Henry Simon strengthens its position in North America with the completion of a new-state-of-the-art flour mill in the Caribbean

December 21, 2023 - The new state-of-the-art flour mill, which was designed with smart sensor and automation technologies, can grind 450 tonnes of wheat per day to obtain flour and semolina. The factory aims to meet the flour demand of this region, which has been increasing for the last five years.

In addition to the complete grain processing line, including cleaning, milling and packaging, which were installed on a turnkey basis within the scope of this project, a 6-storey factory building with a height of 28 meters was also constructed by Henry Simon. The flour mill is located on the seaside, in the harbour area, and designed considering the high seismic and high wind loads in accordance with the geographical conditions of the country and also contains a silo section. Henry Simon's technical teams can easily connect with a factory 24/7 and provide online support whenever needed.

For more information, 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.

Rail closures at US-Mexico border are damaging agriculture exports and the US economy

December 21, 2023 - In a letter sent today to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and 45 other members of the Agricultural Transportation Working Group requested the immediate opening go the El Paso and Eagle Pass international rail crossings.

"The closure of the rail crossings is rippling back into the US supply chain and having negative impacts on the US economy," the letter notes. "While we are sympathetic to the humanitarian needs on the US/Mexico border, the interconnectedness of the North American supply chain means the closure of rail crossings causes backups on the rail system as far north as the US/Canada border and hurts our economy."

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The US Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) announced Monday it would temporarily close the crossings beginning early on December 18, "after observing a recent resurgence of smuggling organisations moving migrants through Mexico via freight trains."

Nearly two-thirds of all US agricultural exports to Mexico to move via rail, the groups noted in the letter. Mexico was the United States' second largest export market in 2022 with US$28.5 billion in sales. Each day the crossings are closed, nearly 1 million bushels of grain exports are potentially lost along with export potential for many other agricultural products.

Due to the closures, rail carriers need to idle trains or reroute them in illogical ways, adding friction within the supply chain. "We are aware of grain trains sitting at origin in at least six states that are unable to move, and we expect this number to grow," the groups added. "We have also heard of customers in Mexico telling US suppliers they will begin to look to other countries if the US cannot provide a resilient and reliable supply chain."

Blocking US agriculture exports to Mexico creates a real threat of food inflation and increased food insecurity in that country, the groups noted. Mexico's livestock and poultry industry is already running low on feed and Mexican livestock and poultry producers may need to depopulate animals for humanitarian reasons if these shipments continue to be blocked.

"It is hard to understand how CBP would allow this to happen to the food chain of our neighbour and one of our closest trading partners," the letter concluded. "We understand there is a migrant crisis, but a supply chain and potential food security crisis in Mexico can be avoided by reopening the international crossings. We urge you to take immediate action."

For more information, 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.

AFIA welcomes Lekin to communications department

December 20, 2023 - The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) is pleased to announce the addition of Taylor Lekin as its marketing and program development coordinator, effective December 11.

Taylor Lekin

In this newly created position, Lekin will play a pivotal role in marketing AFIA's education and networking events as well as the overall value of AFIA membership. In addition, Lekin will work closely with the executive director of the Institute for Feed Education and Research (IFEEDER), AFIA's public charity, on an ambitious branding campaign to communicate the need for industry leaders and stakeholders to invest in the future of the animal food industry.

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• Registration is now open for AFIA’s Purchasing and Ingredient Suppliers Conference
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"Taylor exudes positive energy and a passion for helping the agriculture industry thrive, and I know she will bring creative new ideas to engage AFIA members at events and through our programs," said Victoria Broehm, AFIA's senior director of communications. "With her background working for a foundation and analysing complex agricultural research and policy, I have no doubt she will be an asset to IFEEDER as it embarks on an ambitious communications strategy to reach donors, potential donors and external stakeholders in the new year."

Lenin is a recent Iowa State University graduate with a degree in agriculture and rural policy studies. She grew up raising cattle with her brother, and her family owns and operates Tama Livestock Auction. She has experience working as a writer for ISU's Foundation and the Coalition to Support Iowa's Farmers, as well as being active in her sorority and participating in the CALS Dean's Leadership Study Abroad Program. 

For more information, 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.

Access to rice market information is vital for the supply chain

December 20, 2023 - On Tuesday 19 December, the International Grains Council (IGC) and the Institute for the Development of Agricultural Cooperation in Asia (IDACA), with support from the Government of Japan, held a workshop in Bangkok, Thailand to discuss the results of a survey that collected grains market information from actors throughout the rice supply chain.

As the G7 Presidency this year, the Government of Japan has prioritised food security as an issue of concerns. The government of Japan is supporting the IGC in strengthening its efforts to collect and analyse access to the market information through the supply chain in remote areas. This study on food security's bottlenecks in Asia and other regions is part of Japan's contribution to the project to improve food security.

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Amid efforts to boost the resilience of global food markets to shocks, and in order to improve understanding of access to market information for stakeholders throughout the rice supply-chain in Asia, Africa and Oceania, including producers, cooperatives, traders, processors and consumers, the IGC and IDACA conducted a survey of market participants, from organisations active in the rice supply chain. Moreover, the survey attempted to gauge different participants' reactions to the market changes and to understand the main opportunities and challenges faced. The results were discussed with respondents at the workshop in Bangkok, hosted by the Kasetsart University, with further work to follow, including on other grains such as maize and wheat.

Against the backdrop of high levels of volatility in grains and oilseeds over recent seasons, global rice markets have also seen elevated levels of instability, with international prices surging to a 15 year high. Such price movements, and associated market uncertainty, can cause challenges throughout the supply chain, particularly to market participants who may not have adequate access to market information, such as those in rural areas.

For more information, 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.

Amlan International expands in Southern Vietnam

December 18, 2023 - Amlan International, the animal health business of Oil-Dri Corporation of America and a global leader in mineral-based feed additives that optimise the intestinal health of poultry and livestock, is pleased to announce their presence in the Southern Vietnam market through a new distribution partnership with Saigon Nutrition Corporation.

