EuroTier partners third International PRO Milk'24 FORUM and QazaqSut Exhibition in Kazakhstan

May 31, 2024 - The third International Forum on dairy farming and processing 'PRO Milk'24' and the QAZAQSut Industry Invest'24 Meeting and QazaqSut exhibition will take place on July 4-5 in Astana, Kazakhstan, at the Balkaragai Recreation Area. The organisers are the Chamber of Dairy and Combined Breeds of Cattle QazaqSut, together with the Dairy Union of Kazakhstan, the Meat and Dairy Union, in cooperation with Agro Industry KZ. The QAZAQsut exhibition and the Forum will cover all relevant aspects of dairy farming and milk processing.

The only events in Kazakhstan offering extensive international perspectives on the dairy industry, the 'PROMilk' forum and the 'QazaqSut' exhibition host domestic and foreign experts who will share their experience in raw milk production and milk processing with farming professionals in practical formats, including interactive events. This year, EuroTier - the leading trade fair for animal farming and professional livestock management - will be partnering the two-day forum event.

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"The EuroTier exhibition, which takes place in Hanover in Germany every two years, attracts a large number of decision-makers from Kazakhstan. With this partnership at PROMilk and QazaqSut, we want to develop relations with dairy professionals further," says Dr Olga Hunger, Area Director Eastern Europe, DLG eV.

Organised by the German Agricultural Society (DLG), a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting agricultural knowledge across borders, EuroTier will support the event with professional expertise and recommend companies to participate.

Comprehensive specialist programme on dairy farming and milk processing

The forum program includes presentations titled 'Business management', 'Construction and modernisation of farms', 'Genetics and herd management', 'Feed and rations', 'Veterinary medicine' as well as talks on 'Requirements for processing plants and laboratories', 'New technologies and opportunities in milk processing' and a session on 'Successful production practices' with experienced technologies and owners of milk processing plants.

The QAZAQSut Industry Invest'24 Meeting, will take place on July 4, 2024, as part of the technical program PRO Milk'24 Forum. Future-oriented investment projects and fields of activity in Kazakhstan for manufacturers and suppliers in the dairy farming and milk processing sectors will be presented. Currently there is great demand not only for animal genetics, technology and operating resources, but also for consumables such as rubber mats, steel pipes and nozzles. The construction of drying plants for the sublimation of fruit and berries for yoghurt production and the manufacture of packaging are other business areas that show development potential in the country. Participating companies can expect to receive ideas, advice and tips for expanding their business activities in Kazakhstan. 

The sessions will cover the general conditions and procedure for sales and distribution, setting up local production tapping into the local supply chain.

Organisers expect high turnout as companies still signing up

Around 500 participants from Kazakhstan and abroad are expected to attend. The annual meeting of milk producers and processors will take place on the fringes of the forum, attended by members if the Kazakh Dairy Union (mainly from the milk processing industry) and the Republican Chamber of Dairy and Mixed Breeds. 

International companies can still register at the forum. It is also possible to participate as a sponsor.

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 opens registration for 2024 Liquid Feed Symposium

May 31, 2024 - The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) has opened registration for its annual Liquid Feed Symposium (LFS), which will be help from September 10-12, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Attendees will have the opportunity to listen to highly regarded speakers and learn about topics like methane mitigation, market outlooks, legislative and regulatory updates and other current issues impacting the liquid feed industry.

"If you are involved in the liquid feed industry, the LFS is the place to be this fall for quality education and networking,"said Paul Davis, PhD, AFIA's Director of Quality, Animal Food Safety and Education.

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The symposium hosted by AFIA's Liquid Feed Committee, focuses on current issues, growth, education and development specifically geared toward the liquid feed industry. The largest and longest-running event of its kind, it is designed to appeal to all segments of the liquid feed industry, including manufacturers, nutritionists, equipment manufacturers, sales and marketing, and additional industry support companies. 

In addition, the AFIA inducts an industry leader into the Liquid Feed Hall of Fame each year at the symposium. The Liquid Feed Hall of Fame recognises and honours individuals who have made significant contributions to the science and growth of the liquid feed industry.

The AFIA encourages attendees to register before Sunday, June 23, for discounted early-bird registration rates. 

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.

Yemmak hosts National Feed Industry Meeting

May 31, 2024 - On May 23 the 'Izlem 1st National Feed Industry Meeting,' hosted by Yemmak, was successfully held at the Ramada Hotel & Wyndham in Izmir/Kemalpaşa, with the participation of industry experts and leading companies in the sector.

The opening speech of the seminar was made by Yemmak's Business Development Director, Mahmut Tatlıdil. In his speech Tatlıdil addressed the topic of the 'Past and Future of Modern Feed Production and Feed Technologies,' emphasising the great importance of such events for sector stakeholders.

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Another important speaker, Adnan Zaimoğulları, a Nutrition Specialist from A-Z Consulting, provided practical information to the participants with his presentation on the 'Structure of Feed Rations and Nutrition Culture with the 2030 Target'.

Yemmak's R&D Director and Board Advisor, Birol Yuvalıoğulları, addressed the topic of 'Trends in Pelletising Technology'. He provided in-depth information on pelletising, covering everything from factors affecting pellet quality to Gear-Driven and Belt-Pulley Pellet Mills.

Curtis Strahm, Regional Sales Director of Wenger, shared his extensive knowledge and experience on extrusion technologies with his presentation titled 'Advantages and Future of Extrusion Technology,' explaining extrusion systems to the participants.

Ahmet Ümit and Erkan Gürsoy from Yemmak's Control and Automation Department informed the participants about Algorithms and Yemmak IQ in Feed Factories with their presentations on Talking Factories and ERP System Integration in Feed Factories.

