[LEXINGTON, Ky.] — George Blankenship, former executive at Tesla Motors, Apple Computer and GAP Inc., uses uniquely innovative processes to transform status quo organizations into forward-thinking and dynamic players of the future. And now, Blankenship will use his experience to provide the audience at ONE: The Alltech Ideas Conference with unmatched insight into building and creating brand loyalty and awareness, competitive positioning in the market and what it takes to deliver superior customer care.

Jack Bobo, senior vice president and chief communications officer for Intrexon, is constantly assessing the relationship between science and agriculture. Bobo, who was named one of the 100 most influential people in biotechnology by Scientific American, will offer his unique perspective on global trends in agriculture, consumer perceptions and science communication.

International pioneer in innovation and New York Times best-selling author Dr. Peter Diamandis will share his insight and strategies for making big impacts on the future. Diamandis, founder and executive chairman of the XPRIZE Foundation and co-founder and vice-chairman of Human Longevity Inc., was named one of “The World’s 50 Greatest Leaders” by Fortune magazine.

“This year’s audience should prepare for truly disruptive ideas when they hear from these influential leaders,” said Dr. Pearse Lyons, Alltech’s founder and president. “From changing the car-buying experience to serving as the architect of Apple’s brand-building retail methodology, George Blankenship has disrupted the status quo in several industries. Peter Diamandis taught us how to go big, create wealth and impact the world through his book ‘Abundance.’ And Jack Bobo is a name synonymous with biotechnology and consumer perceptions.”

Dr. Lyons will deliver an inspiring message on “Realizing Your Dreams Through Disruption.” Through personal stories of perseverance and ambition, he will encourage business leaders to explore goals and define a roadmap to success.

Nothing will feed your hunger for making a difference more than pursuing your dreams,” said Dr. Lyons.

Other headliners for ONE17 include Lisa Bodell, founder and CEO of futurethink, and Damien McLoughlin, Anthony C. Cunningham professor of marketing and associate dean at the University College Dublin Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School in Ireland. In her “Why Simple Wins” discussion, Bodell — whose time-management skills border on an art form — will help agribusiness leaders escape complexity traps and focus on the work that matters. McLoughlin will share what can be expected from the new leadership landscape in Washington, D.C., and how the food chain and global trade could be disrupted in the future, as he discusses “Disruption in Washington.”

Attendees will also have the opportunity to hear from Aidan Connolly, Alltech’s chief innovation officer, and Dr. Mark Lyons, global vice president and head of Greater China for Alltech. Connolly will focus on how organizations and individuals can maintain lasting disruption, and Dr. Mark Lyons will discuss the changing consumer landscape and meeting the demands of the “rising billion.”

Contributing to the uniqueness and “real-life solutions” approach of ONE17, this year’s conference will include various track sessions. Breakouts on crop science, beef, dairy, swine, poultry and aquaculture — as well as topical sessions on finance, food issues and emerging markets — provide an opportunity for every corner of production agriculture to engage disruption at the ONE17 conference.

For the full list of sessions and topics to be featured at ONE17, visit one.alltech.com. Register before April 1 to save $300.

Join the conversation on Twitter with #ONE17.

“Raising kids isn’t that hard…right?” says someone who has clearly never parented a child before. But is parenting harder than raising healthy calves?

Try having that argument with a producer who has 400 individual cow-calf pairs — not just one or two kids — in the middle of calving season. From the stress to the unpredictability to the effect on his or her bottom line, calving is undoubtedly tough. But the reality is that it’s not fair to compare the two. Parenting children and raising calves are incredible gifts and incredible challenges.

But why do some calves and some kids turn out well while others do not? Is it luck? Or is it something else?

Many beef producers attribute a good batch of calves to favorable weather, a strong market or a list of other factors. Parents, meanwhile, spare no detail (or expense) in attempting to raise healthy and successful kids.

Is it possible for us to pull some truths from parenting that apply to raising calves?

Parenting truths that (wildly enough) also apply to cattle

1) Kids (and calves) need a nurturing environment.

From the moment a mom-to-be learns that a baby is on the way, everything in her life begins to change as plans are made for the newest addition to the family. A bedroom is prepared, a crib is set up and everything the mom eats and drinks is taken into account to prepare for the baby. Parents do all that they can to protect their child and establish a good foundation so he or she can be as healthy and strong as possible.

The same logic can and should be applied to calving. First, from a management standpoint, everything needs to be done to assure the comfort and safety of the cow. This means providing sufficient bedding, creating a clean, bad bacteria-limiting environment and reducing external stresses at all costs for the sake of the new calf.

Nutrition is a second critical component of any healthy calving program. Similar to how many moms-to-be take prenatal vitamins, a quality mineral and nutritional program — especially in the final four to six weeks of pregnancy — is key to delivering quality calves. Technologies such as Bioplex®, Sel-Plex®, Bio-Mos® and Actigen® can all play a central role in a healthy cow-calf management program. Bioplex and Sel-Plex are organic trace minerals formulated to promote the optimal mineral status for cows, which is critical for ensuring immunity and the adequate transfer of nutrients to the calf. Additionally, Bio-Mos and Actigen are industry-leading technologies used to optimize gut health and promote good bacteria both in cows and their calves.

A healthy gut in the cow leads to improved colostrum quality, the all-important first drink for calves that can jumpstart their natural health defense and support overall immunity. Particularly during the first 24–72 hours of a calf’s life, when it must absorb whole proteins, reinforcing nutrient status through technologies like Bio-Mos and Actigen can promote life-long health, which is good news for both the cow and the calf.

2) Even when times are tough, parents (and producers) must trust the process.

There’s a reason they call it the “terrible twos,” and most parents vividly remember their kid’s first out-of-control public temper tantrum. The kicking, the screaming, the unwanted stares from other parents — those moments are intense (especially for a first-time parent), but they can provide insight for cow-calf producers. Parents know this behavior is all part of growing up and requires dedicated, steady and loving parenting.

Every few years, it seems the market for cattle hits a peak high or an all-time low. In both the high and low moments (like when a kid is screaming in public), it is important to remember the impact of tried-and-tested methods, not just the latest fad or quick fix, to drive long-term profitability.

One factor for success in cattle production is using comprehensively researched feed ingredients like Bio-Mos and Actigen. Reviewed in over 734 accredited studies in all production animal species, Bio-Mos and Actigen have more than 20 years of market presence to back their ability to promote both health and profitable returns. By being proactive and utilizing nutrition as a management tool, much like good parenting strategies, an overall platform for success can be created.

