Esta nueva empresa impulsará el alcance del documental Un mundo sin vacas y sobre una base científica promoverá otras iniciativas de storytelling y apoyo al sector agropecuario.

[Lexington, Kentucky] - Alltech, empresa líder mundial en nutrición animal y ciencia de los cultivos, ha creado Planet of Plenty LLC, una nueva compañía de responsabilidad limitada dedicada a impulsar iniciativas de storytelling, apoyo y educación que fortalezcan el papel clave de la industria agropecuaria en la construcción de un futuro sostenible.

Esta apuesta se apoya en la visión de Alltech de Trabajar juntos por un Planeta de Abundancia®, que convoca a la comunidad agroalimentaria a crear un mundo en el que la producción agropecuaria prospere, los alimentos nutritivos sean abundantes y accesibles, y los recursos naturales de nuestro planeta se repongan para las generaciones venideras.

Hace solo dos generaciones, la mayoría de las familias estaban vinculadas al sector agropecuario. Hoy en día muchas personas no conocen de primera mano cómo se producen los alimentos en el mundo. Esta desconexión puede dar lugar a ideas falsas o discursos simplistas sobre el impacto ambiental de esta industria, el papel de los productores en el diseño de soluciones climáticas o la complejidad de alimentar a una población creciente; mientras se protegen los recursos naturales.

El objetivo de Planet of Plenty LLC es acortar brechas a través de impactantes iniciativas de storytelling, apoyo y educación en la industria agropecuaria.

“Planet of Plenty LLC llevará a las personas a un viaje por el mundo: a campos, laboratorios de investigación y comunidades agropecuarias, donde verán de primera mano la compleja relación entre el sector agropecuario, el medioambiente y la seguridad alimentaria y económica”, dijo el Dr. Mark Lyons (presidente y CEO de Alltech).

Planet of Plenty LLC actuará como un hub de colaboración en el que la comunidad agroalimentaria y otros sectores podrán:

• Promover el storytelling sobre la base de la ciencia
• Dar voz a los productores agropecuarios del mundo
• Apoyar iniciativas educativas
• Ampliar el debate sobre el papel de la industria agropecuaria en la creación de un futuro más sostenible

El proyecto insignia de Planet of Plenty LLC es el documental World Without Cows (Un mundo sin vacas), que da a conocer diversas perspectivas de investigadores que estudian las emisiones de metano, ganaderos que aplican prácticas regenerativas, expertos que afrontan el desafío de alimentar a una población creciente y habitantes de comunidades rurales que dependen de las vacas para su subsistencia. Cocreado por dos periodistas galardonados que ahora trabajan en Alltech, Un mundo sin vacas lleva a los espectadores a un viaje por el mundo para que puedan conocer mejor todo lo que aportan las vacas y cómo sería el mundo sin ellas.

En los últimos seis meses, Un mundo sin vacas ha sido proyectado en festivales de cine y en eventos en todo el mundo; suscitando un debate más amplio sobre el papel esencial de la industria agropecuaria en la sostenibilidad, la seguridad alimentaria y la economía mundial.

A través de la colaboración con el equipo de comunicaciones de Alltech y su extensa red mundial, Planet of Plenty LLC seguirá creando contenidos visualmente atractivos e informativos que retraten con precisión las complejidades y oportunidades en la industria agropecuaria actual, utilizando datos respaldados por la ciencia y el storytelling para atraer al público; al igual que ha hecho en todo el mundo con Un mundo sin vacas.

A medida que crece el interés por Un mundo sin vacas, esta iniciativa ofrece a sus patrocinadores aumentar el impacto de este documental al llevarlo a nuevas audiencias. Las contribuciones económicas a Planet of Plenty LLC financiarán directamente los esfuerzos para ampliar el alcance del documental, así como otras iniciativas de storytelling y apoyo –basadas en la ciencia– que promuevan el diálogo.

“Las historias más impactantes de la industria agropecuaria las cuentan los que están en primera línea”, comentó el Dr. Mark Lyons. “Impulsar un cambio real empieza por la sensibilización, el conocimiento y el generar un debate más amplio; que es lo que Planet of Plenty LLC se esforzará por buscar”.

Para saber más sobre el documental Un mundo sin vacas y cómo contribuir con Planet of Plenty LLC, visite worldwithoutcows.com/contribute.

Partnership between Alltech and UK has enabled more than 200 students to pursue their musical ambitions; 20th annual event awards more than $700,000 in prizes and scholarships

[LEXINGTON, Kentucky] — For 20 years, a shared passion for music and education has united Alltech and the University of Kentucky in shaping the futures of hundreds of gifted vocalists by providing them an unparalleled opportunity to study at UK and perform with the esteemed UK Opera Theatre program.

The Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition marked its 20th anniversary on Sunday at the UK Singletary Center for the Arts with 18 finalists taking the stage to compete for more than $700,000 in prizes and scholarships. The competition — one of the largest of its kind in the world — attracts top vocal performers from around the world, helping them overcome financial barriers to pursuing their musical dreams and paving their way to a successful career. It has also played a pivotal role in the rise of the UK Opera Theatre program, now widely regarded as one of the best in the nation.

The milestone event began with a special presentation by Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton, who declared March 2, 2025, as Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition Day in Lexington.

“More than 200 students have been able to pursue their ambitions in opera, having opportunities to travel the world, perform, teach and inspire others,” said Mayor Gorton. “It is an honor to be here to celebrate the Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition’s 20th anniversary.”  

The proclamation recognized the competition as one of the legacies of Alltech founder Dr. Pearse Lyons, whose love for music and commitment to helping people “do what makes their hearts sing” inspired him to create this unique program with his friend UK Opera Theatre Director Dr. Everett McCorvey. The mayor also acknowledged the ongoing support of Deirdre Lyons, Alltech cofounder and director of corporate image and design, and Dr. Mark Lyons, Alltech president and CEO, who continue to champion the program.