The final presentation of the seminar was made by Project Management Director Emre Pınar Kılıç, who addressed the topic of Incentive Advantages in the Correct Project and Investment Process/IPARD 3 Supports, thanking the speakers and the organising team for their contributions to the seminar.

Interactive sessions encouraged knowledge exchange among participants, allowing them to ask questions and share their views with the expert.

The seminar concluded with the satisfaction and positive feedback of the participants.

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.

NFU secures greater support for farm businesses

May 30, 2024 - The government has listened to the National Farmers Union's (NFU) call for greater government support to help more farm businesses recover after relentless heavy rain and devastating flooding across the country.

It comes after the wettest 18 months since 1836 which have left vast swathes of agricultural land saturated and, in many cases, still under water. Many arable farmers have been unable to plant crops and have lost those that were in the ground, while livestock farmers have endured an incredibly difficult lambing season. With farm business planning needing long-term stability, many farms will be dealing with the impacts for months and even years to come.

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A recent NFU survey highlighted the toll this has taken on farm business confidence, which has hit an all-time low across England and Wales.

The government has now taken on board more of the NFU's asks which will help more farmers and growers get the support they need to recover and rebuild. These include:

• Measures to improve on farm cash flow, with the second instalment (50%) of delinked payments moving forward to September rather than December, and reaffirmation that members will receive the first instalment (50%) in August.
• Widening the scope of the Farm Recovery Fund to offer support to farms which have been damaged due to extreme rainfall as well as river breaches.

In a post on X, Defra Secretary of State Steve Barclay has also said the NFU's proposals for government-backed loans merit detailed consideration. These loans would help with cashflow, support farm business resilience and bolster longer-term investment across UK farming.

NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: "After months of discussions, it's really good news that the government has listened to our calls for additional financial support for farm businesses.

"Against the backdrop of some of the most challenging commercial and weather conditions in living memory, which has resulted in plummeting business confidence, these measures will provide some critical relief to many member businesses which have been facing a very uncertain future because of exceptional cashflow pressures.

"I'm particularly pleased that the Secretary of State is supporting serious consideration of our proposed loans. While we understand any decision will be delayed due to the general election, we will continue to work with the future government on this proposal as we know how beneficial it would be in stabilising cashflow, building resilience and enabling investment, all of which are crucial to our national food security.

"The measures announced today will not solve all the issues we're facing on farm, but I am confident they will go some way to lifting some of the immediate strain on family farms and help farmers and growers to get back to doing what they do best - producing high quality, sustainable food for the British people."

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.

Bühler launches automatic bagging station with Premier Tech

May 30, 2024 - Bühler, in partnership with Premier Tech, introduces the CHRONOS OML-1140 B automatic open-mouth bagging station. Engineered to accommodate an array of granular and free-flowing products, this fully automatic station enhances productivity by ensuring consistent operation, precise bagging performance, as well as the highest product and operational safety standards.

The system's advanced bagging precision - with accuracy of +0.2 percent at 2 sigma for 25kg bags - is a direct result of its sophisticated dosing and weighing technologies paired with smart control systems. The station's robust design for bag management contributes to its impressive estimated production capacity, handling up to 1200 bags per hour for 25kg bags, thus ensuring maximum uptime. Additionally, its hygienic construction and extensive safety measures align with Bühler's commitment to superior food and human safety protocols.

The CHRONOS OML-1140 B completes the OML-B Series, enhancing efficiencies and profitability for food and feed production sectors globally.

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.

CESCO EPC launches project in Saudi Arabia with United Feed Company

May 30, 2024 - CESCO EPC, a leading German company specialising in grain storage and processing plants, is pleased to announce its new project in collaboration with United Feed Company (UFC) in Saudi Arabia. This project exemplifies CESCO's commitment to innovation and adaptability to meet the unique challenges of the region.

Large-Scale Storage Capacity

The project includes 15 corrugated steel flat-bottom storage silos with a total capacity of over 20,512 tonnes. Additionally, CESCO will provide conveying equipment for a flat storage warehouse for soy meal, covering a total surface area of 3800m². This substantial storage capacity allows UFC to maintain a strategic reserve of essential feedstock materials, mitigating the impact of potential supply chain disruptions.

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High-Capacity Handling

The plant is designed to receive, transport and store free-flowing materials like grains, cereals and oilseeds. With dedicated high capacity 2x400t/h receiving lines for grains and 2x125t/h for soy meal, the facility can handle a significant daily intake, ensuring a consistent supply of raw materials for UFC's production needs.

Efficient Pre-Cleaning and Weighing

Grains undergo a thorough pre-cleaning process using advanced rotary cleaners and magnet pipes to remove impurities. Flow scales integrated into the system ensure accurate weighing of incoming materials, optimising production efficiency and cost control.

Flexible Reclaiming and Distribution

The plant features a versatile reclaiming and recycling system that allows for efficient distribution of stored materials. Grain can be directed to bulk truck out-loading silos, bagging lines, or back to storage based on production requirements.

Advanced Conveyor Technology

CESCO's innovative chain conveyors, belt bucket elevators and roller belt conveyors are incorporated throughout the facility. These conveyors offer several advantages, including improved cleanability, reduced maintenance needs, and a modular design for easier transport and installation.

Simultaneous Operations

The design of the plant enables simultaneous operation of various processes. For example, grain and soy meal receiving/loading can occur concurrently, maximising overall efficiency and throughput.

Designed for Future Expansion

The design accommodates future expansion with an additional nine corrugated steel flat-bottom storage silos, increasing the total capacity by over 123,091 tonnes to reach a combined capacity of 328, 243 tonnes. Additionally, the sot meal storage capacity will be doubled to a total of 7,600m².

