Between climate change and decarbonisation: EnergyDecental 2024 showcases solutions for sustainable energy production

May 9, 2024 - Over the years, the EnergyDecentral trade fair has established itself as the central exhibition venue for the renewable energy industry. This year between November 12-15, the trends and innovations for reconciling security of supply and decarbonisation will once again be presented at the exhibition grounds in Hanover, Germany. The industry offers a variety of effective technological solutions that visitors can compare over four exhibition days. Biogas and hydrogen will play a major role at EnergyDecentral, which is held in parallel with EuroTier, the leading trade for animal farming and livestock management.

Germany plans to be completely climate-neutral by 2045, the first industrialised nation in the world to do so: "The decarbonisation of the energy system is feasible," says Marcus Vagt, Project Manager of EnergyDecentral. CO2 reduction is the central building block that comes first according to Vagt. "This is followed by substitution and, where emissions cannot be avoided, compensation," explains Vagt. This not only requires a change in technology - from gas and oil boilers with fossil fuels to innovative heating technologies and, in the case of combustion engines, to renewable fuels and alternative drive systems. This is because the switch to renewable energies also brings with it new principles: "While electricity generation in the 'fossil' world has been based on demand, future consumption will have to be based on the output of weather-dependent wind and solar power plants," concludes Vagt. 

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Decarbonising with electricity

Research institutions, start-ups and technology providers will be shaping the future of net zero emissions at EnergyDecentral 2024 from November 12-15. Part of the remit is to expand the share of renewable energies in gross electricity consumption, further development and comprehensive modernisation of combined heat and power generation and the conversion of heating networks to renewable energies and waste heat. Over 250 exhibitors will be showcasing innovations and solutions from the fields of solar, wind, biomass, green hydrogen and storage technologies at the exhibition grounds in Hanover, Germany. Also on display are digital technologies, which have developed rapidly in recent years and are the key to intelligent systems that can be used to monitor and control the energy supply.

One of the most evident traits of decarbonisation are the renewable energy plants that are replacing coal, gas and nuclear power plants. When restructuring the energy system, they are not focusing solely on electricity generation. "The successful implementation of the energy transition also includes making the heating and transport sectors more climate-friendly," adds Vagt. The electrification of the heating and transport sectors - known as 'sector coupling' - also offers another major advantage: "It makes the entire energy system in Germany more flexible. This also makes it very important for decarbonisation," says Vagt.

Biomass - a climate-neutral alternative

biomass plays a key role among renewable energies as the only 'renewable' carbon source. Since the introduction of the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), a series of German laws offering feed-in-tariffs to encourage renewable electricity, biomass has become an integral part of the energy mix. Today's biogas plants show the enormous potential for decarbonisation that still lies in the use of biomass. They convert manure and slurry into fertiliser through a fermentation process and simultaneously produce methane (bio-LNG) in gaseous or liquid form. Hydrogen can also be produced from biogas, which opens up a new perspective for biogas plants when subsidies in Germany shortly expire. "With every additional flexibilisation of a biogas plant, we reduce the need for new, central gas-fired power plants," confirms Vagt.

With a total output of around six gigawatts, some 10,000 biogas plants in Germany today generate over 33 terawatt hours of electricity annually. This corresponds to around six percent of electricity consumption in Germany and the same amount of heat, which is mainly used in rural areas. "Doubling the current output to 12 gigawatts by 2030 would be possible without any problems," says Horst Seide, President of the German Biogas Association. This assessment is shared by Silke Weyberg, Managing Director of the Lower Saxony/Bremen Renewable Energy Association: "In Lower Saxony alone, the current output of 1.4 gigawatts could easily be doubled to 2.8 gigawatts by 2030. That is roughly equivalent to the output of six gas-fired power plant units." it would not be necessary to use more biomass or require more space. "Instead, additional combined heat and power plants could be set up to produce electricity simply when neither sun nor wind are available," says Weyberg.

The new role of combined heat and power (CHP) generation

The value of providing renewable energy on demand at the touch of a button will continue to increase in the coming years. Flexible, decentralised CHP plants are therefore needed to close the capacity gap of at least 15 gigawatts, expected as a result of the coal phase-out in a reliable and climate-friendly manner. They enable energy sources to be used much more efficiently than when heat and electricity are generated separately. The logical consequence: future-proof combined heat and electricity are generated separately. The logical consequence: future-proof combined heat and power plants are evolving from heat-controlled base load operation to flexible, electricity market-optimised plants. Externally fired gas turbines, which are used in biomass cogeneration plants (biomass CHP), are just one example of this. They open up a wide range of fuels in the power range between 40 kilowatts and several megawatts of electricity. Equipped with intelligent energy management systems and buffer storage systems such as those on show at EnergyDecentral, they can be decoupled from the current heat demand at any time.

In order to offer even more alternatives for the hearing transition, technology providers now also offer large heat pumps in their portfolio and are positioning themselves as full-service providers for decentralised energy supply concepts. Christian Grotholt, CEO of combined heat and power plant manufacturer 2G EnergyL "For us, there is huge added value in interlinking the two technologies. From revenue potential on the electricity market and the significant reduction in CO2 emissions to the technical interaction in different weather conditions, combined systems create direct added value for both the operator and society."

Green hydrogen - a resilient energy system

Presenting modern hydrogen CHP units, fuel cells and electrolysers of the latest generation, the exhibitors at EnergyDecentral are fully in line with the trend of the energy policy discussion. Hydrogen is seen as one of the main keys to a resilient and climate-neutral energy system. The commitment of Spanish fertiliser manufacturer Fertiberia has emerged as a showcase project in this regard. In mid-May 2024, the energy company Iberdrola commissioned 16 electrolysers and a lithium-ion battery system with a total capacity of 20 megawatts in Puertollano, 250 kilometres south of Madrid - right next to the fertiliser factory. Fertiberia has been producing artificial fertiliser at this location for over 60 years, the most important ingredient of which is ammonia. To date, gray hydrogen obtained from natural gas has been used to produce this. The plant obtains its electricity for the electrolysers directly from a 100 megawatt solar park. The 20 megawatts of capacity installed so far covers around 10 percent of Fertiberia's energy requirements. By 2027, it is expected to increase more than tenfold to 40,000 tonnes of green hydrogen per year.

