Farmers and ranchers typically use late summer and early fall to do their prep work for winter. Horse owners should take note and do the same, as fall is the ideal time to tackle winter preparedness. Cooler temperatures are easier to work in and better for plants and crops to establish root systems. Plus, the timing is right to get a leg up on tasks that will make it easier to get through wintertime challenges.

Use this “to-do” list to help you coordinate beneficial fall activities, which will undoubtedly provide a more chore-efficient winter with less weather-related stress.

1. Apply a “green band-aid” to bare spots in pastures. Fall is the ideal time to fix bare spots by overseeding pastures (at least six weeks before the first hard frost, which for most of North America typically occurs from mid-September through mid-October). Warm fall soil encourages root growth, which will continue until the ground freezes. In areas with mild winters, roots may continue to grow all season. Once early spring rolls around, roots either begin new growth or continue growing at a faster rate, while also beginning top growth. When summer finally arrives, fall-planted grass is far better equipped to deal with heat and drought because of its well-established root system. By contrast, grass seed planted in the spring will get a much slower start due to the cooler soil temperatures.

Other good reasons to plant in the fall include dependable rainfall, cooler weather (which most grasses prefer), fewer pest and disease problems and less competition from weeds. Drier fall weather also makes it much easier to prepare soil than it would be in the springtime.

Encourage a thick, healthy stand of grass by overseeding with forage plant seed on existing pastures. Overseed areas that are thin or have bare spots.

Talk with local extension offices or conservation districts about ideal forage plants for your soil.

2. Plant trees and shrubs. Fall is also a great time to place native plants, which can be beneficial on a horse property. For example, native hedgerows can act as wind or dust barriers and provide an attractive visual boundary between neighboring uses. Native plants can act as mud managers alongside paddocks and confinement areas to help reduce flows, absorb water, and filter sediments and pollutants. Check with your local conservation district or Horses for Clean Water if you have any specific questions on this topic.

3. Provide shelter for your horse. Shelter requirements may vary depending on your specific horse and location. However, horses typically need a way to get out of driving rain and/or wind. They can usually regulate their own body temperature if allowed to do so. Your horse’s shelter doesn’t have to be complex. It can be as simple as a three-sided run-in shed, a stall with a paddock, or a shelterbelt of trees.

4. Bring in footing material for paddocks, confinement areas and other high-traffic areas. Now is the time to think about the sand or gravel you will need for footing in confinement and heavy use areas, such as in front of gates. These materials are easier to access in the fall before demand is high. Plus, it is easier for delivery trucks to back into paddocks and drive through pastures in the dry season rather than once these areas become slick and muddy during the rainy season. Put down 2 to 6 inches of material for each of these areas.

5. Begin a horse manure management program. If you don’t do so already, now is the time to start picking up manure on a regular basis. A horse creates 50 pounds of manure per day. When mixed with winter rain or melting snow, this quickly becomes 50 pounds per day of unsightly and potentially hazardous muck. All manure should be picked up at least every three days in stalls, paddocks, confinement areas and high traffic areas. Composting is a great way to manage manure and turn it into a valuable resource for your property.

6. Spread compost. Early fall is a great time to spread compost. Compost is a rich source of soil enhancement. It adds micro- and macro-nutrients and replenishes natural microbes, all of which improve the health of soil and plants. Spread compost in pastures during the growing season no more than one-half inch thick and no more than three to four inches per season in the same place. Check with your local conservation district for more advice and to ask if they have a manure spreader rental program.

7. Check gutters and downspouts. Roof runoff systems should be cleaned and repaired in the fall. Gutters and downspouts “keep clean rainwater clean” by diverting roof runoff away from your paddocks to areas where it won’t get contaminated with manure or create mud. Good areas to divert rainwater to include a grassy ditch, a dry rocky landscaping area, rain barrels, stock watering tanks, well-vegetated woods, or an unused portion of pasture. Doing this will greatly benefit you by reducing the amount of mud your horse spends the winter standing in. It will also make daily chores easier.

8. Reroute surface water runoff. Runoff from driveways, parking areas, and hillsides can add significantly to the problem of managing mud in confinement areas. Ditches, grassy swales, dry wells, water diversion bars, and culverts are all useful means for diverting water away from confinement areas and barns. It is considerably easier to build these now than during the next downpour.

9. Review equipment needs for daily chores. Having the right equipment for chores not only makes things more efficient but also ensures that you’ll be more likely to get those chores accomplished when it’s dark and cold. Consider purchasing a manure cart that’s easy to push and to dump into the compost pile, along with a new manure fork if necessary. The heavy-duty plastic-tined type with a bent edge is made specifically for cleaning horse stalls and paddocks. Wooden handles or ones wrapped with tennis grip tape (or even vet wrap) are easier — and warmer — to grip than metal handles.

10. Review lighting needs. In the winter, most feeding time is in the dark — either early morning or evening. Indoor as well as outdoor lighting will help immensely with chore efficiency. When you come home after work, do you have enough light to pick up manure and clean stalls and paddocks? When feeding, can you see the hay well enough to weigh it and be sure it is both green and mold-free? Solar lighting along walkways or drives makes nighttime walkways safer. Prepare now instead of waiting until temperatures are freezing and you’re trying to feed by cell phone flashlight.

11. Consider your emergency equipment needs. Do you have a headlamp flashlight that frees up your hands? Store several in easy-to-locate areas in the house and barn. Keep them charged or be sure to always have extra batteries on hand. How about fuel for generators, outdoor cook stoves or lanterns? Having a car cell phone charger on hand is also extremely important to power cell phones in case of a power outage. A cell phone with a dead battery and no way to recharge it is useless.

12. Set up a water supply that won’t freeze or get too cold during winter weather events. A horse drinks 8 to 12 gallons of water per day. Academic research shows horses prefer warm water, about 45–65 F. Horses drink less when water is icy cold, and studies show they cannot get enough moisture by simply eating snow. Inadequate water consumption can lead to colic, so it is very important to make sure your horses are drinking enough. On very cold days you can either break ice twice daily, consider getting a stock tank heater, or get a heated stall and/or muck bucket.

13. Develop a backup plan for watering your horses if you are concerned you might lose power to your private well. Water can be stored in rain barrels or garbage cans. Emergency officials generally recommend having a 3-day supply of water on hand, which for horses is a minimum of 30 gallons of water each.

14. Feed more hay. If the temperatures really drop, a horse must work harder to maintain its body temperature. The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) recommends increasing caloric intake by as much as 15–20% for every 10-degree drop in temperatures below 30 F. Hay (not grain) is the best choice for helping a horse generate body heat. Forages are digested in the large intestine by a process that generates body heat and raises the horse’s core temperature. Grain is digested in the stomach and small intestine, which creates much less heat. It is wise to provide plenty of good-quality hay during cold winter weather; free choice is best if possible.