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.

Taras Vysotskyi: The Ministry of Agrarian Policy is developing mechanisms for transparent and unhindered exports

May 30, 2024 - In the process of developing the agricultural sector and, in particular, the grain industry, it is important to implement changes in line with EU norms and standards. One of the most urgent changes is to create mechanisms to combat shadow exports of grains and oilseeds, and to establish clear rules for all market participants. 

This was stated by Taras Vysotskyi, Acting Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, in his speech at the Ukrainian Grain Conference. 

According to him, it is necessary to create conditions for transparent and unhindered exports. To this end, the Ministry of Agrarian Policy is working to set minimum export prices for agricultural products, primarily for grains and oilseeds. In addition, a system of product traceability and crop predictability is being developed.

"The Ministry of Agrarian Policy is developing a mechanism that would allow us to effectively predict the maximum yield of different crops. In addition, amendments to the legislation on the application of the export security regime for the period of martial law and the state of emergency have been adopted, which sets minimum export prices. At the same time, it is necessary to determine a price level that will be in line with market prices but will not stop exports," said Taras Vysotskyi.

In addition, the Acting Minister spoke about the support programmes for farmers. He noted that the government is currently paying special attention to helping farmers in the areas of military risk. That is, in the de-occupied territories, areas of possible/active hostilities, and in the frontline zone.

A number of government support programmes are available for agricultural producers this year:

• 'Affordable Loans 5-7-9'. Agricultural producers can get a load of up to UAH 90 million, and processing companies can get a loan of up to UAH 150 million;
• Grants for the development of gardens and greenhouses - up to UAH 7 million of UAH 10 million, respectively;
• Compensation of up to 50 percent of the cost of restoration and construction of reclamation systems; compensation of the cost of domestic agricultural machinery - up to 25 percent;
• Small farmers who cultivate up to 120 hectares in the de-occupied territories will be able to receive UAH 8000 of non-refundable aid per hectare, and UAH 4000 in the government-controlled territory.

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.

2024 USPOULTRY Poultry Processor Workshop offers Master Class in full range of plant operations

May 30, 2024 - Poultry industry professionals from around the country recently met in Nashville, Tennessee, for USPOULTRY's 2024 Poultry Processor Workshop. Attendees were provided with a wealth of resources for every aspect of plant operations, including leading effectively, meeting customer and regulatory requirements, incorporating new technology and collaborating between departments to maximise results.

Wayne-Sanderson Farms President, CEO and Chairman of the Board Clint Rivers speaking at the 2024 Poultry Processor Workshop.

Clint Rivers, Wayne-Sanderson Farms President, CEO and Chairman of the board, began the Poultry Processor Workshop with a discussion on leadership. and focusing on the underlying processes rather than the end result. The 'Three Cs' of leadership - credibility, competency and caring - were identified as a starting point for leadership and coaching for the growth and development of others was identified as a key leadership strategy. The effectiveness of the Wayne-Sanderson Farms' Process Focus initiative and its emphasis on continuous improvement was also discussed.

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USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service Under Secretary Dr Emilio Esteban provided a regulatory update to attendees, detailing several different agency initiatives and priorities. The reduction of poultry-related salmonella illnesses, including the recent Not-Ready-To-Eat (NRTE) Breaded Stuffed Chicken Final Rule, was discussed. Emerging techniques such as genomics, vaccination and enumeration were also explored in the context of salmonella illness reduction.

Kevin Atkins, Vice President of Food Safety and Regulatory Affairs at Perdue Farms, discussed Salmonella process control throughout the life of the bird and throughout the processing plant. A proposed sampling program was shared, including location and frequency, to assess the effectiveness of salmonella reduction throughout the plant. Modeling of intervention effectiveness throughout the process was also demonstrated, with commentary on particular stages in the process and their contribution to the reduction of microbial loads. 

Lynda Loudermilk, Senior Scientist at KFC/Yum! Brands, gave attendees a window into a customer's view of animal welfare. After an introduction to KFC and Yum! Brands, Loudermilk waled attendees through supplier expectations, beginning with the five freedoms of animal welfare. Other supplier expectations, such as the Yum! Sustainable Animal Protein Principles, and sustainability metrics, were outlined. Loudermilk noted that chicken, due to its sales volume throughout the company, receives the greatest emphasis in animal welfare and said that KFC/Yum! are working to "Increase transparency, create consistency across brands, improve data collection, and communicate progress and challenges" to stakeholders.

Eddie Fortier, Area Operations Manager for Wayne-Sanderson Farms, discussed his experience with plant automation. He noted that there are several reasons for automation, including volume, quality, safety, profit margins, labour challenges and customer desires. While discussing each motivation, Fortner provided a real-life example of related equipment along with its advantages and disadvantages.

Dr Brandon Armload, Director of Vet Services for Pilgrim's, closed the workshop with a discussion of how live production can assist with plant operation challenges. Dr Armwood explored six areas where plant operations and live production can work together, including feed withdrawal, salmonella monitoring and control, paw quality, uniformity, DOAs and condemnations. For each of the issues, several suggestions were offered that can help improve bird welfare and food safety, as well as maximise yield.

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.

Official opening of ILDEX Vietnam 2024

May 29, 2024 - VNU Asia Pacific and ITEC announced the official opening of the ninth ILDEX Vietnam - International Livestock, Dairy, Meat Processing and Aquaculture Exposition. The event is set to run from May 29-31, 2024, at SECC, Ho Chi Minh City.