The hydrogen business is picking up speed, not only in Germany but also internationally. By 2030, the EU Commission plans to install electrolysers with a capacity of at least 40 gigawatts and produce 10 million tonnes of green hydrogen in a step-by-step approach. Visitors to EnergyDecentral from November 12-15 can explore the potential of hydrogen as an energy source and identify the technologies that will help to switch production from grey to green.

Exhibitor bookings continue

Companies can still register an exhibitor stand at EnergyDecentral. 

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.

Alternative proteins: Feed from sustainable cycles

May 7, 2024 - The second edition of the Inhouse Farming - Feed & Food Show will take place this year from November 12-15, serving as a platform for self-contained agricultural and food systems of the future, held in parallel with EuroTier 2024 in Hanover, Germany. One topic highlight will be the use of alternative protein sources such as animal feed. However, only a few of the raw materials of non-animal origin under consideration are suitable for indoor cultivation. In practice, algae have been the most convincing so far.

Peas, lupins and beans are domestic protein crops that could replace imported feedstuffs such as soy in the medium term. However, they are currently not economically and ecologically attractive for indoor farming in Northern Europe, as outdoor cultivation is the more economically viable alternative. Algae, on the other hand, are ideally suited for protein production with indoor systems. Nils Borchard, Head of Research and Innovation at the DLG's Center for Agriculture, sees the benefits primarily in the more effective use of by-products and residues: "Indoor approaches become interesting when it comes to the use of refinement of by-products and residues from food production. Various innovative approaches are being tested here in order to achieve upcycling. For example, algae can be used to produce high-quality proteins or oils to enrich animal feed."

First algae production plants already in operation

Algae have been included in the 'positive list for straight feeding stuffs' and can be used accordingly. In addition to the algae cultivation plant, only water, light and nutrients are required. The ecological footprint is strongly determined by the use of renewable energies. Even if this type of feed production is not yet widespread, some companies and research projects are working very specifically on this topic and have put the first plants into operation. 

Jörg Ullmann, member of the recently founded DLG committee 'New Feed and Food', has been successfully using micro algae farming for two decades and, together with Algenfarm Klötze GmbH & Co KG, has been successfully cultivating micro algae for twenty years. He is convinced that the importance of algae protein will also increase in animal feed. "The optimisation of suitable algae strains, the implementation of technological innovations and scaling up to very large algae farms will be among the keys to this," says Ullmann. "The ability to grow algae proteins independently of arable land and without the use of pesticides and too much reliance on the weather are important. Climate-resilience is a key word here, which means grow close to where they are consumed with short transportation routes. These are additional arguments for the expansion of an algae industry."

With the 'EU4Algae project' and the 'Algae for feed' working group, the topic is prominently anchored in the EU Commission's 'Maritime Forum'. In addition to knowledge exchange and start-up support, the focus there is also on accompanying topics such as training, market access and viable business models.

Microalgae as food for humans and animals

With their scalable, modular photobioreactors from 6000 litres, exhibitors such as Dresden-based Puevit GmbH offer a system for the industrial production of microalgae such as spirulina and chlorella, which are suitable for both human and animal nutrition. The start-up promises an IIoT-capable full-service package with virtually uninterrupted continuous operation of the systems.

The use of microalgae is already common practice in the breeding of fish and crab larvae in aquaculture. The fine algae can also be easily ingested by tiny young animals. The formulation of the algae nutrient solution also allows essential nutrients to be transferred to the animals in a targeted manner.

Strengthening the image of alternative proteins

The Cubes Circle project, in which the cultivation of tomatoes, fish and insects is integrated into a circular, closed indoor farming system without additives, emissions and waste, revealed other limitations beyond technology: accompanying psychological studies on the acceptance of new agricultural systems in urban areas showed that many respondents are opposed to such technologies. With an awareness of these solvable problems that need to be discussed, professional visitors from the agricultural sector will find the best conditions at Inhouse Farming to find out about the current status of the use of alternative proteins as animal feed and to be inspired for lucrative future business models.

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.

USPOULTRY 2024 Workforce Success and Engagement Conference highlights

May 7, 2024 - USPOULTRY's 2024 Workforce Success and Engagement Conference addressed how industry human resource professionals can help improve employees' belonging and connection to their organisation, in addition to many other topics. The conference was held at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa in Destin, Florida. 

Case Farms’ Learning and Development Manager Matt McNevin speaking at the USPOULTRY 2024 Workforce Success and Engagement Conference.

Christian Richter, principal at The Policy Group, kicked off the meeting by providing an in-depth Washington update. A comprehensive rundown of congressional priorities, the White House agenda, including the regulatory outlook, and some notes on the upcoming elections provided attendees with a window into what they can expect to see through the rest of this presidential term and legislative session. Highlights included labour relations, immigration, workplace legislation, child labour, overtime rule and salary thresholds, independent contractors and more.

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Jim Wimberly, Senior Principal Partner at Wimberly, Lawson, Steckel, Schneider & Stine PC, provided attendees with a perspective on how labour issues affect employer policies. Continuing a theme from Richter's presentation, he spoke on the rise of organised labour, also noting the increase in the intensity and types of workforce disputes. Additionally, the changing stance on noncompete agreements, restrictive covenants and confidentiality agreements were discussed. Wimberly suggested that employers should have policies reviewed by legal counsel to ensure that policies are compliant with the law.

During his update, USPOULTRY Vice President of HR & Safety Programs Matt Spencer outlined the development of an industry task force formed to demonstrate the poultry industry's commitment to adhering to federal and state employment laws and preventing minors from holding jobs in the industry. The task force will create a platform for sharing industry best practices and case studies for the prevention of hiring underage labour, as well as keep the industry best practices and case studies for the prevention of hiring underage labour, as well as keep the industry abreast of emerging child labour topics. The task force is comprised of National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation and USPOULTRY processor members, including those involved in Human Resources, communications, and regulatory and legal matters.