3) Kids don’t magically turn into adults at age 18. Calves aren’t automatically ready for the feed yard.

Every parent’s “special little guy or girl” doesn’t simply wake up as a healthy, smart, successful adult on his or her 18th birthday. Every successful adult was molded and nurtured every day for 18 years by those around him or her, especially their parents, before being sent off into the world.

Interestingly, the world of cattle production can and should function the same way. The goal of cow-calf production is to generate healthy, strong calves that can perform well when they are sent off for feedlot production, much as young adults are prepped in school to enter the workforce.

For cattle about to enter the feed yard, this may take shape in a few different ways. Nutritionally, it can be reinforced by developing a strong mineral program throughout the calf’s life, especially during the weaning and backgrounding stages, with technologies like Bioplex and Sel-Plex. A strong mineral base prepares cattle for the new feedlot environment and ensures that they produce profitably. Furthermore, management issues, such as shipping stress, can be accounted for by supplementing the diet with electrolytes to reinforce receiving status.

The connection between calves and kids/producer and parent is closer than we think. As producers, we provide some of the healthiest, best-tasting beef we can for our communities, friends and families. We also desire to feed and nurture children in such a way that they can grow up to become healthy, productive adult members of society.

Let’s continue to raise our cattle and kids with the kind of care that benefits us both today and for generations to come.

For more information on our full range of nutritional solutions, please visit www.alltech.com or contact us directly by messaging beef@alltech.com.

A few weeks after harvest is over, Ray Tucker studies the yield reports on his corn and soybeans and begins the task of planning for the following year. As a sixth-generation farmer, this is a well-practiced ritual for Tucker.

“We go back about five years in the records,” says Tucker, who uses this data not only to keep track of how his fields have been producing throughout the years, but also to plan what varieties of corn, soybean, wheat and tobacco he will plant the following year.

“We normally don’t plant one variety for more than two years,” he explains.

He notes that available seed varieties tend to change every few years, which he enjoys because “it keeps you on top of your varieties and what each of them will do.”

Farm management pragmatism

Tucker is very pragmatic in his approach to his farm management. 

“My income depends on the weather,” he says. “It depends on the rain and depends on the sunshine, and it doesn’t make a difference what crop you’re talking about.”

Even so, Tucker never lets his crops want for anything that is within his control. He makes his decisions on crop inputs based on his expectations for the year. For example, if it is expected to be a rainy year, he knows that the disease potential will be high and adjustments will need to be made to better prepare the crop to fight against those diseases. 

Balancing technological investment with the bottom line

Keeping up with technology is another important factor for Tucker. 

“We’ve adapted to the technology,” says Tucker. “We are a very open-minded farm and are willing to give new products a try. We have to be in order to be profitable and sustainable for the future.” 

While he extols the virtues of being progressive, Tucker cautions that “you have to draw a line between how much money you’re going to spend to keep up with the times and still be able to feed your family.” 

For the love of the farm

When asked what stands out to him after his many years of farming, Tucker smiles as he says, “You have to want it. You have to want to spend 20 hours in the tractor, or the combine, or the sprayer. You have to want to do everything you can to have your crop do well.” 

Those long hours and hard work have a very rewarding outcome.

“My most favorite thing is to be able to raise a family on the farm,” says Tucker, recalling picnic lunches and suppers on the field. “You work hard, and when the work is done, you can play hard.”

Tucker’s matter-of-fact tone belies his passion for his vocation.

“It’s our livelihood; it’s what we do.”  

Have a question or comment?

[BEIJING] – Leaders from nearly 300 agricultural companies gathered at the Greening of Chinese Agriculture Environmental Conference, held by Alltech in Beijing from March 8–9, to discuss and commit to energy conservation, production optimization, improved management practices, and agriculture laws and regulations. To solidify their commitment to more sustainable agriculture in China, 10 agriculture companies signed a proposal promising to optimize their production processes and work together to realize China’s green agriculture. Additionally, the Soil and Fertilizer Alliance of China signed a memorandum of cooperation with Alltech, aiming to jointly promote regional farming, breeding integration and the sustainable development of animal husbandry.

China’s “No.1 Central Document” for 2017 highlighted agriculture, setting goals for the country’s sustainable development and environmental protection. The agriculture sector in China has faced increasing attention and governmental pressure in recent years, as more stringent laws and regulations have been implemented to address concerns regarding the security and safety of food supply, as well as the environmental impact of farming on land, water and air.

“Since 1989, Alltech has adhered to what we call the ACE principle, a promise that in doing business we have a positive impact on the Animal, the Consumer and the Environment,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, global vice president and head of Greater China for Alltech. “We share China’s vision, and we also understand the challenges being faced in the field and on the farm by farmers. It is our intention that this week’s conference lights a spark that will enable China’s agriculture sector to join together in working toward practical solutions for sustainable farming.”

Alltech’s Greening of Chinese Agriculture Environmental Conference covered a diverse range of topics, including the economic impact of the environment in agriculture, pig farming environmental control through advanced nutritional technology, understanding the new regulations and an outlook to possible future regulations, and more.

According to the State of Food and Agriculture 2016 issued by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, approximately one-fifth of the world's greenhouse gases come from agriculture, including forestry, fisheries and livestock production.

To address this, China has introduced the “Ten Measures for Prevention and Control of Air Pollution”, creating a more stringent air pollution control law. For example, the government encourages the development of slow release fertilizer and the reduction of ammonia emissions. Additionally, the Law of Air Pollution Prevention 2016 regulates that the emissions of ammonia and volatile organic matter should be reduced, and livestock breeding companies should reduce the discharge of malodorous gases.

According to Dr. Richard Murphy, the research director of Alltech’s European Bioscience Centre, ruminants like cattle and sheep produce most of the greenhouse gas, methane, and the whole industry is currently working to reduce the methane content produced per liter of milk.

“Alltech’s in vitro fermentation model can evaluate methane emissions by simulating the rumen,” said Murphy. “Through routine analysis and in vitro fermentation evaluation, the artificial rumen model helps the farmer to monitor day ration gunk, improve fodder digestibility, optimize rumen fermentation of the animal and therefore reduce waste emissions effectively.”

