted by Blank consultants on behalf of the European Fat Renderers and Processors Association (EFPRA), the results meet Global Feed LCA Institute (GFLI) standards so ABPs can be directly compared with other feed ingredients on its database.

"Following the partial lifting of the 'feed ban' in the EU in autumn 2021, there is more interest in ABPs as feed ingredients," says EFPRA Technical Director Dr Martin Alm. "porcine PAPs are permitted in Poultry feed, likewise poultry PAPs can be used in pig feed."

There are also markets for PAPs in Aquafeed and Petfood, and category 3 rendered fat is an important feed ingredient too. New EU regulations on use of products linked to deforestation further burnishes the credentials of ABPs.

The results

14 European rendering companies shared their environmental date from 2016-2018 to make the calculation. There are results for four types of fat and seven types of protein meal which reflects the main ABPs available for feed production.

Soybean, palm and rapeseed, the vegetable-based alternatives to animal-based proteins and fats, have a higher overall carbon footprint than the ABP derived products. See figures 2 and 3 which show the climate change impact per kg for ABP derived products and vegetable alternatives including land use change.

Palm and soy cultivation are highly associated with deforestation activities in Southeast Asia and South America over the last 20 years which is reflected by the relatively high contribution of land use change to climate change impact.

Assessing the impact per kg of protein is even more favourable to ABP's because they are richer in protein than the vegetable alternatives. Rapeseed and soybean meal contain 34% and 46% protein respectively whereas PAPs protein content ranges from 50-64%, other protein sources such as feather meal and blood meal are even higher. Hence, overall PAPs have a lower carbon footprint than rapeseed meal.

Looking at fats, apart from rapeseed oil, all animal fats have a lower environmental footprint than their vegetable oil alternatives. In Europe, animal fats are primary natural source of hard fats and their vegetable-based alternatives, palm oil or palm kernel oil have environmental impact between 4 to 8 times higher. In the same way, poultry oil can be compared with oil from soy and rape which have an impact between 2.4 - 7.5 times higher.

"Overall, the study shows that animal proteins and fats can play a significant role in reducing the environmental impact of feed and pet food. We want to make sure the feed sector is fully aware of this after the reintroduction of pig and poultry PAPs," says Dr Alm.

Figure 1 - What was measured to calculate the environmental impact

Figure 2 - Climate change impact of meal products

Figure 3 - Climate change impact of oil products

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This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
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Leading Agtech Company Nutrition Technologies Announces a New Investor

On June 26th 2023, Nutrition Technologies welcomed Bunge Ventures, the for-profit principal investing arm of Bunge, a leading global agribusiness, food, feed and ingredients company, as an investor.

Nutrition Technologies has a propriety controlled industrial microbial decomposition process that uses Black Soldier Fly Larvae ("BSFL") to bio-convert food waste and industrial organic by-products diverted from landfills. The company's patent-pending fermentation technology also provides a scalable platform for a range of insect-based products for crop health and animal feed.

"We are very excited to have Bunge ventures as a new investor," said Tom Berry, Co-CEO and Co-founder of Nutrition Technologies. "Their global network and experience in the agribusiness sector are unrivalled and this investment will allow us to scale our tropical bioconversion system and make insect-based products a mainstay ingredient of the future."

Background

Nutrition Technologies manufacture and supply insect meal, oil and bio-fertilisers to help feed the growing agriculture and feed industries around the world. After extensive R&D, they have focused on developing a unique biotechnology approach within the insect sector. This process uses beneficial microbes and BSFL to provide a zero-waste, low energy and low-cost production model.

"This has not only resulted in our ability to out-compete competitors on pricing, but also on carbon emissions and sustainability credentials," said Nick Pigott, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Nutrition Technologies.

As a tropical species, the Black Soldier Fly grows rapidly and efficiently in the ambient Malaysian climate, resulting in minimal energy requirements in the rearing process. The company currently ships industrial volumes of material throughout Europe, Asia & South America for their two-hectare factory in Malaysia.

Nutrition Technologies recently signed an MoU partnership with Sumitomo Corporation in order to distribute products into Japan. Last month, they also launched a new organic bio fertiliser, Diptial, derived from fermented insect grass designed to protect major agricultural crops from fungal diseases which currently pose a major threat to food production. This was the first in a family of crop health products to be released by the company. In March of this year, Nutrition Technologies were also awarded full approval to ship their insect meal and insect oil into Europe and the UK for the pet food and Aquafeed markets, providing European manufacturers with the option to buy high quality, affordable insect-based ingredients.