Case Farms' Learning and Development Manager Matt McNevin brought the discussion to the front line with his presentation about employee training. He noted that training, particularly for the purpose of professional growth, is named by both employees and employers as an important factor for employee attraction and retention. McNevin cited a robust training program, starting with onboarding, as a key consideration for retaining employees. Retraining of employees was also discussed with the intention of ensuring that employees are able to engage with increasing technology.

Dr Wes Jamison, Professor Emeritus at Palm Beach Atlantic University, spoke about engaging Gen Z in the workplace. Research conducted with members of this generation was presented showing the declining optimism of Gen Z across several measures, as well as the related search for a meaningful life. Dr Jamison noted that Gen Z is particularly values driven and concerned with equity, and this can affect how company messaging is presented to these employees.

Numerous other related topics were covered, with audience interaction adding value to the overall 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.

Bulk material handling leader launches new and re-egineered AirSweep MAX

May 7, 2024 - Control Concepts Inc announces the AirSweep MAX, a globally-patented pneumatic flow aid system that eliminates bridging, ratholing and build-up in bulk material handling equipment in industries such as food, pharmaceutical, mining and even in current recycling streams.

AirSweep MAX

The AirSweep MAX (short for Material Activation Xcellence) improves on the performance of its predecessor AirSweep, which is already installed in half of the S&P 500 companies and thousands of SMEs worldwide.

"Our original AirSweeep was already in a product class of its own," said Eric Esselstyn, Director of Sales and Control Concepts. "When all else fails, like fluidises and industrial vibrators, AirSweep could lift and sweep even the stickiest materials into the flow stream without damaging the vessel. It gives more power per pulse, more durability, lower energy costs and the longest warranty in the industry."

New global patents

The new AirSweep MAX uses aerospace-grade design specs and has 20 patented improvements and six proprietary parts. The AirSweep MAX is available in the VA-51 model and is ideal for bins, silos, hoppers, chutes, mixers and other material handling equipment. Its improved performance shortens equipment cleaning time, which reduces downtime and increases available production time.

More power and productivity with less energy

Laboratory tests proved that AirSweep MAX delivers 52 percent more output pressure and 31 percent more air output than the original AirSweep.

This means plants have the option to either increase the speed of material flow, or lower the operating pressure to get the same flow with less energy and plant air.

AirSweep MAX can also run at lower standard operating ranges of 60 to 80 PSI, making it more accessible to plants with air supply constraints.

The AirSweep MAX's stronger force and faster, more free-flowing air stream is a result of the proprietary redesign of the internals which maximise the flow of air from supply to discharge.

As its name suggests, these improvements are meant to achieve 'material activation excellence' in terms of productivity, speed and cost-efficiency.

Foolproof assembly, easy maintenance, longest warranty

The AirSweep MAX can be assembled in minutes with no special tools, and is ideal for field servicing and assembly. Maintenance is only required after 1,000,000 cycles and with a seven year warranty - the longest in the industry - the AirSweep MAX helps ensure less downtime at the plant.

Pricing and availability

The AirSweep MAX is sold either as a stand-alone component or included as part of a complete package engineered specifically for the customer's application, with all accessories needed for operation and ready for easy field installation.

"You can't copy quality and durability," said Henry Tiffany, President of Control Concepts, Inc. "We already know how well the original AirSweep works, and now it's even better performance for the same cost? The MAX will be he last flow aid our customers will ever need."

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.

Enhancing agricultural efficiency - The Nostell Estate collaborates with Tornum

May 7, 2024 - The Nostell Estate, a prominent estate spanning over 4000 acres, has recently embarked on a transformative journey to modernise its agricultural practices in collaboration with Tornum Ltd. The partnership aimed to revitalise operations while prioritising efficiency and sustainability.

The Nostell Estate

Central to the project was the installation of a state-of-the-art grain handling plant, tailored to the unique needs of the estate. Key components including a 30tph Grain Dryer, Barn Owl Ventilation application, Tornum IDC Control Software, Skandia Elevator 60tph Handling Equipment and a Double Trench Intake - all designed to optimise handling capacity and streamline operations. 

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Despite challenges associated with the site's complexities, the installation process was successfully guided by Tornum's dedicated team, led by Charles and James White. Their commitment to understanding the unique needs of The Nostell Estate, coupled with their expertise and support, ensured a seamless transition and successful integration of the new plant.

The estate observed significant improvements in operational efficiency and cost savings, particularly during the challenging harvest of 2023. The adoption of mains gas and a solar PV system further underscored the estate's commitment to sustainable practices, aligning with modern agricultural standards. Peter Molyneux, Estate Director at The Nostell Estate, Estate Director at The Nostell Estate, expressed his satisfaction, stating, "From the very outset, Tornum provided exceptional support and guidance. We are now equipped with a drier system tailored to our large-scale farming operations, setting a solid foundation for future growth and efficiency."

Looking ahead, The Nostell Estate anticipates long-term benefits from this investment, including enhanced productivity and sustainable operations. Charles White, Director of Tornum Ltd, commented, "We are immensely proud of the collaboration with The Nostell Estate - our mission has always been to provide cutting-edge solutions tailored to our clients' needs, and seeing the tangible impact of our work at The Nostell Estate is truly gratifying. We look forward to continuing our partnership with The Nostell Estate and empowering more agricultural businesses to achieve efficiency and sustainability."

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.

UN declares 2026 as International Year of the Woman Farmer

May 3, 2024 - Yesterday, in the presence of US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield and US Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small, the UN General Assembly declared 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer. The resolution, and the US government's efforts to generate support for it, were spearheaded by USDA and garnered more than 100 co-sponsors, underscoring the global importance of uplifting women throughout the agriculture sector.

The worldwide observance will call attention to the vital role that women play in global food and agricultural production. It will also raise global awareness of the unique challenges women in agriculture face, catalyse action to help address those challenges and support many of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including those focused on gender equity, food security and poverty.