At the conference, the ruminant animal forum gathered internationally well-known experts who addressed how to further develop the dairy industry whilst safeguarding the environment. For example, improving feed digestibility to optimize rumen fermentation is an effective way to reduce emissions, and selecting the proper form and feeding level of minerals can reduce heavy metal emissions in feces. Through the experiences and data shared by these global experts, protection of the environment could be seen as more practical and economical.

As animal husbandry in China is becoming more intensive and large-scale, the excessive amount of heavy metals in the soil has become an urgent environmental problem. Based on the statistics of the “National Soil Pollution Condition Investigation Communique” published by China’s Ministry of Environmental Protection and the Ministry of Land and Resources, 19.4 percent of the soil in China has exceeded the standard, and the main pollutants are cadmium, nickel, copper, arsenic, mercury and lead. A significant amount of heavy metal pollution, such as arsenic and copper, is produced by feed and feces.

“For this issue, Alltech has a complete quality control system to regulate the heavy metal contamination of feed additive products,” said Steve Elliott, the global director of Alltech’s Mineral Management Division. “Our organic trace minerals and our unique Total Replacement Technology program can have a tremendous impact on reducing heavy metal pollutants in the environment.”

In China, the largest source of ammonia pollution is the extensive use of nitrogen fertilizer in agriculture. The overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has led to serious soil degradation, pest resistance and other issues. Accordingly, this was also addressed by the state’s more stringent air pollution controls in “Ten Measures for Prevention and Control of Air Pollution.”

To address these challenges, Alltech Crop Science focuses on the health of a hidden ally: soil microbes.

“We believe that the natural life has its own mystery, and the vitality of soil derives from the diversity of microbes,” said Weimin Ma, Alltech Crop Science director for China. “Alltech will use its own unique advantages in microbiology, enzymes and nutrigenomics to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and promote soil health and natural nutrient cycling in China.”

At the conference, the Soil and Fertilizer Alliance of China and Alltech signed a memorandum. The parties agreed to work closely together to explore the agro-ecological possibilities for soil and crop health. With the strength of Alltech’s microbial fermentation-based solutions, the two parties have a vision to develop healthy farm ecosystems and reduce pesticide usage in accordance with the Chinese Department of Agriculture’s goal of ending the growth of pesticide usage by 2020.

Alltech organized a conference regarding the “Greening of Chinese Agriculture” from March 8-9, 2017 in Beijing. More than 300 agricultural entrepreneurs attended the event and signed a proposal to work together toward sustainable agriculture in China. Global vice president and head of Greater China for Alltech Dr. Mark Lyons spoke at the conference.

At Alltech’s Greening of Chinese Agriculture Environment Conference, Dr. Mark Lyons, global vice president and head of Greater China for Alltech, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Xu Wang, secretary general of the Soil and Fertilizer Alliance of China, to jointly promote regional farming, breeding integration and the sustainable development of animal husbandry.

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Nine agricultural journalists will soon dive into hands-on training featuring professional development, leadership and global networking as winners of the 2017 IFAJ-Alltech Young Leaders in Agricultural Journalism Award.

The winners chosen for this year’s 12th annual award are:

• Tom Bicknell, Australia
• Kizito Cudjoe, Ghana
• Melanie Jenkins, United Kingdom
• Philip Keitany, Kenya
• Rachel Martin, Northern Ireland
• Matthias Schulze Steinmann, Germany
• Jessie Scott, United States of America
• Maria Törner, Sweden
• Eva Zitz, Austria

The award supports the winners’ participation in the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) Congress and an intensive boot camp-style workshop. This year’s boot camp will take place from March 31 to April 1, prior to the IFAJ Congress in Gauteng, South Africa.

“Each year, we continue to see the best and brightest minds in agricultural journalism from around the world receive this award,” said Dr. Pearse Lyons, president and founder of Alltech. “Congratulations to these nine outstanding candidates. They exemplify the leadership, skills and dedication needed to communicate and connect the agricultural industry to a wider audience.”

The IFAJ-Alltech Young Leaders in Agricultural Journalism Award selection process involved a written submission, a critique of the candidate’s leadership potential, a demonstration of leadership abilities and a narrative explaining his/her desire in being involved in the program.

Bicknell has worked in a variety of communication and extension roles in agriculture since 2008. His media career has had a particular focus on horticulture and has included roles as the inaugural editor of horticulture business magazine Produce Plus, writer for Asiafruit Magazine, organizer and judge for the first PMA-Produce Plus Marketer of the Year Award and editorial consultant with agricultural publisher Coretext, which included writing for and managing a number of titles and communications campaigns.

Cudjoe has more than six years of experience reporting for one of the most reputable newspapers in Ghana, the Business & Financial Times. Cudjoe was honored as the 2016 Tourism Correspondent of the Year by the Ghana Tourism Authority for his contribution toward the development of the local tourism industry.

Jenkins, an agricultural journalist and public relations consultant at Agri-Hub since 2015, writes for numerous publications in the U.K., including Farmers Weekly, Farmers Guardian and Crop Production Magazine. She was awarded the British Guild of Agricultural Journalists John Deere Training Award in 2015.

Keitany is a business journalist with Kenya’s leading media house, Kenya Television Network. In January 2016, Keitany got the green light to produce and report on a weekly agribusiness feature segment named “The Next Frontier,” which has shared the stories of over 100 stakeholders in the agriculture sector across Kenya and East Africa.

Martin writes for the Belfast Telegraph, Northern Ireland’s largest daily newspaper. She has reported on the agriculture industry from Italy, Switzerland and Scotland. Her articles and photographs have been published in the Belfast Telegraph, Irish Independent, FarmWeek and Farming Life, among others.

Schulze Steinmann is deputy-editor-in-chief for Wochenblatt für Landwirtschaft & Landleben, an agriculture paper with a focus on the economy, markets and politics. In 2013, he was recognized as a specialist journalist of the year with the Karl Theodor Vogel Prize.

Scott is a digital content manager for Meredith Agrimedia. During the past four years, Scott has covered equipment trends for Successful Farming Magazine as well as its website and television show. In addition to creating content, she also works with the editorial team to coordinate news coverage on Agriculture.com and manages the distribution of content through newsletters and social media.

Törner writes for an agricultural magazine called Land Lantbruk, which is part of LRF Media, one of Sweden’s largest publishing houses. In 2014, she was awarded the Gunnar Ernest scholarship for ambitious students within the food and agriculture sector.