Amlan entered into a distributor agreement with Saigon Nutrition effective September 30, 2023. As a trusted brand in the animal health industry, Amlan is committed to bringing natural and effective feed additives to enhance animal health and productivity. Saigon Nutrition, which is well established and respected in the region, will manage the distribution of Amlan products for the Southern Region of Vietnam. This partnership will allow for better alignment of customer needs and industry demands. Saigon Nutrition is now authorised to distribute Calibrin-Z, Varium, Calibrin-A, NeoPrime and ConditionAde products.

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"Amlan is pleased to have Saigon Nutrition as our trusted distributor in Southern Vietnam. This partnership represents a pivotal moment in our commitment to advancing animal health and sustainability in the region," said Wade Robey, Vice President of Agriculture, Oil-Dri Corporation of America, and President of Amlan International.

The Southern Region of Vietnam is home to a dynamic livestock and poultry industry, where the demand for advanced solutions is increasing. Our partnership with Saigon Nutrition positions Amlan to deliver our products to local farmers with producers. These products are designed to optimise animal performance, improve feed efficiency and elevate the overall wellbeing of livestock and poultry.

"We look forward to expanding the reach of our unique natural mineral-based feed additives to South Vietnamese producers who are seeking high-efficacy solutions to maximise performance and improve feed conversion ratio and their bottom line," said Nguyen Hai, Amlan International's Commercial Manager, Vietnam. "Our collaboration with Saigon Nutrition will be an essential component in facilitating this."

For more information, 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.

The state of conveying in 2023

December 18, 2023 - To provide food processors with insight into the industry's current challenges and opportunities, Cablevey Conveyors, a global specialty conveyor manufacturer and Automated Handling Solutions, a service-focused subsidiary of Cablevey, have released results from an annual proprietary survey conducted among food processing companies.

Food processors that keep abreast of the latest market trends, industry concerns, and objectives will make more effective strategic decisions.

The report, 'The Food and Beverage Industry 2023 State of Conveying', highlights the latest market trends as well as top concerns and objectives related to conveying systems. The findings reveal the predominant obstacles now facing the industry, along with the promise of innovative conveyor automation and product testing options that can help to optimise both production and future purchases.

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Updated data to make the best decisions

In modern food processing plants, the art of conveying foods has evolved into a finely tuned process that prioritises efficiency, hygiene and safety. For processors, the report now provides trend analysis and new findings not only about the industry but also about how organisations are specifically conveying food products in their facilities.

"As food processing continually embraces innovation, industry professionals are committed to making the best decisions possible for their specific conveying needs. To make those decisions, the industry needs data. This report builds on the data and findings from 2022 to provide food processors with the new and updated data they need to make the best decisions moving forward," says Brad Sterner, Cablevey CEO.

Cablevey contracted with independent outside research firm Ascend2 to reach more than 320 professionals at food processing firms, including production managers, engineers and executive managers. These individuals work in the food manufacturing and processing industry in the United States, UK, Mexico and Brazil. The responses were collected during July 2023.

The most prevalent product categories conveyed in the processing facilities surveyed included frozen food (49 percent), snack foods (39 percent), blends & mixes (37 percent), breakfast cereal (30 percent), coffee (26 percent), and nuts (23 percent), as well as rice, powders, pet foods, specialty seeds & beans, specialty & brewery grains, hemp and other products.

Key food processing industry findings

The good news is that the food processing industry is rapidly growing. Almost two-thirds of respondents' companies grew at least 10 percent in the past year, and almost one-quarter grew at least 20 percent. This mirrors the growth from 2022 and indicates a long-tern trend for the industry.

However, the cleaning and maintenance of food process conveyor systems is still a major concern for the industry. Over half (54 percent) of survey respondents cited cleaning and maintenance as the primary challenge related to conveyors.

In fact, more than two-thirds (69 percent) of those surveyed clean their conveying system three or more times per week, and 38 percent clean their systems four or more times per week. For 31 percent of those surveyed, this process takes more than 2 hours, and for another 60 percent the process takes 1-2 hours. Related to cleaning and maintenance, downtime was the next greatest challenge at 33 percent (up from 28 percent last year).

Nearly all (97 percent) of those surveyed agree that they would benefit from finding a more efficient way to clean their conveying systems. Most (79 percent) move multiple products through their system that make cleaning necessary.

For those requiring greater efficiency, innovative solutions can now automate the conveyor wet cleaning process, eliminating most manual labour while reducing downtime and the risk of improper cleaning.

Due to their need, many respondents (61 percent) have shopped for or purchased a new conveyor system in the last year. 82 percent plan to update or replace parts of their conveying systems in the next two years.

Of those surveyed, virtually all (98 percent) agree that testing products on a new conveying system is a critical step to take before purchase, with 67 percent strongly agreeing.

Research firm Ascend2 also used the survey data to rank seven types of conveyors (round-link chain conveyors, cable conveyors, pneumatic conveyors, bucket elevators, vacuum conveyors, aero mechanical conveyors, screw augers) based on maintaining product integrity, energy and efficiency, maintenance and downtime, and accommodating facility requirements.

Cable conveyors ranked top in each category, followed by pneumatic conveyors, bucket elevators and round-link chain conveyors in that order. Tubular drag cable conveyors gently move product through a sealed tube using a coated, flexible stainless-steel drag cable pulled through on a loop. Solid circular discs (flights) are attached to the cable, which push the product through the tube without the use of air. These conveyors excel in transporting delicate, precise blends for a wide variety of food types in versatile layouts and configurations.

To help industry professionals make more informed purchasing decisions, the survey provides free conveyor evaluation tools. The study contains links to an ROI Calculator that estimates food processors' savings based on minimising their conveyor cleaning and maintenance. A link is also included in the report to a collection of white papers and guides that cover issues designed to improve conveyor reliability, performance, efficiency and safety.

