Alltech comparte los resultados de su primera encuesta mundial sobre sostenibilidad.

Distintos líderes de la industria agropecuaria de todo el mundo creen que el sector puede trabajar unido para crear un sistema alimentario más eficiente y sostenible, según los resultados de la encuesta Sustainability Insights de Alltech, presentados por la compañía.

Alltech realizó una encuesta global en toda la industria para recopilar información sobre los aspectos que más repercuten en la cadena de valor agroalimentaria y en sus actores. En colaboración con Opinions, una agencia de investigación independiente con sede en Irlanda, la compañía recopiló datos a través de 26 entrevistas a líderes del sector y mediante una amplia encuesta realizada a más de 2500 participantes de este negocio. Este esfuerzo supuso una oportunidad única para medir actitudes y percepciones relacionadas con la sostenibilidad, e identificar acciones concretas para construir un futuro más sostenible.

“Nuestro objetivo fue escuchar las voces de nuestro sector, para diseñar una agenda sólida de cara al futuro sobre datos que sean aplicables, de gran alcance y que tengan un verdadero impacto”, destacó Tara McCarthy (vicepresidenta global de Ambiente, Sociedad y Gobierno corporativo de Alltech). “Nuestro negocio está afrontando cambios sin precedentes, sin embargo, continúa apostando por un sistema alimentario más sostenible. La clave del éxito será el desarrollo de soluciones innovadoras, pero aún más importante será la capacidad de la industria de trabajar unida a lo largo de toda la cadena de valor”.

Las preguntas de la encuesta se centraron en 5 áreas: desafíos y oportunidades, impulsores y prioridades, actitudes frente al cambio, apoyo y asesoramiento y quién creen que va a pagar por sostenibilidad. Entre las principales conclusiones de la encuesta se incluyen:

• Vivimos en un mundo de constantes cambios y, dependiendo de la ubicación geográfica, las prioridades son muy diferentes. La industria agropecuaria hace frente a numerosas crisis y los encuestados –en su mayoría– reconocieron la gravedad de estos desafíos y la vulnerabilidad de sus sistemas alimentarios. Sin embargo, existe un alto grado de optimismo, ya que el 85% de los participantes coincidió en que su sistema alimentario puede afrontar cualquier desafío.

• Casi 3 de cada 4 encuestados afirmaron que sienten la necesidad de un mayor asesoramiento que respalde sus avances en sostenibilidad ambiental. Esta necesidad se destacó en las últimas fases de la cadena de valor agroalimentaria (minoristas, empresas dedicadas al servicio de alimentación o fabricantes).

• La mayoría de los encuestados coincidió en que la normativa está ejerciendo presión sobre todas las fases de la cadena de suministro de alimentos. Los participantes igualmente estuvieron de acuerdo en la necesidad de apoyar a los productores agropecuarios, que alimentan a los 8000 millones de habitantes del planeta: el 66% opinó que las cosas nunca cambiarán hasta que no se incentive económicamente al productor.

• Muchos encuestados señalaron que no podremos abordar los desafíos que nos esperan si no adoptamos realmente la innovación y aprovechamos la tecnología que nos permita proporcionar alimentos de forma sostenible. El 92% de los participantes cree que la tecnología y la innovación son clave para crear sistemas alimentarios más sostenibles.

• Existe un acuerdo casi universal de que tenemos que colaborar a lo largo de toda la cadena de valor agroalimentaria: el 93% de los encuestados coincidió en que todos debemos trabajar juntos para crear mejores sistemas alimentarios para el futuro.

“Nuestra industria se enfrenta a un futuro imprevisible, pero las oportunidades para tener un impacto positivo son aún más reales”, señaló el Dr. Mark Lyons (presidente y CEO de Alltech). “Imaginemos de lo que seremos capaces si trabajamos juntos por  nutrir al mundo, impulsar economías locales y proteger los recursos naturales del planeta”.

Para más información y para acceder a los resultados de la encuesta, visite alltech.com/sustainability-insights

Ya es posible inscribirse al programa de mentoría “Mujeres en la Alimentación y la Agricultura 2024”

Alltech se enorgullece de continuar respaldando el programa de mentoría Mujeres en la Alimentación y la Agricultura (WFA, por sus siglas en inglés). Las solicitudes para nuevos mentores (tanto hombres como mujeres) y aprendices (mujeres del sector agroalimentario a nivel mundial) ya están disponibles. En su cuarta edición, este programa gratuito continúa promoviendo a las profesionales de toda la industria, al proporcionarles valiosas oportunidades de mentoría, las cuales han demostrado ser un verdadero impulso para la trayectoria profesional de aquellas que buscan orientación, asesoramiento y crear una red de contactos

Los resultados de las encuestas de la organización Women in Food & Agriculture (WFA) y las distintas percepciones recogidas de los involucrados en la cadena de suministro de alimentos señalan reiteradamente que un obstáculo para el éxito de las mujeres en la industria es la falta de oportunidades de mentoría. Para hacer frente a este desafío, WFA lanzó este programa de orientación con el apoyo de Alltech.