Zitz writes for Oesterreichische BauernZeitung, an Austrian newspaper. In 2014, she was awarded the Young Journalist Prize from the Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development of the European Commission and the European Network of Agricultural Journalists. In 2015, Zitz also received the Josef Steiniger Award from the Austrian Guild of Agricultural Journalists.

“IFAJ appreciates Alltech’s commitment to global agricultural journalism and, in particular, to helping talented young journalists become leaders in their national agricultural journalism guilds,” said Owen Roberts, IFAJ president. “There are many examples of how recipients of the Alltech-sponsored Young Leaders award, who go on to participate in the boot camp program, are strengthening IFAJ and agricultural journalism. Alltech is helping develop and encourage a great pool of talent around the world.”

More than 100 young journalists have received the award and strengthened their communication skills and leadership in the agricultural journalism sector since the program first began in 2005.

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Out of 250 applicants, 21 undergraduate and graduate students stepped into the spotlight at the 12th annual Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition to sing for a chance to win scholarships and prizes that will jumpstart their operatic careers.

“Competitions can bring out the best in us, as well as our visions, and all of these young people here have a vision,” said Dr. Pearse Lyons, founder and president of Alltech. “When we combine these things, we can change lives.”

Overall winners of the 2017 Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition are:

First Place Alltech Graduate Winner: Jessica Bayne, University of Kentucky, Christiansburg, Virginia (currently resides in Lexington, Kentucky)

Second Place Alltech Graduate Winner: HyeonJeong Kim, Wilmore, Kentucky

First Place Alltech Undergraduate Winner: Parker Van Houten, Youth Performing Arts School, Louisville, Kentucky

Second Place Alltech Undergraduate Winner: Catarine Hancock, Lafayette High School, Lexington, Kentucky

Addington & Mills Incoming Undergraduate Award: Bailey Tillery, Lafayette High School, Lexington, Kentucky

Enterprise Fleet Services Third Place Undergraduate Award: Ashley Cissell, Youth Performing Arts School, Louisville, Kentucky

The 21 finalists were scored on voice, technical skill, interpretation, accuracy and appearance by six judges:

Marcus Küchle, the director of artistic operations at the Cincinnati Opera;

Ian Derrer, who recently joined Kentucky Opera as the newly appointed general director;

Dr. Thomas King, who has sung in five world premier operas in the last 20 years;

Corey Crider, alumnus of Lyric Opera of Chicago’s Ryan Opera Center;

Susanne Marsee, one of the New York City Opera’s leading mezzos for over 20 years; and

Amanda Balltrip, director of music education for McNeil Music Center.

“I’m speechless,” said Bayne. “This means that I can continue my education and career — I wouldn’t be able to go to graduate school without Alltech. I’m so grateful for Alltech’s support of this program.”

The competition, held March 5 at the University of Kentucky Singletary Center for the Arts, featured a pool of $500,000 in prizes. Launched in 2006, the annual competition at the University of Kentucky marks a continued partnership between Alltech and the University of Kentucky Opera Theatre department. This partnership has created the largest vocal competition in Kentucky and positioned UK Opera Theatre as a Richard Tucker Music Foundation top recommended opera program. Alltech’s support of this competition also led to Alltech being named one of the top 10 “Best Companies Supporting the Arts in America” by the Americans for the Arts in 2012.

Alltech Vocal Scholars have contributed to Alltech’s philanthropic efforts in Haiti by teaching music to Haitian primary school children. They have also performed at numerous Alltech events, including the Alltech FEI World Equestrian GamesTM in 2010 and 2014, the company’s annual international conference, Ambassador dinners around the world, the annual Celebration of Song and The Gathering Ireland 2013.

Parker Van Houten from the Youth Performing Arts School in Louisville, Kentucky, was the First Place Alltech Undergraduate Winner at the 2017 Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition, where 21 young vocalists competed for more than $500,000 in scholarships and prizes.

Health-conscious consumers in search of wellness and quality of life are the key drivers behind a booming market for food and beverages with added benefits. This functional foods market was already estimated at $129.39 billion in 2015, and a compound annual growth rate of 7.8 percent is expected through 2021.

Strengthening this trend is a major demographic change taking place: the boomer generation is aging.

By the year 2050, 30 percent of the U.S. population will be 65 years of age and older, and a similar demographic trend is expected in other regions of the world. Currently, life expectancy at birth is 78.9 years, a significant increase over the past 40 years due to advances in medical care and nutrition. This means more people are experiencing the aging process, which brings with it a series of changes and a decline in body functions, such as eyesight, hearing, taste, mobility, memory and cognition.

This is due to an accumulation of damage to cells, tissues and organs, occurring over time from changes in hormonal regulation, wear and tear, and free radical production, among others.

One of the resulting conditions, cognitive impairment among older people, may place a tremendous burden on public health. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease. It affects 5.3 million Americans 65 years of age and older, and that number is expected to quadruple by the year 2050 with a cost of over $1.1 trillion to the U.S. alone.

Can Fido come to the rescue?: Similarities between senior pet and human nutrition

As it is with humans, the pet population is also living longer due to better nutrition and veterinary care. It is estimated that 45 percent of dog parents have a dog aged 7 and older, while 46 percent of cat parents have a cat aged 7 and older. 

A number of studies in the past 15 years provide evidence indicating similarities between man and his best friend as far as cognitive-behavioral skills are concerned, particularly in later stages of life. These studies suggest that cognitive decline in the aging canine is remarkably similar to that of human aging and dementia.

In humans, AD involves the accumulation of senile plaques called beta amyloid (AB) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFT). Canines develop AB lesions but not full-blown NFT. In addition, free radicals or reactive oxygen species (ROS) from mitochondrial dysfunction may cause deleterious effects in neurons both in canines and humans.

In the canine model, the use of antioxidants and mitochondrial cofactors, such as carnitine, alpha lipoic acid and alpha-tocopherol, showed improved cognition and reduced neuropathology in aged dogs.

The beneficial effects of fish consumption are well-known in human health. Several studies in elderly people indicate that supplementation with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has a protective association against cognitive decline. Similarly, DHA supplementation in the canine model also shows improvement in cognitive learning in aged dogs.

More recently, there is strong evidence coming from a number of selenium yeast studies, indicating that selenium yeast plays an important role in reducing the beta-amyloid burden and minimizing DNA and RNA oxidation, which can assist in preventing age-related neuropathologies associated with cognitive decline.