The insect sector has gathered increasing attention over the past few years, with the global insect protein market alone estimated to be worth US$343 million in 2021 and expected to grow ay CAGR of 26.49% to reach US$1.3 billion by 2027. As a sustainable solution to help minimise multiple unsustainable practices, the sector as a whole has seen investments totalling nearly US$1 billion, but with multiple technological hurdles, few companies are yet to reach industrial scale.

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

WPO President, Pierre Pienaar, will participate at Fispal Tecnologia 2023.

The event in Brazil is considered one of the most prestigious in Latin America for processing, packaging and logistics solutions for food and beverage industries.

WPO (World Packaging Organisation) President, Pierre Pienaar, is the keynote speaker confirmed to the Packaging Forum at Arena FispalTec, one of the attractions of Fispal Tecnologia, organised by Informa Markets, that will take place in São Paulo (Brazil), from June 27 to 30. Pierre's presentation will be on June 28, at 5pm, about "packaging - perspectives for the future".

WPO will also be present at the 'Packaging Boulevard', a special area, hosted by WPO local member ABRE (Brazilian Packaging Association) that will present packaging that won regional competitions in Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Cuba, as well as some winners of WorldStar, the global packaging competition organised by WPO.

"The 'packaging Boulevard' will be perfect to engage with WPO members in Latin America and to increase WPO participation in the region, Presenting all our activities and showing how we can contribute to the development of the packaging sector globally", explains, Pierre Pienaar.

According to Luciana Pellegrino, Executive Director of ABRE, Senior Vice President of Marketing and recently elected WPO President (assuming on November 25), "Fispal Tecnologia is a very important and special occasion for the packaging industry in Brazil and in Latin America, and a great opportunity to incentivise innovation in packaging, inspiring the visitors with the awarded packaging from different parts of the world."

"We should remember that institutionally WPO, through its members (packaging associations and institutes), also aims to educate packaging professionals and society about the importance and how invaluable the aspects of packaging are. We are advocated for packaging: good packaging, cost-effective packaging, packaging that contributes to creating a more sustainable society. The world cannot do without packaging, so we must educate people everywhere to respect the purpose of packaging and teach them how to incorporate this tool into the process of building an ever more sustainable society" Summarises WPO President, Pierre Pienaar.

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This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
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Minister of Agriculture and Forestry of the Republic of Türkiye Yumaklı met with his Azerbaijani counterpart Mammadov

Yumaklı met with the Minister of Agriculture of Azerbaijan Majnun Mammadov and the accompanying delegation at his office in the Ministry.

In the meeting, where the existing cooperation between the two countries was discussed further, the 'Declaration of intent between Türkiye and Azerbaijan on Agricultural Infrastructure and Land Evaluation" was signed by the two ministers.

Within the scope of the Declaration of Intent; joint studies will be carried out on land management, land acquisition, irrigation and drainage problems, land consolidation, evolution of agricultural lands, determination of uncultivated agricultural lands and bringing them into production, soil survey and mapping.

Mammadov and the accompanying delegation will conduct investigations at the Alum Institute and Çubuk Land Consolidation area within the scope of their contracts in Türkiye.

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

Everything ready for the new GIC construction

The old machines have been put to secondary use, and the buildings of the old technology centre have been demolished, meeting the prerequisites for constructing the new Grain Innovation centre (GIC) at Bühler's headquarters in Uzwil, the building is scheduled for completion this year, and the new test facility is expected to start operations in the summer of 2024.