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"From the field to the factory, from the classroom to the boardroom, women are fundamental to the future of agriculture. As leaders, it is our responsibility to make sure the next generation of women farmers have equal access to economic, educational and leadership opportunities, and that we dismantle the unique barriers they face so they can continue to take on the challenges of meeting the world's growing food, fuel and fiber needs," Deputy Secretary Torres Small said. "USDA is proud to have led the US government's efforts in support of declaring 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, and we thank the many nations that signed on in support. We look forward to working with partners worldwide to scale up efforts that empower and advance women farmers while tackling global food security in 2026 and beyond."

Women are responsible for roughly half of the world's food production, and in many countries they produce between 60 and 80 percent of the food. Yet globally, the prevalence of food insecurity is higher among women than men. By shining a spotlight on women's role in farming across the world, the International Year of the Woman Farmer will also raise awareness of constraints women face in areas including property rights and land tenure, access to credit and markets, and lack of technical and educational support. it will emphasise, as well, the importance of women in leadership roles to better ensure representation at the highest levels of decision-making.

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.

128th annual IAOM Conference & Expo wraps up with leadership announcements and prestigious awards

May 3, 2024 - The International Association of Operative Millers (IAOM) capped off its 128th Annual Conference & Expo in Salt Lake City, Utah, with new leadership elections and a series of prestigious awards celebrating exceptional service and achievements in the milling industry.

2024-25 International Officers from left: Immediate Past President Steve Matson, Bay State Milling, Vice President Jennifer Harnish, PHM Brands, President Fran Churchill, Kansas State University, Treasurer Mike Wiechman, ADM, and IAOM CEO Melinda Farris

More than 980 people attended this year's conference. The event welcomed 308 participants from milling companies and 151 international attendees from 25 countries, demonstrating its global appeal and the industry's diverse reach. The conference featured a robust lineup of 140 exhibitors and an array of educational sessions and networking opportunities.

Educational highlights and keynote address

The conference featured a diverse range of educational sessions addressing critical topics such as employee management, product protection, technical operations and facility management. The keynote address by Peter Levangie, President & CEO of Bay State Milling, titled 'A View on the Future of Flour Milling in the 21st Century,' explored the dynamic future of the milling industry influenced by AI, plant genetics, public health, sustainability and consumer preferences.

IAOM leadership elected for 2024-25

This year's conference in Salt Lake City marked a significant milestone in IAOM's history with the election of its first female president, Fran Churchill from Kansas State University. Joining her in leading IAOM are Jennifer Harnish from PHM Brands as Vice President, and Michael Wiechman from ADM as treasurer. Steve Matson from Bay State Milling will transition into the role of immediate past president, completing the executive committee.

"I am deeply honoured to serve as the first female President of IAOM," stated Churchill. "This role is not just a personal milestone but a symbol of the progressive strides we are making in the milling industry. As we look forward, our focus will be on fostering innovation and inclusivity within our community."

2024 IAOM award winners

The conference highlighted the achievements of industry leaders through several awards:

• Milling Operative of the Year: Justin Barrett, Ardent Mills
• Thaddeus B Bownik Outstanding Service Award: Tom Reed, REPCO, in recognition of his outstanding service and leadership for IAOM.
• Aspiring Miller Award: Halsey Elliott, General Mills, who is the first female to receive an IAOM award in the association's 128-year history.
• George B Wagner Memorial AwardL Dr Subramanyam Bhadriraju, Kansas State University, in recognition of his contributions to the milling industry in the areas of sanitation and food protection.
• Gold Medal Award: Joel R Hoffa, posthumously awarded for his extensive contributions to the milling community.
• Donald S Eber Award: Darryl Tateishi, DT Grain Processing Systems, acknowledged for his significant contributions and dedication to the association.

"The success of this year's conference underscores the vibrant and resilient spirit of the milling community," stated IAOM CEO Melinda Farris. "As we navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by new technologies and changing market dynamics, IAOM remains committed to providing our members with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive.

"This event has set the stage for another year of growth and collaboration," she continued. "We are excited to support our members as they continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in the milling 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.

EuroTier 2024: award ceremony for Women in Ag Award

May 2, 2024 - At EuroTier, which will take place in Hanover, Germany, November 12-15, 2024, the international Women in Ag Magazine and the DLG (German Agricultural Society) will confer the international 'Women in Ag Award' for the third time. The award recognises professional women in agriculture, including farming, agribusiness, academia and organisations. The deadline for applications is July 31, 2024.

"The role of women in farming, agribusiness and agricultural sciences is changing worldwide. More and more women are shaping the future of agriculture either as managers of their own farms or in companies, research or in the teaching profession. More and more women are drivers of sustainable food production worldwide. More and more women are shaping the debate in agricultural as journalists, bloggers or influencers," says Freya von Czettritz, CEO, DLG Holding. "The Women in Ag Award honours this commitment and tells the stories behind these inspiring women. At EuroTier, we want to give this topic the attention it deserves," adds von Czettritz.

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"In just two years, the Women in Ag Award is already highly recognised in the industry - this is demonstrated by the high number of candidates, the impressive portraits of the winners and the great attention in the media and among the public,"says Kim Schoukens, Editor-in-Chief of the digital Women in Ag Magazine. "At EuroTier 2024, we want to continue this success story with strong personalities from agriculture, agribusiness, education, technology and research. Any woman working in these agricultural sectors can be nominated. From female farmers who work in arable farming or animal husbandry, to female agribusiness experts and engineers, to women who work in teaching, research and development or in the media. What all applicants have in common is that they show an outstanding commitment to global agriculture,"says Schoukens, describing the criteria of the Women in Ag Award.

Award presented by an international jury

Women from the German and international agricultural sector can apply or be nominated until July 31, 2024. The award winners are selected by an international jury made up of representatives from agricultural practice, science, organisations and the media. The focus is on special achievements in the development of local, national and international agriculture. The winners will be honoured at the award ceremony held at EuroTier on November 13.

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.

Innovation and efficiencies to be in the spotlight at Cereals 2024

May 2, 2024 - The arable sector is constantly innovating, with new products and scientific techniques being developed to improve crop health, farm efficiencies and profitability. And visitors to the Cereals Event will be able to see a whole host of innovations, demonstrations and technical experts in one place.

