[DUNBOYNE, Ireland] – Alltech is a global leader in animal nutrition, backed by 45 years of scientific research. The company produces premium feed additive products and works with global regulatory agencies to meet their requirements. For more than a decade, the company’s attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR–FTIR) chelation assay has been relied upon by the industry to ensure that only the highest-quality products enter the market, to ensure fair market competition, and to prevent feed additive fraud.

“With new trace mineral chelate products continuously being developed, in addition to products with increased mineral concentration, the use of validated assays such as that developed by Alltech will ensure that such chelates meet EU regulatory requirements,” said Dr. Colm Moran, chief regulatory officer at Alltech. “This further adds to their safety and efficacy characteristics. Apart from enabling producers to meet regulatory requirements, assessment of such chelates via this assay will enable the EU to combat feed additive fraud. In doing so, the EU can further protect its agricultural sector by upholding standards through robust monitoring and rigorous enforcement of regulations.”

The process of complexing or chelating elements such as zinc or manganese to generate a trace mineral chelate typically involves reacting inorganic mineral salts with a suitable bonding group such as a peptide or amino acid, after which the mineral becomes part of a biologically stable structure. The chemistry behind chelation has created a great deal of confusion in the animal feed industry.

“Establishing the degree of complexation is important for both regulatory and practical purposes. Just as regulatory agencies require complete characterisation of medicinal products, similar data is necessary for trace mineral chelates to ensure their safety and efficacy,” said Dr. Richard Murphy, research director at Alltech. “If the metal ion is not complexed, its use will confer no additional benefit over that of a metal salt. Additionally, control methods allowing for the detection of products which are merely blends of carrier and inorganic salts are important to prevent the sale of fraudulent materials.”

In 2017, researchers at the Alltech European Bioscience Centre in Dunboyne, Ireland, assessed several different methodologies to determine the degree of metal complexation in commercially available chelates of protein hydrolysate (proteinates), thereby enabling more complete characterisation and control of these products. Potential methodologies which were identified included both the ATR–FTIR and powder X–Ray diffraction (PXRD). Both techniques are well established and widely available, and data can be acquired rapidly. They are also non-destructive, so that the same sample can be analysed by both methods in different laboratories.

Subsequent to this, the method was published under peer review (Cantwell et al., 2017) and made available to the industry as a whole, enabling other manufacturers to independently assess their own products. Additional work by Byrne et al., (2023) extended on the earlier work and validated the assay for use with higher concentration trace mineral chelates of protein hydrolysate.

The validated ATR-FTIR spectroscopy method is product specific, and while its use is applicable to the general class of chelates referred to by EFSA as “chelates of protein hydrolysate” (proteinates), the published assay has only been verified for the proteinate Bioplex®, produced by Alltech. As the characteristics of any proteinate will depend on the protein source used to produce the hydrolysate, the hydrolysis process, and the percentage of metal present, the assay will need to be validated and verified in a product-specific fashion.

“Product-specific assay validation is critical in this instance as the hydrolysis procedure plays a critical role in the production of proteinate products and varies greatly between manufacturers,” said Murphy. “As such, to obtain accurate data on the extent of chelation for specific chelate products, generation of appropriate standards and calibration curves, along with method verification and validation procedures, must be done for each specific product type.”

For more information about Alltech’s mineral management solutions, visit alltech.com/en-ie/mineral-management.

New entity expands the reach of World Without Cows documentary and supports additional science-based agricultural storytelling 

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] — Alltech, a global leader in animal nutrition and crop science, has launched Planet of Plenty, LLC, a new business entity dedicated to science-led storytelling, advocacy and educational initiatives that amplify agriculture’s vital role in creating a sustainable future.

This initiative builds on Alltech’s vision of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty®, which unites the agri-food community in creating a world where agriculture thrives, nutritious food is abundant and accessible, and our planet’s natural resources are replenished for generations to come.

While most families had ties to agriculture just two generations ago, many people today lack firsthand exposure to how the world’s food is produced. This disconnect can lead to misconceptions and oversimplified narratives about agriculture’s environmental impact, the role of farmers in creating climate solutions, and the complexity of feeding a growing population while protecting natural resources.