The international Bühler Technology Group is building a new Grain Innovation Centre at its headquarters in Uzwil, Switzerland. The GIC replaces Bühler's Technology Centre, which was opened some 70 years ago and where newly developed machines are subjected to rigorous testing and trials are conducted for customers. In the first phase, the "old" machines were removed, partially overhauled and put to new uses worldwide over the last few months. "The tried and tested machines and equipment are given a second life," explains Christian Geser an experienced milling engineer and project director who is responsible for the new GIC Construction. The old buildings were then partially demolished and everything was prepared to start the new construction. By the end of 2023, new parts of the building will be constructed at the historic site and fitted into the existing ensemble. "The interior work and instillation of the new test facilities will then begin in January 2024," Geser continues. "Our goal is to start up the new test facility in summer 2024." Like the previous technology centre, the new GIC will mainly be used to develop, test and scale sustainable and efficient solutions for grain and feed processing together with customers and partners. The goal is to improve yield, quality, energy efficiency and flexibility of the equipment, as well as new recipes based on a wide range of cereals and pulses. In addition, the new GIC Bühler also serves to develop innovative solutions along the entire value chain - from raw materials to finished products. After commissioning the test facility, the Bühler training centre, the Milling Academy incl. SFT, located in the immediate vicinity of the GIC, will also be integrated into the circle of Bühler research and test facilities. In this way, Bühler intends to use further synergies. The relocation of the Training Centre is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2024. During this entire conversion phase, the entire program for customer trials as well as training an continue to be offered in the transitional operation. Please do not hesitate to get in touch, even in this time.
 

 

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This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
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ADM Unveils New Customer Creation and Innovation Center in the UK to Further Develop Food Innovation Capabilities

ADM, a global leader in human and animal nutrition, announced the opening of a new Customer Creation and Innovation Center (CCIC) in Manchester, England, serving as a UK hub for food innovation and building upon ADM's strong presence in the UK. With a state-of-the-art kitchen, chef's presentation theatre and flavour development lab, ADM is expanding its culinary capabilities and food solutions into new savoury culinary innovations for the UK, in addition to providing continued support for the beverage, sweet goods and dairy sectors.

Bringing together the new local facility and technology with ADM chefs, food scientists and flavorists to provide unique expertise into the growing alternative protein arena, developing pioneering savoury plant-based product offerings that meet consumers' high sensory expectations and evolving wellness demands.

The 800 square-meter CCIC cultivates collaboration with customers - from food manufacturers to foodservice - fostering innovative development in on-trend savoury applications, as well as sweet goods, dairy and alternative dairy products, beverages and more.

“The opening of our new Customer Creation and Innovation Center provides a unique synergistic space to further our commitment to push the boundaries of food and beverage formulation, while also delivering on authentic culinary experiences,” said Chris Poole, Managing Director, ADM. “And with the UK market on track for steady growth in 2023 and beyond, ADM is perfectly positioned to service all our customers’ needs.”

The new CCIC demonstrates ADM’s continued dedication to nutrition innovation that can support the needs of a growing population and future generations, as the company also announced this year the opening of a probiotic facility in Valencia, Spain and a partnership with Marel to build a taste and texture innovation center for the alternative protein space in the Netherlands. Each of these investments expands the connection and integration of ADM’s global capabilities, supporting manufacturers in bringing future-forward offerings that meet consumers’ demands of tomorrow, today.

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

Brazil – Gross Value of Agricultural Production in 2023 is estimated at BRL 1.179 trillion

Crops have an expected revenue of R$ 835.5 billion and livestock of R$ 343.8 billion.

Estimates of the Gross Value of Agricultural Production (GPV), obtained based on crop information, indicate a value of R$ 1.179 trillion for 2023, 3.8% higher than the value for 2022, which was R$ 1.135 trillion.

The value is influenced by agricultural prices, which have been reduced for several products, inducing corn, soy and wheat, which are highly relevant in the calculation of the VBP. Prices received by soybean and corn producers are, respectively, 8.93% and 14.37% below April prices.

The crops have an estimated revenue of R$ 835.5 billion, 6.3% more than last year. Products such as peanuts, rice, bananas, cocoa, sugar cane, beans, oranges, cassava, corn, soybeans and tomatoes performed well.

Livestock with revenues of R$ 343.8 billion, presents a real retraction of 1.8% compared to 2022. A positive contribution is given by pork, milk and eggs, and a negative contribution comes from beef (-7.3%) and chicken meat (-6.0%).

Few agricultural products this year are seeing a reduction in GPV, such as cotton lint, with a decrease of -7.3%, potatoes (-8.1%), coffee (-4.5%) and wheat (-12.8%). This result is mainly due to the retraction of prices, as in the case of cotton, coffee and wheat.

Record

The estimated VBP for this year is a record value in an analysed series that began in 1989. In the composition of this indicator, several products have the highest value obtained this year.