The official opening event includes a speech by Mr Phung Duc Tien - Deputy Minister of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, a supporting speech by Ms Wiraka Moodhitaporn, Consul-General of Thailand in Ho Chi Minh City, and an opening speech by Mr Igor Palka, Managing Director of VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific Co Ltd. The ceremony will also feature a ribbon-cutting event with VIPs from MARD and leaders of associations, followed by a tour for VIPs and delegates to visit the show.

"On behalf of VNU Asia Pacific, we are delighted to welcome you to the 9th ILDEX Vietnam. This year, we host over 220 exhibitors from more than 32 countries, with 85 percent of the space featuring international brands showcasing the latest innovations in agriculture and livestock technology. Vietnam, a key player in livestock production and export, serves as the perfect marketplace for this industry. Our 'Hosted Buyer Program' invites prominent buyers from Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, China and Vietnam to explore business opportunities and to forge connections. Event highlights include the Meat Pro Pavilion, the HAN Select Vietnam Conference, and over 50 sessions on sustainable agriculture, innovative farming, and the latest trends in livestock-farm businesses," said Mr Igor Palka, Managing Director of VNU Asia Pacific Co Ltd. "Thank you for joining us at ILDEX Vietnam 2024. Together, let us advance our shared goals for a sustainable and prosperous future in agriculture and livestock. See you again at ILDEX Philippines 2024," he added.

"Food and agriculture are key industries for Thailand and are pivotal in transforming our country into a global industrial hub under the Thailand Vision 2040 'Ignite Thailand,' which was unveiled by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Vietnam, ranking first in ASEAN and sixth globally in pork production, is a key player in the global animal husbandry market. ILDEX Vietnam aligns with Vietnam's Animal Husbandry Development Strategy for 2021-2030 and Vision for 2045, aiding in integrating Vietnam's economy into the global supply chain and enhancing global food security," said Ms Wiraka Moodhitaporn, Consul-General of Thailand in Ho Chi Minh City. "ILDEX Vietnam provides an excellent opportunity to combine the strengths of Thailand and Vietnam in the food and agricultural industries, in line with the 'Three Connects' strategy proposed by Thailand to strengthen the local economies of both countries through cooperation and collaboration," she added.

"ILDEX Vietnam, held every two years, is an opportunity for businesses to display and introduce innovative technology and products. At the same time, this is also a forum for state management agencies, training organisations, scientific and technological research, association, businesses and experts etc, to contact, learn, update and apply advanced scientific and technologies of the world; exchange and discuss the current situation, advantages and disadvantages, directions and solutions for developing the livestock and aquaculture industry. In particular, the organiser also hold 15 seminar sessions with over 2000 people registered to attend. With the purpose of connecting managers, domestic and international businesses to cooperate and exchange issues about Animal husbandry Management, Nutrition, Food, Disease Prevention and Treatment; Introducing new technical advances, accessing comprehensive solutions for safe and sustainable livestock farming; Sharing safe farming experiences to ensure animal welfare," said Mr Phung Duc Tien, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development.

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.

AGI highlights 2023 ESG performance in Sustainability Report

May 29, 2024 - Ag Growth International Inc (AGI) has released its 2023 Sustainability Report. The report highlights AGI's recent performance and achievements across a range of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) topics.

"I am pleased to share our 2023 Sustainability Report which not only highlights our ongoing commitment to support global food security but also our progress on a number of other priority focus areas that fit within AGI's sustainability strategy more broadly," commented Paul Householder, President & CEO of AGI. "I am energised by the commitment and efforts of AGI's global employee base in advancing our sustainability goals as a team. This type of united effort is a hallmark of the One AGI culture we are building across the organisation."

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Highlights from the report include progress on employee safety, employee engagement and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, among others. Key highlights include:

• Details of AGI's contribution to support global food security and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
• Significant improvements in safety performance, with a reduction in their Lost Time Incident Rate by 27 percent and in their Total Recordable Incident Rate by 43 percent from 2022 levels
• Results of their first ever employee engagement survey which obtained an 89 percent employee engagement score
• Setting a target to reduce their GHG emissions intensity by 25 percent by 2030, compared to the 2021 baseline
• Issuing their first report aligned with the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD)

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.

JK Machinery's VibroCompact Intercropper from McArthur BDC takes centre stage at Groundswell 2024

May 29, 2024 - The JK machinery JCC 08 VibroCompact Intercropper from McArthur BDC, enables cost effective cleaning and separation of intercrops in a single pass. This simple machine removes the post-harvest headache for farmers growing intercrops, and will support the many businesses benefitting from the reduced growing costs and increased gross margins that intercrops can offer.

JK Machinery’s VibroCompact Intercropper from McArthur BDC

"With the increasing interest in intercropping, driven by the high cost of inputs, wider adoption of regenerative practises and new contract opportunities, we need to offer cleaning and separating equipment to meet the requirements of farming enterprises of all sizes. Especially those taking the first steps in intercropping," explained John McArthur, MD of McArthur BDC, the exclusive distributor for JK Machinery in the UK and Ireland.

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The VibroCompact Intercropper, which will take centre stage on the McArthur BDC Stand PF F30 at Groundswell 2024, is the latest edition to JK Machinery's range of cleaning and sorting equipment and is designed for farmers looking to process mixed crops below five tonnes per hour.

The VibroCompact Intercropper is the smaller version of JK Machinery's already established VibroMAX Intercropper which can separate mixed crops at up to 10 tonnes per hour.

"Both Intercropper models are triple decked, equipped with three vibrating sieves, instead of the more normal two, which enables the cleaning and separation of bi-crops to a high standard in a single pass," said McArthur. "Each crop is aspirated at the inlet and then individually, on the outlet, delivering the best possible results and allowing individual crops to meet premium specifications in a single pass."