Through powerful storytelling, advocacy and educational initiatives, Planet of Plenty LLC aims to bridge that gap.

“Through Planet of Plenty LLC, we can take viewers on a global journey — into fields, research labs and farming communities — where they will see firsthand the intricate relationship between agriculture, the environment and food and economic security,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech.

Planet of Plenty LLC will serve as a collaborative hub where those within the agri-food community and beyond can:

• Promote science-based storytelling
• Advocate for the world’s agri-food producers
• Support educational initiatives
• Broaden the conversation about agriculture’s role in shaping a more sustainable future

Planet of Plenty LLC’s flagship project is World Without Cows, a feature-length documentary that amplifies the diverse perspectives of researchers studying methane emissions, farmers implementing regenerative practices, experts tackling the challenge of nourishing a growing population, and people in rural communities who rely on cows for their livelihoods. Co-created by two award-winning journalists who now work at Alltech, World Without Cows takes viewers on a global journey to foster a deeper understanding of everything cows contribute — and what the world might look like without them.

Over the past six months, World Without Cows has been screened at film festivals and events worldwide, sparking a broader discussion about the essential role of agriculture in sustainability, food security and the global economy.

Through collaboration with Alltech’s in-house media team and extensive global network, Planet of Plenty LLC will continue to create visually compelling, deeply informative content that accurately portrays modern agriculture’s complexities and opportunities — using science-based insights and storytelling to engage with audiences, just as World Without Cows has done around the world.

As interest in World Without Cows grows, this initiative offers supporters a mechanism to strengthen the documentary’s impact by opening doors to new audiences. Financial contributions to Planet of Plenty LLC will directly fund efforts to expand the documentary’s reach — and will also support additional science-based storytelling and advocacy initiatives that keep the conversation going.

“Agriculture’s most powerful stories are told by those on the frontlines,” Dr. Mark Lyons said. “Driving meaningful change begins with awareness, understanding and broader conversations, which Planet of Plenty LLC will endeavor to cultivate."

To learn more about World Without Cows and how to contribute to Planet of Plenty LLC, visit worldwithoutcows.com/contribute.

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Alltech is pleased to announce the expansion of its mycotoxin testing program Alltech^® RAPIREAD™, which now includes a new collaboration with Waters™ | VICAM^® and the connection to its analytical tool, Vertu™ TOUCH.  Offering simple touch-screen operation, the Vertu TOUCH lateral flow strip test reader works in concert with VICAM’s Vertu strip tests to deliver full-range quantitative results for up to six major mycotoxins, including aflatoxin, fumonisin, vomitoxin (DON), zearalenone, ochratoxin A and the combination of T-2 and HT-2 toxins.

Mycotoxins, which are natural substances produced by molds and fungi, are more prevalent — and more of a problem in agriculture — than ever before. Results from the 2024 Alltech Harvest Analysis show that more than 95% of crops today are contaminated with at least one mycotoxin and usually two or more, thus demonstrating the need for robust quality control programs. Because these toxins are difficult to detect, they can cause significant damage to animal health before producers even realize they are present, hence a proactive mycotoxin management program is essential.

“Since mycotoxins are a continuous problem for the agricultural industry, it is important for producers to understand the risk to their feed and animals,” said Dr. Alexandra Weaver, global technical support for Alltech. “Rapid tests at the feed mill or on-farm can be used to detect the mycotoxin type or content, but including Alltech RAPIREAD can assist in understanding how the mycotoxins could actually impact the performance, health or profitability of production.”

AlltechRAPIREAD launched in 2020 to enable customers to identify and analyze mycotoxin risks within minutes. This began, and continues, with a collaboration with Neogen^® and integration to its Raptor^® testing device, designed for use on-farm or in feed mills to test individual grains and forages.

Complementing the continued connection with Neogen, this new collaboration with Waters | VICAM using the ONE line of quantitative strip tests will expand analysis capabilities to include complete feed, while keeping Alltech RAPIREAD at the forefront for data collection, risk assessment and consultation.