Dr. McCorvey described the scholarship program as a “game-changer for us here at the university.”

“When Dr. Lyons first began talking about starting this competition, he said, ‘I want this to be the best competition in the world,’” Dr. McCorvey recalled. “So, I took a proposal to him, and he said, ‘OK, this is not big enough. Go back to your team and bring something bigger.’ So we did. We created a competition that is the best competition in the world for young singers.”  

“UK Opera Theatre is a visionary program that helps singers reach their full potential while bringing art and joy to the community,” said Dr. Mark Lyons. “On this 20th anniversary, we celebrate not only the incredible talent on display but also the spirit of camaraderie and community that defines this competition.”

Making dreams come true for 20 years

Judges selected multiple winners in undergraduate and graduate categories. In addition to cash prizes, winners received scholarships to attend UK, including some full-tuition awards. This year’s competition featured six undergraduate competitors and 12 graduate student competitors.

The winners of the 2025 Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition were:

Undergraduate student winners

• Pearse and Deirdre Lyons First-Place Undergraduate Award and Scholarship — CoryOn Brooks, Paducah, Kentucky. This prize includes a $10,000 cash prize and a four-year, full-tuition scholarship to pursue a bachelor’s degree in music at UK.
• Bryant’s Rent-All and KPMG Second-Place Undergraduate Award and Scholarship — Destiny Cardell, Louisville, Kentucky. This prize includes a $9,000 cash award and a four-year, full-tuition scholarship to pursue a bachelor’s degree in music at UK.
• Alltech Feed Division Third-Place Undergraduate Award and Scholarship ($8,000 cash prize) — Darian Wright, Louisville, Kentucky.
• Barbara Rouse Kentucky Prize ($5,000 cash prize) — Emory Hampton, Louisville, Kentucky.
• Maestro’s Legacy Encouragement Awards ($1,000 cash prizes) — Lucy Schapman, Edwardsville, Illinois, and Grayson Boehm, Louisville, Kentucky.

Graduate student winners

• Pearse and Deirdre Lyons First-Place Graduate Award and Graduate Assistantship — Christian Abbo, Las Vegas, Nevada. This prize includes a full graduate assistantship to pursue a master’s degree in music or a doctoral degree in musical arts at UK, a one-time stipend of $13,000 from Alltech, and a yearly graduate stipend with UK Opera Theatre.
• Alltech and Stand Energy Second-Place Graduate Award and Graduate Assistantship — Matthew Pearce, Lexington, Kentucky. This prize includes a full graduate assistantship to pursue a master’s degree in music or a doctoral degree in musical arts at UK, a one-time stipend of $12,000 from Alltech and Stand Energy, and a yearly graduate stipend with UK Opera Theatre.
• Pearse Lyons ACE Foundation Third-Place Graduate Award — Emily Wicker, Chaseburg, Wisconsin. This prize includes a one-time stipend of $11,000.
• Encore Excellence Graduate Award — Bizhou Chang, Liaoning, China. This prize includes a one-time stipend of $10,000.
• Gail Robinson Performance Graduate Award ($8,000 cash prize) — Lily Allen, Cleveland, Tennessee.
• Alltech Crop Science Graduate Encouragement Award ($5,000 cash prize) — Lillian Broderick, Northfield, Vermont.
• Maestro’s Legacy Encouragement Graduate Award ($2,000 cash prize) — Collin Stillday, Plymouth, Minnesota.
• Reginald Smith Jr. Opportunity Award ($1,000 cash prize) — Darien Roby, Alexandria, Virginia.

• Opera LEX Victoria Meyers Graduate Award ($1,000 cash prize) — Reagan Hinze, Lincoln, Nebraska.
• Maestro’s Legacy Encouragement Awards ($1,000 cash prize) — Samuel Phillips, Birmingham, Alabama; Andrea Trusty, Ezel, Kentucky; and Austin Morgano, Georgetown, Kentucky.

• American Institute of Musical Studies (AIMS) tuition stipend — Matthew Pearce, Christian Abbo, Lily Allen, Collin Stillday and Bizhou Chang. AIMS, located in Graz, Austria, is the leading summer music program in Europe, a one-of-a-kind experience designed to prepare students for careers as professional musicians.

Finalists were scored based on their voice, technical skill, interpretation and accuracy by five judges:

• Reginald Smith Jr., a 2007 winner of the Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition and a Grammy and Emmy Award-winning baritone who has been lauded as a passionate performer “whose voice is one of the best baritone sounds to come along in years” by Opera News. His career has included performances with some of the world’s leading opera companies and in concerts worldwide.
• Barbara Lynne Jamison, general director of the Kentucky Opera, who has led a groundbreaking, community-led approach to producing mainstage opera, increasing diversity both onstage and in the audience.
• Audrey Chalt, a director, writer and producer of opera and theatre who currently serves as the artistic programs and new works manager at Cincinnati Opera.
• Dr. Thomas King, a tenor who has sung more than 50 roles in opera, operetta and musicals over the course of his career. King has taught private voice at Austin Peay State University, DePauw University and Indiana University Jacobs School. He also taught at the American Institute of Musical Studies in Graz, Austria, for 25 years and served as its artistic director for seven years before retiring in 2010.
• Julia Noulin-Mérat, an American, French and Canadian producer and designer with more than 25 years of experience who has served as the general director and CEO of Opera Columbus for the past five years.

Since its inception, the Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition has awarded more than $12 million in UK scholarships and prizes. 