15. Check your waterproof turnout horse blankets for rips or other necessary mending or washing so they are on hand and ready for use should you need them. Most horses don’t need to be blanketed since nature provides them with their own warm coat, but there may be circumstances when a waterproof turnout blanket would be helpful, such as in the instance of a cold, heavy downpour, or a polar vortex–type freeze, or if a horse should become hypothermic for health reasons.

16. Consider your own winter waterproof clothing needs. This is a fundamental yet often overlooked point. As a horse owner, you are likely to be working with horses in inclement weather for a significant amount of time. Invest in a good, waterproof jacket; calf-high, insulated mud boots; and waterproof, insulated gloves. These items will go a long way toward helping you stay ahead on winter chores and will be particularly beneficial if there’s a winter emergency. You are no good to your horses if you become hypothermic and in need of immediate medical attention.

17. Flood-proof your property. If you live in a flood-prone area or near a creek, river or wetlands, take time to review the high-water locations on your property. If it is difficult to visualize these, get help from your county or your local conservation district. Acquaint yourself with the historic high-water locations recorded for your property. If you live in an extremely flood-prone area (of which there are many), it may be wise to consider building a “critter pad.”

A critter pad is a large mound or small hill built out of dirt and fill material above the floodwater level. It is used to keep animals above a flood. Critter pads usually require special permitting and must be specifically engineered using approved fill material to ensure that they stand up to high traffic, heavy rains and high water volumes, all while remaining above flood levels. In some cases, funding or technical assistance may be available to help with the development of a critter pad. Contact your local conservation district, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) office or Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) office sooner rather than later for assistance.  

The dead of winter and the early spring are common times for damaging, dangerous storms in North America. Making chore efficiency updates on your horse property and organizing backup supplies now will prove helpful in getting through the most challenging time of the year for horse owners, and it may help you avoid disaster.

I want to learn more about nutrition for my horses.

The following blog is a summary of an Ag Future podcast episode with Dr. Vaughn Holder, hosted by Tom Martin. Click below to hear the full audio, or listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Podcasts.

The research behind food security suggests that only a handful of nations are protein-insecure. But is the data overlooking the importance of protein quality? Dr. Vaughn Holder, ruminant research director at Alltech, joined the Ag Future podcast in 2022 to discuss the role digestibility plays in getting an accurate gauge of global protein security and the positive impact that cattle have on the health of people and the planet.

Rethinking protein security: a paradigm shift

Dr. Holder kicked off the conversation by challenging the conventional approach to evaluating food security. The existing framework primarily focuses on the quantity of protein consumption in different nations, overlooking the crucial factor of protein digestibility.

Not all proteins are created equal. Animal-derived proteins tend to be complete proteins with high digestibility, closely aligned with the human body’s needs. In contrast, plant proteins often have lower digestibility, making them less efficient sources of nutrition.

Dr. Holder referenced the groundbreaking work of Paul Moughan, a researcher from a university in New Zealand, who highlighted the necessity of adjusting protein intake based on the body’s ability to absorb and utilize it effectively. By factoring in protein quality and digestibility, the scope of protein insecurity expands significantly, potentially affecting a much larger portion of the global population.

Impacts on human health and development

Protein malnutrition has far-reaching implications for human health, particularly in terms of its effects on brain development in infants and on overall physical development. Dr. Holder cited research suggesting that addressing protein insufficiency could potentially elevate the global population’s average IQ by ten points. This underscores the profound impact of protein quality on societal progress and well-being.

Plant-based alternatives and food production

In discussing the rise of plant-based meats and milks as alternatives to conventional animal products, Dr. Holder acknowledged the value of these products in terms of taste and consumer preferences. However, he raises a critical point: While plant-based options can be part of a nutritious diet, they should not replace actual protein production. The distinction lies in the fact that plant-based alternatives are essentially processed foods.

Ruminants as nature’s recyclers

Annually, about 40 metric tons of byproducts are being fed into the dairy industry. Dr. Holder described ruminants as natural recycling centers, converting both food waste and nutrient-rich plant byproducts that humans can’t use into valuable protein sources.

What’s more, cattle are reducing the greenhouse-gas footprint of those byproducts.

“If there aren’t cattle utilizing those byproducts, those byproducts end up in compost heaps or landfills,” Dr. Holder explained. “As byproducts entering compost heaps, they will end up generating five times the amount of greenhouse gases that they would if they went through a cow, and they’d generate 49 times as many greenhouse gases if they went into a landfill than if they went into a cow.”

The path forward: an ecosystem-centric approach

Dr. Holder concluded with an exciting glimpse into the future of ruminant research. He introduces a paradigm shift in viewing protein production, emphasizing the importance of ecosystems as units of production. This holistic approach considers not only the role of cattle in protein production but also the broader impact on carbon capture and nutrient cycling within ecosystems.

Feed efficiency is one of the most crucial aspects of successful pig production. In the pursuit of sustainable and profitable production, it is essential to understand how genetics, pig nutrition and feeding management influence the way pigs convert feed into body weight.

What impacts feed efficiency, and what practical strategies can we implement to maximize productivity while minimizing environmental footprint?

Let’s find out.

An improvement in the feed efficiency of pigs will deliver three key benefits to pig producers:

1. Cost savings: Feed represents up to 70% of the total costs of production in pig farming. Improving feed efficiency means that pigs will convert feed into body weight more efficiently, requiring fewer resources to reach market weight. As a result, feed costs are reduced, leading to higher profit margins for producers.

2. Increased productivity: Efficient feed conversion allows pigs to grow and reach market weight faster, shortening the production cycle and increasing the number of pigs that can be raised and sold in a given period. As a result, farmers can achieve higher productivity and optimize production capacity.

3. Sustainability: Inefficient feed utilization leads to more feed wastage and greater environmental impact. This includes increased nutrient excretion in manure, which can contribute to pollution if not managed properly. By improving feed efficiency, farmers can minimize the environmental footprint of pig production, promoting sustainable and responsible agricultural practices.

Factors influencing feed efficiency

Feed efficiency in pigs is shaped by several factors, from the genetic makeup of the animals to the intricacies of their nutrition and the management practices employed. By unraveling these factors, we aim to equip pig producers with the knowledge to make informed decisions, enhance production practices, and contribute to a more efficient pig industry.