The VibroCompact Intercropper separates the incoming mixed crops into seven fractions. Firstly, it aspirates all crop on the inlet, removing light impurities. The top screen then removes large impurities. The mixed crop then drops onto the middle screen which separates the larger grains, typically beans or peas, from the smaller grains, typically oats or wheat; these smaller grains drop onto the bottom screen where the fine impurities are removed. Both the crops are then individually aspirated at the outlet.

Intercropping is an increasingly popular option for farmers adopting more regenerative farming practices as it helps to reduce the need for artificial inputs, increases water and nutrient utilisation, drives up pest and disease resistance and weed suppression, at the same time as improving soil health.

"The additional £55 per hectare from the Sustainable Farming Incentive's IMP3 action supports intercropping's gross margin," added McArthur.

John Cherry, who with his brother Paul founded the Groundswell event, has invested in a VibroMAX Intercropper, recognising that it is key to the post-harvest cleaning capability that is invaluable in a regenerative farming system.

"Intercropping is the future as it becomes an integral part of regenerative farming. McArthur BDC with its range of cleaning and grading equipment, can help farmers to make the transition to intercropping by providing the cleaning and grading machines to quickly and easily separate different crops, increasing their value post-harvest," concluded Cherry.

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.

Process optimisation through full implementation of SGA and MES systems

May 29, 2024 - Symaga has successfully managed to fully implement its new SGA and MES IT systems, enabling them to more efficiently control and manage the inventory of their raw material and finished product warehouse.

SGA now allows Symaga to carry out their raw material reception process in real time, which is also interconnected with their ERP System, allowing immediate use of the incoming material and ultimately leading to a more efficient storage system. Inventory is streamlined using DataMatrix codes in order to speed up the whole process and capable of managing a large volume of products, quickly and accurately.

In addition, the new SGA systems improve the entire picking and loading operations by optimising the allocation of package within the warehouse, promoting efficiency and safety.

Symaga says that MES improves their product quality and manufacturing control. Quality control is automated, indicating to the operators when to perform the necessary checks. All different machines can be monitored in real time recording and reporting all incidents detected by operators, improving production management. The integration of MES system facilitates the orders preparation from the factory, optimising the creation of packing lists and improving the shipments of orders through terminals with code readers to register them in real-time, reducing human errors.

The Spanish Certification Agency ACEI has awarded Symaga a Certificate in Technological Innovation for the design and development of an overall integral system contributing to the digital transformation to industry 4.0 during the implementation of the SGA and MES system.

The management of warehouses and production with intelligent digital technology is enabling Symaga to increase the efficiency and productivity. This translates into reducing costs and faster and more efficient delivery of their silos, which fosters competitiveness and their vision 'Become the largest manufacturer of storage solutions worldwide'.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-bNejzQ63Y

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.

Conveyor fires: causes and prevention

May 28, 2024 - Martin Engineering is dedicated to conveyor safety by educating the bulk handling industry on the hazards of conveyor fires. With the Foundations Learning Center, the largest comprehensive free conveyor training archive on the web, Martin experts give detailed insight into the causes and prevention of deadly fires. This article, written in collaboration with the authors of 'Foundations for Conveyor Safety', gives an overview of how to improve workplace safety.

 

Causes of belt fires

To create a fire there must be three elements: oxygen, heat and fuel (aka, 'the fire triangle'). One factor that makes conveyor fires so hazardous is that the belt itself can be the fuel. According to a study of belt fires conducted by National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), any of the standard neoprene, PVC, chloroprene and BELT-approved SBR belts can ignite. Although some belts were self-extinguishing, the conclusion is that there is no non-flammable belt, particularly when accompanies by a combustible material.

Friction

Inadequate belt cleaning in the discharge zone can lead to dust and carry back on the return side of the belt, causing a fouled tail pulley to run under a stalled belt, causing a fouled tail pulley to run under a stalled belt, which creates tremendous heat.

Dust emissions of any kind (combustible or noncombustible) originating from the loading or discharge zones have a tendency to foul rolling components, leading to failure of the seals and then contamination in the bearings and eventually causing the roller to seize. A rolling component can also stall if impact or cargo weight causes the bearings to collapse. Continuous frictional contact with a seized idler or the roller face can cause a loaded belt to exceed safe operational temperatures. It can also potentially result in extreme wear on the belt, degrading the main fire-retardant layer and exposing the heat-sensitive materials found in the belt's inner construction.

Controlling fugitive material

Fugitive material control and regular cleaning of spillage are imperative. Without proper belt cleaning, chute sealing and belt tracking, spillage that collects around the loading/discharge areas and along the belt path can damage moving components, restrict access by fire crews and potentially act as fuel.

Dust control is extremely important when handling combustible substances, and it is recommended - instead of just taking into account the fire triangle - operators consider the 'Dust Explosion Pentagon.' Examples of highly combustible materials include:

• Coal - Carbon-based, highly flammable material that burns at high heat, with dust that is easily ignited by a spark.
• Petroleum coke (petcoke) - Carbon-rich derivative of oil processing, used as a coal alternative for power generation, among other applications. In dense concentrations, the dust is combustible with a high-energy spark.
• Cellulose - A naturally occurring polymer found in wood, paper and grains; dust readily ignites.

Significant amounts of dust can collect on the walls of the loading zone chute. If a foreign metal object is accidentally introduced into the enclosed area, a spark can potentially create an explosion. Additionally, common maintenance within the chute such as removal of the wear liner using a cutting torch often requires confined space entry by workers. If the inside of the chute is not adequately cleansed, this task could pose a serious hazard.