The five most relevant products in the series are: soybeans, corn, sugarcane, coffee and cotton, which account for 58.25% of the total VBP.

In the ranking of the states, the top five are: Mato Grosso, São Paulo, Minas Gerais and Goiás, generating 60.4% of the country's GPV this year.

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This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
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Brazilian agribusiness exports hit a new record in May and year-to-date

In May, sector foreign sales reached US$ 16.78 billion in May: 11.2% higher than the same month in 2022. Never have exports exceeded US$16 billion in a single month, considering the entire historical series starting in 1997. With the record, the participation of agribusiness in total Brazilian exports reached 50.8%.

According to an analysis by the Department of Trade and International Relations of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (SCRI/Mapa), the excellent Brazilian grain harvest, exceeding 315 million tons, directly influenced this result. The quantum index of agribusiness exports in May grew 27.6% and, even in the face of the reduction in international prices, enabled the generation of a new record in agribusiness exports.

Soy

Sales of soybeans in grain represented another record, with US$ 8.13 billion exported. The volume, in turn, was the second best in the entire historical series, 15.60 million tons shipped, only surpassed by the April 2021 volume (16.11 million tons). China was the main destination (about 60% of the total).

Foreign sales of soybean meal also set a record, this time in value and volume exported, US$ 1.43 billion (+32.0%) and 2.71 million tons (+38.4%) respectively.

Meat

Beef exports decreased to US$ 952 million (-11.8%), due to the reduction in the average export price. On the other hand, there was a record in volume: 191 thousand tons

, influenced by Chinese demand after the effects of the temporary suspension of sales to the country. China is the biggest importer of beef from Brazil, with 61.3% of the total value exported. 

Despite the reduction in value, US$ 854 million (-3.5%), chicken meat exports were record in quantity: 423 thousand tons. The increase in the amount exported occurred even after the registration of the first confirmed cases of Avian Influenza in Brazil. In this scenario, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock declared a zoo-sanitary emergency in the country, and has adopted preventive measures in order to prevent the virus from reaching commercial farms.

Sugar

The sugar and alcohol sector showed a strong increase in export value, from US$ 665 million in May 2022 to US$ 1.21 billion in May 2023 (+81.2%). Sugar is the main product exported by the sector, with a record value of US$ 1.14 billion exported (+88.5%). 

Accumulated for the year (January to May)

Brazilian agribusiness exports, in the first five months of this year, totaled US$ 67.3 billion, which represents a growth of 5.8% compared to the same period in 2022, when sales were US$ 64 billion. Agribusiness represented almost half of Brazil’s total foreign sales, with a share of 49.5%. 

Among the highlights that most contributed to the favorable performance are the records for soy in grain, soy bran, chicken and pork in value and quantity; record for corn and sugar in value; cellulose and soybean oil, records in quantity.

Soy in grain accounted for 81.2% of the value shipped by the soy complex sector, reaching a historic value of US$ 26.53 billion, also with a record in volumes: 49 million tons.

In 2023, Brazil should become the largest exporter of soybean meal in the world. The product recorded a record in value (US$ 4.76 billion) and quantum (8.84 million tons).

Foreign corn sales totaled US$ 3.09 billion, a record value for the historical series. According to SCRI ‘s analysis , the current corn harvest predicted by Conab in the record amount of 125.72 million tons, still under the effects of the first cereal harvest, favors the increase in foreign sales. 10.6 million tons of grain were shipped.

Sugar sales also registered a record in value, reaching US$ 3.85 billion. 8.4 million tons of the product were sold. 

Pulp was responsible for 8.17 million tons, a record amount for the period. Soybean oil also had a record in terms of volume, with 1.19 million tons.

Chicken meat represented records of US$ 4.21 billion and 2.13 million tons, and pork exports were US$ 1.14 billion and 473 thousand tons.

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This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
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Brazil and Portugal want to intensify trade relations and review cooperation initiatives in the agricultural sector

The ministers of Agriculture of Brazil and Portugal are expected to review their cooperation initiatives in the agricultural sector. The topic was discussed this Monday (19th) by the Minister of Agriculture and Livestock of Brazil, Carlos Fávaro, and the minister of Agriculture and Food of Portugal, Maria do Céu Antunes. The idea is to update points already signed and include new items.