1. Genetics

Genetics plays a significant role in determining pig feed efficiency. The genetic makeup of pigs influences their growth rate, body composition, metabolism and nutrient utilization, all of which determine how efficiently they convert feed into body weight. For example:

• Feed conversion ratio (FCR): FCR is a key metric for feed efficiency and is influenced by genetics. Pigs with favorable genetics for feed efficiency require less feed to produce a unit of weight gain. Selective breeding can help identify and propagate lines of pigs that exhibit superior FCRs, leading to more efficient feed utilization.
• Lean-to-fat ratio: Genetic selection can also impact the lean-to-fat ratio in pigs. Leaner pigs generally have better feed efficiency, as lean tissue growth requires less energy compared to fat deposition. Leaner pigs convert feed more efficiently into muscle, making them more desirable for meat production.

2. Pig nutrition

Nutrition plays a crucial role in determining pig feed efficiency. The quality and composition of the pig’s diet affect its growth rate, nutrient utilization and overall health, all of which are key factors in feed efficiency. Here are some major ways that nutrition affects pig feed efficiency:

• Nutrient balance: Providing a well-balanced diet that meets the specific nutrient requirements of pigs at different stages of growth is essential for optimal feed efficiency. When their diet contains the right proportions of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals, pigs can efficiently convert feed into body weight.
• Water availability: Access to clean and fresh water is crucial for pig feed efficiency. Dehydration can lead to reduced feed intake and hinder nutrient utilization.

3. Feeding management

Feeding management plays a critical role in determining pig feed efficiency. Proper feeding practices influence the amount of feed consumed, nutrient utilization, and overall growth performance. Examples in which feeding management affects pig feed efficiency include:

• Feed space and accessibility: Sufficient feed space is critical to avoid competition during feeding. Each pig should have enough space at the feeding trough to access the feed without being excluded by more dominant pen-mates. This ensures that all pigs have equal access to feed, supporting uniform growth and better feed efficiency.
• Feed form: The physical form of the diet can impact feed efficiency. Pelleted or extruded diets are generally preferred over mash diets, as they enhance digestibility and reduce feed wastage.

Exploring alternative feed ingredients that can improve feed efficiency while optimizing pig health and performance

There is wide interest in incorporating natural nutritional technologies in pig diets as a viable means to promote their lifetime growth and development and to minimize environmental damage.

Alltech has over 40 years of research and technical expertise in monogastric nutrition and has created comprehensive feeding programs designed to support pig performance and efficiency by ensuring optimal gut health and development and maximizing nutrient release from feed.

The gut health of pigs plays a significant role in the digestion and utilization of nutrients in feed and is strongly linked to performance parameters such as feed efficiency. Incorporated in Alltech’s nutritional programs for pigs are natural feed materials such as Actigen®, which have been demonstrated to significantly improve the intestinal structure of piglets post-weaning when supplemented in creep and starter diets (Figure 1). When the gut environment is enhanced, nutrient absorption and utilization increase, leading to better feed efficiency and an improvement in piglet weight gain.

Figure 1. Actigen improves the intestinal structure of the piglet intestinal tract post-weaning to boost nutrient absorption and utilization. The villi are taller and have a thinner wall to absorb nutrients.

Approximately 25% of the available nutrients in feed ingredients cannot be fully utilized by the animal, so it’s crucial to implement nutritional strategies focused on maximizing nutrient release. The Alltech nutritional programs utilize natural complexes, containing a unique blend of proprietary ingredients, that are designed to promote nutrient release and optimize feed digestibility. As such, these programs are proven to contribute to enhanced feed efficiency and overall growth performance in pigs (Figure 2).

Figure 2. Alltech’s natural complex Synergen® maximizes nutrient release from feed, resulting in improved weight gain and FCR in pigs.

From the studies presented here, supported by further trials around the globe, it can be concluded that Alltech’s nutritional technologies maximize nutrient utilization, resulting in better feed efficiency and higher growth rates. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, feed efficiency is a fundamental aspect of pig production that impacts the economic, environmental and social sustainability of the industry. Emphasizing and optimizing feed efficiency through genetic selection, proper nutrition, and the use of novel feeding technologies and effective feeding management can lead to more sustainable, profitable pig farming productions, benefiting farmers and consumers alike.

Successful farrowing and pig livability are vital for the overall profitability and sustainability of swine production. However, numerous challenges can impede these goals, such as farrowing difficulties, postpartum disorders, reduced milk production, and piglet mortality. Traditional approaches often fall short of addressing these issues comprehensively, so alternative solutions are needed.

Nutritionally, we can help provide the sow with solutions to help her mobilize the necessary nutrients to offset some of these challenges. Calcium is one nutrient that is required during late gestation and lactation, as it’s used to maintain fetal skeletal development, milk production, and muscle contractions during parturition. Feeding methods that maximize calcium stores and utilization are vital to aid in challenges around farrowing and piglet survival.

The dairy cattle industry has developed a feeding method known as a dietary cation-anion difference (DCAD) diet. DCAD acidifies the cow’s bloodstream, which triggers the release of calcium from the bone into the bloodstream for the cow to utilize. This mechanism is especially important around calving, when the demand for calcium is extremely high. The same thing occurs in sows. If sows are not able to maintain blood calcium during farrowing, it can result in prolonged farrowing time, which may increase the rate of piglet mortality.

Building on this knowledge, we conducted a study investigating the manipulation of dietary calcium and electrolyte balance in periparturient sows, with the goal of promoting uterine muscle contraction and inducing a mild compensatory metabolic acidosis. As a result, Alltech and Hubbard developed Triad™, a proprietary blend of ingredients and flavors encapsulated in a fat matrix. 

Materials and methods

This trial was conducted by Dr. Andrew Bents, Hubbard Swine Technical Veterinarian, at a 300-sow farrow-to-finish operation. On Day 112 of gestation, 60 gilts and sows were transferred to the farrowing house, blocked by parity, and randomly assigned to one of two pre-farrow dietary treatment groups. One group received a control diet consisting of 6 lb. of a corn-soybean meal-based lactation diet containing 1.05% SID Lys and 18% CP, while the other group received the same diet with an additional 25 g of Triad top-dressed. The Triad was top-dressed in the morning, starting with Day 112 of gestation and continuing until farrowing. Sows fed Triad were treated for an average of 3 days. On Day 114 of gestation, samples of blood and urine were collected to assess urine pH, urine bacterial load, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. Additionally, litter performance was recorded. The group’s average parity and body condition scores were 3.7 ± 2.6 and 3.3 ± 0.8 respectively.

Results and discussion

Generally, a normal urine pH range for sows is between 6 and 7.5. In this study, sows that received Triad supplementation exhibited lower urine pH levels (5.57 vs. 6.30 [P < 0.001]). The decrease in urine pH in response to the Triad supplementation demonstrates that the sows were undergoing a mild metabolic acidosis. This metabolic shift can help to alleviate maternal fatigue during the farrowing process, allowing sows to maintain their energy levels and actively care for their piglets.

