USDA funds three new Nutrition Hubs

December 20, 2024 - The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a $4.5 million investment to create three additional USDA Nutrition Hubs. The hubs will support effective, translatable and scalable approaches to advance food and nutrition security and reduce the burden of diet-related chronic diseases, especially in underserved, at-risk communities.

"Nutrition security means everyone has consistent and equitable access to healthy, safe, affordable foods essential to optimal health and well-being," said Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. "Ensuring nutrition security for all has been a cornerstone priority for the Biden-Harris Administration, and these new Nutrition Hubs will pave the way for even greater strides toward achieving that goal."

The addition of these three Hubs creates a network that builds on the pilot Nutrition Hub established last year in partnership with Southern University and A&M College under USDA's Agricultural Science Center of Excellence for Nutrition and Diet for Better Health (ASCEND for Better Health) initiative.

Funded by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture's Agriculture and Food Research Initiative, along with support from the USDA Agricultural Research Service, the Nutrition Hub network will complement and increase the impact of USDA's collective contributions to the Extension, education and research communities and underserved communities at large through the lens of precision nutrition.

Precision nutrition is a tailored approach to diet guidance based on individual subpopulations' unique characteristics, which include dietary intake and food composition, genetics, socioeconomic and psychosocial characteristics, food environments, cultural factors, physical activity and health status.

The Nutrition Hubs will be located at three Land-grant Universities: University of Hawaii, Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Utah State University.

"USDA's Land-grant University partners are the perfect place to house these three new Nutrition Hubs because of the experience they have building their communities through education and Extension outreach programming," said Dr Chavonda Jacobs-Young, Under Secretary for Research, Education and Economics and USDA's Chief Scientist. "Their goal will be to better understand the real-world opportunities and challenges around food, nutrition and diet-related health disparities, and to develop coordinated science-based solutions and resources for their populations."

Among the goals of the Nutrition Hubs is to stimulate and catalyse cross-cutting and interdisciplinary work among scientists and stakeholders, using highly interdisciplinary approaches and human-centred program designs.

The Pacific Nutrition Hub, located at the University of Hawaii at Mānoa, will enhance nutrition capacity in the US Affiliated Pacific Region through data-driven strategies and professional trainings tailored for the area's Native populations that are culturally and biologically distinct with Native languages and customs.

The Healthy Living for Hispanic Communities USDA Nutrition Hub at the Texas A&M Institute for Advancing Health through Agriculture will improve food and nutrition security, reduce diet-related disparities and improve population health in Hispanic communities.

Utah State University's Western Region Nutrition Security Collaborative will foster interdisciplinary and cross-sector collaboration to address barriers such as structural inequalities and improve equitable access to health-promoting foods. 

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.

Utrix animal solutions receives Halal certfication

December 20, 2024 - Utrix has announced that their key feed additives and mycotoxin binders have received the Halal certification from Dar El Fatwa. These products are designed to improve poultry and ruminant performance, feed quality and safety, as well as the safety and quality of drinking water in poultry farms.

Michel Daher, Business Support Director, commented on the announcement: "We are confident that this Halal certification will open the door to new markets for our innovative solutions in the Middle East region. This milestone underscores our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of our customers while adhering to the highest standards of quality and safety."

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 one million dollars in federal funding to promote animal food exports

December 20, 2024 - The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) has received one million dollars in federal funding through the US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP). In October 2023, the USDA initiated the $1.4 billion RAPP program aimed at developing new export markets for US food and agricultural products.

"We appreciate the USDA's continued recognition of AFIA's pivotal role in advancing the US feed ingredient and petfood industries on the global stage," stated AFIA President and CEO Constance Cullman. "This funding underscores our shared commitment to a strong US agricultural economy by building strong relationships with foreign buyers, expanding opportunities for American agricultural exports and boosting the competitiveness of US animal food manufacturers in emerging markets."

In 2023, the overall export value for feed, feed ingredients and petfood stood at $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 plays 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 such as 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. This is the second time the AFIA has been awarded this funding.

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.

TMO: Paddy production and stocks sufficient for market stability

December 19, 2024 - Turkey's paddy production and existing stocks are sufficient to maintain market stability, the Turkish Grain Board (TMO) announced. According to the statement, paddy production in 2024 is expected to reach 1 million tonnes (around 600,000 tonnes of rice), up 11.2% from the previous year. It was also stated that the market, which was stagnant before the harvest, became active with the purchase prices announced on September 13, 2024 and that the prices were shaped in line with the levels set by TMO.

TMO pointed out that the sudden price increases in the paddy market in recent days and the interruptions in product supply may be speculative moments. The institution emphasised that the market is monitored instantly and that strong stocks and market regulation powers will be activated when necessary. Considering the increase in production compared to last year, the existence of stocks in the hands of producers and the amount of product in circulation, it was underlined tat there is no situation that requires price fluctuations.

TMO assured the public that all necessary steps would be taken to maintain market stability.

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

A new 'Oqualim' structure for animal feed safety

December 18, 2024 - Oqualim, Qualimat and Qualimat Sud-Ouest merged on December 17, 2024 to strengthen the performance, visibility and recognition of the French animal feed sector on sanitary issues, at three levels: regional, national and international.

Through this merger, the new structure will bring together, from January 1, 2025, under the name Ogualim, all professionals in the animal feed sector and will federate their approach, expertise and their operational solutions of today and tomorrow, in the service of quality management and feed safety.

You may also be interested in:

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Recognised for their commitment and operational solutions, Oqualim, Qualimat and Qualimat Sud-Ouest are joining forces in a single structure. This will bring together feed, premixes, mineral feed, liquid feed or specialties producers and will also include among its partners professional suppliers of raw materials, representatives of companies involved in collection, storage and transport. This grouping will allow for greater consistency of sectoral requirements, in compliance with the Guide to Good Practices in Animal Nutrition.