El programa de mentoría WFA forma equipos de “mentor-aprendiz” de acuerdo con las preferencias de las postulantes a aprendices (como el sexo del mentor, el área de especialización, el idioma o el sector); lo que permite que estas mujeres de los agronegocios puedan entablar relaciones profesionales importantes.

Desde el lanzamiento del programa, esta iniciativa ha recibido una respuesta impresionante: 3051 aplicaciones de profesionales que aspiran a desarrollar sus carreras y 1691 de expertos en la industria que están dispuestos como mentores a compartir sus conocimientos con ellas. Este alto nivel de participación subraya la importancia de este tipo de programas que cubren la falta de oportunidades de mentoría en la agroindustria.

Hasta la fecha, el programa ha agrupado a más de 562 equipos, vinculando a experimentados mentores con aprendices, quienes han recibido sus invalorables conocimientos y asesoramiento. Estos equipos se han conformado con profesionales de distintos perfiles y provenientes de diferentes sectores de la industria: desde directores, ejecutivos de empresas agropecuarias, hasta pequeños productores, académicos o especialistas en agrotecnología.

“Nuestro apoyo al programa de mentoría “Mujeres en la Alimentación y la Agricultura” representa una inversión no solo en el desarrollo profesional de las mujeres en los agronegocios, sino también en el futuro de la industria agropecuaria, la cual consideramos un sector clave para nutrir a las personas y preservar nuestro planeta”, señaló el Dr. Mark Lyons (presidente y CEO de Alltech).

“Estamos muy felices de ver el gran interés que ha despertado el programa de mentoría WFA. Esto demuestra la importancia de los mentores para impulsar la trayectoria profesional de las mujeres en los agronegocios”, expresó Elisabeth Mork-Eidem (presidenta global de la organización WFA). “Con el apoyo permanente de Alltech confiamos en que esta iniciativa siga teniendo un impacto positivo, fomente la diversidad y apoye la inclusión en toda la industria”.

“En Alltech nos complace continuar apoyando en 2024 al programa de mentoría WFA. Creemos que es clave promover el éxito de las mujeres en esta industria y construir una comunidad agropecuaria mundial más pujante, igualitaria y diversa”, destacó Orla McAleer (directora de Cultura de Alltech). “Como mentora y asesora del programa, conozco el impacto positivo que tiene la mentoría en todos los profesionales involucrados”.

Alltech considera que la inclusión favorece la creatividad, fomenta la innovación y es clave para su propósito de Trabajar juntos por un Planeta de Abundancia™. Por ello, en 2019 la compañía seleccionó la Igualdad de Género como uno de los 9 Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible de las Naciones Unidas con los que se ha comprometido a promover.

Ya es posible inscribirse al programa de mentoría “Mujeres en la Alimentación y la Agricultura 2024”, que cuenta con el respaldo de Alltech, para las profesionales que deseen contar con una mentoría, así como para los expertos de la industria que estén interesados en compartir sus conocimientos como mentores. El programa acepta aplicaciones de todas las personas que trabajen en el sector agroalimentario mundial. Las aprendices formarán equipo con un mentor de acuerdo con sus preferencias y objetivos profesionales.

Para más información y para postular como mentor o aprendiz, visite https://wfa-initiative.com/mentorship-program.

[BANGKOK, Thailand] — Alltech recently celebrated its 25th anniversary in Thailand alongside more than 120 industry partners and friends, including representatives of prominent agri-food companies.

In 1998, Alltech entered the Thai market. It was a time of financial crisis within the region yet Alltech could see the market’s potential and its increasingly important role in global food supply. Alltech Thailand began with two team members, and today more than 50 Alltech team members are dedicated to serving the country’s agriculture sector. An initial facility and warehouse in Thailand were established in 2006 and production operations were relocated to the current facility in Samutprakarn in 2015 to meet growing demand in both the Thai and Southeast Asian markets.

Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech, reflected on the company’s long-standing commitment to the country and its partnerships with Thailand-based customers.

“Within Alltech, we are committed to Working Together for a Planet of Plenty. Thailand represents some of our most enduring examples of this effort,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech. “Together, with our customers, we have advanced the efficient and sustainable production of nutrition and are cultivating a prosperous world of abundance through Thailand’s agri-food sector.”

Steadfast in its commitment to providing smarter and sustainable solutions for customers, including feed mills, integrators and animal farms, Alltech continues to invest in local production while leveraging the best of its global network and knowledge to the benefits of its customers. These efforts have catalyzed rapid growth in Thailand’s agricultural industry, positioning the nation as a key player on the global stage.