To be held at Bygrave Woods in Hertfordshire on June 11-12, 2024, the event's catalogue of new and returning exhibitors already exceeds 450 arable-focused companies offering a range of technology, machinery and expertise.

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With some 98 new exhibitors this year, key topics and interests are well-covered, from regenerative agriculture to cutting-edge precision techniques.

Get rid of the paper

New exhibitor James Hart, Arable farmer and founder of HUSK Data, will be demonstrating how businesses can scrap the paper and save time while collecting data and improving operations.

Fed up with the sheer amount of paper and unable to find a tailorable digital application, he developed a data management system for his own arable enterprise and diversifications, before launching it for other farmers as a desktop and mobile application in 20022.

"Data capture is an increasingly vital element in determining a farm's efficiency," says Mr Hart. "And, as we move forward, so is calculating carbon reduction payments and providing proof of action under schemes like the sustainable farming incentive (SFI)."

With six members of staff, three enterprises and 1,000ha to manage, Mr Hart designed the HUSK application to be flexible, functional on/offline, and simple to use - be that by a one-man-band or a large, staffed enterprise. Registering online, the farmer or contractor logs farm and field details and sets up staff user accounts. Thereafter, they can create a series of tailored forms that prompt the data they want to collect, from cultivations and inputs to diesel usage and grain movement. All users then simply download the mobile app.

Data can be inputted as figures, notes, file attachments and pictures, for which the latter can be time-stamped and geotagged - a valuable feature when submitting evidence of work under schemes.

Regenerative income

Regenerative farming is a focused concept but broad in application. New exhibitor Regenerate Outcomes is helping farmers and landowners pursue an education-based approach to regenerative farming, to generate both ecological and economic gains for their businesses.

With expertise in farming, soil science and project finance, Regenerate Outcomes works alongside world-renowned soil health consultancy Understanding Ag. It has also partnered with Agricarbon to effectively monitor soil organic carbon stocks under the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS).

Combined, it provides a robust one-to-one mentorship programme which not only improves the ecological condition of land, but also generates new revenue streams. "The programme offers one-to-one soil health training, led by Understanding Ag, with the aim to help farmers reduce input costs and improve plant health," says Director, Tom Dillon.

"As soil health improves, it is expected that soil organic carbon stocks increase and the need for greenhouse gas emitting inputs also reduces. This data is collected according to the VCS, so that the farm may qualify to earn third-party verified carbon credits."

The programme is not prescriptive - it is adaptive - and works alongside a farm's changing plans, government schemes, stewardships and other projects or partnerships. Farmers who join the programme will also become part of a network of regenerative farms, enabling them to have a sound knowledge-board made up of like-minded farmers.

Agri-tech ambitions

With farming and food production at such a pivotal position, new exhibitor the UK Agri-Tech Centre is focused on accelerating agri-tech ambition and matching solutions to problems to drive impactful, rapid change and tackle the industry's biggest challenges.

Officially launched on April 2, 2024, the UK Agri-Tech Centre combines the expertise of three leading agri-tech innovation enablers: the Agricultural Engineering, Precision and Innovation Centre (Agri-EPI), Crop Health and Protection (CHAP), and the Centre for Innovation Excellence in Livestock (CIEL).

The merger provides a significant boost to the agri-tech sector and is a catalyst to long-term, sustainable food production, and responsible resource use - as part of a circular food system and economy. "One of our strategic priorities is accelerating the adoption of agri-tech," says Chief Executive, Phil Bicknell.

"To truly have impact we need to have end users - the farmers. Cereals provides the opportunity to take stock and discuss with farmers - and agri-business - the problems faced, ideas to overcome those challenges, and barriers to uptake. It's about working in collaboration, and we're here to facilitate and drive innovation in the agrifood sector."

Another opportunity to be unlocked is access to funding, which will be another talking point with visitors. A recent report by the organisation found that funding is the biggest hurdle to developing and implementing new technologies.

"Lack of access to funding has hindered agri-tech innovation and adoption," Mr Bicknell adds. "However, there have been and are funding pots to support research and adoption, and we want to support innovators and adopters in making the most available funding."

The industry is evolving at a rapid pace, says Cereals Event Manager, Alli McIntyre. "Arable and contracting businesses are doubling down to make the improvements and adaptions that build resilience within a new framework for agriculture.

"The whole purpose of the event is to make sure that visitors can access a breadth of people, knowledge and solutions which will help them ready their businesses for the immediate and long-term future."

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 IFAJ/Alltech Young Leaders in Agricultural Journalism Award recipients announced

May 2, 2024 - Since 2006, the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) and Alltech, a global leader in agriculture and animal nutrition, have partnered to support the Young Leaders in Agricultural Journalism Awards that recognise the leadership potential of young members (under 35 years of age). As young agricultural journalists and communicators, they have the important role of sharing the stories of agriculture with the world.

2023 IFAJ/Alltech Young Leader Award recipients at the Alltech ONE Calgary conference, immediately following the IFAJ Congress in Canada.

IFAJ and Alltech offer 10 scholarship opportunities to attend the IFAJ Congress, held this year in Interlaken, Switzerland, in August. The winners also participate in a unique three-day professional development workshop immediately prior to the IFAJ Congress. The workshop emphasises reporting skills and leadership training and includes agriculture tours.

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• Archbold-Alltech research alliance results confirm environmental benefits of grazing ruminants
• 2024 Alltech Agri-Food Outlook shares global feed production survey data and influential trends in agriculture

The 2024 IFAJ/Alltech Young Leaders include:

• Alex Black, United Kingdom
• Emma Davies, Ghana
• Courtney Girgis, United States
• Kristina Hansén, Sweden
• Wiebke Hermann, Germany
• Brooke Littlewood, Australia
• Duncan Masiwa, South Africa
• Daniel Plaisu, Romania
• Michaela Sandmayr, Austria
• Carola Urdangarin, Argentina

"Alltech is proud to partner with IFAJ to support the Young Leaders program, as we all share a commitment to supporting journalists who give voice to farmers and producers and ensure that agriculture stories continue to be told around the world," said Jenn Norrie, North American and European communications manager at Alltech.