Food processors that keep abreast of the latest market trends, industry concerns and objectives will make more effective strategic decisions. The report by Cablevey Conveyors and Automated Handling Solutions offer food processors key insights into important industry trends along with timely guidance about the benefits offered by innovative conveying systems. With this data, food processors can make informed decisions about their investments in production technology.

For more information, 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.

FULL HOUSE FOR UK FLOUR MILLERS’ ANNUAL R&D SEMINAR

December 15, 2023 - On 14 December, flour millers from across the United Kingdom (UK), agriculture industry players, policy makers, researchers, suppliers, and customers came together to learn about policy and research updates. These efforts highlight the proactive nature of UK Flour Millers and the flour milling industry to engage with the challenges of the future.

Led by UK Flour Millers’ head of technical and regulatory affairs, Joe Brennan, the event included presentations on precision breeding, biofortification of minerals in wheat endosperm, milling and baking quality in wheat, and the challenges of calculating consistent carbon footprints across farms.

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Speakers were drawn from across the agriculture, food, and nutritional research sectors and included: 

• Toby Townsend (ADAS) 
• Dr Stéphanie Swarbreck (National Institute of Agricultural Botany)
• Dr Martin Whitworth (Campden BRI) 
• Danny Bayliss (Campden BRI)
• Chris Stockdale (Food Standards Agency) 
• Dr Stacey Lockyer (British Nutrition Foundation) 
• Prof Peter Shewry (Rothamsted Research)
• Prof Janneke Balk (John Innes Centre)

“Our full agenda for this day-long event shows both the breadth of developments linked to flour milling and the pace of change,” Joe Brennan said about the event, which was over-subscribed. “Delegates attending were able to learn more about the policy issues on the horizon, plus the latest food processing research affecting wheat, flour, and finished products.”

Joe’s own ergot-focused presentation was intriguingly titled: Wheat, witches and werewolves – how a mystical mycotoxin is challenging the modern grain chain.

For more information, 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.

Ideas become reality at Bühler's Food Creation Centre

December 14, 2023 - In November, the Swiss technology group Bühler opened its expanded innovation centre for food in Uzwil. The new Food Creation Centre is a central part of this hub. It offers an integrated perspective on product and process development for a wide variety of foods. Bühler teams support customers all the way from the idea phase through rapid prototyping and implementation in the industrial process, to validation and scale-up.

Whether it is snack bars, wafers, biscuits, crackers, or any kind of chocolate confectioneries, the new Food Creation Center supports customers through the entire innovation and industrialization process.

Whether it be fruit, protein, muesli and nut bars, wafers, cookies, chocolate, baked products, spreads or snacks, Bühler's Food Creation Centre in Uzwil is a state-of-the-art facility for product testing, production trials, training and education. Customers will find the idea environment and the expertise to create different foods with new raw materials, flavours and textures. The Food Creation Centre receives ingredients and processed raw materials such as flour, chocolate mass, nuts, oats, sugar, alternative proteins and fruit-some of which also comes from the other application and training centres-for processing.

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Helping to shape trends

The global food mega trends such as premiumisation, health, sustainability, affordable nutrition and on-the-go snacks that appeal to consumers provide opportunities for our customers to adapt their portfolios and marketing strategies. To help unlock these opportunities in precisely why Bühler has invested into this new centre for food innovation in Uzwil. "In concrete terms, this means that we're developing products for and with customers that correspond to these mega trends. For example, we created sugar-free protein bars made by pea protein," says Stefanie Hardtmann, Head of Food Creation Centre & Consumer Food Technology. The exchange with Bühler's experts does not end in Uzwil but extends across the entire network in Europe and beyond. In the Food Creation Centre in Uzwil, customers from the traditional bakery sector will find a fully equipped bakery with an auditorium for courses, sufficient space for training and bakery equipment for testing in various batch sizes.

Making Food Sensations a reality

Bühler's knowledge of current trends, its expertise in implementing them, and its global network of Food experts are the best prerequisites for implementing food sensations. With the help of Bühler, edible cups were developed that can hold hot contents for 45 minutes without leaking. "Through new combinations of process steps, we achieve results that deserve to be called sensations," says Stefanie Hardtmann. "Another vivid example is the savoury filled wafer pillow with a tomato and cheese filling. We were able to develop these together with the wafer team from Leobendorf, Austria. The pillows are a good size for snacking; they're lightweight, low in fat and calories and have an intense, natural tomato and cheese flavour." In the cracker range, potato and chia seed potato chips were created, offering a gluten-free, vegan, low-fat crispy snack. There is a particularly wide variety for those with a sweet tooth, as many bar or wafer products are coated in chocolate. The Food Creation Centre also produces chocolates with unusual fillings, including a vegan, gluten-free chocolate praline with a peanut-free peanut filling. The possibilities offered to customers by the centre are as creative as they are varied.

Services from A to Z

Covering an area of 850 square meters, the Food Creation Centre combines cutting-edge technology, analytical services, product, and process development as well as workshops and training courses for Bühler's customer experts. Stefanie Hardtmann and her team know their customers and the trends. "Thanks to our market knowledge, gained from our businesses from field to consumer, we're able to support our customers throughout the entire innovation process along their value chains, from the raw material to the finished consumer product. We also help with the detailed development of business cases, capital expenditure analyses and return-on-investment estimates all the way through to the first sample production or the first finished product prototype."

"In Uzwil, we have the smallest scale industrial production line. This means we can not only offer our customers the opportunity to test small batch sizes of a product, assess process performance and scale up to higher production scales with confidence," explains Stefanie Hardtmann. "Product quality and process stability are two decisive criteria here,"adds Stefanie Hardtmann.

More than snacks and chocolate bars

The comprehensive range of applications, possibilities and network benefits offered by Bühler's centre for food innovation at a single location is unique. Bühler is committed to supporting its customers in the food industry in feeding the world's growing population in a sustainable and healthy way. "The opening of the four new application and training centres is an important milestone in our efforts to support our customers and partners in developing a more sustainable food system,"says Ian Roberts, CTO of Bühler. "In these centres, our customers have access to a unique combination of technology and expertise."