Over the past quarter century, Thailand’s agricultural sector has prioritized enhancing efficiency and productivity, advancing aquaculture and livestock production, fostering value addition for agricultural products, and ensuring food security.

Alltech has forged deep connections and established significant strategic partnerships within the local industry. Its long-standing relationships with market leaders have allowed Alltech — and its customers — to grow and navigate the evolving agri-food industry.

On Feb. 15, Alltech finalized an agreement with Thai Wah Public Co., an agri-food business with operations in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and India, to collaborate on reducing carbon in Asian agri-food with precision nutrition, digital farming, waste management and carbon footprint assessments. This collaboration is the second formal partnership in two years to focus on sustainable farming in Thailand. On March 9, 2023, Alltech formed a partnership with the Dairy Farming Promotion Organization of Thailand (DPO) to pioneer nutrition innovation and sustainable dairy farming, leveraging global expertise and technologies to expand and develop dairy and beef cattle production in Thailand.

Dedicated to ensuring customers’ competitiveness and to driving innovation within the industry, Alltech Thailand remains committed to educating customers through seminars and workshops, enriching their knowledge and keeping them at the forefront of leading agri-food research and technologies.

Alltech Thailand and its 5,000 Alltech colleagues around the world share a commitment to supporting the agri-food sector in providing nutrition for all while supporting local economies and revitalizing the planet’s natural resources.

“Our devoted local team remains ready to provide unparalleled expertise to the Thai market,” said Jonathan Forrest Wilson, president of Alltech Asia-Pacific. “This reflects our dedication to forging long term mutually beneficial collaborations and contributing to the thriving business landscape in Thailand. As we celebrate this milestone, our commitment to lasting partnerships remains at the forefront of our mission.” 

La salvaguardia del benessere e delle prestazioni del bestiame è una priorità assoluta in qualsiasi attività di allevamento. Ma le micotossine, che rappresentano un rischio serio e continuo per la qualità dei foraggi e dei concentrati, possono compromettere questi obiettivi. L'Analisi Europea del Raccolto di Alltech ha rivelato un rischio particolarmente elevato di micotossine per il 2023, attribuito principalmente alle difficili condizioni climatiche in tutta la regione. 

I problemi di micotossine iniziano generalmente in campo, ma anche se gli alimenti sono incontaminati o minimamente contaminati al momento del raccolto, possono sviluppare livelli significativi di micotossine durante lo stoccaggio. Una corretta gestione dello stoccaggio è quindi fondamentale per ridurre al minimo ulteriori rischi. Ciò è particolarmente vero durante un anno di forte rischio di micotossine, come quello del 2023.

Questo articolo illustra le principali pratiche di gestione dello stoccaggio per limitare le continue problematiche legate alle micotossine.

Perché lo stoccaggio è importante?

Come tutte le muffe e i funghi, quelli che producono micotossine dannose prosperano in condizioni di elevata umidità, temperatura irregolare, infestazione di insetti ed esposizione all'ossigeno. Il monitoraggio costante e la manutenzione sono fondamentali per preservare le condizioni ottimali di cereali e foraggi, sia al momento del raccolto che durante lo stoccaggio.

Conservazione dei cereali:

Per lo stoccaggio a breve termine, essiccare la granella a un contenuto di umidità inferiore al 16% il prima possibile dopo il raccolto. Per la conservazione a lungo termine (6-12 mesi), i cereali devono essere essiccati a meno del 14% di umidità.

• Evitare l'accumulo di umidità e mantenere un'aerazione sufficiente nei magazzini e nei silos di cereali (la manutenzione regolare dei sistemi di aerazione è importante per mantenere prestazioni ottimali).
• Monitorare regolarmente la temperatura e l'umidità dei cereali.
• Mantenere un controllo efficace degli insetti.
• Ispezionare i magazzini e i silos per verificare che non vi siano perdite o accumuli di umidità.
• Pulire e ispezionare accuratamente i magazzini e i silos tra le diverse partite di cereali e mangimi.
• Ove possibile, gli ingredienti devono essere utilizzati secondo il principio "primo entrato, primo uscito".
• Applicare un inibitore di muffa come Mold-Zap® per ridurre la crescita dei funghi.
• Stabilire un programma di monitoraggio dettagliato con una serie chiara di procedure operative standard (SOP).

Stoccaggio del foraggio:

Poiché le muffe necessitano di ossigeno per crescere, il raggiungimento e il mantenimento di un ambiente anaerobico è fondamentale per ridurre la crescita e il conseguente rischio di micotossine.