The Waters | VICAM Vertu TOUCH reader and mixer was launched three years ago with updated features, including a touch screen for ease of use and the technology to detect six mycotoxin levels in a single sample within 10 minutes. This has added a greater opportunity for on-site testing with ease of use, faster time to results and extremely high quality of results.

“Waters | VICAM has been delivering quality mycotoxin testing products to the food and feed industries since 1987,” said Lanny Smith, global sales manager, Waters | VICAM. “The addition of the CT-Connect enables the Vertu TOUCH to work with Alltech’s RAPIREAD system to transfer data securely across all networks.”

To learn more about this collaboration between Alltech and Waters | VICAM, visit the Alltech booth in Hall A #1211 at the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE). For more information about Alltech’s mycotoxin management solutions, visit knowmycotoxins.com. 

I recently sat down with Dr. Shelby Roberts, Alltech technical sales support, to take a closer look at calf gut health, the importance of nutrition during the first weeks of the calf’s life, and some other calving season considerations. Here are a few points to keep in mind before and during spring calving.

1. Management of your process and facilities is half the battle for a healthy calving season.

Nutrition is a major player in the success of a calf’s life, but proper management of your herd is essential to the health of your cattle. Dr. Roberts shared some management tips to keep in mind as calving season progresses.

• Inspect your facilities before and throughout calving season. Ensuring that fences are mended and gates and latches are in working order can keep those sneaky calves from sliding through — thus avoiding that dreaded call from the neighbor that you have one out!
• Develop a vaccination schedule with your veterinarian. A solid vaccination schedule for the cow and, eventually, for the calves is an important step to a healthy herd.
• Manage your calving areas. They should be kept clean and dry. Also, avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding of pens can lead to lots of manure buildup, which increases the pathogen load within the pen. It can be easier said than done to keep things clean and dry when you’re calving in mud, snow, rain and whatever else nature throws at you, but do your best. Putting out straw, or moving cattle who are close to calving to a drier area (a calving barn, if available), will pay back in spades, giving those calves the best start possible.
• Avoid constant commingling of older and younger calves. Younger calves are more susceptible to scours than older calves. Try to keep your groups separate for as long as you can to ensure that those calves have had a chance to get adjusted, with their immune systems fully up and running.
• If facilities allow, manage first-calf heifers separately. First-calf heifers, in general, have lower-quality colostrum compared to older cows. This can leave calves susceptible to pathogens if managed in a larger group.

2. Keep the essentials on hand and easy to access.

What constitutes as “essential” will vary by operation. Think about your operation and consider what you need to have stocked for the season – especially if you don’t have easy access to the store in a pinch. A few things that are handy to keep near and on hand are:

• Ear tagger and ear tags (with numbers prewritten, if you can!)
• Portable scale and sling if taking birth weights
• Record book or record-keeping app
• Iodine spray for the calf’s navel
• A sorting stick to keep mom at bay while you help her calf
• Bottles and tubes
• Colostrum powder, milk replacer and electrolytes
• Pulling chains and any attachments
• Access to hot water
• A calf warmer, or a place to warm them up
• Clothes of varying weights and warmth for varying weather
• Caffeine – and maybe whiskey!

3. Colostrum is critical for the calf’s immune system.

Colostrum is the mother’s first milk and the calf’s first source of immunity and nutrients. Antibodies from colostrum protect calves until their naive immune systems are fully functional. Calves are susceptible early on to a host of potential illnesses, so ensuring that they nurse and/or are supplemented with colostrum in the first hours after birth is crucial to their lifelong success. That’s an important fact to consider, especially when many beef producers don’t have access to a calving barn — or an easy way to get to the calf — when the calf first hits the ground.

Once the calf nurses, not only is getting that colostrum in their system critical, but the quality of the colostrum can affect the success of the calf as well. For better colostrum quality, the rancher needs to look toward the dam. Cows start producing colostrum around five weeks before they give birth, so it is essential to consider the dam’s nutritional needs well before birth to enhance her colostrum quality and, subsequently, the health of her calf. Choosing from the Bio-Mos range of nutritional technologies is one great way to give your calves a strong start to a healthy life.