There is no silver bullet that will provide a solution to the preservation of cognitive function through life. What is clear, however, is that the nutritional tools we have available can help us forge a magnificent shield to fight against cognitive decline in both the human senior and his best friend. 

Se han seleccionado 10 start-ups agrotecnológicas finalistas que abarcan desde el riego automatizado hasta alternativas proteicas para participar en la primera fase del Acelerador Pearse Lyons en Dublín.

[DUBLÍN, Irlanda] – Un total de 183 start-ups de 38 países presentaron su solicitud para participar en el Acelerador Pearse Lyons, un programa agrotecnológico para start-ups en fase avanzada organizado por Alltech y Dogpatch Labs. El acelerador arrancará con las 10 start-ups seleccionadas para participar en este programa tutorizado para innovadores agrotecnológicos que cuentan con una tecnología probada lista para ser comercializada. Las 10 candidaturas escogidas trabajarán con Alltech y Dogpatch Labs para acelerar el desarrollo de su negocio a través de Alltech y su red global. Las start-ups proceden, entre otros países, de Australia, Canadá, China, Israel, Irlanda o EE. UU. y, entre todas, ya han logrado recabar más de 30 millones de dólares en financiación. Entre otros participantes, se recibió la solicitud de MagGrow de Irlanda, AgriWebb de Australia o Tevatronic de Israel. Los detalles de las start-ups seleccionadas pueden consultarse al final.

El acelerador es un programa tutorizado de 15 semanas cuyo objetivo es el aprendizaje colaborativo y la búsqueda de nuevas oportunidades de negocio y colaboración. El programa culminará con la presentación de los emprendedores participantes en el escenario principal de "ONE: la conferencia de ideas de Alltech" que se celebrará del 21 al 24 de mayo de 2017 en Lexington (Kentucky, EE. UU.) y que reunirá a más de 3000 participantes de casi 80 países de alrededor del mundo. El destacado evento será la ocasión perfecta para que los emprendedores presenten su start-up a posibles clientes, así como a inversores y colaboradores potenciales.

Los emprendedores participantes podrán conocer al Dr. Pearse Lyons, presidente y fundador de Alltech, y al personal directivo de Alltech, una empresa global de salud y nutrición animal con presencia en más de 120 países. Además, podrán disfrutar durante tres meses de un espacio gratuito en el principal hub irlandés de start-ups, Dogpatch Labs, situado en el corazón de los Docklands, con una liquidez de 15.000 euros y asesoramiento en diversas áreas, desde el desarrollo de productos hasta la estrategia y la expansión internacional. Al final del programa, las start-ups aprovecharán la plataforma que les ofrece el acelerador para lograr socios e inversores potenciales. Otros beneficios adicionales incluyen incentivos en software valorados en más de 300.000€ de empresas como Google, Facebook, Softlayer o Amazon.

"Hemos asistido a una increíble semana de selección en Dublín. Estoy realmente impresionado con las ideas, el compromiso y el talento de estos emprendedores", afirmó Aidan Connolly, director de innovación de Alltech. "Estábamos especialmente interesados en encontrar tecnologías agrícolas emergentes, como el uso de drones, los sensores, el internet de las cosas o la inteligencia artificial, y estoy muy contento de comprobar que todo esto tiene cabida en las 10 empresas que hemos escogido".

La mayoría de las empresas son start-ups en fase avanzada que ya han conseguido una inversión inicial (conocida como "capital semilla") y que ahora se beneficiarán del asesoramiento y el apoyo que les ofrece Alltech para lograr una expansión a nivel internacional. El acelerador ha resultado especialmente atractivo para las start-ups dado que Alltech es una de las pocas empresas del sector agrícola realmente global y que, además, goza de una posición privilegiada para abrir puertas, aconsejar sobre rutas de comercialización y dar acceso al mercado global en los más de 120 países en los que está presente.

"Estamos ansiosos por empezar a trabajar con estos emprendedores de tanto talento y venidos de todo el mundo para ayudarles en su estrategia de internacionalización", destacó Patrick Walsh, director gerente de Dogpatch Labs. "Este programa les proporciona un entorno único para impulsar sus ventas y asegurar la inversión, y refleja la capacidad de Dogpatch Labs para ofrecer asesoramiento y recursos gracias a nuestra conexión privilegiada con el ecosistema de las start-ups".
Las nuevas tecnologías están irrumpiendo con fuerza en la industria agrícola. La inversión en agrotecnología está creciendo a un ritmo exponencial, con un total de 9650 millones de dólares invertidos en start-ups agrotecnológicas desde 2013 y 2000 millones de dólares tan solo en el primer semestre de 2016. Lograr una ruta clara para la comercialización sigue siendo todo un desafío en la industria, por lo que el objetivo de este programa es acelerar el acceso de las start-ups al mercado global brindando una variada gama de apoyos y asesoramiento que les permitan superar las dificultades que entraña ampliar sus operaciones para dar servicio a clientes corporativos de mayor envergadura.

Los emprendedores seleccionados aterrizaron en Dublín el 20 de febrero para iniciar la primera etapa del acelerador que constará de varias fases. Finalizarán el programa con un día europeo de presentaciones en Dogpatch Labs (Dublín) para volar luego rumbo a Kentucky y compartir sus ideas en ONE: la conferencia de ideas de Alltech.

Para tener más información sobre el Acelerador Pearse Lyons, visite Alltech.com/Accelerator o dogpatchlabs.com/alltech-accelerator, y manténgase conectado a través de Twitter y Facebook.

The new Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) has caused many changes for farmers, ranchers and their dealers this year, both in how they feed their animals and in how they keep track of their records. But the big picture also affects other groups like veterinarians and how they manage antibiotics for their clients.

With many affected by these changes, it is important that the industry as a whole maps out the issues and works together more closely to reduce any risk of errors or additional challenges in this process. To help address some of these issues, we asked our team in the field:

What are the most frequently asked questions across the U.S. following the new VFD?

1. How does my VFD look?

This one is a big worry for a lot of people, and for good reason. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will eventually start auditing to ensure the VFD is working and that people are in compliance. This means it is important for dealers and their customers to have a proper recordkeeping system and accurate information in their VFDs. The FDA has provided examples of properly filled out VFDs that you can reference on pages 12–16 of the Common Format Q&A. 