• L'ideale è insilare tutti i foraggi tra il 32-36% di sostanza secca (SS).
• Sigillare accuratamente la trincea e monitorarla regolarmente per garantire il mantenimento di un ambiente anaerobico per tutta la durata dello stoccaggio.
• Per rimuovere il foraggio dalla trincea, utilizzare un attrezzo di desilazione affilato.
• Attraversare il fronte di alimentazione il più rapidamente possibile (idealmente, al massimo cinque giorni).
• Preparare l'Unifeed (TMR) utilizzando foraggio appena rimosso dalla trincea e somministrare immediatamente.
• Rimuovere quotidianamente l’alimento non consumato, prima di mettere l’alimento fresco davanti al bestiame.
• Assicurarsi che tutte le aree di miscelazione e di alimentazione siano mantenute pulite e prive di residui di mangime ammuffiti.

Scaricate questa guida pratica qui.

Approfondimenti dall'Analisi Europea del raccolto 2023 di Alltech

Alltech collabora con i produttori per creare strategie personalizzate di gestione delle micotossine ad integrazione di queste tecniche di conservazione. Questo processo inizia con dati dettagliati sulla minaccia delle micotossine in particolari regioni, colture e specie.

Il programma annuale di Alltech sull’Analisi Europea del raccolto fornisce queste informazioni fondamentali. Il rapporto 2023, pubblicato a dicembre, si basa sull'analisi e la valutazione di oltre 1.100 campioni, per lo più presso il laboratorio Alltech 37+® di Dunboyne, in Irlanda. Ciò ha rivelato un crescente livello di rischio in tutto il continente, in parte come risultato di condizioni climatiche e meteorologiche sempre più estreme.

Le principali informazioni emerse dall'analisi del raccolto europeo di quest'anno sono le seguenti:

•          I campioni contenevano in media 4,4 micotossine.

•          Le sfide legate al Fusarium nel grano e nell'orzo sono elevate a causa delle piogge persistenti.

•          L'orzo presenta il rischio più elevato tra i cereali di piccole dimensioni.

•          Il mais presenta problemi di micotossine diversi in tutta l'Europa centrale e meridionale.

•          L'insilato di erba nel Regno Unito e in Irlanda rappresenta un rischio di Penicillium per i produttori di latte.

Questi risultati sottolineano la necessità di intraprendere azioni decisive per proteggere la produttività, la redditività e la salute e il benessere generale degli animali.

Proteggersi dal rischio di micotossine

Registratevi qui per scaricare il report completo, e ottenere l'accesso ad altre risorse, tra cui:

• una mappa interattiva del rischio micotossine
• materiali e articoli scaricabili
• una serie di video con approfondimenti degli esperti Alltech

Questi strumenti vi permetteranno di prendere le decisioni più efficaci per il controllo delle micotossine durante la prossima stagione foraggera.

On January 1, 2024, AAFCO officially implemented its new Pet Food Model Regulations, marking a significant milestone in the industry. These regulations, in development since 2015, had undergone rigorous scrutiny from various stakeholders and involved input from the AAFCO Pet Food Committee, consumer surveys and focus groups, as well as discussions with regulatory agencies, professional associations, and industry trade organizations.

The overarching goal was to bring about a modernization of pet food and specialty pet food labels, emphasizing clearer communication with consumers.

Four major label changes:

1. Pet Nutrition Facts Box

One of the most notable changes is the introduction of the Pet Nutrition Facts Box, which closely resembles the nutrition facts panel found on labels of human food. By conveying essential and easily understandable nutritional information in a standardized format, this box helps consumers make informed choices about their pets’ nutrition. It includes details such as serving size, calorie content, nutrient guarantees, total carbohydrate values, and an AAFCO nutrition adequacy statement.

The Specialty Pet Nutrition Facts Box is specifically tailored for specialty pet food products. While it includes much of the same information as the standard box, it does not require a calorie statement. However, it does have to include a nutritional adequacy statement, giving consumers clarity regarding the suitability of the product for their pets’ specific needs.

2. Product Purpose Statement:

Nutritional Adequacy Claims, which attest to the nutritional completeness of a pet food product, must now appear prominently in the lower third of the label’s principal display panel. This placement makes it easier for consumers to identify the intended life stage and purpose of a product, further enabling them to confidently choose the right products for their pets’ needs.

Veterinary diets must designate the species for which they are intended, such as “Veterinary Diet for Cats” or “Veterinary Diet for Dogs.” Treats will also need to be identified by species, as in “Dog Treat” or “Hamster Treat.”

Pet food supplements, which are not complete diets and are only intended to supply specific nutrients, must identify their purpose and species name, as in “Species Food Supplement: Dog.”

3. Ingredient Statement:

The new AAFCO regulations include updates to ingredient statement, to enhance consumer understanding and ensure transparency and consistency across products.

Of particular note is the clarification of naming conventions for meat, poultry and fish ingredients. Additionally, there are new requirements for listing sugar sources and vitamin/mineral premixes using common or usual names, as listed in the AAFCO Official Publication.