4. A balancing act is happening in the gut.

Dr. Roberts and I took time to talk about how the antibodies the calf consumes by way of colostrum affect its health and immunity. What it comes down to is a balancing act happening in the gut.

Good bacteria are constantly fighting to keep the pathogenic bacteria in check. Simultaneously, the animal’s immune system is fighting the pathogenic bacteria. The immune system and the good bacteria work together to keep the animal healthy and to suppress the pathogenic bacteria. When antibiotics are used, this clears out the pathogenic bacteria AND the good bacteria. When the gut recolonizes, the animal is at risk for pathogenic bacteria recolonizing at a quicker rate than the good bacteria, leaving the immune system as the last and only line of defense when antibiotics are removed.

The first couple weeks after birth can remain a period of elevated risk as the maternal antibodies disappear and the calf’s immunity is still maturing, as shown in the diagram. In fact, according to Dr. Roberts, “Mortality data shows that most calf death occurs within the first two weeks of life.”

5. There are so many options, but all nutrition products are not created equal.

When producers are considering nutrition strategies, Dr. Roberts encourages them to think holistically about dam nutrition by considering the seasonal changes in the dam’s nutrition needs. Her needs — and the needs of the calf — will vary throughout the seasons.

Nutritional solutions like Bio-Mos® are beneficial pre-calving and beyond. Since the 1980s, Alltech has been conducting studies on these technologies, and the calf research has shown the following results:

• Maintenance of gastrointestinal health
• Alteration of intestinal microbial populations
• Stimulation of immune activity
• Stimulation of the natural defenses of the animal 

Bio-Mos has also been tested in different life stage changes — like transitional receiving diets. In a study conducted in a commercial feedlot in Southern Alberta in Canada, 902 mixed-breed, newly weaned beef cattle were split into two groups, one fed a control and one supplemented with Bio-Mos. Cattle fed Bio-Mos showed improved average daily gain and maintained a healthy immune response. 

Calving season is a critical time of year for producers, as healthy calves on the ground directly affect the success of the operation throughout the whole year. Consider utilizing these tips and tools to put your cattle in the best position for a successful start and a successful life. Best of luck, and happy calving!

About the author:

An Ohio farm girl with roots down in Kansas on her husband's family cow-calf operation in the beautiful Kansas Flint Hills, Cece Blythe's involvement in the cattle industry is more than her job, but her lifestyle. She pursued her interest in agriculture through her degree in agribusiness and applied economics from The Ohio State University and comes to Alltech with a background in livestock genetics and marketing.

Cece has been with Alltech since 2020, where she serves as the Western U.S. marketing manager.

I want to learn more about nutrition for beef cattle. 

Sustainability has become a defining buzzword in agriculture, but what does it truly mean for the cattle industry? While some may dismiss it as a trendy marketing term, sustainability is at the core of how we meet present needs without compromising the future. For livestock producers, this means navigating the growing complexity of balancing environmental, social and economic factors.

The evolution of sustainability in agriculture

Believe it or not, the term “sustainability” is fairly new to agriculture’s vocabulary. Before the 1970s, it was virtually unknown, not just in agriculture but in the English language. Over time, it became central to agriculture, where it was initially defined as minimizing waste, conserving resources and promoting ecosystem resilience.

As definitions evolved, the concept expanded into the well-known “three pillars of sustainability”: environmental soundness, social responsibility and economic viability.

Yet for livestock producers, these pillars only scratch the surface.

The five pillars of livestock sustainability

For the livestock sector, sustainability demands a broader framework. These five key pillars provide a practical roadmap for producers:

1. Environmental stewardship: Managing natural resources responsibly to mitigate climate impacts
2. Animal health and welfare: Prioritizing practices that ensure livestock are healthy and well cared for
3. Social awareness: Building trust and maintaining a positive connection between producers and society
4. Food safety: Delivering nutritious, safe products to consumers
5. Financial viability: Ensuring long-term profitability for producers and rural communities

Why does sustainability matter for livestock producers?