For more information, 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.

Registration is now open for AFIA's Purchasing and Ingredient Suppliers Conference

December 14, 2023 - The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) has opened registration for its 2024 Purchasing and Ingredient Suppliers Conference (PISC), happening on March 12-14 in San Antonio, Texas. This three-day, must-attend program includes education ant networking events for hundreds of feed ingredient buyers and sellers across the animal food manufacturing industry.

"We are thrilled to bring PISC to San Antonio this year and continue to be the place where business gets done," said Jessica Morse, AFIA's director of meetings and events. "PISC 2024 promises to offer even more networking opportunities and relationship building between suppliers and customers."

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In addition to the networking events, conference attendees will hear presentations on myriad topics, including decoding the consumer's journey: meat purchasing in a changing landscape, transportation logistics, California's proposition 12, navigating the people puzzle and forecasting the grain and economic outlooks.

Early-bird registration is available now until Jan 12 for US$650 for AFIA members and US$2250 for nonmembers. Following the date, the fee will increase to US$775 and US$2550, respectively. Through the Buyers to PISC program, AFIA member-company professionals in buying roles who normally would not be able to attend the event are invited to apply for a conference scholarship.

For more information, 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.

IFEEDER launches new website

December 14, 2023 - The Institute for Feed Education and Research (IFEEDER) is proud to announce the launch of its new website.

Since 2009, IFEEDER has built a reputation as a trusted resource for inquiries about the animal food industry's role in US agriculture. IFEEDER works with diverse partners from across the animal food and broader food and agricultural sector, along with academia and public institutions, to conduct objective research, education and sustainability projects to inform business leaders and decision-makers about the future of the expanding feed and petfood industry.

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"Working with IFEEDER's Board of Trustees and Education and Engagement Committee, we built this website to be a resource for stakeholders up and down the animal food value chain who are interested in learning more about the animal food industry's ongoing sustainability efforts," said Lara Moody, IFEEDER's executive director. "We hope it will also provide potential collaborators and donors with deeper visibility into our education and research work so that they may opt to support our ongoing initiatives".

The new, easy-to-use website includes:

• background information on IFEEDER's mission and impact.
• information on ongoing research projects to close knowledge gaps in the animal food industry.
• educational and sustainability resources that provide a robust collection of materials.
• news and events that inform individuals on the latest developments within the institute, including a newsletter than donors and members of the public may sign up for.

IFEEDER invites individuals and companies to become a part of the Institute's journey towards shaping the future on animal nutrition.

For more information, 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.

Distillery loads grain nine-times faster with pneumatic conveying upgra

December 14, 2023 - Dancing Goat Distillery has come a long way since barreling its first batch of rye whisky in 2017. It's now a destination that offers a range of distillery experiences from tours to hands-on distilling classes. The Dancing Goat Gin Academy lets students distill and bottle their own 750ml bottle of gin to take home. The distillery also boasts a rustic-chic tasting room where patrons can watch corn and rye become drinkable spirits, including the company's flagship Limousin Rye and Death's Door gin.

While the company's rye whiskey can spend six years barrel-aging, Dancing Goat needed only about five years to orchestrate three extensions. The most recent, which doubled the facility's footprint to 34,000 sq ft, moves grain nine-times faster using a Flexicon pneumatic conveying system.

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Employing modern techniques

With each expansion, the company strives to preserve the traditional are and science of distillation as it adopts modern techniques. Thus, an old-school copper pot remains in service beside sleek distillation columns. At the cookers where grains and malt are turned into a mash for fermentation, the company has twice upgraded its loading methods. Originally, workers hoisted dozens of 23kg bags of grain to load three 908L cookers. When those were replaced by two 7192L cookers, Dancing Goat began receiving grain in bulk bags, unloading them into the vessels using a bulk bag discharger and flexible screw conveyor from Flexicon.

After its latest expansion added a third 11,256L cooker, Dancing Goat installed a 26m long Pneumati-con pneumatic conveying system, also from Flexicon. The system transports the grains to two 0.2m³ hoppers, one feeding the two existing cookers and one feeding the new cooker. "The pneumatic system can load three times as much grain in one-third the time," says Mike Reiber, former director of operations. "Instead of driving fork trucks to the bulk bag discharger at the cookers and charging the cookers there, we created a grain-handling room and based our pneumatic conveying system there. It improves the process and is less painful for the operators."

Weigh batching from a distacne

Located on the opposite side of the facility from the cookers, the grain room houses the intake and terminus of the pneumatic circuit and a bulk bag discharger mounted on load cells. With a forklift, workers load the bags into the discharger using a lifting frame that nests into receiving cups atop the discharger's frame posts.

Once the bag spout is secured to a Spout-Lock clamp ring, the grains-milled to a flour-like consistency-flow into a 155L floor hopper, from which a 1.5m long flexible screw conveyor, inclined at 45 degrees, feeds the grain into the pneumatic conveying line via a pickup adapter, which includes an air inlet filter. Load cells supporting the discharger transmit loss-of-weight signals to a PLC that stops the screw conveyor once a pre-set batch weight has been fed into the pneumatic line.

The 125mm diameter pneumatic line-under negative pressure generated by a 23.3 kW vacuum pump-transports the entire batch with no residual, across the facility to the two 0.2 m³ capacity hoppers installed over the cookers. Inline fill/pass valves located above each hopper, guide the grain to one hopper or the other, depending on the recipe.

The grain discharges into each cooker through a rotary valve. Above the twin cookers, a diverter valve controls whether the grain discharges from the hopper to the first or second cooker. The second hopper discharges to the third, larger cooker.