In addition to UK Opera Theatre productions, Alltech Vocal Scholars enrich the local community throughout the year with performances at the annual Alltech Celebration of Song, a free holiday concert at Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park, and the popular summer concert series “It’s a Grand Night for Singing.”

“Alltech has been a wonderful partner for us,” said Dr. McCorvey. “There’s a whole culture at Alltech of creating excellence and helping people to pursue their dreams.”

Learn more about the Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition and watch the livestream of this year’s competition at alltech.com/vocal.

CoryOn Brooks of Paducah, Kentucky, won the 2025 Pearse and Deirdre Lyons First-Place Undergraduate Award and Scholarship award, which includes a $10,000 cash prize and a four-year, full-tuition scholarship to pursue a bachelor’s degree in music at UK.

Christian Abbo of Las Vegas, Nevada, won the 2025 Pearse and Deirdre Lyons First-Place Graduate Award and Graduate Assistantship, which includes a full graduate assistantship to pursue a master’s degree in music or a doctoral degree in musical arts at UK, a one-time stipend of $13,000 from Alltech, and a yearly graduate stipend with UK Opera Theatre.

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects pigs, causing significant economic losses. Gene editing technology has been used to develop pigs that are resistant to PRRS and that technology is currently making its way through regulatory approval in several countries. 

Valor impulsionou o Dr. Mark Lyons a apoiar o documentário Um mundo sem vacas e o levou a ser reconhecido entre os CEOs que melhor se comunicam com jornalistas

Ao mesmo tempo em que a ciência confirma a importância do setor agroalimentar para o futuro do planeta, crescem as iniciativas da indústria agropecuária para promover diálogos sobre os esforços voltados à sustentabilidade que abrangem seus pilares social, econômico e ambiental. Foi justamente essa necessidade de um espaço para uma conversa objetiva com o respaldo de dados científicos que levou o Dr. Mark Lyons, presidente e CEO da Alltech, a desafiar dois jornalistas premiados a investigar de maneira profunda o verdadeiro impacto das vacas em nosso planeta e descobrir o que está por trás de uma pergunta aparentemente simples: estamos melhor em um mundo sem vacas?

Assim nasceu o documentário World Without Cows (Um mundo sem vacas), lançado no final de 2024. O longa-metragem foi escrito e dirigido pelos premiados jornalistas Michelle Michael e Brandon Whitworth em 40 destinos ao redor do mundo durante três anos. Os documentaristas contaram com independência editorial ao examinar o significado cultural e econômico dos bovinos, seu papel na nutrição e seu impacto ambiental em países com realidades bem distintas, como Estados Unidos, Brasil e Índia.

“Com Um mundo sem vacas, queremos desencadear conversas significativas sobre o papel dos bovinos no mundo, desafiando suposições e encorajando as pessoas a olharem mais de perto para a ciência”, explicou o Dr. Lyons. “Este documentário também envia uma mensagem à indústria agroalimentar: temos o poder de contar a nossa história de uma forma que inspire mudanças. A agropecuária não é apenas parte da solução para as mudanças climáticas, é absolutamente essencial”, afirmou.

Nesse sentido, um artigo publicado em setembro de 2023 na PLOS Climate destacou as oportunidades existentes na agropecuária para continuar avançando em sustentabilidade ambiental. “Nosso estudo reconhece que o sistema alimentar é uma das armas mais poderosas na luta contra as mudanças climáticas”, afirmou o coautor principal, Prof. Benjamin Z. Houlton, reitor do College of Agriculture and Life Sciences da Universidade de Cornell.

“Nós apenas examinamos superficialmente o que é possível com tecnologias e estratégias de nutrição bovina”, disse o Dr. Lyons. Segundo ele, “ao aprofundar a nossa compreensão da genética, da nutrição e do microbioma ruminal, podemos desbloquear avanços transformadores na sustentabilidade ambiental que moldarão o futuro”.

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Alltech, a global leader in biotechnology, has released the complete Alltech 2024 U.S. Harvest Analysis report. The comprehensive final report shows that a combination of heavy early-season rains and late-season droughts has created distinct challenges for crop producers in the United States and indicates that overall risk is moderate to high.

“The trend for corn grain and corn silage is somewhat higher across all regions of the U.S. than it was for 2023,” said Dr. Max Hawkins, global technical support for the Technology Group at Alltech. “This increase in risk is due to the occurrence and levels of type B trichothecenes primarily, but zearalenone and fumonisins are also included in the increase, particularly in the Eastern U.S. The result is an increased pressure on animal health and performance that producers will need to monitor moving forward to maintain a proactive mycotoxin management program.” 

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

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

The Alltech 2024 U.S. Harvest Analysis program tests samples of new-crop grains and forages collected from farms or animal feed production sites across the country, ensuring an accurate picture of mycotoxin contamination. All samples are tested at the leading-edge Alltech 37^+® lab, which can detect the presence of 54 mycotoxins.

Other key results from the Alltech 2024 U.S. Harvest Analysis include:

Corn silage

The Upper Midwest showed higher risk due to DON than in 2023, while other regions showed a similar risk to 2023. Emerging mycotoxins and Type B trichothecenes had the highest prevalence.

Corn

The risk from corn grain is primarily DON and fumonisins. The risk in the East is similar to 2023, while the risk in the Midwest is greater than 2023, particularly for monogastrics.

On Nov. 21, 2024, Alltech hosted “From Field to Feed: 2024 Crop and Mycotoxin Analysis”, a broadcast streamed live from Alltech’s headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky, U.S. During the broadcast, panelists shared valuable insights for managing risks across the supply chain. Here are the key takeaways:

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

Visit alltech.com/harvest-analysis to access the recording of the broadcast as well as the full 2024 Alltech Harvest Analysis program, including the complete U.S. report, which is available now.