Sows supplemented with Triad also showed reduced urine bacterial load (6.02 vs. 6.82 CFU log10 [P = 0.018]) compared to the control group. Due to the nature of the sow’s reproductive and urinary tract anatomy, we could hypothesize that a reduction in urine bacterial load offers potential benefits for the general health and survival of piglets before weaning.

Additionally, there were no significant differences in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels between the Triad-supplemented and control groups (9.55 vs. 9.75 mg/DL [P = 0.717])

Litter performance was also recorded during the study. The Triad-supplemented group displayed a numerically lower stillborn rate compared to the non-supplemented group (7.98 vs. 9.78 [P < 0.0001]). Triad supplementation promoted stronger, more effective contractions of the uterine muscles, aiding in the delivery process and in turn reducing the risk of prolonged labor and the associated complications that can negatively affect piglet health and survival. Dr. Bents described that his farm staff could visibly see the difference in farrowing ease and recovery with the Triad sows.

The total number of piglets born, piglets born alive, or pre-wean mortality between the dietary treatments was also recorded and showed no numerical difference.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Triad has been shown to minimize stillborn piglets, aid in farrowing ease, and support piglet survivability. These results emphasize the potential value of Triad as a resource to promote overall productivity on sow farms.
 

I want to learn more about nutrition for my pig herd.

Heat stress is a condition we can be prepared for. It is no surprise that heat stress can cost you production and profits. We are adapting our herds to cope with increased temperatures and humidity, the cause of heat stress, which costs the U.S. dairy industry over $900 million a year.

Identifying the first signs of heat stress in cattle can help reduce the negative effects on animal comfort and performance. Below are the top five areas you should be watching to identify when your cows are entering heat stress.

1. Temperature humidity index above 72

The temperature-humidity index (THI) is a commonly used tool to assess the combined impact of temperature and humidity on dairy cows. In general, THI values above 72 are considered mild heat stress conditions, above 80 are rated as moderate, and above 90 indicate severe conditions. It is important to note that heat stress can start well below 80 degrees when humidity is high. Also note that even when humans do not feel stressed, cows very well may be.

2. Reduced dry matter intake

Cows who experience heat stress may have less appetite, spending less time at the feed bunk and showing disinterest in consuming their usual ration. This can lead to a decline in milk production.

3. Behavior changes

Respiration rate: Heat-stressed cows may breathe more rapidly or pant excessively as they try to regulate their body temperature.

Body temperature: Measuring body temperature is fundamental to assessing heat stress in dairy cows, especially when the cows are in the holding pen. A cow’s natural body temperature will increase by 3° F in 20 minutes in a holding pen with no cooling. But a cow’s body temperature will drop by 3.5° F in the same 20 minutes when fans and soaker systems are used.

Standing time: Heat-stressed cows tend to reduce their standing time, preferring to lie down frequently as a way to dissipate heat. Productions that use wearable technologies can see this evidence through data, but the behavior can also be identified by walking the barns.

4. Decreased milk production

Cows under heat stress may reduce their dry matter intake. Since this in turn reduces milk production, monitoring feed intake and providing the best-quality nutritional solutions are both vital during the summer.  

5. Reproductive challenges

Cows experiencing heat stress may exhibit reduced conception rates, longer calving intervals or irregular estrus cycles. Monitoring these reproductive parameters can help identify the types and extent of heat stress impacts on the herd’s reproductive efficiency.

Preventative measures

• Shade: Access to shade structures or natural shade helps cows seek relief from direct sunlight and reduces the danger of high temperatures.
• Ventilation: Proper airflow and ventilation systems within barns or housing facilities help dissipate heat and enhance cow comfort.
• Cooling: Cooling mechanisms such as fans, misters or sprinklers help to lower ambient temperatures.
• Water: Heat-stressed cows require increased water intake for thermoregulation. Ensuring access to clean water throughout the day is vital to meeting their needs.
• Nutrition: When temperatures are high, modify the diet to include more easily digestible nutrition sources. For instance, Alltech’s Yea-Sacc® 1026 stabilizes rumen pH, keeping the rumen microbiome plentiful and active, which enhances feed digestibility overall.  
• Technology: Advancements in tech have provided valuable tools for tracking individual cow data. These devices, equipped with sensors to track body temperature, activity levels and rumination patterns, are proving increasingly helpful in identifying cows entering heat stress. Technology also goes beyond wearables to temperature-activated fans, sprinklers, and curtains installed in the barn. Routine maintenance and proper installation of these technologies are critical to receive their full benefit.

I want to learn more about nutrition for my dairy cattle.

Coccidiosis has always had a huge economic impact on the commercial poultry industry, sharply reducing productivity and profits, and producers rely on effective — and cost-effective — solutions to prevent and treat it. In the past, synthetic anticoccidial drugs and antibiotics, including ionophores, were the primary preventative measure in commercial poultry rearing practices. Today, with increasing demands for antibiotic-free and sustainably raised meat, producers are looking for new options to manage coccidiosis and the secondary bacterial infections that often result from it.

Let’s review how coccidiosis happens, how it harms both your birds and your bottom line, and what new frontiers in prevention and treatment are available.

Coccidiosis: the cause, the effects

Coccidiosis in poultry is primarily caused by intestinal infection by Eimeria, a genus of protozoan parasite. Eimeria enters its host through the ingestion of sporulated ova from a contaminated environment and then replicates in the intestines throughout its life cycle. Depending on the Eimeria species, different parts of the intestine and cecum can be affected.

During the endogenous phase of coccidia cycling, which includes colonization, growth and reproduction, most of the damage occurs in the small intestine and cecum. Cycling causes disruption of the intestinal mucosa and microbiome, often leading to intestinal lesions, and it damages the bird’s natural immunity. The impact of coccidiosis on gut microbiota can be observed throughout the life of the flock.

In addition to the direct sequelae of coccidiosis, secondary bacterial infections can cause ongoing problems. These are attributed to the incurred damage to gut mechanical barriers, which increases intestinal permeability and interactions with the chemical barriers, particularly mucus secretion, compromising the immune system’s cellular and humoral components. Coccidiosis has been implicated, at least partly, in such issues as necrotic enteritis, co-infection with other protozoal infections, failure to achieve full immunity from vaccines, and increases in pathogenic bacteria of food safety concern, including Salmonella and Campylobacter. Between these direct and indirect effects, a sharp increase in the flock’s morbidity and mortality can be observed.

Compounding these problems is the fact that, in commercial poultry production, coccidiosis may escape notice at first since the only signs may be slight decreases in performance parameters such as feed conversion and weight gain. This makes diagnosis difficult and often prevents the timely use of control strategies. Eventually, infected birds may display ruffled feathers, vent pasting from diarrhea, and foot pad dermatitis from increasingly wet litter. In fact, the house litter environment is a useful indicator, showing evidence of diarrhea, increased mucus in feces, more undigested feed and a stronger ammonia odor.