On the return side, the line runs from the hoppers back to the grain room to a 122cm diameter filter-receiver whose cartridge filters separate the conveying air from carry-over grain dust. Reverse-pulse air nozzles dislodge accumulated material, which enters a 0.5m³ floor hopper with rotary valve that returns it to the conveying line feeding the cookers.

"That means I don't have to worry about grain being aged at the bottom of my conveying line or about grain backing up in the filter-receiver," Reiber says. "It also minimises any concerns about attracting bugs or other pests and it gets the maximum amount of grain into the cookers."

Pneumatic conveying: faster, cleaner, safer

The pneumatic conveying system-which can move as much as 6350kg per hour-reduces the time operators spend loading and discharging the bulk bags. "Instead of taking the bags to the use point, they're now taken to the grain handling room near to where they're stored," Reiber says. "The forklifts travel maybe 50ft (15.2m) now, so the amount of handling, the forklift time, has been cut by 80 percent."

Corn and rye, the grains Dancing Goat uses the most, flow from the bulk bags faster. "We were delivering a bag in roughly 15 minutes before. Now it's in the 5-minute range for a bag of corn and 7 minutes for rye, with both bags weighing 1750lb (794kg)," Reiber says. A typical batch requires discharging six to eight bulk bags. "The operators who were here before we upgraded are amazed at how much less work and how fast the pneumatic system transfers the grain. We're doing more with less work and in less time." The operators are freed to perform other tasks in the distillery.

The operation is also cleaner and safer because the batching system is contained and operates under vacuum, preventing the grains from spreading dust. "We already make a flammable product, ethanol, and we don't want to add potential fuel-airborne dust-to a zoned and classified space," Reiber says.

Discharger promotes flow and evacuation

In the grain room, the bulk bag discharger contains dust and ensures reliable flow using several subsystems. At the bag spout interface a Spout-Lock clamp ring makes a dust-free connection to the floor hopper. As the bag empties, a Tele-Tube telescoping tube lowers the clamp ring, applying a continual downward tension to keep the spout taut promoting flow. Meanwhile, Flow-Flexer bag activator plates raise and lower the opposite bottom edges of the bag into a V shape, directing all of the grain out the spout.

"We use the bag activator plates every day on every grain. It helps break up the cube that can form during transport,"Reiber says. The company also relies on the discharger's Power-Cincher flow control valve, whose pneumatically driven bars close concentrically on the spout. "It's a great tool when we need to restrict the flow or tie off a bag before it's empty. It's ideal for handling malt, which starts out blocky but then flows like water once it gets moving."

In addition, the discharger's posts can be raised or lowered to accommodate off-size bulk bags. "Our malt supplier's bulk bags are about 14 inches longer than normal ones," Reiber notes. "But it only takes maybe five minutes to adjust all four posts."

Non-stop advancement

While the distillery has become a destination for whiskey and spirits lovers, Reiber says the company is only partway into its journey, with plans to load the grains from bulk silos instead of bulk bags.

"We plan to tie in the silos to piggyback on the pneumatic conveying system," Reiber says. "The goal is to cook, ferment and distill around the clock and this system has brought us much closer to doing that."

For more information, 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.

Energy Recovery Centre at Bühler's headquarters is up and running

December 14, 2023 - Bühler's Energy Recovery Centre, built in partnership with Belgium company Vyncke, is fully operational and ready for customer trials. Officially opened on November 20, the facility provides heating for Bühler offices in Uzwil by using biomass generated at its application and training centres. Moreover, the Energy Recovery Centre, the world's only application centre of this kind and size, works as a platform for customers to explore the potential of using side streams through energy recovery, which can lead to the reduction of their carbon footprint, waste and energy costs.

At the heart of this technology-driven center is the mission to provide the industry with a high-efficiency and low-emission solution that contributes to a sustainable future.

The Energy Recovery Centre (ERC) combines Bühler's expertise on biomass fine grinding and preparation (leading to the most optimum fuel) with Vyncke's combustion knowledge and the latest technology (optimising the energy yield), resulting in an integrated and cost-efficient energy solution. Vyncke installed its classic, red-walled boiler at Bühler's site. This is also the first time that the technology of multi-staged pyro gasification turbid combustion for agricultural fuels is used. The fuel injection system combined with the injection of the primary and secondary combustion air will lead to better combustion, and therefore, lower emissions.

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The plant has two purposes. The first objective is the management and generation of sustainable energy. The ERC will be fed by various side streams generated by the application and training centres in Uzwil. This fully integrated solution will go on to process the fuel, generate hot water and send this energy back to heat the buildings.

The second function is to test the biomass side streams from the processes of Bühler's global customer base. The side stream that will be tested in the centre cover a broad range of materials including wheat bran, rice husks and cocoa shells. The by-products will be combusted either individually or in a mixture with a test and learn approach. The ERC is scientifically supported by the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Testing and Research (EMPA) to evaluate research and development (R&D) results and further applications of boiler ash (i.e as fertiliser or building material production).

This platform is a demonstration of how businesses can valorise their by-products and explore ways to reduce the carbon footprint in the food industry. Guided by the ongoing sustainable transformation, this is a unique, one-stop research facility to test all types of side streams coming out of food and agriculture processes. At the heart of this technology-driven centre is the mission to provide the industry with a high-efficiency and low-emission solution that contributes to a sustainable future.

"By adding Vyncke's energy recovery processes to our portfolio, we can offer our customers new processes towards a more sustainable production," says Johannes Wick, CEO of Grains & Food at Bühler. "With the Energy Recovery Centre at Bühler's application and training centres, our customers have the ideal platform and expertise to make sure their investments for the future are sound and proven."

Collaborating for a sustainable future

Bühler and Vyncke entered a strategic partnership in 2020. While Bühler plays a pioneering role in development through innovation, Vyncke brings to this equation sophisticated craftsmanship and expertise in combustion technology. In business since 1912, Vyncke has been offering state-of-the-art energy solutions to all industries that aim to transition away from fossil fuels and work towards decentralised solutions. The technology operates on the principle of harnessing energy from organic process waste by diverting it from landfills and converting it into valuable resources. With over 4000 references spanning across various industrious, Vyncke is at the forefront of innovation and technological proficiency in its field of expertise.