This collective approach should strengthen the international recognition of French standards, such as the animal nutrition certification standard (RDNA) and its 'Sustainable Soy' module (SDNA), the non-GMO technical bases (STNO) and equine nutrition (STNE), the raw material supplier certification standard (RCF), supported by Oqualim or the Qualimat-Transport standard.

The harmonised, integrated and impartial application of certification protocols, built by and for French professionals, is based on the involvement of certification bodies (CBs) and auditors, trained and respectful of these protocols. The continuity of the collaborations established between associations and CBs will guarantee the robustness and recognition of certified French companies in the future.

"This structuring project, respectful of the values and fundamentals upheld by the profession, will strengthen the approaches and experience acquired in terms of risk analysis, monitoring, control and certification. This success will serve all animal production sectors and the health safety of our food". (Press release, September 2023).

The optimisation of resources and pooling actions, or even the development of new services are intended to encourage the membership of all French animal feed professionals, of which more than 310 companies are already collectively engaged in a resolutely dynamic sector, to face new challenges including that of decarbonisation.

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.

ForFarmers and Remediiate announce collaboration

December 17, 2024 - ForFarmers, a European-based feed manufacturer, and Remediiate, which uses algae to convert CO₂ into animal feed, fertiliser and nutraceuticals, have signed a letter of intent for their collaboration in the United Kingdom.

The collaboration focuses on growing microalgae that can capture industry CO₂ emissions that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere. The companies said processing the microalgae into animal feed reduces CO₂ emissions and creates sustainable, circular solution for animal feed.

Carlos de Pommes, Chief Executive Officer of Remediiate, said the collaboration with ForFarmers is an important step toward sustainable innovation.

"With Project LightARC in Wales, we are now capturing CO₂ emissions from nickel production to culture Microalgae, and in partnership with ForFarmers we are exploring its application in animal feed," he said. "This project shows that together we can make a positive impact on both industry and the environment."

He said that by using microalgae in animal feed, "they gain value and transform into protein for human consumption."

Microalgae, an alternative source material that can help reduce the use of certain crops, such as soybeans, "are rich in proteins, carbohydrates and oils, but as cultured here, they are not directly suitable for human consumption," de Pommes said. "That is why we call them a circular raw material for animal feed."

Rob Kiers, Chief Operating Officer, ForFarmers, said the collaboration is an important step toward a more sustainable future and fits well with the company's 'For the Future of Farming' mission.

"By using microalgae to sequester CO₂ in the final product, we not only create value for our animal feed industry, but also contribute to a sustainable future," Kiers said. "In addition, it is a step towards more circularity, one of the sustainability ambitions within our organisation."

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.

Kemin launches Bactan for pigs and poultry

December 17, 2024 - Kemin Industries, a global ingredient manufacturer, has launched Bactan, an innovative, water-soluble product designed to reduce diarrhoea, wet litter and antibiotic dependency in pigs and poultry. Bactan provides veterinarians and producers in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa (EMENA) with sustainable solutions to enhance animal performance.

The product has proven highly effective for pigs in reducing post-weaning diarrhoea and enhancing growth - all through its simple and efficient water-based application. Because it is water soluble, Bactan offers quick and easy application through drinking water systems, eliminating the need for feed adjustments, in case of sudden challenges. This reduces diarrhoea and wet litter, enhances animal performance and enables faster responses to challenges, making it a vital tool for reducing antibiotic use and supporting overall animal health.

"Bactan is an exciting development for our customers, as it works towards advancing sustainable animal health solutions," said Valentine Van Hamme, Marketing Manager, Kemin Animal Nutrition and Health - EMENA.

During the R&D process, Kemin Animal Nutrition and Health - EMENA conducted extensive field trials that demonstrated Bactan's ability to significantly reduce diarrhoea and enhance growth in pigs and poultry. In poultry, specifically, the field trials showed improved weight gain, better feed conversion rates and a significant reduction in wet litter.

"We've designed Bactan to meet the specific needs of veterinarians, pig producers and poultry producers," said Van Hamme. "For veterinarians, it offers an effective tool for immediate intervention during health challenges by reducing reliance on antibiotics and ensuring timely treatment. Pig producers benefit from its ability to simplify the management of post-weaning diarrhoea and drive growth. And for poultry producers, Bactan naturally enhances flock performance by reducing wet litter and promoting better overall health through an easy-to-apply solution."

Bactan combines two types of powerful, natural ingredients:

• Probiotics - Bacillus sp. PB6 supports microbial diversity, reduces inflammation and inhibits pathogenic bacteria, such as C perfringens.
• Phytogenics - antibacterial, anti-parasitic and antioxidant benefits help improve gut health.

The product is available in one-, five- and 25-kilogram packaging with dosage options tailored to meet customers' specific operational needs.

For more information, visit HERE.

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

Martin Engineering opens new business unit in Kazakhstan

December 16, 2024 - Martin Engineering has announced fresh expansion in Central Asia with a new business unit in Kazakhstan. Based in the country's largest city and commercial centre, Almaty, in the South East of Kazakhstan, the new venture will act as a regional hub enabling Martin to bring its full range of products and services to the fast-growing mining sector across Central Asia.

Kazakhstan is the world's ninth-largest country by land area (approximately one million square miles) and has a diverse geology comprising a rich array of metal ores and mineral resources. Consequently mining and minerals production is playing an increasingly important role in the Kazakh economy with most materials exported.

The decision to establish a business unit in Kazakhstan builds on the Martin Engineering's success in the country to date. That includes delivering innovative conveyor belt cleaning solutions to one of Kazakhstan's largest copper producers to maximise plant efficiency and productivity.