Minister Fávaro highlighted that it is President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's determination to strengthen international relations. "We have the mission of rescuing trade relations, so that we can open up new opportunities for both Brazilians and the Portuguese," he said. He also pointed out that Mapa works hard to combat fraud and piracy of agricultural products, such as olive oil.

The Portuguese minister said that cooperation between countries in the area of agriculture is essential to guarantee world food security. "We learned with the pandemic, with the war and with climate change that food security is essential and not only in relation to the quality of what we eat, but also in relation to the availability of food for everyone," said the minister.

Fávaro also highlighted the importance of taking information about sustainable agricultural production in Brazil to European countries. "We need to improve Brazil's image in relation to this issue. The vast majority of our rural producers respect the legislation and have good environmental practices. We will not be complacent with illegal deforestation and burning practices. 

 

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This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
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Ukraine presented an ambitious plan to increase grain and oilseed production to 150 million tons in 10 years

First Deputy Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine Taras Vysotskyi presented the Strategy for the Development of the Agro-Industrial Complex for the Next Ten Years and the International Conference on the Restoration of Ukraine held in London.

The document provides for full vertical integration, localisation and import substitution on the Ukrainian agricultural sector.

"The strategy for the development of the agro-industrial complex of Ukraine envisages full vertical integration with ensuring the production of the necessary material and technical resources and means of production. Also, the growth of grain and oilseed production to 250 million tons in 10 years, the increase of domestic processing and production of animal husbandry and horticulture products. The total investment portfolio is 57 billion dollars," Said Taras Vysotskyi.

As noted by the First Deputy Minister of Agricultural Policy, the Strategy envisages restoration of irrigation for agricultural lands affected by the explosion of the Kakhovskaya HPP. Also - gradual substitution of imported food products on the domestic market. In addition, the Strategy envisages the development of green energy - full processing of secondary waste and production of up to 10 billion m3 of biomethane.

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This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
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Lusk named vice president, dean of OSU Agriculture

Oklahoma State University named Dr. Jayson L. Lusk as vice president and dean of the Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.

Lusk was selected following a national search and will provide leadership for the Ferguson College of Agriculture, OSU Extension and OSU Ag Research. The OSU/A&M Board of Regents has granted interim approval for the appointment. 

OSU Provost Jeanette Mendez said the extensive search process returned a strong pool of candidates.

"I am delighted that Dr. Lusk, a member of the Cowboy family, has chosen to return and lead the division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources," Dr. Mendez said. "Oklahoma State University is a national leader in agriculture, and I believe Dr. Lusk will continue to build on the strong foundation of retiring vice president and dean Dr. Tom Coon.

"As part of the systemwide strategy OSU unveiled in October 2p22, the university has a focus on fighting food insecurity with the concept of using research to help 'nourish the world.' Dr Lusk's background in partnering technology and agriculture dovetails perfectly with OSU's commitment to leveraging research and innovation to improve the world's food shortage issues."

Lusk worked at OSU from 2005 to 2017, first as an agricultural economics professor and Willard Sparks Endowed Chair and then as a regents professor and head of the Agricultural Economics Department.

During his career, he's been a prominent advocate for agricultural research and innovation, publishing more than 270 articles in peer-reviewed journals and five books. Lusk's latest book, titles "Unnaturally Delicious" is a look at how science and technology can work with agriculture to improve worldwide food insecurity.

Lusk will begin his duties leading OSU Agriculture in August. This includes overseeing academic programs as well as Extension and agricultural research efforts on campus and statewide.

He also will lead the move-in and transition to the New Frontiers Agriculture Hall, a $155 million state-of-the-art teaching, research and Extension facility for OSU Agriculture. Construction is expected to be completed in the summer of 2024.

"I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to come home to a place where I worked for 13 years and help build on the foundation in place to move the college and our state forward," Lusk said. "It's an opportunity to make an impact and to make a difference. it's also a place where the students, faculty and staff are doing good things, and OSU Agriculture is well positioned with support of alumni and stakeholders to have an even bigger impact in Oklahoma and beyond," 

Agricultural production, which includes crops, livestock and forestry, totals about $7.7 billion per year in Oklahoma.