Think like a inspector

When examining conveyor equipment, one should approach the task with the same critical mindset as an inspector from OSHA, MSHA, or the local fire department. Safety professionals recommend a holistic view of the system and the combustibility of the material. When making a conveyor fire risk assessment, also consider:

• Spillage levels and cleaning schedules
• The conveyor's proximity to workstations
• How the conveyor design (enclosures, narrow walkways, etc) could create a hazard for employees
• Safe storage of flammable liquids
• Compliant signage

Considerations for conveyor fire prevention

Often, the potential return on investment (ROI) for prevention equipment isn't recognised until managers are inspecting burnt rubble and negotiating with insurance adjusters. However, safety-minded operators understand that the same equipment they would implement for increased such as belt cleaners and impact cradles, can also help prevent fires.

• Impact cradles and support cradles help reduce fugitive material by providing a flat, stable belt surface that facilitates effective sealing.
• Transfer chute design is a critical element of fugitive material control, which sufficient setting zones and confinement. New raised chute designs also allow for external wear liners that eliminate the need for confined space entry or torch removal. When paired with improved skirt seal designs, fugitive spillage and dust emissions are drastically reduced.
• Modern belt trackers detect mis-tracking and correct the belt path immediately using troughed idlers or gripping return idlers. 
• A heavy-duty belt cleaner system featuring modern primary and secondary cleaners with an effective tensioner increases the volume of discharge and limits the amount of carry back and fugitive dust. Along with limiting spillage, tail pulley health is improved and there is less fouling of rolling components.

Conclusion

Operators should regularly contain airborne dust at transfer points and remove accumulation. Damaged rollers must be replaced promptly. Conveyor belt alignment is also an essential prerequisite to belt safety. Consider using flame-resistant grease and other lubricants. Fire detection and suppression systems must be tested in accordance to regulatory standards. Experience has shown that clean conveyor systems and ongoing maintenance form the best defence against fire.

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 expands support for producers to stop the spread of H5N1 in dairy cattle

May 24, 2024 - Since the detection of H5N1 in dairy cattle in march, USDA has worked to assess the prevalence of the virus in US dairy herds and to use the latest scientific data to learn about the virus and to quickly contain the disease event As part of the multifaceted approach, on May 10, USDA announced several financial assistance options for producers with affected herds.

Yesterday, the USDA announced the expansion of some of these support options to include dairy producers whose herds have not tested positive for H5N1. USDA listened to feedback from state partners and industry stakeholders and is building on the Federal Order addressing pre-movement testing by further equipping producers with tools they can use to keep their herds and workers healthy and reduce risk of the virus spreading to additional herds. These financial tools include:

Support biosecurity planning and implementation

USDA will now provide financial support (up to US$1500 per premises) to any producer to develop and implement a biosecurity plan based on existing secure milk supply plans. This includes recommended enhanced biosecurity for individuals that frequently move between dairy farms - milk haulers, veterinarians, feed trucks, AI technicians etc. In addition, USDA will provide a US$100 payment to producers who purchase and use an in-line sampler for their milk system.

You may also be interested in:

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Reimburse producers for veterinary costs associated with sample collection for H5N1 testing.

USDA is supporting producers by covering fees for veterinarians to collect samples for H5N1 testing. Veterinary sample collection costs are eligible to be covered from April 29, 2024 (the date the Federal Order went into effect), up to US$2000 per premises.

Offset shipping costs for influenza A testing at laboratories in the National Animal Health Laboratory Network

USDA will pay for the cost of shipping samples to NAHLN labs for testing, not to exceed US$50 per shipment for up to two shipments per month for each premises. USDA is already providing no-cost testing at NAHLN laboratories for samples associated with this event (eg pre-movement, testing of sick/suspect animals, samples from concerned producers).

Interested producers should contact the APHIS Area Veterinarian in Charge (AVIC) to enrol.

For those producers with H5N1 affected herds, USDA is announcing additional details about how farmers will be compensated for the milk their cows do not produce because of illness.

Compensate producers for loss of milk production

USDA will soon issue a rule making funding available from the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees and Farm-raised Fish Program (ELAP) to compensate eligible producers with positive herds who experience loss of milk production. While dairy cows that have been infected with H5N1 generally recover well, and there is little mortality associated with the disease, it does dramatically limit milk production, causing economic losses for producers with affected premises. USDA can support farmers with the ELAP program to offset some of these losses. USDA anticipates that its forthcoming rule will specify that farmers will receive payments at 90 percent of lost production per cow, for a set period of time retroactive to the data of the confirmation of their positive herd status, starting with the first herd that tested positive in March 2024.

The US government is addressing this situation with urgency and through a whole-of-government approach. USDA is working closely with federal partners at FDA, which has the primary responsibility for the safety of milk and dairy products, by assisting with conducting pasteurisation testing at USDA labs. USDA is also working closely with federal partners at CDC, which has the primary responsibility for public health, by encouraging producer and industry cooperation with public health officials, by encouraging producer and industry cooperation with public health officials to get vital information necessary to assess the level of risk to human health.

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.

SFR welcomes new consultant poultry nutritionist

May 23, 2024 - SFR has announced the addition of Eric Le Gall to their team as a Consultant Poultry Nutrition, starting on May 21. With a rich background in animal nutrition and extensive experience in the feed industry, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the company.

Eric, aged 40, hails from Brittany, France, where he was born and raised. He pursued his studies in animal science at ENSAIA in Nancy, graduating in 2006 as an “Ingénieur agronome,” equivalent to an MSc degree.

Over the past 18 years, Eric has dedicated his career to the feed industry, beginning as a feed formulator at ADM in St Nolff, France. He then spent nine years at Metex Animal Nutrition in Paris, promoting amino acid usage to feed producers and premixers. Most recently, Eric served as a nutritionist at Altilis Nutrition Animale in Muzillac, France.