Now Kazakhstan's mining and mineral processing companies have access to a broader portfolio of exceptional conveyor products, such as Martin's revolutionary CleanScrape belt cleaners, versatile Orion SQC2S Secondary Belt Cleaner and high performance Air Cannons featuring Smart Series Nozzles to ensure optimal material flow.

Kazakh customers can also benefit from faster service response times, improved supply chain logistics and new product trials, as well as enhanced problem-solving services like Walk The Belt and tailor-made Foundations training for in-house maintenance teams. 

The new business will be led by General Manager Oleg Glukhov, who has worked with Martin Engineering for the past seven years. He says Martin is well placed to support Kazakhstan's leading minerals processing firms to improve operational performance and safety.

"Kazakhstan is one of the world's key sources of metals and industrial minerals," he explained. "Processing materials safely, efficiently and profitably is important, and that's where Martin Engineering comes in - our market-leading products and services are proven to solve materials handling challenges for the world's biggest mining and minerals companies."

The company has become synonymous with the development and manufacture of innovations that deliver cleaner, safer more productive bulk materials processing. The company holds dozens of patents for engineering designs that have revolutionised workplace safety and production efficiency in foundation sectors like mining, steel, cement and fertiliser production. 

The full address of the new business is TOO Martin Engineering Kazakhstan, Abish Kekilbayuly 34, Bostandyk District, Almaty 050000.

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.

EU member states endorse updated code for green labelling for feed

December 16, 2024 - Following a comprehensive 12-month assessment, the European Commission's SCoPAFF on Animal Nutrition officially endorsed the upgraded Copa-Cogeca & FEFAC Code of Good Labelling Practices for compound feed. The endorsement at the meeting of December 2-3, marks a significant step forward in the promotion of sustainable feed production and reduction of livestock production's emissions.

Inspired by the proposal for the Green Claims Directive, the updated code includes detailed guidelines for communicating the environmental performance of animal feed to farmers, addressing key impact areas such as climate change, eutrophication and livestock emissions abatement techniques. The enhanced Code, which integrates the PEFCR Feed for Food-Producing Animals methodology and the Global Feed LCA Institute database, offers a harmonised approach to labelling that supports the feed sector's efforts to reduce its environmental footprint.

Developed with the support of FEFANA, the Code also provides clear recommendations for substantiating environmental claims for compound feed, especially in relation to livestock emissions abatement techniques. More specifically, it ensures that feed producers can transparently report on the environmental impact of their products, enhancing the feed sector's transparency towards both livestock farmers and consumers. By including information on 16 environmental impact categories, including water use and biodiversity, it addresses the need for accurate reporting to meet Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions requirements.

The endorsement of the upgraded Code represents a major milestone in the path toward sustainable feed and livestock production. Thanks to this harmonised framework, the feed sector is now better positioned to contribute to reducing the emissions of feed and livestock production.

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.

FrigorTec hosts groundbreaking ceremony for new warehouse in Amtzell

December 16, 2024 - FrigorTec, a globally established specialist in industrial cooling technology, is sending a clear signal of growth and loyalty to its location. The groundbreaking ceremony for a new, cutting-edge warehouse at the company headquarters in Amtzell took place on October 9, 2024.

From left to right: Stefan Frizenschaf (pro-bau), Andres Müller (pro-bau), Ralph E. Kolb (CEO FrigorTec), Erwin Schmid (Schmid Wohnbau), Sibylle Schmid (Schmid Wohnbau), Thomas Weimer (Schmid Wohnbau) at the groundbreaking ceremony for FrigorTec's new, cutting-edge warehouse.

Investment in response to continuous growth

FrigorTec has grown steadily over the past 20 years. The company enjoys an excellent reputation worldwide as an expert in cooling technology with customised solutions for various industries. FrigorTec is known for reliable grain cooling units and heat treatment units, among other things. "We built our first cooling units in 1961, and today our technology is supplied to over 100 countries," explains Ralph E Kolb, CEO of FrigorTec.

Innovative solutions for more efficient processes

The new warehouse will be equipped with modern warehouse lift systems that automate the warehouse processes. "This expansion will enable us to create space in the existing production halls and further develop our lean production. The investment is a strategic decision in order to be prepared for further expansion in the coming years," says Ralph E Kolb.

With this investment, FrigorTec is once again underlining its commitment to Amtzell and the surrounding economic region. The companies involved in the construction are based in the region, which further strengthens the local economy.

International presence, local ties

Despite its global orientation with its own subsidiaries in the USA, France, Austria, Singapore and India as well as several service locations in Germany (Leipzig, Leverkusen, Dortmund, Hanover and Nuremberg), the company remains true to its roots. "Whilst our roots are firmly in Amtzell and the Ravensburg district, our presence is felt throughout Germany and across the globe. We will continue to expand in the coming years with our innovative new developments. The expansion of our buildings is a key element in the implementation of these plans. However, our main focus is optimising warehouse logistics through automation. The continuous refinement of our lean production vision enables us to offer the highest quality 'Made in Germany' at competitive prices. This strategy, combined with our competent team, most of whom were trained at FrigorTec, has been our key to sustainable corporate success for decades," emphasises the management. In addition to retaining all our trainees, we will need to hire additional employees to support our further growth.

The groundbreaking ceremony marks the start of the company's further expansion and underlines its innovative strengthen and future orientation.

For more information, visit HERE.

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

Physical characteristics of alternative feeds

By İbrahim Ethem Polat, R&D Engineer, Yemmak

December 16, 2024 - The physical characteristics of alternative feeds are not the first thought in the mind of dairy producers, cattlemen or feed professionals as they plan feed rations. It does however have an impact in the decisions that need to be made when planning and designing the on farm feed storage. A discussion of the basic terminology and physical properties of alternative feeds should help the farmer or feed professional recognise the important considerations such as volume of storage required and handling options that need to be addressed in planning for storage.