For more information about Alltech mycotoxin management solutions, visit knowmycotoxins.com.

An ever-increasing issue that we are coming up against year on year is mycotoxin contamination in feeds and forages.

Mycotoxins are naturally occurring substances produced when mould comes under stress. The risk varies with weather, harvesting date, management and storage conditions, and increasingly, we are seeing feedstuffs containing multiple mycotoxins, which can interact to cause additional problems. As ruminant diets typically contain both concentrates and forages, this also increases the risk of exposure to multiple mycotoxins.

Any crop or forage can harbour mycotoxins, but mycotoxins in forages (grass, hays, silages) present the greatest threat to cattle. Ensiled forages are more likely than dry forages to harbour moulds and associated mycotoxins — especially when fermentations and anaerobic conditions are not strictly controlled. 

Testing of UK-grown forages over the past few months, as part of the Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis, has revealed a moderate to high mycotoxin risk across all regions.

The dangers of mycotoxins for herd health

Mycotoxins are invisible, tasteless and odourless, making them difficult to detect. While we often associate them with mouldy or discoloured feedstuffs, contamination can still occur in feed that appears clean, posing hidden risks to ruminant health.

Performing daily checks on the herd can highlight warning signs of potential mycotoxin exposure: 

1. Reduced feed intake

2. Loose and/or inconsistent dung

3. Swollen hind legs and separation cracks in the hooves 

4. Lethargy 

5. A sudden drop in milk yield

6. Increased somatic cell counts

7. Reduced fertility

Of the 500 mycotoxins currently identified, DON, zearalenone, aflatoxins and storage mycotoxins (e.g., Penicillium toxins) typically pose the greatest risk to ruminant animals, causing issues such as:

• Compromised gut integrity and rumen function, which may interfere with nutrient absorption from feed.

• Suppression of the immune system, which can lead to multiple issues such as swollen hocks, lameness, rough coats, and also cell count problems, from a raised SCC to increased cases of mastitis, including E. coli mastitis.

• Fertility problems, including irregular heats, cysts, lower conception rates, and higher abortion rates. 

• Liver and/or kidney damage that may cause internal haemorrhaging and muscle tremors.

However, some mycotoxin damage may happen without visible symptoms, or the damage may already be done before the symptoms appear. Therefore, prevention and proactive management to mitigate damage are pivotal.

Prevention and proactive management are key

Mycotoxins are increasingly prevalent, but good planning and management can go a long way to preventing problems. The best safeguard is establishing a regular testing programme of your feedstuffs.

Alltech 37+^® lab-based mycotoxin analysis, for example, can test for 54 different mycotoxins in individual forages, total mixed rations (TMRs) and concentrates. For a more real-time picture as the season goes on, the Alltech^® RAPIREAD™ portable test device can test for 6 of the most commonly occurring mycotoxins. With these insights, farmers can make informed decisions on cost-effective mycotoxin mitigation strategies.

Incorporating a yeast-based non-clay mycotoxin binder in the feed is also very helpful as a preventative measure to avoid issues showing up on-farm. Mycosorb A+^® is one example — a broad-spectrum binder, tackling mycotoxins as a whole threat rather than dealing with them individually.

Mycosorb A+ meets all the criteria necessary when considering adding a mycotoxin binder to your feed: 

• Proven by independent research to address the multi-mycotoxin challenge 

• Binds Penicillium toxins

• Does not bind to other essential nutrients and vitamins

• Effective at a low inclusion rate

• Stable over a broad pH range (essential for ensuring the mycotoxin stays attached to the binder throughout the gut and is then excreted)

• Fast-acting, starts to work within 10 minutes

Next steps

If you suspect a mycotoxin issue on-farm — or if you simply want to seek advice on prevention — reach out to a trusted advisor and start making a mitigation plan that fits your operation’s needs. 

Contact us: 

• Ruminant sales team or InTouch feeding specialists

• Generic enquiries: call 01780 764512 or email ukenquiries@alltech.com

Gordon Marley has spent 30 years working in the silage field. During the past 20 years, he has worked internationally across more than 40 countries, covering Europe, North America, South America and Oceania, giving farm-specific advice across harvesting, treating, ensiling, management and feed-out in order to optimize nutrient and dry matter protection from field to feed passage for all standard forages.

Marley joined Alltech in February 2022 to assist in the company’s re-entry into the silage additive market. He had already worked in parallel with Alltech for 12 years. In his current role, he is focused on ensuring optimal efficiency and helping to maximize the milk and meat potential of a farm’s silage.

Having initially qualified as a biologist, Marley is also a degree-qualified microbiologist and holds an M.Sc. in science communication, is a CowSignals Master Trainer, and has earned a Lean Six Sigma Blacelt.

Silage production is a cornerstone of modern farming, ensuring high-quality feed for livestock. Yet achieving consistently good silage requires a strong foundation built on best management practices, informed decision-making, and the right tools.

Here are some insights on how farmers can optimize the silage process — from field to feed passage — by implementing practical, science-backed strategies.