“I’m excited to welcome Dr. Lusk back to OSU as the new vice president and dean of OSU Agriculture,” said Blayne Arthur, Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture and member of the OSU/A&M Board of Regents. “Dr. Lusk is well-known across the country and will bring a unique perspective and passion to this position. The work of OSU Agriculture faculty and staff, along with the leadership team, is essential to the success of the Oklahoma agriculture industry. I am looking forward to his return to Stillwater and seeing how Dr. Lusk’s vision helps further Oklahoma agriculture.”

lusk earned a bachelor's degree in food technology from Texan Tech University and a doctorate in agricultural economics from Kansas State University. He held previous appointments at Mississippi State University and the French National Institute for Agricultural Research.

Lusk has received numerous awards including the Borlaug Communication Award from the Council for Agricultural Science and Technology and the Lou Ann Aday award - Purdue University's most prestigious research award in the humanities and social sciences. He has served on the executive committee of the USDA National Agricultural Research, Extension, Education and Economics Advisory Board and has testified before the U.S. Congress on multiple occasions. He also is a fellow and past president of the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association.

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

NAMA Applauds Introduction Of The American Farmers Feed The World Act

Today the North American Millers' Association (NAMA) applauds the introduction of the bipartisan American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 by Representatives Tracey Mann (R-KS), John Garamendi (D-CA), Rick Crawford (R-AR), and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA).

The use of American-grown commodities in international food aid has been a cornerstone of U.S. foreign assistance programs for decades. However, over time these proven programs have shifted to cash vouchers and purchasing commodities from international competitors. Click here for more information about the bill.

The American Farmers Feed the World Act would "put the food back into food aid" by restoring Food for Peace to its roots as a purely in-kind commodity donation program and requiring that at least half of all Food for Peace funds be used to purchase American commodities and ship them overseas, minimising administrative costs. It would also end the practice of using American taxpayer dollars to purchase commodities from U.S. agricultural competitors and the use of cash vouchers. These changes will allow Food for Peace to reach millions more beneficiaries.

"U.S. millers are proud of the role they play in alleviating world hunger through food aid. We applaud Representatives Mann, Garamendi, Crawford, and Panetta for championing this effort to bolster U.S. international food assistance at zero cost to the American taxpayer," said Kim Cooper, NAMA Senior Director of Government Affairs. "These reforms are long overdue and will ensure the longevity of these critical, life-saving programs by restoring them to their roots of being purely in-kind donation programs"

The current farm bill was signed into law in 2018 and is due to be reauthorised by September 30 2023, providing a critical opportunity for action on this issue. Nearly 60 organisations have endorsed the American Farmers Feed the World Act so far. Click here to learn more information about NAMA'S international food aid priorities.

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

Getting the most from extraction Systems

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has reported more than 500 explosions in US grain handling facilities in the last 35 years, causing 180 deaths and 675 injuries. Accumulate combustible dust was the issue in many of these cases, so robust extraction and sieving design may be essential to reduce airborne particles, for cleaner and safer environments and to reduce the risk of combustion. Here, Stephen Harding, managing director of Gough Engineering, Explains how to apply extraction process for optimal product quality, safety and efficiency.

Industrial Sieving involves the use of vibrating sieves to separate particles of different sizes through agitation. The process is relied-upon to separate and remove impurities in various industries such as chemical plants, food production and plastic manufacturing. However, while impurity removal and product quality improvements are essential, these processes can generate dust and airborne particles that may pose health and safety risks. Dust plumes can be carcinogenic and potentially explosive, which is why regulations like the ATEX zone definitions ratings are in place to prevent fire hazards.

Extraction systems, too, play a crucial role in mitigating these risks by effectively capturing and removing dust and airborne particles, safeguarding worker health, and reducing cleaning.

Incorporating extraction offers numerous benefits, including dust reduction, improved cleanliness, increased productivity and enhanced safety. Vibratory sieves are easily adapted with integrated extraction with the Gough Engineering designs capture and remove unwanted particles.

Alternatively, an extractor hood in a food processing plant can capture airborne containments and direct them through a fan and ductwork system for removal and purification. But hoods alone may lack the necessary extraction for effective dust removal and may, over time, result in higher cleaning costs.

The review of an extraction process involves several key steps such as particle size analysis understanding 

material behaviour, and optimising separation processes. Let's examine them, here.