Feed terminology

Basic terminology and definitions used in the feed industry are needed in order to accurately describe the types of alternative feeds used in feed rations. There are several sources of official terms including Turkey's Feed Industrialists Association (TUYEM), the White Meat Industrialists and Breeders Association (BESD-BiR) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of the Republic of Turkey.

This information is used to help communicate the requirements and limitations of transport, delivery, handling and proper storage of the alternative feed from its source to the farm.

Physical form

Physical form describes the physical description of the feed such as a seed or meal and is characteristic of the dimension or size of the seed or particle measured by screening or the processes.

• Grains are whole seeds from cereal plants.
• Scratch (Chicken food) are whole, cracked or coarsely cut grain.
• Meal (grinded grain) is a feed which has been ground or otherwise reduced in particulate size. Many of the alternative feeds are whole grains. Parts of the whole grain, or have gone through some type of processing which may have reduced the particle size.
• Screenings (grain screenings) are any material that has been passed through one or more screens which separates various size particles and is obtained from the cleaning of grains.
• Flakes are rolled or cut into flat pieces with or without prior steam.
• Pellets are agglomerated feed formed by compacting and forcing the feed through die openings by a mechanical process.
• Cubes (hay cubes) are similar to pellets, but are larger in size.

Bulk physical properties

The bulk physical property of an alternative feed 'as fed' is important to planning and design for handling, transporting and storing the feed. Different processes occurring during harvest, and manufacturing of a product will impact the physical properties of the end product or by-product used as animal feed.

The variety of feeds used in rations does not allow a comprehensive reference of each feed's physical properties. Although there are a variety of sources of published information, the published values may vary significantly from the batch of feed delivered to the farm.

Bulk density

The 'bulk density' or 'apparent density' is a measurement of a feed's mass 'weight' per unit volume of space the feed occupies. The standard unit is kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³). Since many suppliers of feed transport feed by weight, the volume of storage space required for a load of feed can more easily be calculated by converting the standard bulk density unit into a volume per unit mass (weight) such as cubic meter per tonne (m³/tonne).

Bulk density varies with particle size and compaction (packing) of the feed. Density can vary even in the same batch or lot of feed. To be accurate the density of a batch or lot of feed should be calculated instead of using a published value from a table.

The bulk density is measured several ways. It can be measured by weighing a specific volume of feed and calculating the density. There is an official 'test weight per kile' method similar to what is used for corn grain. A simple on site method can be used to get an approximate density.

Setting and consolidating may occur in transport or storage, which compact the feed. Packing reduces the volume of the feed by reducing the volume of voids or air spaces in the product. This results in a higher 'stored' density than a label test weight or 'apparent density'. The packing percentage is available on a limited number of grains from Appel, 1985.

Dry matter content (moisture content)

The dry matter (DM) content is the amount of DM expressed as a percentage of the total wet weight of the feed. When the expression DM ratio is used in relation to a feed, the percentage value of the amount of dry matter contained in that feed is given. For example: For wheat with a DM percentage of 90, the DM weight obtained with 1kg, feed wight is 900gr.

Angle of repose

The angle of repose is the maximum angle in which a pile of feed will retain its natural slope.

The 'filling' angle of repose is the angle measured from horizontal to the pile surface that is retained as feed drops onto the pile. As the feed particles fall onto the pile they may tend to roll and flow (small angle of repose), or hang and wedge together (large angle of repose).

The 'emptying' angle of repose is the angle measured from horizontal to the pile surface that is retained as feed is removed from the pile. The emptying angle of repose is also typically called the internal angle of friction. A sharp angle of repose (dried beet pulp, 50°) occurs in a fed that tends to stack and hold together versus a low angle of repose (delinted cottonseed, 25°) for a feed that flows or spreads out.

These two angles of repose are not necessarily the same. The filling angle of repose is usually less than the emptying angle of repose. Published information on the angle of repose of alternative feeds is limited.

Flowability is not a technical term but is a common term used when talking about the appropriate handling and storage method for feeds. it describes the tendency of a feed to flow, which allows it to be handled with conventional conveyors and stored in binds. Many of the alternative feeds will flow to some degree. Feeds such as cottonseed may not flow well which limits the type of storage and handling method that can be used. Cotton seed is generally stored in flat storage and handled by skidsteer loaders or by hand.

Coefficient of friction

The coefficient of friction between a feed and a wall is the ratio of the normal force and the friction force along the wall surface. It is dependent on the feed stored, and the type of surface in contact with feed.

Engineering information

Engineering information on physical properties of alternative feeds is limited. It is especially important to have accurate engineering information in designing walls and floors for storage areas. Published data should not be the only source used in the structural design of storage facilities. The supplier should be asked to provide information and experience on the proper storage and handling options for the feed after it is delivered. This may require field measurements of feed properties by the supplier or an agricultural engineer, but this information will be more valuable than published data.

Storage loads

There are several types of storage loads that must be determined in order to design walls and floors of storage facilities.

The vertical load of a feed is a pressure measured in kilograms per square meter (kg/m²) that results from the depth of feed stored and the bulk density of the feed. The weight of the feed in storage is equal to the volume of feed times the bulk density. The floor of a storage area must be able to support the vertical pressure of weight of the stored feed. 

The lateral load of a feed is a horizontal pressure on the storage bin wall, which is a result of the depth of feed and the internal angle of friction. As the depth increases so does the lateral pressure. The walls bust be designed to withstand this loading without 'upping over' or 'kicking out' from the floor of the storage.

The friction load is the load on the wall de to the lateral pressure and the coefficient of friction between the bin wall and the feed. The wall must be designed to withstand the compressive load which may crush the wall.