4. Handling and Storage Instructions:

While handling and storage instructions are optional, they are encouraged under the new regulations. If included, these instructions must be clearly readable and presented under a bold header. The regulations also specify guidelines for the use of graphics to support handling and storage instructions, so that consumers can easily understand how to properly handle and store their pet food products.

Adoption and enforcement

The implementation of these new regulations will be overseen by state regulatory agencies, with AAFCO encouraging uniform and timely adoption to ensure consistency across jurisdictions. To facilitate this process, AAFCO has recommended that state feed regulatory programs exercise enforcement discretion for six years following the availability of the printed version of the 2024 AAFCO Official Publication.

Furthermore, AAFCO will hold workshops to educate stakeholders on the new regulations. The next workshop will be at Petfood Forum on April 29, 2024.

About the author: 

Dr. Randall Johnson has more than 40 years of experience as a consultant to the pet food, livestock feed and aquaculture industries. A registered professional animal scientist, Dr. Johnson regularly offers advisory services for the Pet Food Institute’s Nutrition Task Force, as well as its International Trade and Regulatory Affairs committees.

Dr. Johnson is a diplomate of the American College of Animal Nutrition. He has previously served on the staff of the University of Missouri, where he also completed a post-doctoral fellowship, and as an adjunct associate professor in the Arizona State University School of Agribusiness and Environmental Resources.

Dr. Randall Johnson has more than 40 years of experience as a consultant to the pet food, livestock feed and aquaculture industries. A registered professional animal scientist, Dr. Johnson regularly offers advisory services for the Pet Food Institute’s Nutrition Task Force, as well as its International Trade and Regulatory Affairs committees.

Dr. Johnson is a diplomate of the American College of Animal Nutrition. He has previously served on the staff of the University of Missouri, where he also completed a post-doctoral fellowship, and as an adjunct associate professor in the Arizona State University School of Agribusiness and Environmental Resources.

Ya están abiertas las postulaciones para el programa de mentoría Mujeres en la Alimentación y la Agricultura 2024

[Lexington, Kentucky] - Alltech tiene el honor de seguir apoyando el programa de mentoría Mujeres en la Alimentación y la Agricultura (WFA, por sus siglas en inglés). Ya están abiertas las postulaciones para nuevos mentores (de ambos sexos) y para aprendices (mujeres del sector agroalimentario global). Ahora, en su cuarta edición, este programa gratuito continuará promoviendo a las profesionales de toda la industria, al proporcionarles valiosas oportunidades de mentoría; las cuales han demostrado ser un verdadero impulso para las carreras de aquellas que buscan orientación, consejos y crear una red de contactos.

Los resultados de las encuestas de la organización Women in Food & Agriculture (WFA) y las distintas percepciones que se han recogido de los involucrados en la cadena de suministro de alimentos señalan reiteradamente que un obstáculo para el éxito de las mujeres en la industria es la falta de oportunidades de mentoría. Para hacer frente a este desafío, WFA lanzó este programa de mentoría con el apoyo de Alltech.

El programa de mentoría WFA forma equipos de mentor-aprendiz de acuerdo con las preferencias de las postulantes a aprendices (como el sexo del mentor, el área de especialización, el idioma o el sector); lo que permite que estas mujeres de los agronegocios puedan entablar relaciones profesionales importantes. Desde el lanzamiento del programa, esta iniciativa ha recibido una respuesta impresionante: 3 051 aplicaciones de profesionales que aspiran desarrollar sus carreras y 1 691 de expertos en la industria que están dispuestos como mentores a compartir sus conocimientos con ellas. Este alto nivel de participación subraya la importancia de este tipo de programas que cubren la falta de oportunidades de mentoría en la agroindustria.

Hasta la fecha, el programa ha agrupado a más de 562 parejas, vinculando a experimentados mentores con aprendices, quienes han recibido sus invalorables conocimientos y guías. Se han conformado estas parejas con profesionales con distintos perfiles y provenientes de diferentes sectores de la industria: desde directores ejecutivos de empresas agropecuarias hasta pequeños productores, académicos o especialistas en agrotecnología.

“Nuestro apoyo al programa de mentoría Mujeres en la Alimentación y la Agricultura representa una inversión no solo en la carrera de las mujeres de los agronegocios, sino también en el futuro de la industria agropecuaria; la cual consideramos un sector clave para nutrir a las personas y preservar nuestro planeta”, señaló el Dr. Mark Lyons (presidente y CEO de Alltech).

“Estamos muy felices de ver el gran interés por el programa de mentoría WFA. Esto demuestra la importancia de los mentores para impulsar las carreras de las mujeres de los agronegocios”, expresó Elisabeth Mork-Eidem (presidenta global de la organización WFA). “Con el apoyo permanente de Alltech confiamos en que esta iniciativa siga teniendo un impacto positivo, fomente la diversidad y apoye la inclusión en toda la industria”.