Peter Vyncke, owner of Vyncke, says: "Many industries rely on our solutions to reduce their fossil fuel consumption. With Bühler, we now aim to also become the standard to reduce the CO2e footprint of the food industry."

Leveraging their respective strengths, the close collaboration between Bühler and Vyncke intends to steer the industry toward a resilient future.

For more information, 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.

Milestone achieved in lower carbon bread production

December 14, 2023 - In the journey to decarbonise wheat product production, a major milestone has been achieved in this season's harvest thanks to the use of ISCC PLUS certified lower carbon nitrogen fertiliser.

Sunset over Norfolk wheat fields

This initiative to deliver a fully certified lower carbon value chain for wheat products is being championed by a group of supply chain stakeholders. The close collaboration is between global leader in nitrogen production, OCI Global, German modern agricultural trading company, Agravis and Dossche Mills, one of the largest mills in Europe.

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Growing and harvesting this year's crops with lower carbon fertiliser was the first step in the process of certifying the entire value chain of wheat products, focusing on reducing carbon emissions at each production stage.

This development is a move towards offering consumers certified lower carbon footprint bread. It also provides essential data for certifying lower carbon wheat flour and products throughout their production lifecycle.

Thanks to this work, a complete CO2 emissions calculation for lower carbon wheat flour is now one step closer, incorporating data from the cultivation and harvesting phases, while using Lower Carbon Nutramon fertiliser as part of the process.

A recognised methodology for determining and certifying the Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) has now been agreed.

OCI Global, Agravis and Dossche Mills are now preparing for next year's harvest, expanding the project and inviting more farmers to participate in 2024's lower carbon wheat harvest.

The partners are committed to creating and establishing a lower carbon food chain. Their efforts focus on reducing the environmental impact of bread and other staple foods, aiming to build a environmentally sustainable future for the food and agriculture industry.

For more information, 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.

USDA signs agreement with Agriculture Future of America to prepare young people for careers in agriculture

December 12, 2023 - US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Agriculture Future of America (AFA), formalising a partnership to promote the common goals of strengthening the future competitiveness and sustainability of the US agriculture industry by preparing more young people for careers in agriculture.

"This partnership will enhance USDA's involvement with AFA and its leadership development and education mission,"said Secretary Vilsack. "This agreement reinforces USDA's commitment to preparing students for future careers in agriculture with an emphasis on federal sector employment."

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USDA and AFA will continue to collaborate on leadership development efforts, and link these young leaders with career opportunities in food, agricultural science, natural resources and related fields. Under the MOU, USDA commits to advancing opportunities for AFA delegates to participate in USDA programs, including internships. AFA will provide occasions for USDA to meet with AFA delegates to share information about these opportunities.

The MOU will be administered by USDA's Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE), which develops and maintains partnerships focused on solutions to challenges facing rural and underserved communities and connections those communities to the education, tools and resources available to them through USDA programs and initiatives.

"Our collaboration with USDA signifies a shared vision for the future of American agriculture," said Mark Stewart, President and CEO of AFA. "This MOU is not just a document; it's a commitment to bridging the gap between talent and opportunity. This agreement reinforces our belief that connecting young leaders with USDA initiatives will enrich their careers and contribute to a more resilient and competitive agriculture industry."

AFA builds bridges for young leaders to foster engagement and innovation in food and agriculture through premier leader and career development experiences. With program participation increasing 28 percent in the last five years, AFA has provided 26,000 leader development experiences to college leaders and young professionals from more than 200 colleges and universities throughout 43 states since its inception in 1996. AFA have awarded more than US$11 million in academic and leader development scholarships. 

For more information, 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.

Challenging weather during harvest meant 'baptism of fire' for new Mecmar drier

December 12, 2023 - J Hind and Son's, Dunmore Hind, who with this father Alan, farms 800ha at Elm Tree Farm, near Grantham, Lincs, needs to combine his milling wheat as quickly as possible, despite its moisture content (mc), to retain its quality. The challenging weather during the last year's harvest meant that the Hinds' new Mecmar S 40 T mobile drier, had a baptism of fire.

Dunmore Hind 40t Mecmar

"We probably cut the first 2000t of our milling wheat at between 19-20 percent mc, and before that we had cut 400t of oats at 19 percent. So for 14 days the Mecmar ran constantly!" explained Dunmore Hind.

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The new drier, supplied by Sharman's of Stamford and installed by McArthur Agriculture, was the second phase of the Hinds' upgrade of their grain processing capabilities.

"Tom Barker from Sharman's knew that we were looking to make changes to our grain drying and storage facilities and suggested that we talk to the McArthur Agriculture team to work with us on Phase 1 of the development," said Hind.

Following a site visit, McArthur Agriculture designed a system, incorporating the Hinds' old drier, fed by a 12m long Skandia Elevator 60tph I-Line trench intake conveyor housed in an existing building to utilise existing space. The intake is designed with prefabricated component parts, concrete trough sections and pre-fabricated grids make the instillation an easy process.

An existing hopper was retained to provide the flexibility of tipping large amounts of grain into the intake or to tip smaller quantities of seed into the drier. From the drier, grain is transported via 3 x 120tph Skandia I-Line conveyors to a purpose-built 3000t grain store.

The design also included a small building, located next to the intake, which enabled the housing of the existing drier but was future proofed to allow for further development.

Phase 1 was up and running and performed well during harvest 2022 but, for harvest 2023 the Hinds were looking at increasing the amount of milling wheat grown so timely harvesting was even more important.

"We realised that we needed to invest in a bigger drier. Following further discussions with McArthur around Phase 2, we purchased a Mecmar S 40 T which was installed together with an additional conveyor giving us additional flexibility to store grain in another shed, in time for harvest 2023," continued Hind.