"The Young Leaders program has helped agricultural journalism guilds and IFAJ grow for nearly two decades," said IFAJ secretary-general, Addy Rossi. "The IFAJ/Alltech Young Leaders program is more than just an award to recognise rising young stars in our industry - it provides training, networks and contagious energy to tomorrow's guild and federation leaders."

"Many of the officers and active volunteers in national guilds and IFAJ's governing bodies have been Young Leaders," he added. "With its generous sponsorship and deep commitment to the future of agricultural journalism, Alltech has helped train a generation of world leaders."

For more information on IFAJ and the Young Leaders program, visit HERE.

For more information on Alltech, 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 Republic of Senegal joins the International Grains Council

May 1, 2024 - The International Grains Council (IGC) is pleased to confirm the Republic of Senegal's membership of the International Grains Council with effect from May 1, 2024.

The Republic of Senegal has been designated as an importing member of the Council.

You may also be interested in: 

• Meeting of the International Grains Council – January 2024

The Council say they look forward to the Republic of Senegal's active participation in the IGC's activities.

The IGC membership current comprises of the following members:

Algreria, Argentina, Australia, Canada, Côte d'Ivorire, Cuba, European Union, India, Iran, Iraq, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Korea (Rep), Morocco, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Senegal (Rep), South Africa, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States, Vatican City.

On the occasion of the Republic of Senegal's IGC membership, the Council reiterates its commitment to promoting dialogue between importing and producing grains countries and will hold its 'Second dialogue between importers and exporters' during the 2024 IGC Grains Conference in London on June 11-12, 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.

Farming Unions urge major retailers to back British farming

April 30, 2024 - UK farming Unions are calling on major retailers' commitment to support the industry during this difficult time in response to extremely challenging and disruptive weather this spring.

Exceptional rainfall and a succession of damaging storms have impacted livestock, arable and horticultural sectors and disrupted individual farm businesses the length and breadth of the country. No area of the UK has escaped with lambing, calving, planting and field work all proving very difficult and bringing additional cost to the business.

In a joint letter on behalf of the NFU, NFU Scotland, NFU Cymru and Ulster Farmers' Union, it seeks major retailer commitment to support the industry during this difficult time. The letter states:

"These challenges come at a time when many of our members are already struggling to remain viable due to the perfect storm of sustained and spiralling production costs, low market returns and increasing levels of regulation. This latest challenge, whilst not new, is more acute than ever, and is compounding the pressure on our members.

"Farmers and growers continue to bear the lion's share of the risk within their supply chains, and this is unsustainable. We are in discussions with our respective Governments on further support to assist the industry in navigating these short-term challenges, but we also recognise the important role which retailers have to play in helping the industry to withstand this latest crisis."

The UK Unions ask major retailers to implement the following measures in support of their members:

• Steadfast commitment to local sourcing: We ask that you honour existing sourcing commitments which you have made with respect to local suppliers. Sending a clear signal of support to these producers would send a powerful message and give comfort at a time where our members' wellbeing is already under severe strain.
• Fair Supply Chains: You will understand average food prices in the UK are already some of the lowest in the world despite our members producing it to the highest standards. We ask, therefore, that you respond promptly to any request from our members for a review of the terms of their contracts, including price.
• Flexibility on product specification: Producing food in these extreme conditions presents a significant challenge and our members will do their utmost to maintain their exceptionally high standards of production. However, in the fact of these unprecedented challenges it is possible that what we produce may now not fully conform to the exact specifications previously agreed. We urge you to show understanding and flexibility in these circumstances; our food will still be produced to exceptionally high standards of quality and safety.
• Rapid payment of suppliers: One of the immediate short-term implications for our members is the pressure on cashflow due to the increasing costs of animal health, feed and labour. Therefore, ensuring rapid payment to suppliers across the supply chain will be a significant help to our members to keep their businesses functioning.
• Promotion of local suppliers: Your customers already have a solid commitment to supporting local suppliers and we know from our own recent research that their commitment is stronger than ever. We ask that you continue your promotional efforts in support of local suppliers; we know that UK consumers want to keep on enjoying the high-quality food which we produce.

The letter concludes: "it is no exaggeration to say that the current challenges are some of the most acute the industry has faced in a very long time, and we need your support more than ever to maintain food production across the UK and safeguard our food security. Our members will continue to work tirelessly in the face of this latest adversity to maintain their high standards of production and welfare that your customers have now come to expect. We now urge you to support our members' efforts."

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.

AgriBITs Summit 2024 program released and visitor registration now open

April 29, 2024 - AgriBITs, the new platform for agricultural technology innovations has announced the opening of visitor registration for the highly anticipated AgriBITs 2024 Summit. Early bird pricing is available until May 25, 2024, offering a significant discount for those who register early.

The AgriBITs 2024 Summit, scheduled to take place from September 5-6, in the Jaarbeurs Venue in Utrecht, promises to be an enlightening and engaging event for all stakeholders in the agriculture and technology sectors. The main focus is on the theme of Digitalisation in the Agrifood business ranging from AI implementation methods and tools to machinery transformation and bringing together experts, innovators and thought leaders to explore the latest advancements and trends shaping the future of agriculture.

"We are excited to invite industry professionals, researchers and enthusiasts to join us at the AgriBITs 2024 Summit," said Birgit Horn, Managing Director Agrifood at VNU Europe, the organisers behind AgriBITs, VIV and Horti Agri Next events. "This year's agenda is packed with insightful sessions, keynote speeches, panel discussions and networking opportunities, providing attendees with a rich and versatile overview of the current landscape and future possibilities in agrifood technology."