Maintenance and throughput
Factors like product material granulometry, uniformity, mesh aperture size and extraction strength volume all impact the efficiency of extraction for using industrial sieves and separator design. it is also essential to property to maintain the sieve, so the customer can achieve its desired product sieving/separation and required throughput - for instance, a chemical manufacturer may wish to yield one ton of product per batch but is only getting 250 kilograms (kg) per hour due to fine particles pegging the mesh which could be extracted.

Companies must also consider potential spark sources and ensure safe operations using their own internal health and safety procedures and guidelines - including their definition of ATEX zones. Customers may rely upon Gough's extensive experience over the years in supplying capital equipment solutions, to appreciate a fit for purpose extraction systems.

Specific industries benefit significantly from extraction processes using Gough Engineering's solutions. For instance, PQ Corp in the chemicals industry uses a batch sieve with an integrated extraction system for quality screening of silica powder. Food manufacturers Cooke Trading and Charlie Bigham's rely on vibratory sieves with integrated extraction to achieve consistent particle sizes in their baking ingredients and minimising dust in the kitchen environment.

Gough Engineering continually enhances its own industrial vibratory sieves and other products by testing materials with various screen apertures to ensure effective particle separation. This involves applying expertise in particle distribution analysis and selecting suitable mesh sizes for optimal performance. Gough Engineering also offers on-site testing facilities and prioritise maintaining customer relationships built on delivering the right solution by use of trials hire and test equipment.

For instance, our lab conducted a screening process using a Gough Vibrecon® GVC3/1 machine with a single deck and perforated plate (6mm holes) on a mixture of ash and zinc from a galvanising firm in Cardiff. The company's aim was to remove the finer zinc particles from the ash to enhance furnace efficiency. The screening process, with a feed material quantity of 21.6 kg, took one minute and 16 seconds. The results revealed a two fraction split: 6.4 kg of oversize particles (28 percent of total weight) and 15.2 kg of undersize (fine) particles (72 percent of total weight)

Put simply, the screening process exhibited effective separation with minimal pegging or blocking in the deck holes, indicating successful particle movement. The client was highly satisfied with these findings, which led to an order for a new machine. This example showcases the Gough Vibrecon^® machine's effectiveness in separating quantities based on particle size, offering improved process efficiency and overall productivity in various industrial applications.

Extraction and vibratory sieves are indispensable in industrial processes, ensuring production quality, safety, and efficiency. Gough Engineering's expertise in designing tailored extraction systems addresses diverse industry needs, improving efficiency, product quality and safety. By deploying leveraging extraction and vibratory sieves, companies can optimise their processes, achieve consistent product quality, ensuring a clean and safer working environment.

To learn more, visit HERE.

 

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

Food Assistance Committee gathering

The 17th FAC Session was held via video conference on Wednesday 21 June 2023 under the chairpersonship of Ms Lauratuulia Lehtinen, Director for Humanitarian aid and policy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Finland.

Parties of the Convention, namely, Australia, Austria, Canada, Denmark, European Union, Finland, France, Japan, Luxembourg, Russian Federation, Slovenia, and the United States of America participated in the session.

The committee reviewed the global situation regarding hunger and malnutrition and current food emergencies against the backdrop of recent developments including the outlook for world markets for grains, rice, oilseeds.

The IGC Secretariat provided members with an update of the current grains, rice and oilseeds situation, including recent movements in international prices and prospects for supply and demand in 2023/24, when world grains production is predicted to expand by 40m t y/y, to 2,294m. With consumption seen advancing by about 2% y/y on increased uptake across feed, food and industrial sectors, end-season stocks were projected to further tighten, to a nine-year low. World rice output is projected to increase by 2% y/y, to a record of 521m t in 2023/24, with modest increases in uptake and stocks predicted. Trade was predicted to edge up in 2024 (Jan/Dec) on demand from African importers. The Secretariat also included prospects for global supply of pulses, which is predicted to expand for the second successive year, as well as outlooks for millets.

Members also provided information on responses to food emergencies in the most vulnerable regions and on planned operations and recent policy developments, with particular emphasis on food security. The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and World Food Programme (WFP) provided written statements for the session.

The Chair updated members on the draft 2022 narrative report, confirming it would be shared for review by members prior to approval. The final report will again highlight the contributions of all Parties to the Convention, with a particular emphasis on School feeding programmes in DAC eligible countries.