Thermal loads caused by temperature changes can cause dimensional changes between the bin and the stored feed which in turn can cause pressures in the wall. For example a metal bin filled on a hot day will shrink on a cool night and creates a lateral pressure increase between the bin and the stored feed, which can strain the wall.

Moisture effect loads can cause lateral pressure increases with increasing moisture content of the stored material. Leaks from a roof can cause the stored feed to absorb water and expand which can strain the wall. Feeds that absorb moisture may cake, or set in storage which causes a problem of removing feed, often requiring a rapping of the bin side to loosen feed or the addition of vibrators to loosen feed.

Storage life

Storage life may be affected by both time and temperature. Most dry products have little problem in storage, but low DM content feeds (ie high moisture content) may cause problems if temperatures are also conductive to mold growth. Low temperatures may also be a problem in storage if free water is allowed to freeze. Special storage needs for some products should be discussed with the supplier of the feed to determine the proper handling, type of storage and expected storage life. Spoilage caused by mold and fungi, rancidity of meat and/or dairy products, secondary fermentation, and hot or cold temperatures could all be potential problems if improper storage conditions occur.

When planning for alternative feed storage, asking the proper questions of the supplier in how to properly store and handle the product after it is delivered. Consult an agricultural engineer or consultant to determine what types of structures would be suitable for storing the feeds chosen. Obtain a proper plan for constructing the storage facility. Use a flexible storage facility design to allow for storage of different feeds in the same area.

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.

'Team Australia' approach fosters reconnection with Chinese market

December 16, 2024 - Positive connections with the important Chinese barley market were re-established and knowledge exchanges facilitated under initiatives swiftly implemented in 2023 as part of a Grains Australia-invested project.

Initiatives and outcomes from the project included in-market delegations and events attended by a broad cross section of Chinese industry representatives, and increased insights into aspects of technical knowledge required by Chinese customers. 

Delivered by the Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre (AEGIC), the project was implemented in September 2023 - soon after China removed anti-dumping and countervailing duties on Australian barley in August 2023.

Since May 2020, China's duties on Australian barley had effectively prevented exports to that market, which had been worth about $916 million in 2018-19.

Grains Australia Chief Executive Officer Richard Simonaitis said the aim of the project was to re-establish Australia's capacity to support the enhanced use of Australian barley by the Chinese malting, brewing and distilling industries.

"Leveraging a 'Team Australia' approach, the Australian barley industry demonstrated to our Chinese customers that we value their business and relationships, and that we are here to provide technical support to enhance the uptake of our products," Mr Simonaitis said.

"Grains Australia is a willing investor in initiatives that support demand for Australian barley."

Grains Australia, an initiative of the Grains Research and Development Corporation, is responsible for vital industry services and functions that improve the industry's competitiveness and profitability.

The project recognised that both countries' barley industries had evolved since May 2020 when the duties were implemented.

New varieties had been grown in Australia, industries had adapted to the increase use of barley from alternative origins and personnel and industry changes had occurred.

"Reconnecting the industries and rebuilding knowledge and confidence in Australian barley - via project initiatives - helped to overcome these hurdles and assisted in facilitating a rapid return to trade," Mr Simonaitis said.

"This was evidenced by the strong return of the Chinese market following the lifting of trade barriers."

With the renewal of trade after August 2023, Australia shipped 2.94 million metric tonnes of barley to China to December 2023.

By the end of June 2024, 5.9mmt of barley was exported to China for the marketing year.

As part of the project, an AEGIC-led Australian barley technical delegation travelled to China in October 2023 and two Australian barley technical symposiums were held in Beijing and Guangzhou, alongside business-to-business meetings with malting, brewing and supply chain operators. 

Australian industry organisations represented at the symposium included Australian Grain Technologies, InterGrain, RAGT Australia and Grain Trade Australia, with support provided by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade).

Other initiatives delivered during the 12-month project included site visits, an embassy strategic briefing, a technical webinar and a technical presentation at the 2024 Australian Grain Industry Conference (AGIC) Asia.

Mr Simonaitis said the project also highlighted that the Chinese feed grain industry wants greater technical knowledge on the use of Australian barley for the Chinese pig industry.

"While corn remains the main ingredient in Chinese pig feed, the Chinese feed industry is hungry for more technical support from Australia on the use of barley in pig rations, because they understand that it is a valuable inclusion at many different stages of the life stage of the animal," he 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.

Axor commissions a new project in Pakistan

December 16, 2024 - Axor, a member of Alapala Holding specialising in pasta processing technologies, continues to expand its global footprint with over 170 successful project references worldwide. Renowned for delivering innovative and comprehensive solutions to pasta producers across continents, the company has recently added another milestone to its portfolio commissioning a state-of-the-art short-cut pasta production line in Pakistan. With a production capacity of 2000kg per hour, this new facility is set to supply high-quality short-cut pasta in the Pakistan market.

High production efficiency through advanced R&D and feasibility studies

Before initiating any project, Axor undertakes extensive feasibility and R&D studies to ensure optimal efficiency and investment value for pasta producers. Expert teams conduct comprehensive analyses, evaluating factors such as the project's location and the specific types of pasta to be produced. Based on these findings, processes are meticulously optimised to maximise efficiency and profitability for the client. Each pasta production line is subjected to rigorous testing by R&D teams to ensure high performance and energy efficiency prior to commissioning.

Turnkey solutions tailored to pasta producers' needs

With decades of expertise in pasta process technologies, Axor provides high-capacity turnkey solutions that cater to the unique requirements of pasta producers. From facility construction to automation, the company delivers end-to-end project services, offering seamless convenience and efficiency. These tailored solutions empower pasta producers to achieve exceptional results while minimising operational challenges.