The world’s population is growing rapidly, with an estimated 2.3 billion more people expected by 2050. This growth translates to a 60% increase in global food demand, including higher meat consumption in both developed and developing countries. Meeting this demand requires sustainable practices in order to produce more with fewer resources, ensuring food security without depleting the environment.

Livestock plays a critical role in global nutrition, contributing up to 31% of kilocalories and 60% of protein consumption. Beyond food production, livestock supports rural livelihoods, cultural practices, and even biodiversity management through controlled grazing.

Cattle’s economic impact

In the U.S. alone, cattle production accounts for 17% of the $520 billion agricultural market. The livestock industry not only feeds the world but also drives local and national economies. Meat processing plants employ over a third of the agricultural workforce, highlighting the sector’s importance in job creation and economic stability.

Livestock’s role in environmental management

Livestock is a tool for sustainable land management. How do grazing animals help control the grasslands? They maintain plant biodiversity and counter competition from encroaching tall plants.

Controlled grazing practices also reduce wildfire risks. Research from California shows that livestock grazing can mitigate shrub overgrowth and lower burn probabilities, offering a cost-effective solution to wildfire prevention in vulnerable areas.

What does sustainability mean for you?

If you care about the health and welfare of your animals, the financial success of your operation, the safety of your products, and the stewardship of the land, you’re already prioritizing sustainability. By implementing practices aligned with these values, you’re contributing to a more sustainable future for the cattle industry — and for the planet.

Closing thoughts

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a framework for creating a resilient, productive and ethical livestock industry. By focusing on environmental stewardship, animal welfare, social responsibility, food safety and financial viability, producers can meet growing demands while protecting the future.

About the author:

Dr. Sebastian Mejia Turcios is an on-farm support specialist at Alltech with a focus on beef. In this role, he actively engages with others at various levels of the beef industry on topics related to sustainability.

Mejia Turcios is passionate about sharing his knowledge and research with industry leaders, producers, educators and other stakeholders in animal agriculture. Born and raised in Honduras, Mejia Turcios became involved in agriculture at an early age, with a particular love for livestock — which eventually became the focus of his studies. He earned a bachelor’s degree in agronomy from EARTH University in Costa Rica and a master’s degree in animal science from Texas Tech University.

Mejia Turcios completed his Ph.D. in June 2024 at the University of California, Davis, under the direction of Dr. Frank Mitloehner, an internationally known professor of animal agriculture who is also an air-quality expert and director of the CLEAR Center at UC Davis.

I want to learn more about nutrition for beef cattle.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Barley

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

Wheat

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

Forages

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

On Nov. 21, 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, panellists shared valuable insights for managing risks across the supply chain. Here are the key takeaways:

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

Register online at alltech.com/harvest-analysis to gain access to the recording of the broadcast as well as the full 2024 Alltech Harvest Analysis programme, including the complete European report, which is available now.

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

[DUNBOYNE, Ireland] – Alltech, a global leader in animal nutrition and agriculture, was honoured at this year’s Better Farming Awards for the Best Journalistic Content of the Year for the World Without Cows documentary and the Best Adaptation Product for the KEENAN Diet Feeder. They were also finalists in the categories of Best Environmental Research Programme/Project for the Alltech EU Applications Lab, "Eminex and AD Additives: Advancing On-Farm GHG Reduction, Biogas Optimisation, and Sustainable Agriculture in Ireland"; and Best AgriTech Science Product for Alltech Optigen^®.

“These nominations and awards are not only a wonderful achievement for the teams from the Alltech Ireland family of companies and all that they work for day in and day out, but huge recognition for the global effort put into World Without Cows and the difference it can make for the agricultural industry far and wide,” said Rachel White, Alltech Ireland marketing manager.  