Key highlights of the summit include:

• September 5, 10:00am - 11:00am - The Big Picture: AI Essentials - How to prepare for disruptive technologies
• September 5, 11:30am - 12:30pm - Tech Transformation in AgriFood - Implementation of AI to match your strategy
• September 5, 15:00pm - 16:00pm - The China Perspective - Exploring how strategy and execution come together in food production in China
• September 5, 16:30pm - 18:00pm - Changing the business model - How did tech transform other industries?
• September 6, 09:00am - 10:30am - Pushing the Boundaries in Agriculture - How far can AI go in Agriculture? Regulation, Research, Social Acceptance
• September 6, 13:30pm - 15:00pm - Applications of AI in Agri-food in Northwestern Europe - Implementation in sustainable food production

Holding onto its promise to be a C-Level experience, the AgriBITs Summit, features industry innovators from across the Agrifoodtech landscape. Visitors can among others expect:

• Insights from leaders like Picnic, John Deere, KLM, Huawei, Priva and Lely.
• Exploring the crucial role of Blockchain in fostering trust in food production, presented by Unisot & Amped, facilitated by HubOrange.
• Cutting-edge research and developments from the renowned Frauenhofer Institute and University Medical Centers.

Early bird registration is available until May 25, 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.

Government launches fund to help farmers manage water resources

April 29, 2024 - Groups of farmers will be offered support to work together to store water and protect against the impact of drought through a new fund launched by the government.

The £1.6 million fund will be used by farmers to investigate different methods to manage water in their area. Projects could include multi-farm reservoirs, treated waste-water recycling systems, water trading and sharing schemes. 

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The fund will support around 20 studies and will also investigate water demand and availability in the most water-stressed agricultural areas over the next 25-year period.

It delivers on the Prime Minister's commitment at last year's Farm to Fork Summit to support farmers to identify local water resource schemes which will help to build resilience into the water supply, support food production and safeguard food security.

Applications are now open with groups of two or more neighbouring farms eligible to apply. The closing date for applications is 23:59 on June 16.

Water Minister Robbie Moore said:

"Water is our most valuable resource, and we want to support farmers to come together to manage it efficiently on their land."

"By storing water when it's wet, they'll have more to use when it's dry - helping to support food production and boost the resilience of farm businesses across the country."

Philip Duffy, Chief Executive of the Environment Agency, said:

"Climate change, increased demand and the need to protect the environment mean that up to 5 billion extra litres of water will be needed in England every day by 2050."

"By working together, farmers can make a huge positive impact in improving our use of water resources, making sure they have water to use in times of drought and safeguarding our food security."

The fund will help to identify opportunities to build on the success of existing projects, including:

• Felixstowe Hydrocycle - a multi-farm project currently repurposing more than 0.5 million tonnes of excess land drainage water per year - the equivalent of more than 225 Olympic swimming pools which would otherwise be lost to sea, for agricultural irrigation on six farms.
• Lincoln Water Transfer - a member organisation where 19 farms share a single abstraction license to take water from Fossdyke Navigation to irrigate 4600 hectares of land - using a pool system to allocate water which creates greater flexibility in land and water use.

The Environment Agency will also use the fund to work with stakeholders such as farmers, landowners and Water Abstractor Groups to safeguard a healthy farming sector in future and highlight the needs of agriculture in Regional Water Resources Plans.

The funding builds on existing support from government to help farmers make efficient use of water resources - such as the Water Management Grant - as well as setting strict targets for water companies to deliver a 50 percent reduction in leakage from 2017/18 levels by 2050.

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.

Ukraine is most important European soya supplier for EU’s livestock industry

April 26, 2024 - Ukraine is the biggest and most important European soya supplier for animal feed of the EU’s livestock industry. The soya cultivation area there could expand to 2.2 million hectares in 2024, which is a plus of nearly 20 percent compared to last year. The soya output could reach as much as 5.5 million tonnes in 2024, depending on the weather conditions. Also the soya area in the EU is projected to grow by up to 10% to an all-time high of up to 1.15 million hectares. 

Small soybean plants growing in row in cultivated field

These numbers were presented in the new April edition of market report by Donau Soja, published yesterday. “We need Ukrainian Donau Soja certified soya in the EU to fill the so-called protein gap with deforestation-free and GMO-free soya, compliant with the new EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which is supposed to enter into application at the end of December 2024. Currently, the EU’s soya self-sufficiency rate is only 8 percent, posing a threat to the EU’s food security. Donau Soja certified soya imported from Ukraine and certified soya grown in the EU are produced under the same requirements, hence providing a level playing field for soya farmer in the EU and outside the EU”, said Susanne Fromwald, General Secretary of Donau Soja.

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Positive trends and outlook for 2024

The positive soya forecast for 2024 has several reasons. Experts of Donau Soja expect that higher market prices and margins of soybeans in comparison to other crops make soya cultivation more attractive to farmers in this season. The current relatively high prices for fertiliser and energy also encourage farmers to sow more soya, which is a less energy-intense crop. Furthermore, the rainy autumn in October to December 2023 drove farmers to shift some of their planting from winter crops to spring crops. Finally, Donau Soja expects a growing demand for deforestation- and GMO-free and regional soya supply because of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). The new EU regulation is expected to increase the competitiveness of European soya in comparison to Brazilian soya with a higher deforestation- and conversion risk. Companies start looking for solutions for proven deforestation-free soya. “On the other hand, a delayed implementation of the EUDR might also jeopardise the European soya production in 2025. There is still a danger of a dropdown in soya cultivation for the harvest in the next year because of unclarity and insecurity of the details and the process of the implementation of the regulation. We urgently ask the European Commission to get the EUDR information system operational and link it to existing (national) agricultural and traceability systems. Farmers, processors and the retail industry need legal clarity and no double or over-bureaucracy”, warns Fromwald.

European soya protects ecosystems in overseas

The total production of soya is expected to be around 397 million tonnes globally in 2024. The EU imports about 35 million tonnes of soya every year. The biggest amount of these imports is non-certified soya from overseas countries like Brazil, where important ecosystems such as the tropical savannahs Cerrado and El Chaco in Paraguay and Argentina are under pressure of deforestation, degradation and conversion. “With increased support and usage of European soya, we can reduce the pressure on these valuable ecosystems”, Fromwald said.

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.

Victam International 60th anniversary to take place in co-location with VIV Europe

April 25, 2024 - Victam International, the foremost gathering for professionals in the animal feed and grain processing industries, is delighted to announce the rescheduled dates for its highly anticipated 2026 edition. The event will take place from July 2-4, 2026 at the Jaarbeurs Utrecht in The Netherlands.