Laying the foundation for quality silage

Success in silage-making begins long before harvest. It starts with understanding the specific needs of the farm, including factors like machinery, storage space and feed-out rates. A tailored approach helps farmers maximize forage quality while addressing potential constraints. The key steps in establishing a solid foundation for silage production include:

• Climate considerations: Selecting forage species that can withstand temperature or moisture stress
• Field preparation: Minimizing soil contamination during harvest to maintain forage purity
• Fertilization strategies: Applying appropriate nutrients for optimal forage growth and quality
• Harvest timing: Identifying the optimal growth stage for harvesting
• Ensiling best practices: Managing the harvesting and storage process effectively to preserve nutrients

Managing nutrients from field to feed

While the challenges of maintaining nutrient integrity during ensiling have remained relatively consistent over the past 15 years, advances in technology and management practices have significantly improved silage outcomes. The key principles of effective silage-making include:

• Harvesting at the correct stage of maturity in a hygienic manner
• Chopping forage to an appropriate length to minimize air pockets
• Using a suitable silage treatment based on forage type and feeding system
• Rapid ensiling and compaction to achieve high density
• Sealing silage properly and maintaining airtight conditions throughout storage
• Minimizing disruption to the silage face during feed-out

Controlling air and microbiology for optimal fermentation

Oxygen is the enemy of good silage. When air is present, undesirable microorganisms thrive, leading to nutrient losses and heating. Historically, farmers relied on chemical salts or heterofermentative bacteria to control these issues, but this often resulted in dry matter losses and reduced nutritional value.

Today’s homolactic silage inoculates are an excellent alternative to their heterofermentative counterparts, offering advantages in fermentation and nutrient recovery. In addition, advancements in silage-making techniques and equipment have revolutionized the process, offering better control and improved outcomes:

• Modern mergers and rakes reduce soil contamination during collection.
• Precision chopping minimizes air spaces in ensiled forage.
• Improved compaction techniques enhance silage density and stability.
• Enhanced defacers and block cutters preserve the integrity of the silage face during feed-out.
• True oxygen barrier plastics dramatically reduce air infiltration, extending silage stability by up to four days.

Maximizing silage potential with informed choices

With technological advancements in management, silage inoculants and plastics, farmers have more effective options for silage success — but combining them can be tricky, especially the combination of the right plastic with the right inoculant. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages here is essential to making informed decisions, ensuring that the resulting silage meets both quality and stability expectations.

At Alltech, we are committed to helping farmers navigate these choices with expert advice, on-farm support, and research-backed solutions. A good choice is an informed choice, and with the right foundation, silage success is within reach. For example, using Egalis® Ferment, a high-specification homolactic inoculant, alongside Egalis® True OB, a high-tensile silage plastic with industry-leading oxygen barrier properties, can deliver significant benefits.

Silage success powered by science

Producing high-quality silage requires more than just following tradition — it demands a science-driven approach and modern management techniques. By combining best practices with cutting-edge solutions like Egalis Ferment and Egalis True OB, farmers can reduce dry matter losses, protect nutrients, and enhance feed stability.

Reach out to your Alltech representative for more information on these and other innovative solutions and services.

About the author:

Gordon Marley is the global silage support lead at Alltech. He has spent 30 years working in the silage field. During the past 20 years, he has worked internationally across more than 40 countries, covering Europe, North America, South America and Oceania, giving farm-specific advice across harvesting, treating, ensiling, management and feed-out in order to optimize nutrient and dry matter protection from field to feed passage for all standard forages.

Marley joined Alltech in February 2022 to assist in the company’s re-entry into the silage additive market. He had already worked in parallel with Alltech for 12 years. In his current role, he is focused on ensuring optimal efficiency and helping to maximize the milk and meat potential of a farm’s silage.

Having initially qualified as a biologist, Marley is also a degree-qualified microbiologist and holds an M.Sc. in science communication, is a CowSignals Master Trainer, and has earned a Lean Six Sigma Blacelt.

I want to learn more about nutrition for dairy herd.

Life-changing event annually awards more than $700,000 in prizes and scholarships to UK 

[LEXINGTON, Kentucky] – Talented vocalists from across the United States and beyond will compete before a live audience Sunday, March 2, in the 20th annual Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition at the UK Singletary Center for the Arts. This life-changing event annually awards more than $700,000 in prizes and provides scholarships for the renowned UK Opera Theatre program. The community is invited to enjoy an afternoon of music with complimentary admission. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. and the competition begins at 2 p.m.

This year’s competition is also part of the City of Lexington’s celebration of its 250th anniversary. Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton will be in attendance on Sunday to issue a proclamation in honor of the Alltech Vocal Scholarship Program’s 20th anniversary.

This prestigious event has grown to become one of the largest vocal scholarship competitions in the world. Founded in 2006 by the late Dr. Pearse Lyons, an enthusiastic advocate for the arts, the competition has awarded over $12 million in prizes and enabled more than 200 students to pursue their musical ambitions and receive an education in the arts.

Prestigious judges from the world of opera will select multiple winners in several categories, including undergraduate, graduate, and transfer students. In addition to cash prizes, some winners will receive scholarships for the UK Opera Theatre program, including full-tuition awards.

This year, one of the competition’s most celebrated winners, acclaimed opera singer Reginald (Reggie) Smith Jr., will serve as one of the judges.

Smith took one of the top prizes in the competition in 2007, when he traveled nine hours from Atlanta to Lexington on a Greyhound bus and arrived just in time to take the stage.

Dr. Everett McCorvey, UK Opera Theatre director, said Smith was a stellar student who took advantage of every opportunity to learn and develop his skills.

“He was a leader among the students during his undergraduate years and he was well respected by his peers and in the community,” McCorvey said.

Since his time at UK, Smith has enjoyed a flourishing singing career, performing on prestigious stages worldwide. Among his many accomplishments, he participated in the young artist program at Houston Grand Opera, won the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions in 2015 and sang on the Grammy Award-winning recording of the Metropolitan Opera’s 2019-20 production of “Porgy and Bess.”

Smith credits the Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition, which he says provided him with the financial freedom to pursue his education without debt, allowing him to focus on both vocal performance and music education.

“The most important door that the competition opened for me was the ability to go to school and get an education and not have to worry about tuition costs,” Smith said, adding that traveling with Dr. Lyons to perform around the world was also an important educational experience.