Eric's commitment to the industry and his collaborative spirit are evident in his previous work with some of FSRs team members. He is eager to reconnect with familiar faces and meet the entire SFR team.

Eric will join the SFR poultry nutrition consultant team to serve ad help Advanced Feed Package customers implementing the SFR feedstuff tables and nutrient recommendations, consult on nutritional challenges in local circumstances and improve the quality/price ratio of produced feeds.

SFR say they look forward to the innovative contributions Eric will bring to their team and the advancements in poultry nutrition that they will achieve together.

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.

EnergyDecental 2024 - innovation awards at the leading trade fair for decentralised energy supply

May 23, 2024 - EnergyDecentral, the leading trade fair for decentralised energy supply, will take place from November 12-15, 2024, alongside EuroTier 2024 in Hanover, Germany. As part of the event, the DLG (German Agricultural Society), as the organiser, will confer two different awards covering market ready innovations and pioneering concepts. The 'Innovation Award EnergyDecentral' is already the leading innovation award for decentralised energy production. With the 'DLG-Agrifuture Concept Winner' award, the DLG recognises pioneering work and concepts for decentralised energy production.

'Powering new ideas': true to this theme, the DLG at EnergyDecentral 2024 will once again be recognising companies that develop pioneering innovations and visionary concepts. The DLG innovation awards underline the potential of innovative solutions in the field of decentralised energy.

Innovation Award EnergyDecentral

Established as the leading innovation award for decentralised energy generation, DLG's Innovation Award EnergyDecentral recognises innovations for practical application. An independent jury, the DLG commission, will be evaluating all entries, resulting in an 'Innovation Award EnergyDecentral' in either gold or silver for innovations meeting the stringent criteria. These include a new process or a known process that has significantly improved.

Exhibiting companies at EnergyDecentral 2024 can enter innovations in the award scheme.

Following evaluation and analysis of the entries, the international will select the innovations that will receive the 'Innovation Award EnergyDecentral' in either gold or silver.

DLG Agrifuture Concept Winners

As part of EuroTier and EnergyDecentral, the DLG with its DLG Agrifuture Concept Winner Award is honouring pioneering work and concepts for sustainable animal husbandry and decentralised energy production. These are concepts and visions that have not yet reached market maturity, but are still in the development phase.

All award winners will be announced at the EuroTier international press conference on September 24 in Germany.

The closing date for entries for the EnergyDecentral 2024 awards in July 31, 2024.

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 awards $300 million to diversify export markets for US agriculture

May 23, 2024 - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the US Department of Agriculture is allocating US$300 million to 66 US organisations, under the new Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP), to build demand for American food and farm exports in high-potential markets around the globe.

Secretary Vilsack launched RAPP in October 2023, authorising US$1.2 billion in Commodity Credit Corporation funding to help US exporters expand their customer base beyond traditional and established markets, focusing on regions such as Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, and South and Southeast Asia, where consumer demand and purchasing power are growing.

You may also be interested in:

• AFIA receives federal funding under USDA’s Regional Agricultural Promotion Program
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"USDA and the entire Biden-Harris Administration are focused on creating more, new and better markets for US producers and agribusinesses, and exports are a critical part of that effort," Vilsack said. "By enabling US exporters to expand their footprint in diverse and dynamic new markets, RAPP will help make them more competitive and resilient in an increasingly volatile global trading environment. We know the potential is out there, but it takes time and money to grow new markets. USDA is pleased to be able to provide the start-up capital to help tap into these opportunities, because if we are serious about reversing the decline of small and mid-sized farms, and building wealth that stays in rural communities, it's crucial that we create and sustain diverse market opportunities abroad as well as at home."

The initial round of RAPP funding will help recipient organisations carry out hundreds of projects encompassing a wide variety of products and markets. For example:

• The Cranberry Institute plans to conduct trade education seminars and other consumer-focused activities to target export opportunities in India, Brazil, Colombia and Southeast Asia.
• The Southern Forest Products Association is targeting new market opportunities for Southern yellow pine products throughout the Caribbean region through educational seminars and promotional events.
• The Hazelnut Marketing Board will conduct market research and trade missions to facilitate support market development in several African countries.
• The US Dairy Export Council plans to expand its presence in Africa by utilising RAPP funding to better understand and develop dairy import regulations and regulatory frameworks in many markets.
• The US Meat Export Federation plans to expand its export efforts to new markets in the ASEAN region and throughout Africa, as well as enhance its investment in the convenience store segment in South Korea, Central America and Colombia.
• The Brewers Association will tap into the burgeoning craft beer scene in Southeast Asia, taking part in the region's premier brewing trade show and festival and also bringing buyers from the region to the top trade shows in the United States.

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.

Food producer opts for sustainable constructive explosion protection

May 23, 2024 - There is a risk of a dust explosion in many food technology applications in which bulk goods are dried, sieved, conveyed or stored. Even today, many plant operators still rely on the good fortune of never being confronted with such a dust explosion, or at least getting off lightly. In most cases, however, this hope is abruptly dashed when, as a result of an explosion and the subsequent ingress of air into the plant, entire parts of the plant burn out, the entire material is contaminated and a long shutdown of the plant for essential cleaning and repair work becomes a reality.

The new pressure relief flaps by Thorwesten Vent effectively prevent the burning of the material or entire product lines through automatic, airtight resealing after a dust explosion.

To avoid such a scenario, the German company Thorwesten Vent has developed a special pressure relief flap that has recently been convincing in use. In summer 2023, a well-known manufacturer successfully commissioned a total of 72 of these automatically reclining, reusable explosion vests on four drying lines at its food production facility in Eastern Europe. The explosion protection specialists in Beckum, Germany received the order at the beginning of 2021, but the calculations, design and installation of the vents had been repeatedly delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. 