It is also very important to make sure your figures are accurate. With no feed amount specified in the VFD, number of head and days are the two most important figures. It is important that the vet knows the approximate number of animals for the VFD, which should include any animal that has the potential to be fed a VFD feed, and it is also good for your vet to have an understanding of the capacity and normal animal turnover in your facility. This enables them to make sure the amount of feed sold under the VFD is consistent with the number of head covered. During inspections, VFD orders may be compared to manufacturing records, so these need to match up.

You also want to make sure to include everything that is required when filling out the form. For example, there is a cautionary statement that should be included on all invoices for customers. The FDA wants feed distributors to ensure all labeling and advertising prominently and conspicuously displays the following cautionary statement: “Caution: Federal law restricts medicated feed containing this veterinary feed directive (VFD) drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.”

2. Can we store VFDs digitally?

Dealers and farmers can store their VFDs in any format, including digital or paper. However, errors seem to be more common with handwritten VFDs. To help reduce the risk of an error, it may be beneficial for veterinarians to use an electronic VFD. This can make storing your VFDs digitally even easier. Additionally, since you have to retain a copy of the VFD for two years, this will help reduce the amount of paper you have to have on file.

3. Can I use a VFD for multiple groups?

You can use a VFD for multiple groups, provided the veterinarian has a VCPR  and is comfortable with the health and management of each of the sites covered by the VFD.

This is why making sure you have a good relationship with your vet is so important. They need to have a strong understanding of your animals and their conditions to make the best decisions for you and your operation.

Many other challenges are going to come up as the VFD continues, so it is vital that you are able to discuss these matters with your vet. For example, you may need a second VFD for different feeding periods, or a VFD may expire and the vet will need to write a new one. This is a process that requires constant communication with your veterinarian to ensure accuracy and that your animals are kept as safe and healthy as possible.

As our industry comes together to deal with the VFD, we are learning more about what works and what we need to change.

“Though it comes with its challenges, the VFD has created a great opportunity for the industry to review what they are doing in terms of feeding their animals,” says Lori Stevermer, marketing specialist for Hubbard Feeds. “Often, antibiotics were fed because that’s what was done in the past. Now, we need to work more closely with our veterinarians to determine what is best for our animals, and our future.”

By requiring us to take a closer look at our feeding processes and our relationships, the VFD presents an opportunity to strengthen our industry. This will help us determine what is best not only for our animals, but what is best for our families and the consumer.

For more information on or questions about the VFD, the frequently asked questions at the American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV) is a great resource. Also, feel free to reach out to your local Alltech or Hubbard Feeds representative for assistance with your nutrition.

[PARIS] – At the SIMA trade show in France’s capital, KEENAN proudly showcased the latest in a string of innovations since its acquisition by Alltech in April 2016. The introduction of the KEENAN MechFiber345SP, the first self-propelled machine in the KEENAN range, marks a new path for the company and one that has been long-awaited.

KEENAN customers have been requesting a self-propelled MechFiber machine, and KEENAN has spent time perfecting its design, committed to delivering the very best machine possible. Long synonymous with excellence in nutrition and driving animal performance through optimising rumen health, KEENAN focused on researching the loading and chopping mechanisms available on the market to ensure the best fit. Of highest importance was identifying a solution consistent with the core KEENAN ethos of retaining forage structure. In Italian firm Storti, they identified a partner that can deliver this much sought-after, self-loading technology.

“When we announced our collaboration with Storti, some thought it was all about introducing a KEENAN vertical auger to our range — that couldn’t be further from the reality,” said KEENAN CEO Robbie Walker. “KEENAN and Storti had been in talks for quite some time about this exciting development: a self-propelled machine with a loading mechanism that does not destruct fibre and delivers the quality MechFiber mix that is so important to KEENAN.”

With class-leading cutter head technology, the KEENAN MechFiberSP range has been engineered to deliver rapid loading of a vast array of products, leaving a clean, uniform face for optimum pit face management. The tungsten-coated blades feature a unique crossed arrangement, performing clean cuts without damaging the structure of the fibre, even with very compact silages. Engineered with a focus on speed, precision and versatility, the special placement of the blades and configuration of the loading channel allows the cutter to load in both directions and easily run in reverse if needed, while a high-speed loading belt drastically reduces mix preparation time.

Producing the noted KEENAN MechFiber mix in 16 and 20 cubic meter outputs for the 2017 and 2018 seasons, the KEENAN MechFiberSP range offers left or right front discharge via an adjustable conveyor for homogeneous distribution of total mixed rations.

Available in both 25 kilometres per hour or high-speed “Plus” 40 kilometres per hour models, the operating system of the KEENAN MechFiberSP range has been cleverly designed for ease of maintenance and features a mechanical drive to the six-paddle reel. This exclusive engineering system, by means of a specially designed gearbox and PTO shaft, transfers all the power from the engine to the mixing system, thus reducing fuel consumption by up to 25 percent as well as reducing maintenance costs.

Fitted with the KEENAN InTouch controller as standard, the KEENAN MechFiberSP range is connected to the KEENAN InTouch service, which provides real-time feed advice and ration formulation through a dedicated team of skilled nutritionists. KEENAN InTouch is proven to deliver consistency in both feed and mixing to ensure improved milk yields and milk solids and better herd health in conjunction with monitoring and control of feed costs.

“KEENAN now offers the complete range of feeding solutions: Farmers can choose from the MechFiber-producing horizontal paddle machine in both trailed and self-propelled options as well as twin and triple auger vertical trailed units,” said Walker. “Testament to the level of excitement about this launch of the KEENAN self-propelled range is that a number of self-propelled machines have been pre-sold in continental Europe despite only being unveiled at SIMA. That demonstrates the trust our customers have in our attention to detail and commitment to delivering the very best quality machine and mix.”

For further information, visit www.keenansystem.com.

[DUBLIN, Ireland] – Out of the 370 craft beers competing in The Dublin Craft Beer Cup, it was Saison Witbier from Horizont of Hungary that took home the top prize at the Alltech Craft Brews & Food Fair. The saison wheat beer, with its refreshing citrus aroma, was an overwhelming favourite with the 28 independent judges. The Classic Pear Cider from McCashin’s Brewery of New Zealand also struck a chord with judges, particularly its perfect balance of sweetness and acidity and its impressive pear top notes, to win The Dublin Craft Cider Cup. The Alltech Craft Brews & Food Fair, Ireland’s largest craft brews fair, opened its doors for the three-day festival at The Convention Centre Dublin this evening.