“Being able to see the world through the numerous trips with Dr. Lyons and through all the generosity of Alltech really helped to change my perspective on the world,” he said.  “It helped make me a better global citizen.”

In addition to serving as a judge, Smith also sponsors the Reginald Smith Jr. Prize, which supports students whose lives will be as dramatically changed by the program as his was.

See tomorrow’s opera stars in the making

By removing financial barriers to pursuing a musical education, the Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition has helped talented vocalists realize their dreams and launch successful careers. The competition has also played a pivotal role in the rise of UK’s opera program, which is now widely regarded as one of the best in the nation.

“It is because of our partnership with Alltech that we are able to attract and invite the top students in the country and from across the world to join us in the heart of Central Kentucky,” Dr. McCorvey said. “The generosity of Dr. Mark Lyons, Deirdre Lyons and all those who support the Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition enables us to create competitive scholarship offers for students, allowing us to compete with major conservatories and encouraging these talented students to continue their education in vocal music here with us.”

In addition to UK Opera Theatre productions, Alltech Vocal Scholars enrich the local community throughout the year with performances at the annual Alltech Celebration of Song, a free holiday concert at Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park, and the popular summer concert series “It’s a Grand Night for Singing.”

Join us this Sunday at the UK Singletary Center for an unforgettable celebration of music, opportunity and two decades of commitment to advancing the arts.

Learn more about the Alltech Vocal Scholarship Competition and watch last year’s competition at alltech.com/vocal. Learn more about the UK Opera Theatre program at finearts.uky.edu/opera.

Mycotoxins, harmful substances produced by molds and fungi, pose a significant challenge in agriculture. With more than 95% of crops testing positive for at least one mycotoxin, farmers and feed producers need reliable and efficient testing solutions to protect animal health and performance.

Recognizing this growing need, Alltech has expanded its mycotoxin testing program with an exciting new collaboration with Waters | VICAM, integrating the Vertu™ TOUCH reader into the Alltech RAPIREAD™ system.

A smarter approach to mycotoxin management

Alltech RAPIREAD, launched in 2020, provides rapid on-site mycotoxin testing and risk analysis. Previously, it worked in collaboration with Neogen® and its Raptor® testing device, allowing producers to test individual grains and forages. Now, with the addition of Waters | VICAM’s Vertu TOUCH, Alltech RAPIREAD expands its capabilities to include complete feed analysis, offering more comprehensive insights.

The Vertu TOUCH reader is a user-friendly, touch-screen device that delivers full-range quantitative results for six major mycotoxins, including:

• Aflatoxin
• Fumonisin
• Deoxynivalenol (DON)
• Zearalenone
• Ochratoxin A
• T2 and HT2 toxins

This enhanced system allows producers to quickly and accurately detect mycotoxins in a single sample within 10 minutes, providing valuable data for informed decision-making.

Why rapid mycotoxin testing matters

Mycotoxins are often invisible threats, difficult to detect until they have already impacted animal health. These toxins can lead to reduced feed efficiency, weakened immune systems, and lower overall performance in livestock. With Alltech RAPIREAD and the Vertu TOUCH integration, producers can now:

• Identify mycotoxin risks in real time at the feed mill or on the farm.
• Make data-driven decisions to protect feed quality and animal health.
• Reduce economic losses associated with contaminated feed and poor livestock performance.

A new era of mycotoxin testing

With decades of experience in mycotoxin risk management, Alltech continues to lead the way in providing innovative solutions. The collaboration with Waters | VICAM ensures that Alltech RAPIREAD remains at the forefront of mycotoxin testing technology, offering producers a convenient, accurate and efficient way to safeguard their feed and animals.

To learn more about Alltech’s mycotoxin management solutions and see the RAPIREAD system in action, visit knowmycotoxins.com.

About the author:

Tien Le presently serves as the editorial content manager for Alltech, a role that allows her to fulfill her passions for writing, innovation and sustainable agriculture. She earned her bachelor’s degree in advertising and marketing communications from the University of Greenwich, London, with the University Merit Award for Outstanding Achievement. Tien started her career at Alltech in 2016 as part of the Corporate Career Development Program, spending time in both the U.S. and Ireland before taking a role in Vietnam, her home country. 

Alltech is proud to actively participate in the upcoming ASAS Midwest meeting in Omaha, Nebraska, March 9–12. Our team will present groundbreaking research on pig nutrition and health, and our experts will share insights into optimizing performance and health for nursery and growing pigs.

These presentations represent the outcomes of Alltech internal research as well as collaboration with key partners. They reflect Alltech’s commitment to advancing pig nutrition and health through commercial-scale research.

Topics will include:

• The effects of in-feed acidifier (Acid-Aid™) on nursery pig growth performance

• The effects of Allzyme® Swine HC on nursery pig growth performance, bone mineralization and plasma inositol
• Effects of benzoic acid, or a blend of organic and inorganic acids (Acid-Aid), in nursery diets on pig performance and survivability
• Ileal and total tract digestibility of amino acids and minerals in growing pig diets supplemented with Allzyme Swine HC
• How probiotic and synbiotic preparations limit the growth of multi-drug-resistant pathogens in vitro
• Residual phytase activity of Allzyme Swine HC under commercial feed manufacturing practices
• Evaluation of net energy, standardized ileal digestible lysine, and soybean meal content interactions in 10- to 23-kg pigs using a factorial design
• Evaluation of calcium administration protocols around farrowing on sow farrowing performance
• Effects of standardized ileal digestible lysine:crude protein ratio in diets with or without distiller’s dried grains with solubles on growth performance of 11- to 20-kg pigs

We invite all ASAS Midwest attendees to connect with our team to learn more about how our cutting-edge research can help producers and nutritionists make informed decisions to support animal health, production efficiency and overall sustainability. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with industry experts and gain valuable insights into the latest advancements.