The impact of coccidia on high-density flocks is a challenge to the poultry industry. The number of birds in reused litter and the pecking of litter infected with the protozoa contribute to the degree of infection seen in the birds. However, coccidia can also be observed in backyard/hobby flocks, with variable degrees of morbidity and even mortality. Backyard/hobby birds are typically not vaccinated and have different types of housing and bird densities. The impact of coccidia on this style of production depends on the type of confinement and the exposure to infected manure. Diagnosis of backyard/hobby birds can also be difficult and dependent on level of flock management and onset of clinical signs.

Coccidiosis and sustainability

Today, both consumers and producers place an increased importance on sustainability. It’s commonly said that the three pillars of sustainability are economic, social and environmental, and coccidiosis and its control and treatment fall under all three.

Economically, coccidiosis continues to be one of the top diseases of concern. Performance losses associated with the disease directly affect profitability, particularly in the broiler industry. Coccidiosis has been estimated to cause economic losses in excess of $3 billion globally. In recent recalculations using prices from 2016, it was shown that in the U.S. alone, the total cost of coccidiosis was around $1.57 billion.

Much of this economic loss is due to the effects of coccidiosis on feed conversion ratios, and as feed ingredients and other commodities continue to increase in price, the cost of production is expected to be higher going forward. Therefore, it will be key to maintain productivity and decrease losses during coccidia challenges. Farms continuously afflicted by uncontrolled, or inadequately controlled, coccidiosis may not be able to reach the full potential of their flocks.

Regarding the social pillar, this includes not only human well-being but animal welfare, which has recently been of increased focus in the poultry industry. During coccidiosis, hindered nutrition and secondary bacterial infections that arise from the disease can affect its welfare directly and indirectly. Therefore, appropriate programs and interventions are needed.

Environmentally, increased demands for sustainability and more healthful foods are driving poultry rearing practices that produce more nutritious meat and reduce carbon footprint and general environmental impact. Vaccination as a means of prevention is particularly popular in the U.S. and has shown advantages because it doesn’t induce drug resistance and can help decrease resistant coccidia on farm. The use of coccidia vaccines also allows for early harvest without the constraints of drug withdrawal periods. Additionally, better biosecurity, cleaning and disinfection measures and longer downtime between flocks have helped decrease the challenge as well as the introduction of resistant Eimeria.

Finally, as the industry has shifted away from the use of antibiotics as growth-promoting and anticoccidial agents, naturally derived feed additive alternatives that fight coccidiosis have become more popular.

Let’s explore some of those options.

Fighting coccidiosis with natural feed additives

Feed additives contain different classes of molecules, compounds and beneficial organisms that help with feed preservation and that enhance nutrition, digestion and metabolism, improving animal health. In poultry, some commonly used natural feed additives involve single or combination preparations of acidifiers, antibiotics, prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics, plant derivatives, extracts, immunostimulants, flavoring agents, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, among others. A few of these particularly stand out, showing a great deal of promise:

Saponins: Secondary metabolites derived from plants such as Yucca schidigera, saponins combat coccidia by causing membrane rupture and death in the parasites. They also promote the digestion and absorption of nutrients and have nonspecific immunomodulatory effects. 

Essential oils: Another category of natural feed additives with antioxidant, anticoccidial, antimicrobial and antifungal effects is essential oils. Their modes of action are not fully understood, and not all plants in the same species or subspecies have the same properties, but overall, essential oils are appealing to producers looking for natural alternatives. The main activity of essential oils comes from combinations of phenols such as carvacrol and thymol, especially as found in the oregano plant. These polyphenol combinations can interfere with energy metabolism, membrane stability and protein synthesis in bacteria, depending strongly on the particular membrane arrangement and cell wall structure of those bacteria.

Prebiotics: These preparations, such as mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) derived from yeast cell wall Saccharomyces cerevisiae, can improve feed efficiency and protect the gastrointestinal microbiota. Mannan-rich fractions (MRFs), extracts of such mannan oligosaccharides, are of particular interest because they can bind to pathogenic bacteria, preventing colonization to the gut wall. MRFs can also enhance immune activity, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract, and their capability as an intestinal immunomodulator, or regulator, works in conjunction with coccidia vaccine programs.

Antioxidants: Coccidia can cause an imbalance in the antioxidant status of birds, with damaging effects that can make the birds more susceptible to coccidia infections and their sequelae. Antioxidants provide cellular protection against oxidative stress and reduce the severity of coccidia infections.

Supplementation with selenium and zinc in diets has been shown to help chickens resist coccidiosis, thus improving performance through increased body weight gain and a reduction in mortality. These trace minerals offer antioxidant effects and much more. Selenium is essential in the making of selenoproteins, which are involved in processes such as cellular maintenance, hormone metabolism, immune response, and oxidative and calcium homeostasis. Zinc plays a major role in healing and also in supporting the immune system, DNA and protein formation, and cellular growth.

During coccidiosis, some vitamins and minerals cannot be absorbed well within the gut, and decreased bioavailability of these nutrients can increase cellular damage and decrease the levels of enzymes involved in the essential breakdown of oxygen molecules in the cells. Organic versions of trace minerals, however, have been shown to be more bioavailable in general than inorganic compounds, both with and without the presence of coccidia. These organic trace minerals are also considered to be less toxic when handled or incorporated into the environment.

Each of these types of feed additives exerts different benefits over coccidia, including boosting immunity, balancing gut microbiota, and enhancing gastrointestinal functionality and repair. While one option might not improve productivity as well as a traditional treatment like antibiotics can, when these alternative options are combined, they can potentiate one another, building a framework of sustainable support for bird health. For instance, natural blends of feed additives have been shown to help prevent coccidiosis, reduce lesion scores, and improve performance parameters such feed conversion and body weight.

Naturally derived feed additives are continually being explored and in more recent years viewed as a viable alternative to complement poultry rearing programs. This is in part due to the degree of bioavailability of some of these compounds and the positive approval of the consumer. For instance, since organic trace minerals are more readily bioavailable, they’re excreted at lower levels, mitigating waste and environmental harm.

Conclusion

As the commercial poultry industry continues its shift toward antibiotic-free production, we must continue to evaluate the roles and opportunities that natural feed additives can provide to poultry. Since variability in facets of the coccidia challenge has become more evident, we can see that alternative natural feed additives with a variety of modalities may decrease the negative impacts of coccidiosis across the board. These additives are affordable, effective and easy to use, and they are ideal for complementing or replacing more traditional coccidia control strategies while gaining the approval of consumers who value sustainability on the economic, social and environmental levels.