World Without Cows is a feature-length documentary that explores the complexity behind a seemingly simple question – “Would we be better off in a world without cows?” It is a Planet of Plenty^® production, commissioned by Alltech president and CEO Dr. Mark Lyons and developed and filmed by award-winning journalists Michelle Michael and Brandon Whitworth. Through interviews with farmers, ranchers, scientists, and others on the front lines of producing food and sustaining the environment, the filmmakers take viewers on a global journey to deepen their understanding of everything cows contribute and what the world might look like without them.

“KEENAN was crowned winner for Best Adaptation Product, recognising how the KEENAN system improves farm production efficiency and carbon footprint, and this research led to accreditation by the Carbon Trust,” said Robert Walker, chief growth officer at Alltech and CEO of KEENAN. “This is a proud moment and great validation for our team who have worked hard over the past 18 months. After making significant changes to our KEENAN business in 2023, we are pleased to report that we have a great pipeline of sales, our financials are strong, and we are working on some very significant innovations. Well done to our entire team!”

The Alltech team is also proud of their showing in the research category, as it was the most competitive category in the contest, with only five points out of a possible 300 separating all four finalists.

“Alltech's hard work was recognized beyond our walls at the Better Farming Awards as we were named finalists of the KPMG Best Environmental Research Project for our groundbreaking slurry additive research and biogas product development, all driven by the dedication of our Applications Lab team,” said Dr. Patrick Ward, Europe and Asia-Pacific applications manager at Alltech. “Our mission is to keep leading the charge in reducing on-farm GHG emissions, whether it’s for ruminants or swine, and to powerfully support the Irish and global biomethane industry. Congratulations to the entire team, and a heartfelt thanks to our partners at Alzchem, who stood with us at the awards.”

For more information, visit Alltech Ireland alltech.com/en-ie, KEENAN alltech.com/keenan and World Without Cows worldwithoutcows.com.

Weaning can be stressful for both calves and producers. A good diet can help, supporting the calves’ growth and productivity throughout the feeding period. Importantly, such a diet can also guard against illness and bacterial infection, both of which can gain a toehold at this transitional time.

Respiratory disease is the most common ailment during the weaning period. For example, a calf is most susceptible to bovine respiratory disease (BRD) during its first four weeks post-weaning. BRD costs the beef industry over $1 billion annually, and prevention is key in reducing treatment costs and preventing performance losses.

Gut health is crucial

Since an animal’s digestive tract contains approximately 70% of its entire immune system, rumen development and gut health should be at the top of the list when weaning and receiving calves and getting them started on feed.

Gut health refers to an animal’s ability to efficiently absorb and utilize nutrients and to keep harmful microbes and pathogens contained. If the lining, or barrier, of the digestive tract is weak, these microbes and pathogens can escape into the rest of the body, causing numerous diseases, including BRD.

Because cattle stressors — not only weaning itself, but transportation, commingling, changes in diet, and diet restriction — can harm the gut lining, continuous support for gut health is essential. Feeding strategies that focus on this are vital to increasing performance and reducing treatment costs, leading to more profitable production.

Vitamins and minerals

Many good articles and blogs are available to provide tips for successfully weaning calves and adapting them to feed. A good rule of thumb is that calves should be consuming 2.5% to 3% (on a 100% dry matter basis) of their body weight within the first 30 days post weaning. Gradual increases in feed quantity, along with gradual diet or ingredient changes, will aid in the proper adaptation of rumen microflora, improving gut health.

However, feed quantity is only part of the puzzle. Microbes within the digestive tract have vitamin and mineral requirements for proper function and nutrient digestion. Supplementing these in the weaning ration is crucial to gut health, not only supporting nutrient uptake overall but enhancing immunity and improving response to vaccines and treatments.

Vitamin and mineral supplements vary widely and should be chosen carefully for maximum benefit. For example, organic trace minerals are considerably more bioavailable to calves during weaning, which aids in nutrient absorption, bolsters gut health, and reduces harmful excretions of excess minerals into the environment.

Beneficial bacteria

Prebiotics and probiotics are also gaining ground in today’s feeding and supplementation programs. Both are excellent options to improve gut health at weaning.