Also, be sure to follow our updates during the event on Facebook, X and LinkedIn, and visit our website at alltech.com to learn more about the key takeaways.

We look forward to seeing you there!

About the author:

Dr. Jose Soto is the monogastric research and technical lead at Alltech. He was born and raised in Chile, where he received undergraduate and graduate training in agricultural sciences and agricultural economics, respectively. He received a Ph.D. in applied swine nutrition from Kansas State University, where he worked extensively with amino acid nutrition and dietary energy economic modeling. Prior to joining Alltech, Dr. Soto served in various roles for three of the Top 10 swine integrators in the U.S., in addition to several swine nutrition companies, where he was involved with research and development, production operations and technical services.

I want to learn more about nutrition for pig herd. 

Trabalho no oeste baiano aponta incremento de 11 sc/ha com as soluções biotecnológicas da Alltech Crop Science que ajudam os produtores na construção de um solo supressivo

Os resultados positivos obtidos por produtores de soja com o uso de soluções naturais têm ampliado a adesão à biotecnologia no oeste da Bahia. Trabalho realizado na região pelos consultores da Gerais Agro na safra 2023/24, em área com a cultivar Olimpo, com aplicação de produtos da Alltech Crop Science, resultou na produtividade de 100 sc/ha. Esse número representa um incremento de 11 sc/ha em relação ao padrão do produtor (89 sc/ha) e quase o dobro da média de produtividade nacional - estimada pela Conab em 53,37 sc/ha.

“Essa performance excelente foi obtida mesmo com a forte estiagem na safra passada. Na safra 2024/25, que começa a ser colhida agora, devido às condições climáticas favoráveis, como chuvas bem distribuídas ao longo de todo o ciclo da soja, o Brasil caminha para novos recordes de produção e produtividade. Nesse cenário, a biotecnologia tem um papel fundamental na mitigação de danos, o que potencializa o incremento de produtividade”, avalia o engenheiro agrônomo e doutorando em Fitotecnia Matheus Medeiros, gerente de desenvolvimento de mercado da Alltech Crop Science.

No oeste baiano, o principal desafio enfrentado pelos sojicultores são as doenças do solo, causadas por fungos, bactérias e nematoides, que reduzem a produtividade das lavouras. “Cada vez mais os produtores dessa região, com áreas plantadas superiores a 1 mil hectares e altamente tecnificados, vêm requisitando tecnologias diferenciadas para a construção de um solo supressivo, ou seja, saudável, capaz de suprimir os patógenos que causam as doenças nas plantas”, destaca Medeiros. “Como os solos dessa região são mais arenosos, têm menor capacidade de absorver nutrientes, o que facilita o ataque de nematoides e o desenvolvimento de doenças fúngicas, como fusarioses e Macrophomina”, explica.

Solo supressivo

Segundo o gerente de desenvolvimento de mercado, o maior desafio do agrônomo é evitar perdas no sistema agrícola. “O potencial de produtividade está na semente, por isso todo manejo feito com as soluções biotecnológicas vai ativar e desativar genes para produzir melhor. Quando temos o solo supressivo, conseguimos mitigar a perda de nutrientes do solo e proteger mais a raiz, que vai buscar mais nutrientes e mais água e consegue crescer em produtividade”, detalha.

Estudos e trabalhos de campo mostram que o uso de soluções naturais da Alltech Crop Science, obtidas a partir de processos de fermentação, estimula o equilíbrio do solo para que os microrganismos benéficos existentes ou inoculados façam a supressão dos patógenos. Entre os produtos que estão ajudando os sojicultores baianos a atingir altas produtividades, destacam-se o fertilizante Liqui-Plex Bonder, com alta concentração de aminoácidos; e o Grain-Set, um precursor hormonal contendo aminoácidos, voltado ao equilíbrio fisiológico da planta - ambos aplicados na área que atingiu produtividade de 100 sc/ha. Além deles, também vêm sendo bastante procurados o Soil-Plex Active, que potencializa a microbiota do solo; e o Reli3ver, bionematicida produzido a partir de uma cepa exclusiva de bactéria, que atua no controle de nematoides.

AgroRosário

A linha completa de produtos da Alltech Crop Science poderá ser conferida na AgroRosário, feira que acontece de 20 a 22 de fevereiro no Distrito de Rosário, município de Correntina (BA), a 200 quilômetros de Luis Eduardo Magalhães, e atrai visitantes da Bahia, Goiás, Minas Gerais e Tocantins. O estande é compartilhado com a Gerais Agro, distribuidora que comemora seus 15 anos de atividades no oeste baiano, oito deles em parceria com a Alltech Crop Science. Devido à alta demanda dos produtores rurais da região por biotecnologia, a participação da Gerais Agro no mercado aumentou 20% em 2023. “A AgroRosário é o principal evento agrícola da região e teremos condições comerciais exclusivas, com expectativa de fechamento de muitos negócios com as nossas soluções biotecnológicas que ajudam os produtores a melhorar seus resultados produtivos e financeiros de forma sustentável”, conclui Medeiros.

Mycotoxin contamination can severely impact grain storage, dry matter and total mixed ration (TMR) quality, posing significant risks to livestock and humans consuming impacted products. To mitigate these risks, effective mycotoxin analysis and testing strategies are essential, ensuring safe, high-quality feed and efficient, profitable production.

Understanding mycotoxins in grain storage

Grain silos play a crucial role in protecting harvested grains, but improper storage can encourage mold growth, leading to harmful mycotoxins. High concentrations of aflatoxin B1, deoxynivalenol (DON) and fumonisins are particularly concerning in stored grains such as corn, wheat and barley. These toxins, especially in high concentrations, can compromise milk production in dairy cows and reduce the quality of TMR diets.