By combining advanced technology, industry expertise and a commitment to excellence. Axor solidifies its position as a trusted partner for pasta production facilities worldwide. Its latest project in Pakistan exemplifies the company's dedication to enhancing the capabilities and efficiency of pasta producers in emerging and established markets alike.

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.

Prices, politics and extreme weather take top billing at NGFA conference

December 13, 2024 - The US grain and feed industry will have several issues to navigate in 2025, including a difficult rural economy, shifting political realities and possible extreme weather on the horizon. That's according to three speakers who addressed more than 500 attendees this week at the 53rd Country Elevator Conference (CEC), hosted by the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA).

"Agriculture is a supply-side driven market right now, and prices are in the doldrums," explained Stephen Nicholson, the Global Sector Strategist for grain and oilseeds at Rabo AgriFinance.

These low commodity prices are negatively affecting working capital and squeezing profit margins across the agricultural supply chain, he said.

Nicholson's presentation highlighted several uncertainties for US agriculture in the near-term, shaped by weather, trade and policy dynamics. Adding to the pressures: increasing US stocks of corn, wheat and soybeans, growing global export competition and negative margins at the farm level that may result in fewer acres planted in 2025.

But there are pockets of opportunity. "Lower wheat export volumes from EU and Russia have created opportunities for other major producers like Canada and the US," Nicholson explained. In addition, the biofuels market and emerging export opportunities in the EU, Mexico, India and Vietnam are potential bright spots.

Changes in DC may also provide relief, according to Jim Wiesemeryer, a Washington policy analyst for Pro Farmer. "Trump 2.0 is brining in agents of change," he said, explaining that the president-elect has even stronger support in rural America this time around.

Deregulation, an extension of tax cuts, renewed interest in production agriculture, and increased domestic energy production are among the opportunities for rural America that Wiesemeyer noted. He also told the group he expects a Farm Bill extension and disaster assistance package to be passed before the end of the year.

"In the last three years, we've been chasing more storms than ever," Timmer said.

He is predicting powerful tornadoes in the Great Plains and Southeastern Unites States in 2025 because of underlining weather patterns across the Pacific Ocean. Drought conditions in the Midwest may also worsen over the next few years. Hurricane seasons are harder to predict, Timmer noted, but said the end of the 2024 season made it the second most damaging year ever.

GFA sponsors the annual CEC convention, bringing hundreds of professionals from across the grain and feed sectors for networking, education sessions and a supplier trade show. The event's programming is designed to provide attendees with the knowledge, tools and inspiration needed to succeed in the evolving 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.

Ardent Mills discusses shutdown plans in meeting with Mankato

December 13, 2024 - Ardent Mills, who is shutting down a historic Mankato mill, said they are looking into holding job fairs for employees and working with the city to preserve a massive mural in a meeting on December 2 with Mankato city officials and the commerce group Greater Mankato Growth.

"It is our goal to preserve and uphold the wishes of the community members and leaders, while recognising our role is shifting in the future direction of the property itself," Kelley Kaiser, a spokeswoman for the company, said on Wednesday when taking to local news.

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• Ardent Mills to close Mankato flour mill

The company is looking into job fairs and helping its 44 employees find new jobs within or outside Ardent Mills, Kaiser said.

The company has also said it is working with the city to map out what will happen to the mural of dancing Native American children that is painted on their 135-foot-tall grain silos. Along with this, the historical building known as Mill A has also been discussed as in need of protection.

The company has said it is closing its Mankato mill, which dates back to 1878, because of difficult market conditions "driven by excess capacity in this market and declining regional volume."

Ardent Mills saw its sales decrease last year, reflecting industry trends, according to a recent financial statement from Conagra, which has a 44% ownership interest in the company. The company closed four flour mills in 2019. A joint venture of Cargill, Conagra and CHS, Ardent Mills has about 40 locations in the US, Canada and Puerto Rico.

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.

Modern Mills to build feed plant in Saudi Arabia

December 13, 2024 - Modern Mills plans to construct a new animal feed plant with an annual capacity of 422,000 tonnes at its Al-Jumum facility in Western Saudi Arabia with an estimated cost of SAR 150 million (£31,568,101.20).

Following regulatory approvals and securing a contractor, the project, which was approved by the company board on December 9, is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2026, the company said in its announcement on the Saudi Stock Exchange. Commercial production is expected to begin toward the end of the quarter after a one-month trial period.

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"This project is launched as per the company's strategy that aims at diversifying its products, covering growing demand in western region, achieving leadership and innovation in the field of animal feed, industry, coinciding with the Kingdom food security in line with 2030 vision," Modern Mills said.

Modern Mills is a national, milling and nutrition company with an established market position across flour, animal feed and animal bran. The company produces 368,000 tonnes of feed annually as of 2023.

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.

Alltech releases 2024 European Harvest Analysis

December 13, 2024 - Alltech has released the complete Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis report. The comprehensive final report shows that a combination of heavy early-season rains and late-season droughts has created distinct challenges for crop producers in Central and Southeastern Europe and indicates that overall risk in moderate to high.

Results from the Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis indicate that overall risk is moderate to high.

"Overall, European grains may have similar or higher risk this year compared to last year. Type B trichothecenes are predominant mycotoxins in corn silage and straw, while the other penicillium mycotoxins dominate grass silages," said Dr Radka Borutova, global technical support for the Technology Group at Alltech. "Together, these mycotoxins could impact animal performance and health, so producers should be aware of these challenges in order to be proactive in their mycotoxin management strategies."

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The final mycotoxin risk will ultimately depend on the animal species and groups being fed and the mycotoxin concentrations and combinations in the finished diet.