“En Alltech nos complace continuar apoyando en 2024 al programa de mentoría WFA. Creemos que es clave promover el éxito de las mujeres en esta industria y construir una comunidad agropecuaria global más pujante, igualitaria y diversa”, destacó Orla McAleer (directora de Cultura de Alltech). “Como mentora y asesora del programa, conozco el impacto positivo que tiene la mentoría en todos los profesionales involucrados”.

Alltech considera que la inclusión favorece la creatividad, fomenta la innovación y es clave para su propósito de Trabajar juntos por un Planeta de Abundancia™. Por ello, en 2019 la compañía seleccionó la Igualdad de Género como uno de los 9 Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible de las Naciones Unidas con los que se ha comprometido a promover.

Ya están abiertas las postulaciones para el programa de mentoría Mujeres en la Alimentación y la Agricultura 2024 –que cuenta con el respaldo de Alltech– para las profesionales que deseen contar con una mentoría, así como para los expertos de la industria que estén interesados en compartir sus conocimientos como mentores. El programa acepta aplicaciones de todas las personas que trabajen en el sector agroalimentario global. Las aprendices formarán equipo con un mentor de acuerdo con sus preferencias y objetivos profesionales.

Para más información y para postular como mentor o aprendiz, visite https://wfa-initiative.com/mentorship-program.

Alltech Crop Science renforce son leadership en matière de santé et d'équilibre des sols en obtenant sa première homologation de biostimulant dans l'Union européenne.  L'homologation de Contribute ibN consolide la stratégie s’insipirant des sols suppressifs de l'entreprise et son engagement en faveur d'une agriculture durable.

Alltech Crop Science est fière d'annoncer la récente homologation européenne de son produit innovant, Contribute® ibN, un biostimulant microbien pour les plantes. Cette étape représente un pas important dans l'engagement continu de l'entreprise en faveur de l'excellence dans la recherche et le développement de solutions durables pour l'agriculture, poursuivant son objectif global de travailler ensemble pour une planète d'abondance.

Cette technologie de pointe est issue de la fermentation en milieu solide d'Azospirillum brasilense CECT 9381, une souche unique et brevetée, qui excelle dans sa capacité à améliorer la croissance des cultures, à optimiser l'efficacité de l'utilisation de l'azote et à promouvoir la durabilité environnementale en réduisant l'utilisation d'engrais minéraux.

CONTRIBUTE ibN est une solution précieuse pour les agriculteurs qui cherchent à améliorer leurs pratiques agricoles. Conçu pour favoriser le développement et le grossissement des plantes et améliorer la qualité du rendement final, ce biostimulant a été homologué et a prouvé son efficacité dans une variété de cultures, y compris les grandes cultures, le maraîchage, l’arboriculture et la viticulture..

CONTRIBUTE ibN a une concentration élevée qui dépasse largement les exigences légales, offrant une efficacité supérieure avec un dosage plus faible.

Pedro Navarro, directeur général d'Alltech Crop Science Europe, souligne que "cette homologation est une excellente occasion de montrer les avantages que l'utilisation des micro-organismes en agriculture peut nous apporter et comment leur utilisation et leur gestion correctes nous aident à améliorer la fertilité des sols, en augmentant les rendements productifs et la qualité de manière durable". 

Le processus de fermentation à l'état solide garantit la stabilité, la facilité de stockage et une durée de conservation de deux ans, ce qui le différencie des autres produits sur le marché, en particulier ceux qui sont formulés sous forme liquide.

Contribute ibN est le résultat de l'extension des capacités de recherche, de développement et d'enregistrement qui a résulté de l'intégration d'Ideagro dans Alltech Crop Science au début de l'année dernière. Cette intégration a permis d'améliorer la technologie pionnière de fermentation de précision exploitée par Alltech Crop Science, qui implique la conception et l'ingénierie de micro-organismes bénéfiques, tels que des bactéries ou des champignons, dans le cadre d'un processus et de conditions contrôlés pour des produits agricoles spécifiques.

"Notre technologie de fermentation de précision représente une avancée significative dans la production agricole, offrant des méthodes durables et efficaces qui soutiennent efficacement la réduction de l'impact environnemental associé à l'agriculture traditionnelle", déclare Pedro Palazón, PDG d'Ideagro et directeur mondial de la R&D chez ACS. "Outre la réduction de cet impact, elle répond également aux défis croissants en matière de sécurité alimentaire, tout en favorisant le développement d'un système alimentaire plus efficace en termes de ressources et plus durable à long terme.