Prebiotics are non-digestible feed ingredients that selectively stimulate the growth and activity of bacteria within the digestive tract, providing “food” for the beneficial microbes already existing there. Research shows that prebiotics enhance rumen fermentation, improve digestion, aid in nutrient absorption, and contribute to immune system development.

Probiotics are specific types of live microorganisms, including bacteria from the Bacillus, Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Enterococcus groups as well as mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) derived from yeasts such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae. They help shift the gut microbiome in favor of helpful microbes that are known to improve health and performance. Probiotics also naturally produce metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), vitamins, enzymes and antimicrobial compounds, which play important roles in building gut health and integrity and reducing harmful inflammation.

Weaning is an especially tricky time, but a smart diet strategy can turn it into an opportunity. By providing good nutrition to your calves, you can promote growth and productivity, prevent illness and infection, and maximize profitability.

About the author: 

Bryan Sanderson grew up in Lake Preston, South Dakota, and spent most of his childhood working on pig, crop and cattle farms. After receiving a degree in animal science from South Dakota State University, with minors in ag marketing and ag business, Bryan began his impressive career in animal agriculture. With experience in livestock production, feedlot supervision, sales and finance, Bryan is currently the U.S. beef business manager for Alltech.

I want to learn more about beef nutrition. 

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Preliminary analysis of corn silage samples in the U.S. reveals a high increase in mycotoxin contamination compared to 2023, with all samples containing two or more mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are produced by certain species of molds and are a concern for livestock producers as they can influence feed quality and subsequent animal health and performance. The Alltech 2024 U.S. Harvest Analysis uncovers the true threat mycotoxins pose to animals and producers.

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 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 preliminary results of the 2024 analysis deliver an early insight into the mycotoxin landscape. The Alltech U.S. Harvest Analysis, a decade-long initiative, is a comprehensive step in understanding the complexities of new-crop quality, mycotoxin prevalence, and the threat that mycotoxins pose to animals and producers. To determine the most accurate representation of mycotoxin risk across the U.S., samples are collected by Alltech representatives and sent to the company’s headquarters in Kentucky, where the Alltech 37+^® laboratory can detect up to 54 individual mycotoxins.

“The weather pattern for 2024 is a prime driver for the change in corn silage mycotoxin risk. The precipitation over the upper Midwest started early and, in many areas, delayed planting or caused replanting,” said Dr. Max Hawkins, technical support manager with Alltech’s mycotoxin management team. “This excess moisture is a stimulant for Fusarium mold growth, which can produce mycotoxins such as type B trichothecenes, emerging mycotoxins and zearalenone. Overall, the numbers of mycotoxins per sample are 8.3 for 2024 versus 5.3 for 2023. The risk equivalent quantity (REQ), or risk estimate, from all the mycotoxin present is 201.6, or higher risk, vs. 122.7 for 2023.”

Alltech’s REQ is a system that measures the cumulative risk of multiple mycotoxins in feed, making it easier to evaluate contamination. It combines mycotoxin levels into a single value, helping producers manage feed safety and quality.

Weather and mycotoxin risk

The spike in contamination is largely attributed to significant rainfall across the upper Midwest, which created favorable conditions for the growth of Fusarium molds. These molds are responsible for producing various harmful mycotoxins, particularly type B trichothecenes, which pose the highest risk.

Key mycotoxins in 2024 corn silage

• Type B trichothecenes: These mycotoxins have seen a sharp increase, with an average concentration of 1,863 parts per billion (ppb) and a staggering maximum level of 43,717 ppb. In comparison, 2023 averages were notably lower, at 1,014 ppb with a maximum of 29,853 ppb.
• Zearalenone: Levels of zearalenone, known for its estrogenic effects in livestock, also rose significantly in 2024. The average concentration was 102 ppb, with a maximum of 2,134 ppb. In 2023, these values were much lower, at an average of 28 ppb and a maximum of 1,171 ppb.
• Emerging mycotoxins: Samples to date have shown an average of 100 ppb with a peak level of 4,300 ppb, up from 73 ppb and 987 ppb in 2023.