Mycotoxins, which are natural substances produced by moulds and fungi, are more prevalent - and more of a problem in agriculture - than ever before. More than 95% of crops today are contaminated with at least one mycotoxin, and usually with two or more. Because these toxins are difficult to detect, they can cause significant damage to animal health before producers even realise they are present. A proactive mycotoxin management programme is essential, and the first step is learning which mycotoxins pose the highest res in specific regions, crops and species.

The Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis programme tests samples of new-crop grains and forages collected from farms or animal feed production sites in 20 countries, ensuring an accurate picture of mycotoxin contamination across the continent. All samples are tested at the Alltech 37+ lab, which can detect the presence of 54 mycotoxins. Corn samples from central and souther Europe are also tested in collaboration with SGS, a global leader in mycotoxin testing and certification.

Other key results from the Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis include:

Barley

Samples tested show an average of 6.8 mycotoxins per sample, with 98% containing multiple mycotoxins. The highest-res mycotoxins are type B trichothecees, type A trichothecenes and ergot alkaloids.

Wheat

Samples show an average of 7.6 mycotoxins per sample, with 99% containing multiple mycotoxins. The most prevalent mycotoxins are type B and type A trichothecenes.

Forages

Forage samples (grass silage, corn silage and straw) show 3.7 mycotoxins per sample on average, with 78% of samples containing multiple mycotoxins. The most prevalent are type B trichothecenes and Penicillium mycotoxins such as penicillic acid, mycophenolic acid and patulin.

On November 21, Alltech hosted 'From Field to Feed: 2024 Crop and Mycotoxin Analysis', a broadcast streamed live from Alltech's headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky, US. During the broadcast, panellists shared valuable insights for managing risks across the supply chain. Here are the key takeaways:

• Test and monitor: Regularly test crops and feed to understand what's present and to ensure high quality.
• Leverage weather data: Pay attention to weather patterns and farm-specific conditions to assess potential risks early.
• Use comprehensive information: Gather unbiased data from all aspects of your operation and tailor it to fit your specific needs. 
• Combine methods: Utilise both traditional techniques and new technologies to refine processes and ensure feed quality.
• Act proactively: If mycotoxins are present, be proactive with management to ensure high-quality feed production, thus protecting animals and safeguarding your operation's resilience and success.

To gain access to the recording of the broadcast, 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.

Giant investment with 40,000 tonnes capacity from Obial to Samsun

December 12, 2024 - Obial, as one of the leading brands of Altuntaş Group of Companies, continues to add value to the agricultural sector with its new licensed warehousing facility in Samsun Basin. With its total capacity of 40,000 tonnes, its structure equipped with modern technologies, and its advantage in the strategic location of the region, this facility makes significant contributions to both farmers and the regional economy.

Strategic Importance of Samsun

The facility is located in the Central Black Sea Region of Samsun, on the main highway and railway connecting the Central Anatolia, Aegean, Mediterranean and Marmara Regions. This location makes Samsun not only an agricultural centre but also an important crossroads for trade and logistics. The city’s position as the gateway to the Black Sea Region gives the facility an advantage not only in local but also in international trade. This investment in Samsun Basin is of great value, especially in terms of transporting and storing strategic products such as wheat.

Technical Details of the Project

The plant utilises 12 DT-1822 flat bottom silos. These silos, each designed with high durability, ensure the safe storage of grain products. In addition, 2 70 tonne truck loading silos allow for fast and efficient transportation of products. With a capacity of 150 tonnes per hour, the transport equipment provides speed and efficiency in operational processes and offers significant time savings for farmers and businesses.

This investment stands out not only in terms of capacity but also with the advanced technology used. Magnelis coated sheets offer five times longer corrosion resistance than galvanised sheets, increasing the durability of the plant. In addition, energy consumption is minimised thanks to the highly efficient electric motors produced by Aemot. These features provide both environmental sustainability and economic benefits.

The facility is designed for the safe storage of grains used in the production of bread flour, bongalite, bran, natural phyllo and pancake flour. In particular, storing wheat and other grain varieties in a way that preserves their quality for a long time increases the sustainability of the raw materials used in production processes.

Contributions to Agriculture Sector

This investment of the company allows farmers in the region to store their products in accordance with the licensed warehousing system. The licensed warehousing system offers many advantages for farmers. Class and quality determination of agricultural products is carried out by modern laboratories. While the products are stored in healthy conditions, farmers can trade through warehouse receipts. This system enables farmers to compete not only in local markets but also in international markets.

In particular, grain products can be stored for a long time without losing their quality during the storage process, allowing farmers to sell their products at more favourable prices and increase their income. In addition, the licensed warehousing system, which operates under state guarantee, ensures that farmers’ labour is protected and their risks are reduced.

Employment Contribution to the Regional Economy

Significant employment was created both directly and indirectly during the construction and operation of the plant. The project started in autumn 2023 and was successfully completed in spring 2024.

During this period, many people in the region gained employment opportunities. At the same time, permanent employment was created in the region with the commissioning of the plant. This situation accelerated the economic development in Samsun and its surroundings and increased the level of social welfare in the region.

Vision of Altuntaş Group of Companies

Altuntaş Group of Companies, to which Obial is affiliated, has been attracting attention with its achievements in different sectors since 1981. The company, which started its activities with the production of chicken cages and equipment, has grown over the years to become one of Turkey’s leading companies.

With the awareness of the importance of being national and domestic, Altuntaş Group provides services to our country and foreign markets in these fields with the production of the first domestic grain storage systems in our country with the Obial brand and the first domestic axial ventilation fan with the Alfan brand.

In addition, it operates in different fields such as logistics, tourism and production of electric motors.

This broad vision of Altuntaş Group also affects its investments in the agricultural sector. Its work in the field of licensed warehousing contributes to raising standards in the trade of agricultural products both locally and internationally. This latest investment of the Obial brand stands out as a step that reinforces the group’s leadership in the sector.