The special feature of the new type of vents, compared to conventional pressure relief devices (eg bursting discs), is the automatic, airtight resealing after pressure relief. This effectively prevents the permanent entry of atmospheric oxygen and the burning of the material or entire product lines. The flaps are designed in such a way that they do not need to be replaced after an explosion and they can be reused after a visual inspection. This technology therefore minimises damages to the system components and significantly reduces

The recently completed order included equipping two wheat starch flash dryers as well as two gluten ring dryers, including the process filters and a central dust extraction filter, with explosion flaps. The relief surfaces of these components had been calculated by Thorwesten Vent in compliance with current standards and in consultation with the client. All vents are also equipped with trace heating to ensure that the pressure relief systems function perfectly at all times, even in snow and ice. 

As part of the current project, the Thorwesten Vent flaps were prepared for heating operation, but a decision on whether to switch on the heating will be made after the operating experiences gained have been analysed. Should the need to heat the explosion vents arise at a later time, the customer can convert to a complete heating function by preparing the flaps for heating operation through the quick and easy installation of control modules.

"The latest project in Eastern Europe represents an important step for Thorwesten Vent in opening up the market in the food sector, after decades of success with our products in other areas worldwide. Our high quality standards, coupled with our experience in constructive explosion protection, also predestine us for equipping systems in this sector. We therefore have good reason to hope that a new safety awareness will prevail in the food industry in the future. Because anyone who continues to focus only on the minimum requirements for explosion protection today will probably have to live with the consequences tomorrow," commented Berthold Bussieweke, Sales Manager at Thorwesten Vent, on the successful conclusion of the order.

The use of pressure relief flaps offers significant advantages, especially in the food industry, where an explosion can have particularly serious consequences. Whereas in other areas, contamination of the material plays a minor role, contamination of foodstuffs or raw materials for their production often results in financial disaster. 

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.

Future-ready setup for Bühler's biscuit business and Nordic organisation

May 22, 2024 - Bühler is excited to announce the relocation of its Biscuit Business Unit and Nordics Services & Sales (SAS) organisation to state-of-the-art offices in Copenhagen, Denmark, along with the optimisation of its production footprint. This move coincides with the renaming of Haas-Meincke A/S to Bühler Denmark A/S, symbolising the complete integration into the Bühler Group since its acquisition in 2018.

Outside view of Bühler’s new facility in Copenhagen

Morten Riisager, Managing Director of Bühler Denmark and Head of Business Unit Biscuit, and Christian Salvatori, Managing Director of Bühler Services & Sales organisation in the Nordics, jointly stated, "This relocation is a significant milestone in our company's development. It creates a Bühler powerhouse in the Nordics, lays the foundation for advancing our biscuit business globally, and reinforces our presence in the Nordic countries."

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The strategic move to Copenhagen will provide welcoming office and meeting spaces for around 240 Bühler employees, fostering enhanced collaboration and operational synergy. The new office not only offers modern facilities and open meeting zones but also positions Bühler to host customer visits and industry events in an inspirational environment.

"Our Nordic customers will benefit from a simpler and more powerful local organisation and an increased service and sales performance," said Christian Salvatori.

"The full integration of the biscuit business into Bühler Group's portfolio enhances customer access to a broader range of solutions. Strategically located immediately opposite the new offices, the Biscuit Application & Training Center offers an exceptional venue for customers to innovate and refine processes and products," said Morten Riisager.

In line with Bühler's commitment to optimising and renewing its production footprint, the production of ovens for biscuit and cracker lines will be consolidated into one location in Roedkaersbro, Denmark, approximately 240 kilometres from Copenhagen. Meanwhile, the upstream equipment will be manufactured in Leobendorf near Vienna, Austria, leveraging cutting-edge production facilities to maximise efficiency. The Application & Training Center in Copenhagen will continue to support customers in developing and scaling innovative biscuit and cracker products, including the use of new electric ovens.

Johannes Wick, CEO of Grains & Food at Bühler Group, emphasised the strategic importance of this development: "The investment in this new infrastructure reaffirms our commitment to Denmark and our expertise in the biscuit and cracker segments. It also strengthens our capabilities the Northern European market, where we see significant growth potential"

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 receives federal funding under USDA's Regional Agricultural Promotion Program

May 22, 2024 - The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) is pleased to receive $800,000 in federal funding through the US Department of Agriculture's Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP). In October, the USDA initiated the $1.2 billion RAPP program aimed at developing new export markets for US food and agricultural products, extending beyond the traditional partnerships with Canada, Mexico and the European Union and China.

"We thank the USDA for recognising AFIA as the leading authority in the animal feed, feed ingredients and petfood trade," said AFIA President and CEO Constance Cullman. "This support will enable us to expand our efforts in developing and expanding export markets for US animal food products. We look forward to leveraging this support to enhance the competitiveness of US animal food in emerging markets and contribute to the broader goal of agricultural export diversification."

You may also be interested in: 

• AFIA board advocates for feed industry issues on Capitol Hill
• AFIA thanks outgoing committee members

In 2023, the overall export value for feed, feed ingredients and petfood stood at US$13.4 billion and the total volume of exports of these products amounted to 19.8 million metric tonnes, demonstrating the significant role the animal food industry plats in overall US agriculture exports. 

The USDA's RAPP, initiated in 2023 following a bipartisan request from the US Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, awards funds to eligible entities, including agricultural trade organisations like the AFIA, state regional trade groups, cooperatives and state agencies, to facilitate export expansion, address trade barriers and promote American agricultural products in new markets.

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.