With corn harvest progressing well, the number of samples arriving at the lab are increasing week on week. Early indications are similar to last year, with risk increasing as you move to the East, following the rainfall patterns. This risk is due primarily to Fusarium mycotoxins, type B trichothecenes, fumonisin and zearalenone. These toxins can have a significant impact on monogastric performance, reproduction and overall health. More details on the corn grain samples will follow in the main report in the coming weeks.

Alltech will host a live broadcast, “From Field to Feed: 2024 Crop and Mycotoxin Analysis,” on Nov. 21 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern, streamed live from Alltech’s headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky, U.S. The broadcast will cover:

• Global weather impacts on crops
• Preliminary harvest results from key regions
• Trends in global trade and supply chains
• Practical tips for optimizing your feed decisions
• A live panel discussion

Register online at alltech.com/harvest-analysis to attend the live broadcast and to access the full Harvest Analysis program, as well as the full U.S. report when it is released. For more information about Alltech’s mycotoxin management solutions, visit knowmycotoxins.com

[DUNBOYNE, Ireland] – Alltech, a global leader in biotechnology, has just released an interim report with the preliminary findings of its mycotoxin testing programme, the Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis. This report offers early, detailed and actionable insights about this year’s mycotoxin risks.

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

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

The newly released interim report shows moderate to high mycotoxin risk so far in 2024, with significant regional variations. This is similar to the results seen at this time last year. Type B trichothecenes and emerging mycotoxins are most prevalent, but type B trichothecenes like deoxynivalenol are bringing the most risk in grains.

Increasing weather fluctuations are a major contributor to today’s rising mycotoxin risks, which vary widely by region. For example, early-season rains and floods followed by late-season droughts have created distinct challenges for crop producers this year across central and southeastern Europe. Some countries, including Hungary, Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria, are showing high levels of aflatoxin B1 in corn grain samples, with concentrations of up to 506 ppb.

“This year's weather in Europe has been extreme and unpredictable, which has been reflected in the behaviour of moulds and the production of mycotoxins. The mycotoxin risk for all animal species is medium to high, and for some mycotoxins, such as aflatoxin B1, even extremely high,” said Dr. Radka Borutova, global technical support for the Technology Group at Alltech. “The application of effective mycotoxin management is the only way to break this deadlock.”

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

Wheat and barley

Wheat samples analysed to date are averaging 7.7 mycotoxins per sample, with 99% containing multiple mycotoxins. Barley samples show an average of 6.3 mycotoxins, with 98% of samples containing multiple mycotoxins. The most prevalent mycotoxins in both wheat and barley are emerging mycotoxins and type B trichothecenes. The overall risk for both barley and wheat is moderate.

Straw

For straw, samples tested so far show an average of 5.9 mycotoxins per sample, with 91% of samples containing multiple mycotoxins. The most prevalent are emerging mycotoxins and deoxynivalenol, with the overall risk being high.

Forages

For grass and corn silage, the preliminary findings show 2.9 mycotoxins per sample on average, with 68% of samples containing multiple mycotoxins. The most prevalent are type B trichothecenes and Penicillium mycotoxins such as penicillic acid, mycophenolic acid and patulin, with the overall risk being high.

Once testing and analysis have been completed, the full Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis report will be released, giving a more complete and detailed breakdown of key results by region, crop and species.

Alltech will host a live broadcast, “From Field to Feed: 2024 Crop and Mycotoxin Analysis,” on Nov. 21 at 10:00 a.m. EST, streamed live from Alltech’s headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky, U.S. The broadcast will cover:

• Global weather impacts on crops
• Preliminary harvest results from key regions
• Trends in global trade and supply chains
• Practical tips for optimising your feed decisions
• A live panel discussion

Register online at alltech.com/harvest-analysis to attend the live broadcast and to access the full Harvest Analysis programme, including the interim report available now and the full report when it is released.

For more information about Alltech Mycotoxin Management solutions, visit knowmycotoxins.com.