Read more HERE.

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

Connecting Rice and Grain Storage and Processing Experts and Enthusiasts: Grain Chat by Sontag Consult

Grain Chat, produced by Sontag Consult, is the ultimate platform for experts and enthusiasts alike in the field of rice and grain storage and processing. This innovative platform, which started to reach customers during the COVID-19 Pandemic, has now amassed over 1000 followers, showcasing its growing popularity and usefulness to the industry. 

 The platform features interviews with some of the world's most renowned experts, including Dr Claus Braunbeck of frigorTec, Germany, the expert for grain cooling; Dr Ye Aung, the expert for rice processing; Dr Devinder Dhingra of India, the expert for grain storage development; Kris Kristensen of Denmark, the silo expert; Mrs Stéphanie Sirey of Vibrafloor, France, the expert for silo discharging; Juan Gaviria of SuperBrix, Colombia, the expert for paddy drying; Dr Thomas Croci of Studio Tecinco Appiani, Italy, the food technologist; Adam Sackett of Insta-pro international, the extrusion expert, and Dr Karsten Brast of nature2need, the expert on plastics and Bio-Compounds.

Through these interviews, Grain Chat delves into some of the most important topics in the field, providing valuable insights and expert opinions on various aspects of rice and grain storage and processing. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the industry, Grain Chat has something for everyone.

One of the key features of Grain Chat is the depth of knowledge and expertise of its contributors. These experts have years of experience in the field, and their insights are invaluable to anyone seeking to improve their knowledge of rice and grain storage and processing. By providing access to this wealth of knowledge, Grain Chat has established itself as a go-to resource for anyone looking to improve their understanding of this critical area.

Another key advantage of Grain Chat is its accessibility. With its online platform, Grain Chat is available to anyone, anywhere, at anytime. Whether you are at work, at home, or on the go, Grain Chat is always there to provide you with the latest insights and developments in rice and grain storage and processing

Grain Chat is also highly interactive, with the platforms followers actively engaging with each other and the experts featured on the platform. Through Grain Chat, professionals from across the industry can connect, share ideas, and learn from each other, further enhancing the value of this innovative platform.

Finally, Grain Chat's unique focus on rice and grain storage and processing sets it apart from other resources in the industry. By narrowing its focus to this specific area, Grain Chat is able to provide a level of depth and detail that simply cannot be found elsewhere. Whether you are interested in the latest trends in grain storage or want to learn more about the cutting-edge techniques being used in rice processing, Grain Chat has you covered.

In conclusion, Grain Chat is a must-have resource for anyone working in the field of rice and grain storage and processing. With its in-depth interviews with experts, wealth of knowledge and expertise, and highly interactive platform, Grain Chat is the ultimate tool for anyone seeking to improve their knowledge of this critical area. So why wait? Join the thousands of professionals already benefiting from Grain Chat, and take your expertise to the next level today!

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

Veramaris’ first sustainable development report sets foundations for growth

With Veramaris’ algal oil having secured market acceptance, the company now turns its focus towards growth, operational efficiency, and climate action.

Veramaris has just released its first sustainable development report to provide an update on its sustainability journey and showcase algal oil as a reliable and renewable source of Omega-3 (EPA & DHA) for aquafeed. This is especially timely as farmers revisit Omega-3 feed specifications to improve animal health, quality, and farm productivity, while fish oil supplies face uncertainty due to reduced forage fisheries quotas and the risk of a powerful El Nino on the horizon.

“No genuine growth can come without efforts to improve our own sustainability. I believe our responsibility as a forward-thinking company is to do better ourselves, while helping others do better, too,” says Gertjan de Koning, CEO of Veramaris.

Structured around six UN Sustainable Development Goals, the report includes Veramaris’ first greenhouse gas emissions statement. This is in addition to the actions already being taken to ensure the company’s Science Based Target commitment is reached by 2030.

The report also provides updates on the company’s value chain marketing efforts, which involve collaborating with partners to reduce marine dependency and ensure the health and nutritional quality of farm-raised seafood.

Working with supply chain partners, Veramaris has shown how algal oil can be used to control Omega-3 content in farmed salmon, creating value by ensuring maximum product quality and offering consumers an excellent source of Omega-3. Leading retailers are already making algal oil part of their ESG communication.

Read more HERE.

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