“In the past, stout beers have reigned supreme in The Dublin Craft Beer Cup; we are now seeing the highest quality challenges from other beer types,” said Dr. Gearóid Cahill, head judge of The Dublin Craft Beer Cup and director of brewing science at Alltech. “It was nice to see a new, refreshing wheat beer take top prize this year.”

There was an impressive range of ciders as well, spanning sweet, dry and even barrel-aged varieties.

“We also had some complex ciders with a range of fruit ingredients,” said Cahill. “The Irish cider producers impressed the independent judges with their overall quality; however, New Zealand swept the board with the only two gold medals, both awarded to McCashin’s Brewery.”

Gold medals were awarded to outstanding brews from Ireland, Germany, Japan, Switzerland, Spain and Hungary. A full list of gold, silver and bronze medal winners for The Dublin Craft Beer Cup and The Dublin Craft Cider Cup can be found here.

“Our three-day festival is about celebrating the craft brews industry, and it gives us an opportunity to showcase what Ireland has to offer,” said Dr. Pearse Lyons, founder and president of Alltech. “It is more than just a craft beer festival; with craft cider, craft spirits and craft wine, there’s something here to tempt all taste buds.”

This year’s live entertainment is set to delight, with Hermitage Green headlining Friday and The Camembert Quartet closing out the festival on Saturday night.

Tickets are available to purchase from EventBrite. For more information, visit www.alltechbrews.ie, follow @alltechbrews and join the conversation by using #alltechbrews.

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Farmers have a rich history of adapting to changing landscapes and innovating to nourish the world. While dealing with whatever challenges the day (and the weather) might bring, they also look ahead to build a future for their farm by implementing new management practices, technologies and crop management as well as training the next generation.

Alltech Crop Science is calling all farmers, producers and growers to share their stories about how they are ensuring the future of their farm. By creating a one- to two-minute video describing what they are doing for their farm’s future and sharing their farm’s story, farmers have the opportunity to win a trip for two to ONE: The Alltech Ideas Conference, held in Lexington, Kentucky, May 21–24, 2017.

Videos must be submitted online by April 3, 2017, at 9:00 a.m. EST. To enter a “My Farm. My Future.” video as well as read the full contest details, including rules and regulations, please visit http://go.alltech.com/myfarm-crop. The crop “My Farm. My Future.” contest is only open to U.S. residents.

Alltech Crop Science will select the finalists and post their videos on Alltech’s Facebook page (Facebook.com/AlltechNaturally). Voting will open to the public starting April 3, 2017, at 3:00 p.m. EST and will close April 10, 2017, at 12:00 p.m. EST. The highest number of Facebook likes will determine the winner.

Registration is open now for ONE: The Alltech Ideas Conference, held in Lexington, Kentucky, USA, from May 21–24. The annual international conference draws more than 3,000 attendees from more than 70 countries to network and discuss world-changing ideas. For more information or to register, visit one.alltech.com. Join the conversation online with #ONE17.

Consumers have certain expectations of how a tomato should look and taste when it reaches their table. Producers know all too well, however, the variables inherent in farming that are at odds with standardization of the final product.

During the growth cycle, the flower setting and fruit standardization stages are essential to meet the desired aspects of color, size and flavor. These periods, which determine productivity and fruit classification, can be a challenge for producers since the plants are constantly subjected to stressors, such as adverse environmental conditions, which can compromise crop development.

An ally in crop development: Hormonal precursors

According to agronomist Marcos Revoredo, technical manager for Alltech Crop Science in Brazil who specializes in intensive crops, hormonal precursors may be an ally in minimizing the physiological stress on the plants.

“By applying these precursors as a substitute to a pre-mixed combination of hormones, it is possible to stimulate the plant to produce its own hormonal balance in the precise quantities needed to meet the plant’s demands at that exact moment,” he explains.

In response to this natural hormonal balance, “the plant will have a better redistribution of nutrients to flowers and fruits, increasing production. It also allows for more balanced plant growth and, in the following stages of fruit development, increases standardization of size,” says Revoredo.

Profitability through uniformity

In Araguari, Minas Gerais, Brazil, producer Edson Trebeschi emphasizes the importance of care in the standardization of the size of the tomatoes.

“If you have a fruit that is higher in quality and uniform in size, it results in greater profitability down the road,” says Trebeschi.

For this reason, Trebeschi has been increasing his implementation of more sustainable production practices, working preventively to improve plant resistance.

Additional considerations for top tomato crops

Revoredo also notes that besides the use of natural solutions based on hormonal precursors, such as plant extracts, minerals and amino acids that promote the reduction of the effects of stressors and improve the vigor of the plants, important factors in reaching good results in tomato crops include soil preparation, disease and pest management, adequate irrigation and nutritional maintenance.

Have a question or comment?

If you take a walk down the aisle of any grocery store, you will find hundreds of items with labels touting the “natural” aspects of products. While these labels can sometimes be little more than a marketing ploy, it does give an indication that consumers are looking for more natural consumables and that growers need to be aware of those consumer demands to stay relevant on the shelves. 

By taking a few simple steps in conjunction with existing conventional practices, growers can adhere to a more natural method of production while remaining profitable.

1. Improve the soil structure

Healthy crops begin with healthy, nutrient-rich soil. The use of cover crops and crop rotation decreases nutrient depletion and increases organic matter breakdown by supporting the microbes in the soil, potentially reducing the amount of fertilizer needed to achieve the maximum growth potential of the plants. 

Cover crops build soil health by adding organic matter as their roots degrade into the soil, increasing nutrient retention, controlling erosion through improved stability and moisture-retaining capabilities, and reducing the number of weeds in the field, which decreases the need for herbicides.

By using different crops in rotation, different types of organic matter are added to the soil, diversifying the available nutrients and microorganisms present.

At planting, consider using a no-till method so as to not disrupt the soil biology and maintain the new soil that has been created.

2. Build the soil microbiome

There is a delicate symbiotic relationship between the plant and the microbes that surround its root system. Microbes in the soil help plants by increasing nutrient availability and enhancing root growth. In return, these microorganisms receive the carbon that they need to grow and thrive from the plant. 

The same means used to improve soil structure also provide a favorable environment that enhances the soil microbiome, particularly when a naturally based fertilizer is used to promote growth and diversity in microbial populations.