I want to learn more about poultry nutrition.

World hunger is on the rise, and many places in our world face deepening food crises. Now more than ever, it is crucial that we place nutritional quality at the heart of agriculture practices so we can provide nutrition, not just food, for all.

About 735 million people are currently facing hunger, an increase of 122 million people since 2019, according to the latest State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) report published by five United Nations specialized agencies, including the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Food and nutrition security looked grim in 2022:

• About 2.4 billion people did not have access to constant food (nearly 30% of the global population), and around 900 million of these individuals faced severe food insecurity.
• More than 3.1 billion people, 42% of the global population, were unable to afford a healthy diet. That’s an overall increase of 134 million people compared to 2019.
• Millions of children under age 5 continue to suffer from malnutrition. In 2022, 148 million children under age 5 (22.2%) were stunted, 45 million (6.8%) were wasted, and 37 million (5.6%) were overweight.

Progress in hunger reduction was observed in Asia and Latin America, but hunger was still on the rise in Western Asia, in the Caribbean, and throughout all subregions of Africa. One in five people in Africa are facing hunger, more than twice the global average.

The report attributed the rise in hunger to the COVID-19 pandemic, repeated severe weather events, and geopolitical conflicts, such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Difficulties will persist as we battle climate change and the extreme weather events it causes.

With the current level of hunger, achieving the 2030 nutrition targets outlined in the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals will be a daunting challenge, the report said. By 2030, it is projected that almost 600 million people will still be facing hunger.

“The major drivers of food insecurity and malnutrition are our ‘new normal,’ and we have no option but to redouble our efforts to transform agri-food systems and leverage them towards reaching the Sustainable Development Goal 2 targets,” said the heads of the five U.N. agencies in the report's foreword.

Nourishing the World

To feed the world’s population, 70% more food will be required by the year 2060. But just feeding the world is not enough. We must provide nutrients.

Poor nutrition is the single greatest threat to the world’s health, according to the World Health Organization. Currently, one in four people on our planet is malnourished — over 2 billion people worldwide — and one in 10 people is undernourished.

The health consequences of poor nutrition are numerous and severe. In addition to reduced life expectancy, poor nutrition can cause complications in pregnancy and childbirth, higher risks of infectious diseases, reduced cognitive function, poor mental health, and more.

“To truly achieve nutrition for all, we will rely on both plants and animals,” said Nikki Putnam Badding, director of human nutrition initiatives at Alltech and managing director of Acutia, during her keynote address at Alltech ONE Dublin. “Animals provide us with essential nutrients that plants do not and vice versa. Nutrition security requires all food sources.”

A sustainable diet provides sufficient energy and essential nutrients to maintain the good health of the population without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their nutritional needs.

To deliver nutrition for all, we need more nutrient-dense food — quality meat, milk, eggs and seafood that are high in protein and crops that are grown in healthy soil. We must focus on essential nutrition, and we must deliver both quantity and quality. This can be accomplished by improving the health of animals and the soil, maximizing the value of feedstuffs, increasing the efficiency of the farm, and reinvesting in innovation.

Alltech has been helping producers meet these goals for more than 40 years. Our technologies help animals optimize the nutrients in their feed, thereby supporting the health and performance of livestock while also reducing their environmental impact.

Through collaboration and innovation, the agri-food community can create a world where science-based solutions help ensure sustainable food production for the global population.

“Agriculture has the greatest potential to be the world’s hero,” said Putnam Badding.

Alltech believes agriculture has the greatest potential to positively shape the future of our planet.

That's why we're uniting the agri-food community in Working Together for a Planet of Plenty™. A planet where science-based solutions help ensure sustainable food production for the global population. A planet where agriculture’s story is central to the development of thriving communities and ecosystems. A planet where, through collaboration and innovation, we can create a world of abundance for future generations. 

Together, we can provide nutrition for all, revitalize local economies and replenish the planet’s natural resources.

A Planet of Plenty™ transcends environmental sustainability. It is a vision of a more positive future, full of promise and possibility. Join us in creating a future of sustainable nutrition and farming. Learn more at alltech.com/planet-of-plenty.

Alltech is inspired by the immense challenge the world has presented us: to produce enough nutritious food for all people while also caring for our animals and sustaining our land, air and water for future generations.

The agri-food community is uniquely prepared to shoulder this responsibility. Amid the challenges of today’s world, agriculture has the greatest potential to positively shape the future of our planet.

With the advent of new agricultural technologies, the adoption of improved sustainable farming practices and, above all, the ingenuity inherent in the human spirit, a world of abundance can be ours. But it cannot be achieved alone.

That’s why Alltech is uniting the agri-food community in Working Together for a Planet of Plenty™. A planet where science-based solutions help ensure sustainable food production for the global population. A planet where agriculture’s story is central to the development of thriving communities and ecosystems. A planet where, through collaboration and innovation, we can create a world of abundance for future generations.

Together, we can provide nutrition for all, revitalize local economies and replenish the planet’s natural resources.

Creating a future of sustainable nutrition and farming will require us to maintain a sharp focus on the three pillars of sustainability: economic, environmental and social. As ambassadors of our Planet of Plenty™ message, we want to be transparent about our sustainability goals and the progress we are making on our journey. By striving to improve the health of animals, plants and soil, maximize the value of feedstuffs, increase the efficiency of the farm and reinvest in innovation, we are sharing our purpose and highlighting the sustainable power of science in agri-food.

A Planet of Plenty™ transcends environmental sustainability. It is a vision of a more positive future, full of promise and possibility. We must take actions that help sustain agriculture, revitalize rural communities and enable family businesses to thrive. We want to replenish the planet’s natural resources so farmers can continue to nourish the growing population.

Guided by this purpose, Alltech is:

• Developing nutritional and digital technologies, improved farm management practices, and innovations in animal well-being and human health
• Partnering with like-minded companies and individuals to solve high-impact issues
• Investing in education and talent development for the next generation of agri-food leadership
• Sharing the sustainable power of science in agri-food through stories and videos on our Planet of Plenty™ website and through our social media channels

Our Planet of Plenty™ purpose addresses humanity’s most basic requirements, as well as our aspirations for a better future.

We want to:

• Support agriculture to nourish a growing population
• Improve safety and quality within the food chain
• Add value and nutrition to fruits and vegetables, meat, milk, seafood and eggs
• Meet the demands of consumers to produce their food and beverages in a way that ensures the welfare of the animal and the environment

A commitment to the planet is in our DNA

Creating a Planet of Plenty™ is at the heart of who we’ve always been. Alltech founder Dr. Pearse Lyons wanted to ensure that the company would have an impact on our industry and our planet far into the future. In 1989, he committed Alltech to our guiding ACE principle, which required all our endeavors to seek the safety and well-being of animals, consumers and the environment. He fervently believed that the well-being of each element of the ACE principle depended on maintaining harmony between all three.