The Hinds opted to install the latest Mecmar automation control system which features a touchscreen interface with remote access via smartphone or laptop. The control panel now interfaces with a new Mecmar grain moisture probe which automatically tests the grain to ensure unloading can only happen when grain is dry and cool.

If the reading is outside the predefined settings, then an alert is sent to the operator who is able to control whether the grain should be discharged or if it needs further drying.

Most driers have just one option around the discharge of grain. It is discharged when the right temperature has been reached or, a moisture probe is used to test the mc at the end of drying. Neither option is perfect.

"The new grain moisture probe is a double-check as it uses the temperature of the grain which is then validated by the measurement of the mc. This helps to ensure that grain continuously goes into storage at the optimum mc," said Hind.

"Apart from having to stop the drier to check belt tensions, receiving an alert on my phone or seeing a flashing light on the control panel telling me that the bearings need greasing, the Mecmar just keeps working!" concluded Hind.

For more information, 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.

COP28's Food, Agriculture and Water Day secures major commitments to address climate impacts and keep 1.5C within reach

December 11, 2023 - COP28's Food, Agriculture and Water Day saw major announcements on climate action for both water and food security and decarbonisation, as countries demonstrated their commitment to implement the COP28 UAE Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action (the Declaration).

H.E Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment and COP28 Food Systems Lead, said: "To achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement, to keep 1.5C within reach, we must address the connection between global food systems, agriculture and the climate. At COP28, we have built the foundations for action, which commit 152 countries to transform their food systems, and embedding those commitments in their climate strategies, all the while ensuring they are protecting the livelihoods of those who depend on those sectors. Together, we must build a global food system that is fit for the future. Today marks an important moment in achieving this."

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COP28's Food, Agriculture and Water Day closed the Presidency's two-week thematic program. The announcements made during the day follow those made during the World Climate Action Summit (WCAS) on December 1, when 134 countries endorsed the Declaration. Since then, 18 additional countries have stepped forward to endorse it, bringing total signatories to 152. Reflecting the COP28 UAE's Presidency's commitment to inclusion, the COP28 Food, Agriculture and Water Day involved a variety of non-government stakeholders, who were invited to share their perspectives and insights. This included smallholder and traditional farmers, fishers and communities who work at the frontline of food system transformation and employ sustainable practices like agroforestry, organic farming, paludiculture and local freshwater management, among others. Private sector leaders also showcased their work in food innovation, nature-positivity and procurement.

Key announcements on food systems transformation during Food, Agriculture and Water Day included:

The Agriculture Innovation Mission For Climate (AIM4Climate)

The Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate (AIM4Climate) announced an increased US$3.4 billion in aggregated funding for climate-smart food systems and agriculture, as well as 27 new innovation sprints. Launched by the UAE and US at COP26, AIM4Climate has evolved into the largest advocacy and coordination platform for increased investment in dual climate-food investment.

Philanthropic funders announced US$389 million to support food producers and consumers

The funding will help to drive ambitious implementation of the objectives that leaders agreed in the Declaration.

Technical Cooperation Collaborative (TCC)

Building on a US$200 million commitment from the COP28 Presidency and a group of international organisations and governments to support the TCC, Italy pledged a further commitment of up to EUR€10 million to be made available over the next two years, and the United Kingdom announced a new commitment of £45 million over the next five years which will be channeled through the World Bank's Food Systems 2030 Trust Fund.

Commenting on the TCC, Manuel Otero, Director-General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), said: "This is the right response to the multiple crises we face. The greater the crises, the deeper and more effective the cooperation must be. From the America, we also affirm that because of the volume of production and participation in global trade, the agrifood systems of our continent guarantee the world's food and nutritional security. They are not failed agrifood systems, but there is room for improvement. Their transformation must be guided by three principles: farmers must be at the centre of efforts, decisions must be based on science and agriculture must play a key role in climate solutions."

Dr Agnes Kalibata, President of AGRA and member of the COP28 Advisory Committee said: "African leaders have come to COP28 ready to lead on food systems and climate action, as the impact of climate change is already being felt in countries across the continent. This collaborative will help respond to the priorities our African leaders brought forward in the Africa Climate Summit and Africa Food Systems Forum. The need is so great that we must best leverage our combined resources and learn from each other in order to come through on the bold vision of the COP28 UAE Declaration on Agriculture and Food.

Call to Action for Transforming Food Systems for People, Nature, and Climate

H.E Razan Al Mubarak, UN High Level Champion for COP28 announced that over 200 diverse non-State actors-including farmers, cities, businesses, financial institutions, civil society and philanthropies-have signed the 'Call to Action for Transforming Food Systems for People, Nature, and Climate', a complement to the Declaration. Signatories have committed to take ten priority actions to transform food systems. They have also united to call for a set of time-bound, holistic and global targets by COP29 at the latest, and included commitments to respect and value the traditional knowledge of indigenous peoples.

Convergence Initiative on Food Systems and Climate

The UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, announced a Convergence Initiative on Food Systems and Climate, which will support countries in their efforts to integrate agriculture and food systems into their climate action plans and help drive momentum towards the objectives of the Declaration. The initiative is supported by the UN Declaration. The initiative is supported by the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub in strategic partnership with the COP28 UAE Presidency.

Agrifood Sharm-El Sheikh Support Program

The COP28 UAE Presidency, FAO, the World Bank, CGIAR and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) announced the creation of the Agrifood Sharm-El Sheikh Support Program, a three-year program to facilitate dialogue and knowledge-sharing amongst global and regional policymakers. The program aims to drive consensus within the UNFCCC process and ultimately enable countries and regions to unlock finance and support for farmers, food producers, small agribusinesses and local communities.

Commenting on the creation of the Agrifood Sharm-El Sheikh Support Program, Ismahane Elouafi, Executive Managing Director, CGIAR, said: "If we act urgently to transform our agrifood systems through the adoption of proven technologies and innovations, we can end hunger for all and grow prosperity within safe planetary boundaries. By pooling our efforts, we can support countries, namely in the global south, to develop and implement their national pathways based on science and evidence. Together, with science, we can."