Future Vision

This facility in Samsun not only meets the current needs, but also shapes the future agricultural development of the region. Increasing storage capacities and the use of modern technology will increase the efficiency of agricultural activities in the region. Moreover, the expansion of the licensed warehousing system will enable farmers to work with a more sustainable economic model.

With this investment, investor companies are not only establishing a facility, but also pioneering the economic and social development of the region. This project, which increases quality and efficiency in the agricultural sector, is considered as an important investment in the agricultural future of Samsun and Türkiye.

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.

New probiotic shown to improve digestion in poultry and swine

December 12, 2025 - A novel probiotic has been developed as a direct-fed microbial in poultry and swine feed to improve gut health and weight-gain efficiency. Additionally, feed cost savings may be realised through greater utilisation of soybean meal in diets.

The probiotic, which is a beneficial bacterium, is made from a Bacillus-strain isolated by poultry science researchers with the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station and is being co-developed by Kent Nutrition Group.

Kent licensed the patented technology from the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture and is making probiotic-infused poultry and swine feed with the Bacillus strain. The experiment station is the research arm of the Division of Agriculture.

"We are grateful for our second novel technology collaboration with UADA," said Kale Causemaker, Senior Director of Sales and Business Development for Innovative Solutions, a division of Kent. "These discoveries help improve animal agriculture sustainability and welfare. We are excited and optimistic to have this probiotic. We are excited and optimistic to have this probiotic commercially available for producers in 2025."

Bacillus-strain advantages

Advantages of a Bacillus-strain probiotic, compared with common probiotic microorganism of the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species, include its ability to survive higher temperatures and lower pH environments. 

The non-genetically modified Bacillus bacterium also eliminates the need for multiple genetically modified enzymes that are added to animal feeds to help the animal break down ingredients in protein sources such as soybean meal.

Being heat- and pH-stable improves survivability rate in the animal's gastrointestinal tract and feed processing such as the manufacture of pelleted feed. The strain was originally found to work well in poultry diets and preliminary data suggests the probiotic may also work well in swine.

Overcoming a problem

Billy Hargis, distinguished professor of poultry science, said experiment station studies on the Bacillus strain showed it increased the animals' ability to digest non-starch polysaccharides in protein sources such as soybean meal. Hargis is also director of the John Kirkpatrick Skills Poultry Health Laboratory for the experiment station, the research arm of the Division of Agriculture.

Non-starch polysaccharides are difficult-to-digest carbohydrates found in soybean meal, which serves as the primary source of protein for layer and broiler chickens, as well as turkeys and swine, Hargis explained.

"The problem with these non-starch polysaccharides is that they cannot be digested and utilised by the animal, but rather they feed detrimental populations of microbes within the gut, adding to intestinal inflammation and susceptibility to other causes of enteric disease," Hargis said.

The strain of Bacillus by Kent was isolated by former post-doctoral researcher Kyle Teague under the co-advisement of Hargis and Samuel Rochell. Teague is now the Director of Poultry Nutrition at Life Products in Nebraska, and Rochell is now an Associate Professor of Poultry Nutrition at Auburn University.

From lab to market

The Division of Agriculture's Technology Commercialisation Office, or TCO, Shepherded the Bacillus-strain's patent-pending status and commercial licensing to Kent.

"Translating research to commercial products is the name of the game," said Parker Cole, Associate Director of TCO. "We always enjoy working with industry and have enjoyed working with Kent. They've been a great partner to work with and collaborate with, so we're excited to see these products go into the marketplace."

This year, Innovative Solutions also released EFFICOR, an L plantarum probiotic for swine that was developed in conjunction with Division of Agriculture researchers. Research trials showed EFFICOR improved body weight gain and feed efficiency in growing and finishing pigs, with nearly $2 per pig cost savings because of improved efficiencies at the time of the trials, Cole said. The foundational research for EFFICOR came from Jiangchao Zhao, former professor of animal science for the Division of Agriculture.

"Our office sits at the interface of academic innovation and commercialisation," said Cole. "Being able to take a technology that was developed here, work with industry, confirm that it works in a particular product or formulation, and have that company excited about it to where they want to license it and implement it in their portfolio, I think that speaks to the research quality and to the inventors that we have within the Division of Agriculture."

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.

Aurélie Tournan to become new managing director of Donau Soja

December 12, 2024 - Aurélie Tournan will take over as the Managing Director of Donau Soja from January 1, 2025. Tournan, the current Executive Director of Amnesty International Austria, will lead the organisation and its non-profit entity, Donau Soja GmbH.

Dagmar Gollan, who has served as the Executive Director for almost two years, will assume new responsibilities within the organization. Susanne Fromwald will continue in her role as General Secretary and oversee market development, political issues, and protein partnerships.

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Matthis Krön, President of Donau Soja, expressed gratitude for Gollan’s leadership during a period marked by significant challenges, including the conflict in Ukraine and the EU Deforestation Regulation. “Dagmar Gollan has steered the Donau Soja ship well with passion, experience, and a lot of know-how,” said Krön. He also welcomed Tournan’s appointment, citing her extensive experience in managing complex organizations.

Tournan, 43, has had a diverse career, including roles in customer service, marketing, and finance at Renault in the DACH region. She has lived in Austria for 20 years and holds a degree in Business Administration from NEOMA Business School in France.

Donau Soja, headquartered in Vienna, operates offices in Novi Sad, Serbia; Kiev, Ukraine; and Chișinău, Moldova. The organization, which aims to ensure a sustainable, GMO-free European protein supply, has 38 employees and more than 330 members across 33 countries. It has been supported by the Austrian Development Agency since 2017, with their partnership extended through 2029.

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.