3. Increase nutrient availability

The use of natural substances, such as amino acids, in the chelation of micronutrients facilitates their absorption by plants as they are presented in a much more bioavailable form, meaning they are ready to be used. Plants that are well-nourished are healthier and will be better able to resist environmental stressors.  

4. Naturally boost plant performance

The use of biostimulants has grown exponentially in the past few years. These  naturally based products  help to promote functions in the plant that improve efficiency, increase performance and strengthen stress tolerance. 

Used as an alternative to synthetic products, growers are finding that their results in yield and quality equal or exceed those observed when using conventional practices. 

5. Utilize integrated pest management

Focusing on a more long-term approach to decreasing pests and other environmental stressors, integrated pest management (IPM) combines different methods, such as biological control using biopesticides and promoting induced resistance in the plant, for a more comprehensive approach to management.  

From a nutritional standpoint, a plant that is healthy will have a better chance of resisting disease pressure. 

IPM also looks at the growing environment as a whole, taking into account many factors, including current pests and their predators, irrigation and drought conditions, weed management and soil conditions.

It is clear that many parts of these approaches are interconnected and will have effects on the others. Improving the soil will improve the plant, which will make it more likely to have a systemic resistance to environmental and disease pressures and will reduce the need for pesticides and other synthetic interventions.  

Have a question or comment?

[DUBLIN, Ireland] – A total of 183 startups from 38 countries applied to be a part of The Pearse Lyons Accelerator, a late-stage, agri-tech accelerator run by Alltech and Dogpatch Labs. The accelerator will commence with 10 startups that have been chosen to take part in a mentorship program for agri-business innovators with a proven technology that is ready for market. The 10 successful applicants will work with Alltech and Dogpatch Labs to accelerate their business development through Alltech and its global network. The startups hail from Australia, Canada, China, Ireland and the U.S. and have already collectively raised more than $30 million in funding. Participants include MagGrow from Ireland, AgriWebb from Australia and Tevatronic. Full details on the selected startups are below.

The accelerator is a 15-week, mentorship-driven program aimed at collaborative learning and seeking new business and/or partnership opportunities. The program will culminate with the startups presenting on the main stage at ONE: The Alltech Ideas Conference in Lexington, Kentucky, USA, May 21–24, 2017, where more than 3,000 attendees from nearly 80 countries around the world will converge. This high-profile showcase will afford the startups the opportunity to present to future customers as well as investors and potential collaborators.

Startup participants will receive access to Dr. Pearse Lyons, president and founder of Alltech, and the senior management of Alltech, a global animal health and nutrition company with a presence in more than 120 countries. In addition, participants will receive free space for three months in Ireland’s leading startup hub, Dogpatch Labs, located in the heart of the Dublin Docklands, a €15,000 cash fund and mentoring covering a range of areas, from product development to strategy and international expansion. At the end of the program, the startups will pitch to the accelerator for business partners and investors. Additional benefits include software perks worth more than €300,000 from companies such as Google, Facebook, Softlayer and Amazon.

“We had a great selection week in Dublin, and I’m really impressed with the startups’ ideas, their engagement and the talent,” said Aidan Connolly, chief innovation officer at Alltech. “We were especially looking for emerging technologies in agri-tech, such as drones, sensors, the internet of things and artificial intelligence, and I’m excited to see those are all represented within the 10 companies that were chosen.”

The majority of the startup applicants are late-stage startups that have raised initial investment (known as the “seed round”) and would now benefit from advice and support from Alltech to expand internationally. Startups were especially attracted to this accelerator due to the fact that Alltech is one of the few truly global agricultural companies positioned to assist in opening doors and advising on routes to market and global market access in the more than 120 countries where it is present.

“We’re excited about working with these world-class accelerator applicants from across the world and assisting them on their internationalisation strategy,” said Patrick Walsh, managing director of Dogpatch Labs. “This program will provide a unique environment for the accelerator applicants to drive sales and secure investment, and it underlines Dogpatch Lab’s ability to provide mentoring and resources for founders due to our unique connection to the startup ecosystem.”

The agriculture industry is beginning to be disrupted by new technologies. Agri-tech investment is growing at an exponential rate, with $9.65 billion invested in agri-tech startups since 2013 and $2 billion invested in the first half of 2016 alone. A clear route to market remains a challenge in the industry, and this program seeks to accelerate startups’ access to this global market, with a comprehensive package of supports that helps them navigate the challenge of scaling their operations to service large corporate customers.

The accelerator applicants will arrive for their first core phase in Dublin on Feb. 20, 2017, and will fly in for various core phases throughout the program. They will wrap up the program with a European demo day at Dogpatch Labs in Dublin and later will fly out to Kentucky to pitch their ideas at ONE: The Alltech Ideas Conference.

For more information on The Pearse Lyons Accelerator, please visit Alltech.com/Accelerator or dogpatchlabs.com/alltech-accelerator, and stay connected through Twitter and Facebook.

Please find a full list of the successful 2017 applicants below:

MagGrow (Ireland)

Using a magnetic spraying system reduces drift by more than 80 percent and delivers superior coverage by enabling a spray of finer droplets, a key challenge for conventional spraying systems.

Moocall (Ireland)

A wearable technology that accurately predicts when a cow will give birth and communicates to the farmer via text message.

eFishery (Indonesia)

A fish feeder that automatically senses the appetite of fish and adjusts the amount of feed accordingly.

SkySquirrel (Canada)

A crop-analytics company that develops drone-based technology for monitoring crop health, with a primary focus on improving crop yields and reducing costs at commercial vineyards.

Agriwebb (Australia)

A mobile herd and farm management application developed for cattle, sheep and wool producers, with an online trading platform.

Greengage (UK)

Greengage provides market leading LED lamps to serve the farming industry with a simple and highly effective solution you can rely on.

Hargol FoodTech

An optimized method and technology that enables producers to grow large quantities of grasshoppers quickly in captivity.

Tevatronic

A technological solution enabling crops to be grown autonomously from an irrigation and a fertilisation aspect. The system is capable of deciding when and how much to irrigate, and it executes the irrigation decisions autonomously.

Agrilyst (USA)

Helping greenhouse operators run their operations more efficiently by pulling in data from sensors in the greenhouse and information about crop yields and other metrics.

Alesca Life (China)

A concept called farming-as-a-service was developed that allows scalable, localised food production for commercial and retail customers.