COP28 Food-Agri-Climate National Action Toolkit for National Adaptation Plans (NAPS) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCS)

A Taskforce comprised of the FAO, WWF, the NDC Partnership, Climate Focus and the Global Alliance for the Future of Food launched the 'COP28 Food-Agri-Climate National Action Toolkit for National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)'. Created in collaboration with the German government, the toolkit will provide guiding principles for governments to enhance their climate policy framework and represents a vital source for countries as they implement the Declaration.

Alliance of Champions for Food Systems Transformation

A new coalition was formed by Brazil, Cambodia, Norway and Sierra Leone aimed at helping reorient policies, practices and investment priorities to deliver better food systems outcomes for people, nature and climate. Each country that has formed the ACF pledged to improve their national food systems and build on the progress of the Declaration.

Key water-focused outcomes of the Food, Agriculture and Water Day included:

COP ministerial dialogue on building water-resilient food systems

The COP28 UAE Presidency and Ministers from more than 25 countries convened the first-ever COP ministerial dialogue on building water-resilient food systems, co-convened by the UAE and Brazil. A two-year partnership was also launched under the UNFCCC to assist countries with integrating water and food into their NDCs and NAP, targeting COP30, noting that agriculture accounts for 70 percent of freshwater consumption.

Water and Climate-Resilient Infrastructure Investment Strategy

US$100 million was announced by Water Equity, raised as part of their Water and Climate-Resilient Infrastructure Investment Strategy.

This will seek to leverage impact investments in climate-resilient water infrastructure to enhance the coping capacity for the most vulnerable communities at the urban water system and watershed levels in emerging markets in South and Southeast Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America.

Urban Water Catalyst Initiative (UWCI)

Germany and the Netherlands, together with the EU and other international partners, announced the intention to establish the Urban Water Catalyst Initiative (UWCI) at the UN 2023 Water Conference. The UWCI focuses on accelerating urban water utility turnarounds worldwide and mobilising finance for performance improvement, climate-resilient infrastructure investment and improving access to underserved population groups.

At COP28, €42 million in funding was announced for the UWCI including €32 million from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and €10 million from the Netherlands' Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Freshwater Challenge

The COP28 UAE Presidency and partners announced more than 30 new country members of the Freshwater Challenge, which commits members to work to protect and restore 30 percent of the Earth's degraded freshwater ecosystems by 2030. During the Food, Agriculture and Water Day ministerial, members also committed to progress reviews at the upcoming One Water Summit and Ramsar COP.

The announcements today on water build on outcomes from the World Climate Action Summit. The UAE pledged US$150 million in funding for innovation to address water scarcity and eight Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) announced that they will double the number of people benefitting annually from their technical and financial support on water within 3 years.

The COP28 Water Agenda is anchored in its partnership with the Netherlands and Tajikistan. Its aim is to implement the outcomes of the UN 2023 Water Conference.

Commenting on the COP28 Water Agenda and Freshwater Challenge, Stuart Orr, WWF Freshwater Lead said: "the climate crisis is a water crisis and the COP28 Presidency has ensured that water is higher up the agenda than ever before. We urgently need to protect and restore our rivers, lakes and wetlands, which are central to mitigation and adaptation."

For more information, 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.

OF&G white paper highlights benefits of 10 percent organic English farmed area

December 11, 2023 - Organic Farmers & Growers (OF&G) has published a white paper evidencing how a shift to greater organic land use in England to 10 percent would significantly deliver on Government's environmental objectives.

Roger Kerr, chief executive at OF&G (Organic Farmers & Growers)

'Growing organic - a multifunctional component of English land use policy' identifies how a three-fold increase in organic land use area would reduce total agriculture-related greenhouse gas emissions equal to the carbon sequestered by a third of a million acres of broad-leaved woodland.

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Synthetic fertilisers and pesticides are prohibited, although some specified materials can be used in organic farming therefore fertiliser use would be reduced by a figure equivalent to 179,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate and over a million kilos of pesticide active ingredients would not be applied each year.

OF&G's chief executive, Roger Kerr puts these figures into perspective: "It's the same as removing 8840 full lorry loads of fertiliser every year. If you parked the lorries bumper to bumper, they'd stretch fro central London to Rugby."

By removing artificial inputs, the OF&G white paper also highlights biodiversity improvements. In organic systems, arable plant species were found to be up to 95 percent higher, field margin plant species up to 21 percent higher, farmland bird species increased by 35 percent, pollinators are up by 23 percent and earthworm species increased by 78 percent.

"Organic farming at its heart seeks to work with and enhance natural processes and ecosystems. Our report evidences organic farming's contribution to delivering necessary climate and biodiversity restoration goals while still producing nutritious food," says Mr Kerr.

OF&G believes the white paper demonstrates how supporting organic, as part of an integrated land use framework, is a crucial step towards a viable, productive, low carbon economy.

"Continuing to feed people in the face of climate and biodiversity collapse is a complex problem and complex problems require versatile and multifaceted solutions like organic," he adds.

"Underwritten by clearly defined and auditable legal standards, organic is proven significant improvement in public goods delivery and natural capital gains.

"We recognise there's no single 'right' way to produce food. To answer the critical challenges we face effectively, we must combine different approaches to ensure we reflect the land's topology and climate, alongside the management experience of farmers.

"This is why we're calling for greater Government support for organic farming as it provides one simple, obvious and easy quantifiable route to take in addressing the multiple environmental challenges we currently face.

"Organic farming is a standard and practice that already operates within planetary boundaries. It's not a dream. There's clear scientific evidence gathered over many years of its positive impacts and so it represents a clear direction of travel towards a low carbon, and nature and people positive food production system," says Mr Kerr.

The 'Growing organic - a multifunctional component of English land use policy' white paper is available to download 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.