Regular mycotoxin detection using advanced testing methods like LC-MS/MS (liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry) provides precise insights into contamination levels, ensuring grain safety.

Best practices for reducing mycotoxin risks in storage

1. Cleaning and fumigation: Clean silos before storage to eliminate fungal spores.
2. Moisture control: Keep moisture below 14% to prevent mold proliferation.
3. Temperature regulation: Maintain cool, stable temperatures in storage facilities
4. Aeration and ventilation: Ensure proper airflow in grain silos to reduce humidity.
5. Regular mycotoxin testing: Use high-quality test kits and routine analysis to detect contamination early.

Insights from the Alltech 2024 Harvest Analysis across the regions

The 2024 growing season brought unique challenges and opportunities across key agricultural regions, with fluctuating weather patterns and varying crop conditions.

Europe

The latest Alltech European Harvest Analysis revealed key mycotoxin risks affecting grain and forage storage across Europe:

• Central and Southeastern Europe showed high contamination levels of aflatoxin B1 in corn, with some samples exceeding 500 ppb.
• Type B trichothecenes were seen in barley and wheat, with barley exhibiting the highest risk. DON was a major concern.
• In forages, corn silage showed increased risk from Penicillium mycotoxins and trichothecenes.
• Multi-mycotoxin presence was a concern. An average of six different mycotoxins were detected per sample, emphasizing the need for comprehensive testing.

United States

The United States saw regional weather variability, with significant weather changes affecting crop health and mycotoxin levels in 2024:

• All samples contained two or more mycotoxins, up from 97% last year.
• Fusarium molds increased due to heavy rainfall in the upper Midwest.
• Type B trichothecenes averaged 1,836 ppb, with a maximum of 43,717 ppb.
• Zearalenone averaged 102 ppb and peaked at 2,134 ppb.
• Emerging mycotoxins averaged 100 ppb and peaked at 4,300 ppb.

Canada

Similarly to the United States, Canada also experienced significant weather variability across the provinces. Some of the key insights from 2024 include:

• 2024 saw an increase in mycotoxin levels compared to 2023.
• In corn silage:
  • Zearalenone was detected in almost all samples, peaking at 1,369 ppb.
  • DON continues to be a risk, particularly in Eastern Canada
• In British Columbia, Fusarium mycotoxins were detected, including T2-HT2 toxins, deoxynivalenol, zearalenone and emerging mycotoxins.
• Barley in prairies showed a higher prevalence and higher concentrations of mycotoxins than wheat, posing added challenges for farmers.

These global findings reinforce the importance of proactive risk management strategies to safeguard livestock health and feed quality.

Species considerations

• For dairy farmers, the elevated levels of aflatoxins in corn in Central and Southeastern Europe are a primary concern, as they affect lactating cows. Type B trichothecenes can also significantly impact a dairy operation’s efficiency and profitability.
• Pigs are one of the most susceptible species to mycotoxin contamination, so the ongoing presence of Fusarium toxins such as DON and zearalenone will present management challenges.
• In poultry farming, mycotoxins in feed are contributing to a decline in average daily gain and egg quality.

Advanced mycotoxin detection methods

With the increasing prevalence of multi-mycotoxin contamination, adopting advanced analytical methods is crucial. Alltech® RAPIREAD™ and Alltech 37+® services are available to provide comprehensive testing solutions. LC-MS/MS testing enables accurate detection of multiple mycotoxins, providing precise data for feed safety management. Rapid test kits also allow for quick on-site screening, helping producers take immediate corrective action.

Ensuring feed safety

Mycotoxin contamination affects livestock performance, feed quality and farm profitability. High concentrations in diets reduce nutritional value, weaken immune systems, and decrease productivity.

By integrating comprehensive mycotoxin testing protocols, proper storage techniques, and effective feed management, producers can safeguard feed quality.

Protect yourself against mycotoxin risk

Sign up to download the full report here: https://www.alltech.com/harvest-analysis. You’ll also gain access to other resources, including:

• A video interview with insights from Alltech experts
• Downloadable articles covering various facets of this important topic
• Meta-analyses summarizing findings of multiple studies

Supporting materials are also available at 2024 Harvest Analysis Resources and knowmycotoxins.com.

These essential tools will empower you to make the most effective mycotoxin control decisions during the upcoming feeding season.

About the authors:

Evie Johns is the digital content specialist within the Technology Group at Alltech. She is responsible for planning and delivering high-quality content for all technologies and services alongside the Technology Group marketing leads and wider Alltech creative team. Evie holds a master's degree in psychiatry and has a background in the finance and agriculture sectors. She is based in Stamford, U.K.

Chloe Chisholm is the content manager for the Technology Group at Alltech. In this role, she is responsible for planning and delivering compelling content for all technologies and services in collaboration with the Technology Group marketing leads and wider Alltech creative team. Chloe has been with Alltech since 2022, previously supporting the Mycotoxin Management team as a digital marketing specialist. Chloe holds a degree in English language and literature from Brighton University and is based in Stamford, U.K.

Evie Johns is the digital content specialist within the Technology Group at Alltech. She is responsible for planning and delivering high-quality content for all technologies and services alongside the Technology Group marketing leads and wider Alltech creative team. Evie holds a master's degree in psychiatry and has a background in the finance and agriculture sectors. She is based in Stamford, U.K.

Alltech has confirmed that its chelation assay, which uses attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR–FTIR), continues to meet European Union (EU) regulatory standards for trace mineral chelates. The assay ensures compliance with safety requirements and helps prevent feed additive fraud.

Click here for full article.