Alltech Crop Science se consacre à la promotion de la durabilité dans l'agriculture, et l'enregistrement nouvellement obtenu fait de ses solutions une alternative biologique optimale pour une production durable et respectueuse de l'environnement. Il s'agit d'une étape importante dans la promotion de méthodes de production végétale plus naturelles, qui renforce la capacité de l'entreprise à fournir aux agriculteurs des années de recherche, d'innovation et de connaissances agronomiques pour minimiser l'utilisation d'intrants chimiques et exploiter les avantages des technologies naturelles avancées.

Pour en savoir plus sur nos solutions et programmes nutritionnels personnalisés pour votre entreprise, visitez : https://www.alltech.com/fr-fr/crop-science

Tara Tiller is the global project manager of corporate accounts and companion animals for Alltech. In this role, she oversees the growth of Alltech's pet and equine business as a member of the company's larger companion animal team.

Tara first joined Alltech as its quality assurance manager for the Asia-Pacific region. In that role, which was based in Thailand, she led the establishment of production facilities in Thailand, China, India and Vietnam and traveled extensively across Asia. She subsequently joined Alltech’s Mineral Management division, where she provided technical support and offered consultations, both internally and externally, across Asia-Pacific on trace mineral nutrition, with a focus on Alltech’s organic trace mineral range.

In 2018, Tara was named Alltech's global project manager. That role, which was based in Bangkok, combined her previous technical support responsibilities with the management of Alltech’s mineral projects and programs globally. In her current position on the company's companion animal team, she continues to develop and promote solutions and services related to mineral management.

Tara received a degree in animal science and aquaculture from the University of Tasmania in Australia.

Understanding contamination risk in feed and ingredients

There is growing awareness of the presence of trace heavy metals in the feed industry and their potential impacts on animal and human health.

Trace metals are naturally occurring elements, used in many industries and needed for regular body function in animals and humans. Zinc, iron and copper, for example, are essential in trace amounts. However, they can be toxic even at moderately elevated levels, and heavy metal poisoning occurs when too much of a particular metal is absorbed by the body. Mercury, lead, cadmium and arsenic are the most common metals to cause exposure at toxic levels.

The general population can be exposed to heavy metal contaminants through drinking water, dust, and fumes and from a variety of food sources (Atafar et al., 2010). Toxic heavy metals can be transferred into edible animal products such as meat, milk and eggs, and thus be passed into the human food chain. High levels of exposure to these compounds in humans can be toxic, with many having carcinogenic properties.

The buildup of heavy metals within animal protein sources can be attributed to the contamination of certain feed ingredients (Vremane et al., 1986; Spragg, 2008), with the potential for contamination originating from:

• Exposure to groundwater and soil with high levels of heavy metals during crop production (transfer into plant material)
• Bioaccumulation higher along the food chain (e.g., mercury in carnivores)
• Raw material processing (e.g., for inorganic mineral extraction and recycling)
• Cross-contamination during processing or transport, or in the feed mill

Understanding the risks within the feed industry

The past decade has seen growing scrutiny regarding the potential for heavy metal contamination in animal feeds. This is due to a number of high-profile food safety alerts. For example, in both 2020 and 2021, batches of dog foods from Europe were found to contain excessive levels of cadmium, and inorganic mineral sources destined for the feed industry are often reported by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in the RASFF (Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed) Portal.

Other parts of the world, however, do not have such advanced monitoring or alert systems, and much of the risk may be missed or underestimated.

The Alltech 2023 Asia-Pacific Toxic Heavy Metal Survey

An ongoing effort to quantify the risk of toxic heavy metals to the feed industry has been carried out by Alltech in the Asia-Pacific region. Alltech initiated the survey in 2010 and has issued nine comprehensive reports so far, which have become essential benchmarks for assessing contamination risks in animal feed and trace minerals.

The survey analyzed 735 samples collected from 12 countries across the Asia-Pacific region, bringing the total number of samples analyzed to over 7,000 since the survey was launched in 2010.

Consistent with previous years, the survey evaluated lead, arsenic and cadmium levels, applying the European Union’s maximum allowable thresholds to determine contamination risks. The analysis encompassed complete feed, premix, and inorganic and organic trace mineral samples, spanning various agricultural categories including pig, poultry, ruminant, aquaculture and pet.

When completed, the survey revealed a contamination level of 14% across all these Asia-Pacific samples, with analysis showing that significant contamination was found in both organic trace mineral and inorganic mineral sources.

The survey highlighted that poultry premix exhibited the highest contamination levels at 13%, followed by aquaculture (9%) and ruminant premix samples (8%). In complete feed, swine diets demonstrated the highest contamination at 14%, followed by ruminant (9%) and poultry (5%). Certain samples displayed heavy metal levels surpassing EU regulations.