Thirty years later, against a backdrop of diminishing natural resources, a changing climate and a growing population, Alltech President and CEO Dr. Mark Lyons propelled the ACE principle into the future — and into a new world of possibility — with our newly defined purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty™.

Demonstrating our sustainability commitments

The 2022 Alltech Sustainability Report shares our sustainability journey through the lens of the three main objectives of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty™:

• Replenishing the planet’s natural resources
• Providing nutrition for all
• Revitalizing local economies

Download and read the report at alltech.com/sustainability.

Climate change. Economic uncertainty. Geopolitical tensions. The challenges facing the global agriculture industry are intense, and many things are out of our control.

As we face these obstacles, however, we must remain optimistic and never be afraid to change, said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech, in his keynote address last week at Alltech ONE Calgary.

“We must push forward and think about things in a different way,” Dr. Lyons said. “Change is the only constant. We must embrace and anticipate change and adjust our mindset to make sure we’re responding as the changes take place.”

That same message of the power of positivity was beautifully demonstrated by the event’s closing speaker, Chris Koch, a renowned motivational speaker who was raised in a small farming and ranching community in Alberta.

Despite being born without arms and legs, Chris leads a meaningful and fun life full of adventure and purpose. He is an avid traveler, marathoner, farmer, advocate and motivational speaker.

When Chris first came into the world, his family welcomed him with a sense of humor, kindness and positivity — qualities he grew up to possess in abundance.

Chris had a normal childhood. He went to a regular school, helped out at his grandfather’s farm and played all the same sports his friends were playing. He and his family did not let limitations or obstacles stand in the way of achieving his goals or dreams.

“I go as far as to say that my life growing up without arms and legs was actually quite easy, considering,” he said at Alltech ONE Calgary. “A lot of people find that surprising. How could it possibly be easy growing up without arms and legs?”

Chris was not raised with pity or sympathy. Neither he nor his family treated his disability like a tragedy. Because of that, young Chris developed a great sense of humor. He would crack a joke with strangers to break the ice or to put them at ease and see that he’s just a regular guy.

“I am a firm believer that laughter is the best medicine, and that mindset was started right from day one, the day I was born,” Chris said. “When my grandma heard that I was born missing arms and legs, her reaction was to say that my dad never finished anything he started. I could not have asked for a better start to life. Her reaction wasn’t, ‘Oh my goodness, this is a tragedy.’ Her reaction was ‘Everything is going to be fine, we’ll figure this out and we’re going to have some good laughs along the way.’ And we’ve done just that.”

Chris has learned to use humor — and the power of positivity — to take control of his life.

Here’s a look at the key lessons he shared at Alltech ONE Calgary as he encouraged attendees to challenge themselves and build the life they dream of.

Laughter is powerful.

“If you can’t laugh at life, what can you laugh at?” Chris asked. “We all have bad days. We’ve all had one of those days where absolutely nothing is going right. When you’re having one of those days, if you can find any reason to laugh, laugh it off. It helps you get over it a little bit quicker and it gives you some semblance if having control of what’s going on.”

Chris’ message, “If I can …,” resonates strongly with audiences all over the world. Laughter plays a huge role in the delivery of his inspirational and empowering story.

“When people first meet me, they’re not too sure how to react, how to respond. They don't want to say anything rude or inappropriate,” he said. “So, if I can crack a joke right from the get-go, it puts people at ease and they realize I'm just a regular guy, enjoying life and having fun.”

Take control of your life.

For Chris, growing up without arms and legs was normal.

“I’ve never known what it was like to have arms and legs. A lot of kids will ask me, ‘What does it feel like to not have arms and legs?’ And I ask them, ‘Well what does it feel like to have arms and legs?’”

Children with arms and legs figure out how to grasp things with their fingers and learn how to crawl on their hands and knees, and it just happens naturally, he said. It was the same for him, but he had to figure out how to do things just a bit differently. For example, instead of walking, Chris learned how to get around using a longboard.

“Certain day-to-day tasks require a lot more energy and take me a little bit longer, but I am completely, 100% independent and self-sufficient,” he said.

He credits his independence to his parents, who always let him do things for himself and resisted the urge to jump in and help. It allowed him to take control of his life.

“If they did everything for me, it would have robbed me of the opportunity to develop things like perseverance, resilience and clever, outside-of-the-box ways of doing things,” he said. “If you give a person an opportunity to prove what they could do, more often than not, they will shine and impress you.”

Go beyond your comfort zone.

Chris was raised in the small farming and ranching community of Nanton, Alberta. He loves agriculture and works as a freelance farmer. One of the aspects he enjoys most about farming is his ability to surprise and inspire others with his farm skills.

“It’s not a job people expect a guy without arms and legs to be doing. I love that wow factor,” Chris said. “I love proving to myself and others what I'm capable of doing. It’s a bonus if it makes them look within themselves and say, ‘Hey, if this guy is out there driving tractors, maybe I can raise the bar in my own life a little bit more.’” 

When he is not out in the field, Chris is on the road, sharing a message of hope and inspiration and his “If I can…” motto. He has traveled the world as a motivational speaker and adventurer, enjoying activities such as snowboarding, surfing, marathons and more.

“Absolutely anybody is capable of doing some pretty awesome and amazing things,” he said. “And that has nothing to do with arms or legs. It has nothing to do with physical ability. It has everything to do with that six inches of space between the ears.”

Our brain is the strongest muscle we have in our body. Koch suggests strengthening this muscle everyday by constantly taking yourself out of your comfort zone and raising the bar just a bit more each day.

Find the positives in life.

When bad days happen, instead of blaming it on something we can’t change, Chris suggests focusing on the things that are going well and being grateful for what you have. For him, that’s traveling, meeting new people, spending time with this family and working in agriculture.

“Every day may not be great, but there’s something great in every day,” Chris said.

He encouraged ONE attendees to never give up, to change their thinking and to always stay positive, knowing that there will be a brighter tomorrow.

“Take control of your circumstances instead of passively waiting for them to decide your fate,” he said.

Make your dreams come true.

In closing his keynote speech, Chris encouraged the audience to take action to make their dreams come true and to prepare for unexpected challenges by getting accustomed to navigating unfamiliar situations.

Cherish the freedom to pursue your dreams.

“Don't take life for granted. Don't cheat yourself out of any of the opportunities to get out there and make the most out of life,” he said.

Alltech ONE Calgary, July 3–4, 2023, was the third stop of the Alltech ONE World Tour, a series of international events that invite collaboration on the greatest challenges and opportunities facing the agri-food industry. You can find highlights from Alltech ONE Calgary, including photos, speaker biographies and more at one.alltech.com/Calgary.