Originally slated for 2025, the decision to move Victam International to 2026 was made to align with VIV Europe, another leading event in the industry. By co-locating with VIV Europe, Victam International aims to foster synergy between the two events, creating a seamless experience for attendees and exhibitors alike. This strategic choice underscores our commitment to maximising value and facilitating meaningful connections within the industry.

As the flagship event of their portfolio, Victam International is renowned for its unwavering focus on innovation and excellence. During the event the four yearly prestigious innovation awards for Feed Technology and Flour Milling Technology will be handed out. The 2026 edition holds particular significance as we celebrate the event's 60th anniversary. This special milestone underscores our dedication to advancing the industry and driving progress for the next six decades and beyond.

Victam International 2026 will feature new halls, allowing for an enhanced exhibition space and a fresh allocation of stands and interactive areas that reflects their ongoing efforts to accommodate the growing demand and evolving needs of our exhibitors and attendees.

Also Grapas Europe will take place simultaneously. Grapas focuses on advanced technologies for Flour Milling, as well as grain, rice and corn elevating, encompassing storage and distribution solutions.

In addition to the exhibition, a comprehensive conference program will run in parallel, addressing current topics and trends in the industry. This format encourages meaningful discussions and collaboration among visitors, scientists and exhibitors, fostering the exchange of ideas and solutions. Already confirmed conferences are the International Feed Technology Conference organised by the University of Wageningen and the two conferences Feed Milling Maximised and Flour Milling Maximised by Perendale Publishers.

Sebas van den Ende, General Manager of Victam, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming event, stating, "Victam International 2026 marks a significant milestone in our journey. We are thrilled to celebrate our 60th anniversary with a special edition that showcases the latest innovations and fosters collaboration within the industry. By co-locating with VIV Europe, we aim to create a synergistic environment that maximises opportunities for all participants."

The last edition of the event in 2022, attracted 256 exhibitors and 7239 visitors from all over the world.

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.

Protix insect-based proteins and ingredients achieve new levels of sustainability with unprecedented scores

April 24, 2024 - Protix, the global leader in insect ingredients for feed and food, unveils the outstanding results of a new Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) conducted by the German Institute of Food Technologies. The figures follow on from impressive numbers published in an earlier assessment conducted in 2022, and demonstrate that Protix's black solider fly ingredients are crushing it again in terms of environmental footprint.

Driven by its mission to help feed the growing global world population while taking good care of our planet, Protix works tirelessly to further reduce the footprint of its ingredients for Petfood, animal feed and fertilisers. The improved results are driven by continuous improvement across operations, genetics and nutritional science. 

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• Feed production of the future: The potential of insects as an alternative source of protein
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All Protix products yielded standout results:

• ProteinX insect meal reduces CO2 emissions by 78 percent compared with poultry meal (ProteinX: 0.832kg CO2 eq; poultry meal: 3.8kg CO2 eq). Poultry meal is often used in period and livestock feed.
• LipidX insect fat dramatically reduces land use, using 99.9 percent less than coconut oil (LipidX: 0.0102m² land use and coconut oil: 12.98m² land use). Coconut oil is commonly used as a fat source in livestock and aquaculture feed as well as in petfood.
• PureeX insect meat uses a staggering 99.8 percent less water than poultry meat (PureeX at 0.098m³ and poultry meat at 61.13kg m³). Poultry meat is commonly used in petfood as a high moisture protein source.
• Protix's insect grass shows only 0.01kg CO2 eq per kilogram of product.
• Larvae, used as feed for livestock, show 0.198kg CO2 eq per kilogram of product.

Kees Aarts, CEO of Protix, comments: "We take pride in leading innovations within our industry on a pathway to low-footprint-no-footprint proteins. With our previous LCA, we shared the vision that the environmental footprint of our black soldier fly ingredients could be reduced and we have lived up to that promise: the latest DIL figures once again demonstrate an improvement in the footprint of our Protix ingredients. We look forward to translating these LCA numbers into new commercial opportunities to help our customers produce better and greener."

Data to count on

Protix understands the importance of a robust scientific foundation for its products. The company is heavily invested in substantiating its findings and sharing data that manufacturers can translate into compelling claims.

The latest LCA was conducted by DIL, the German Institute of Food Technologies. This is a private, non-profit research provider with around 150 member companies from the food industry and related fields. As in the previous LCA, the results are based on the established and proven IMPACT 2002+ methodology. To further support the robustness of the findings, the results were compared against benchmark results from literature and relevant databases.

Making a real difference

However, Protix's mission extends beyond the numbers and methodologies. The company is driven to create genuine, meaningful change in the food system. The data were taken from the year 2023, with the plant running at designed capacity. Protix is uniquely positioned to calculate with real production data from an industrial-scale facility operating at full capacity. Every kilogram of its products used in petfood, animal feed or organic fertiliser represents a tangible step towards a healthier planet, for Protix, its customers and all of us.

Wings of power

The LCA was carried out on Protix products which are based on the black soldier fly (BSF). Protix selected the BSF as its preferred and sole source of protein following in-depth research in the company's infancy, 15 years ago. The BSF was found to be a superior source of protein for a raft of reasons. Essentially, the black soldier fly is one of nature's most efficient up cyclers. 

While these latest LCA data relate directly to Protix insects derived from larvae of the black soldier fly, they also shine a light on exciting potential for the insect industry as a whole to recuse the environmental impact of feed and food.

A high-flying future

There is growing interest in insects as a sustainable source of protein. protix remains at the forefront of developments with new production facilities and international expansion high on the agenda. Kees Arts concludes: "This is an exciting time for change in the petfood, animal feed and fertiliser industries and we are scaling up our operations to meet demand. We are confident that we can achieve further outstanding figures in the future as we invest in improved genetics and build on our already deep knowledge of insect farming. When feedstock legislation changes, this will be a further driver of a lower footprint for our beloved black solider fly. A tiny creature, but an impactful eco-warrior."

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.