The collective results of all Alltech Asia-Pacific Toxic Heavy Metal Surveys since 2010 have revealed a persistent risk of elevated contamination in Asia-Pacific samples, with an average rate of 19%. This indicates serious and ongoing risks to both animal health and the safety of the entire food chain.

Managing feed contamination risk with reputable suppliers

To reduce the risk, it is imperative that feed and animal companies source their trace minerals from reputable sources. This involves working with companies that have robust quality systems, such as the Alltech Q+™ program, that focus on product safety, consistency and traceability for high-risk materials such as mineral sources. If we can reduce the risk of heavy metal contaminants entering the food chain, that will have flow-on effects to the human food chain.

For more information about the survey, please contact your local Alltech representative or email knowyourminerals@alltech.com.

About the author: 

Tara Tiller is the global project manager of corporate accounts and companion animals for Alltech. In this role, she oversees the growth of Alltech's pet and equine business as a member of the company's larger companion animal team.

Tara first joined Alltech as its quality assurance manager for the Asia-Pacific region. In that role, which was based in Thailand, she led the establishment of production facilities in Thailand, China, India and Vietnam and traveled extensively across Asia. She subsequently joined Alltech’s Mineral Management division, where she provided technical support and offered consultations, both internally and externally, across Asia-Pacific on trace mineral nutrition, with a focus on Alltech’s organic trace mineral range.

In 2018, Tara was named Alltech's global project manager. That role, which was based in Bangkok, combined her previous technical support responsibilities with the management of Alltech’s mineral projects and programs globally. In her current position on the company's companion animal team, she continues to develop and promote solutions and services related to mineral management.

Tara received a degree in animal science and aquaculture from the University of Tasmania in Australia.

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] — Celebrate Irish culture with festive music, dancing, food and fun this Saturday at the Alltech Lexington St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival in downtown Lexington.

“We’re beyond thrilled to welcome the community to share St. Patrick’s weekend with us,” said Megan Moloney, president of the Bluegrass Irish Society and parade chair. “We’re ready to turn the bluegrass green.”

The begins at 8:30 a.m. with the Lexington Habitat for Humanity’s 18th Annual Shamrock Shuffle 3K, returning this year to downtown Lexington. Proceeds from the race help local families who need affordable housing. Click here to learn more and register for the race.

At 10:45 a.m. at the Henry A. Tandy Centennial Plaza (formerly the Fifth Third Pavilion), Father Norman Fischer will perform the traditional “blessing of the keg” of beer from Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.

An exciting lineup of performers will take the stage from 11:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., including:

• Bluegrass Ceili Academy, Lexington’s community Irish dance academy, showcasing the power and grace of traditional footwork.
• Liam’s Fancy, a talented local group that blends traditional Irish tunes with contemporary flair, creating a unique and unforgettable sound.
• William Sutherland Reid Pipes and Drums, which will deliver a powerful performance with the stirring sounds of bagpipes and drums.
• McTeggart Irish Dancers, an energetic dance troupe that showcases the beauty and athleticism of Irish dance. Their energetic performances are a St. Patrick’s Day tradition.
• Kentucky United Pipes and Drums, a band that honors the Celtic arts and traditions through public performances and by teaching Highland bag piping and Scottish-style pipe band drumming.
• Celtic Blue, world-class musicians who bring the energy of Irish pub music to the stage with a repertoire of classic and contemporary tunes.
• Draper Family Band, whose blend of traditional Irish music and bluegrass influences creates a unique and memorable experience.

The parade begins at 1 p.m. and goes down Main Street from Midland Avenue to Mill Street. This year’s grand marshal is Sandra Reid, pipe major of the William Sutherland Reid Pipes and Drums, which has led the parade every year since it was founded in 1980.

The Alltech Lexington St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival is Lexington’s longest-running civic event. Sponsored by Alltech and the Bluegrass Irish Society, the parade and festival are produced by the Lexington Division of Parks and Recreation with community support from local businesses and cultural organizations. Alltech has sponsored the parade since its inception.

“The Lexington St. Patrick’s Day Festival and Parade is a lovely celebration of Irish culture,” said Deirdre Lyons, Alltech cofounder and director of corporate image and design.

The Bluegrass Irish Society formed in 1980 to celebrate and maintain interest in Irish culture. One of its first events was the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade gained instant credibility when then Gov. John Y. Brown and first lady Phyllis George Brown cosponsored it and arranged to have Ed McMahon from the Johnny Carson Show to serve as the first grand marshal.

The group aims to connect Irish and Kentucky culture and provide a focal point in the region for those interested in Ireland and its traditions.

“Listen to the fiddlers in Eastern Kentucky or the clog dancers and you will hear the refrains of Irish jigs and reels,” the Bluegrass Irish Society says on its website. “Kentuckians have long shared, among other things, their love for horses, music and bourbon whiskey-making with the Irish.”