Learn more about our future Alltech ONE World Tour stops at one.alltech.com.

Producers do not have to compromise performance and profitability for sustainability

Canadian agriculture leaders are facing pressure and uncertainty on all sides. Amid devastating wildfires, there’s a turbulent global economy, the impact of geopolitical tensions and mounting climate change pressure.

More than 300 representatives of the Canadian agriculture industry joined Alltech last week in Calgary, Alberta, to explore collaborative solutions to these significant challenges. Alltech ONE Calgary, the third stop of the Alltech ONE World Tour, examined strategies for remaining resilient despite uncertainty and focused on the importance of partnerships, innovation and taking a leading role in nourishing people and preserving the planet.

Canada is rapidly growing, and so is its demand for food. With fewer farmers, the country is producing more food on less land: Only 7% of Canada’s land is used for agriculture, a 37% decline over the past 60 years.

And yet, the country’s agri-food system is resilient, innovative and a major contributor to the Canadian economy. In 2022, the agri-food system employed 2.3 million people, provided one in nine jobs in Canada, and generated $143.8 billion (around 7.0%) of Canada’s gross domestic product (GDP).

“Canada will remain one of the world’s most important exporters, even as it faces the dual challenges of climate change and population and urban sprawl,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, Alltech president and CEO, who delivered the keynote address at Alltech ONE Calgary. “We’re going to have to meet demand now with less land, less labor and fewer resources. But we always know that in the face of challenges, we should never be afraid. We must push forward and think about things in a different way.”

A fresh approach — and a positive mindset — are vital to turning challenges into opportunities. Poised at the interface of nourishing the present and preserving the future, agriculture has the greatest potential to positively shape the future of the planet, he said.

“There is no other industry that plays such a fundamental role in terms of not only producing food, but also preserving our planet. That’s why we launched our vision and purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty™,” Dr. Lyons said.

Working together, the agri-food community can provide nutrition for all, revitalize local economies and replenish the planet’s natural resources. We can create a healthy, sustainable food system, and we can do so in a way that is also economically sustainable — and profitable — for our agricultural producers.

Innovative, on-farm solutions can be both sustainable and profitable, said Dr. Patrick Ward.

‘You don’t have to compromise’

Governments and megabrands worldwide are making ambitious sustainability commitments, but they don’t really know how to achieve them, Dr. Lyons said.

“They need you. They need farmers and producers, and they need ranchers to actually achieve those goals,” he told attendees. “And they're really struggling to be able to connect the dots because they don't really know what their supply chain is made up of.”

Farmers, ranchers and producers need solutions that enhance the efficiency of their business and enable them to maintain sustainable margins. Innovative, on-farm solutions can be both sustainable and profitable, said Dr. Patrick Ward, Alltech applications manager for Europe and Asia-Pacific.

“You don’t have to compromise performance and profitability for sustainability,” he told ONE attendees.

Nutritional technologies can improve animal performance — and therefore profitability — while also offering sustainability benefits. Alltech’s nutritional solutions, for example, have been proven to improve production efficiency, reduce carbon footprint and help rid animal diets of toxins that can harm both the animal and the environment.

Alltech continues to invest in solutions that empower farmers and ranchers to reach their sustainability goals while supporting animal performance and profitability. Earlier this year, Alltech acquired Agolin, a company that has developed and produced plant-based nutritional solutions that improve herd performance, profitability and sustainability.

Dr. Ward explained Agolin’s research-backed sustainability benefits, including its effects on performance and methane reduction, and how the synergistic use of Alltech and Agolin technologies can improve animal welfare, increase feed efficiency and conversion, boost milk and meat production, reduce environmental footprint and increase profitability.

Sustainability can start with the cow.

“With Alltech’s natural products, you can meet your sustainability goals through reduced enteric methane emissions while, at the same time, driving performance and improving milk yield, fat- and protein-corrected milk (FPCM) and feed conversion efficiency,” he said.

Providing quality nutrition for all

Agriculture has gone from having the most important job in the world to having the two most important jobs in the world: feeding the world and reversing climate change.

“We have a moral imperative not to compromise nutrition — for the human or the animal — even as we seek environmental restoration,” said Dr. Vaughn Holder, ruminant research director at Alltech, who joined the conference virtually to discuss agriculture’s role in saving the planet.

We must meet the needs of the present without compromising the needs of the future.

The world’s population is projected to reach 10 billion by 2060. Seventy percent more food will be required by then, Dr. Holder said, but this is not our true challenge.

“One in 10 people on our planet are undernourished. World hunger is on the rise, affecting 811 million people in 2023,” he said. “One in four people are malnourished — that’s over 2 billion people worldwide.”

Poor nutrition is the single greatest threat to the world’s health, according to the World Health Organization.

“It is not enough to feed the world. We must provide nutrients,” Dr. Holder said.

To create a world of abundance for future generations, we must do more than feed the growing population. We need to nourish it with quality meat, milk, eggs and seafood that are high in protein and crops that are grown in healthy soil, all while working to revitalize local economies and replenish the planet’s natural resources.

A sustainable diet is one that provides sufficient energy and essential nutrients to maintain the good health of the population without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their nutritional needs. It must be accessible​, available, safe, nutrient-dense, culturally acceptable, fairly produced and sparing of natural resources.

This can be accomplished by improving the health of animals and the soil, maximizing the value of feedstuffs, increasing the efficiency of the farm, and reinvesting in innovation. Alltech has been striving to meet these goals for more than 40 years, and our technologies help animals optimize the nutrients in their feed, thereby supporting the health and performance of livestock while also reducing their environmental impact.

Through collaboration and innovation, the agri-food community can create a world where science-based solutions help ensure sustainable food production for the global population. We must dig deeper to find the real solutions, leveraging the science and ​implementing the technologies ​that exist today, Dr. Lyons said.

“This is a time that calls for much more of all of us. We must believe in our purpose and have the confidence to stand strong,” he said. “We have a huge responsibility, but it is also a tremendous opportunity.”

Why are we bringing ONE to the world?

The Alltech ONE World Tour was inspired by the desire to connect with our customers, partners and friends in their markets. As our industry navigates significant challenges, we are determined to be with you every step of the way, highlighting opportunities and delivering global expertise on locally relevant issues.

We’re bringing Alltech ONE World Tour to the world so we can hear your stories, better understand your needs and find opportunities to collaborate. This means more people than ever will have the opportunity to engage with leading experts on global, regional and local market trends in agriculture, business, health and nutrition.

Learn more about our future Alltech ONE World Tour stops at one.alltech.com. 

You can find highlights from Alltech ONE Calgary, including photos, speaker biographies and more at one.alltech.com/calgary