[LEXINGTON, Ky.] Alltech, a leading global animal nutrition company, has been awarded four new medals from EcoVadis, a globally recognized provider of business sustainability assessments. These medals are a testament to Alltech’s purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty^® and the company’s commitment implementing environmentally and economically sustainable solutions, fostering ethical business conduct, and prioritizing the efficient production of nutritious food.

EcoVadis evaluates companies across 21 sustainability criteria within four core themes: environment, labor and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement. Its ratings are based on international sustainability standards, including the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact, the International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions, the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards and the ISO 26000 guidelines. More than 130,000 companies have been rated by EcoVadis.

Two Alltech facilities earned Platinum Medals, placing them in the top 1% of the more than 200,000 businesses assessed by EcoVadis:

• Alltech Coppens in the Netherlands, which develops and produces high-quality, innovative fish feed and nutritional solutions
• Alltech’s Woolfox manufacturing facility in the United Kingdom

In addition, Alltech’s global operations and its manufacturing facility in Serdán, Mexico, earned EcoVadis Silver Medals, ranking them in the top 15% of businesses assessed.

“Three years ago, Alltech outlined a strategic vision for our ESG ambitions with a focus on proof points and team confidence. Over that time, we’ve expanded our policies, introduced new systems, conducted training and taken a lot of action,” said Tara McCarthy, Alltech’s global vice president of ESG. “It gives a great sense of achievement to the entire Alltech team to see that EcoVadis has recognized these efforts. Our ambition to build upon this proof remains strong, with five more assessments planned this year. Our commitment to embed best practice is unwavering as we carry out our purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty.”

The EcoVadis process validates Alltech’s sustainability performance and offers a clear roadmap for enhancing its impact.

Alltech continues to reach for ambitious ESG targets, find areas for improvement and innovation, and strive to nurture a culture of sustainability,” McCarthy said. “We have made great progress, but we know that there is always more work to be done.”

The company’s commitment to demonstrating its credentials in the global supply chain continues around the world as several additional locations prepare for EcoVadis assessments, including the Alltech European Bioscience Centre in Dunboyne, Ireland, which submitted its assessment this week.

Each year, Alltech shares its progress in the Alltech Sustainability Report, which outlines actions taken to align the business with its commitments to the United Nations Global Compact, the U.N. Ten Principles and the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals. Learn more by reading the most recent report at alltech.com/sustainability.

For more information, visit Alltech.com.

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Backed by more than 40 years of scientific research, Alltech is dedicated to providing solutions and products that contribute to the success of the global animal health industry. This commitment continues with the publication of a new white paper, “Dietary biotics: Strategies to optimize pet intestinal health and wellbeing,” by Dr. Richard Murphy, director of research at Alltech, and Dr. Karina Horgan, research group director of Alltech’s biology division. The new white paper explores the role of pre-, pro- and postbiotics in supporting pet gut health and wellness.

The paper highlights the growing importance of gut health in companion animal nutrition, emphasizing the link between a balanced microbiome and overall wellbeing.

"The microbiome plays a crucial role in nutrient absorption, immune function and disease resistance," said Dr. Murphy. "By incorporating targeted dietary biotics into pet nutrition, we can positively influence gut health, mitigate the effects of harmful pathogens and improve overall pet wellbeing."

A well-balanced intestinal microbiome is essential for digestion, immune response, and maintaining a healthy gut barrier. When gastrointestinal (GI) health is compromised, nutrient digestion and absorption are affected and susceptibility to disease is heightened. The paper details how specific biotic interventions — prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics — can support a healthy gut ecosystem, ensuring improved digestive health, stronger immunity and enhanced resilience against pathogens.

"Not all biotics are created equal, and understanding the differences between pre-, pro-, and postbiotics is key to selecting the right nutritional solutions," said Dr. Murphy. "We have reviewed the literature and examined how these nutritional interventions interact within the gut to support microbiome stability and long-term health benefits for pets."

The white paper also explores the role of yeast-derived prebiotics, such as mannan-rich fraction (MRF), in pathogen control and microbiome modulation. Studies have shown that these components not only help prevent harmful bacteria from colonizing the gut, but also stimulate the growth of beneficial microbes. Additionally, probiotics and postbiotics contribute to gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria and enhancing immune response mechanisms.

"The stability and efficacy of biotic supplements are crucial considerations for pet food manufacturers and pet owners alike," said Dr. Horgan. "Peer-reviewed research has demonstrated that properly formulated dietary biotics can have significant positive effects on pet health and performance."

Understanding the science behind gut microbiome management is becoming increasingly important as pet owners seek out nutritional solutions that promote longevity and vitality. This latest white paper serves as a comprehensive resource for pet food manufacturers, veterinarians, and pet owners looking to harness the benefits of dietary biotics.

Click here to download the white paper, or visit Alltech.com for more information.

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Alltech is pleased to announce its reaccreditation with the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC), a nonprofit organization that accelerates sustainability in the pet industry through education, implementation tools and collaboration. Companies accredited by PSC are sustainably led and measured businesses that drive positive impact for pets, people and the planet, which aligns with Alltech’s purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty^®.

“For the last five years, Alltech is proud to again partner with the Pet Sustainability Coalition as part of our commitment to driving sustainability in the pet industry,” said Steve Elliott, Alltech’s vice president for corporate accounts and companion animals. “Our reaccreditation for the fifth year not only helps us stay ahead of evolving environmental and social expectations but also supports our mission to create a healthier future for pets and the planet.”

PSC offers companies many tools to help them align with responsible, sustainable business practices, such as good governance, supply chain efficiency, and informed strategizing. All these will help Alltech continue to strengthen our support for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Since PSC also offers a substantial platform for coordination between its accredited companies, this partnership will specifically dovetail with SDG Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals and with Alltech’s own to partnering with like-minded organizations on these important issues.

For more information, visit petsustainability.org and alltech.com/animal-nutrition/pet.

[BANGKOK, Thailand] – Alltech, a global leader in animal nutrition, will participate in VIV Asia 2025, March 12–14 at IMPACT in Bangkok, Thailand. With a focus on promoting sustainable food production, Alltech will highlight innovative solutions that enhance profitability, animal health, and environmental sustainability across the agri-food value chain.

The global team of Alltech experts will be at Booth #3410, Hall 2. For producers, suppliers and industry professionals, the Alltech booth will offer a unique opportunity to interact directly with the company’s experts and explore the latest developments in the agri-food sector.

In line with its purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty^®, Alltech will emphasize its commitment to sustainability through partnerships and innovations that address global food security, climate change and resource scarcity. At VIV Asia, attendees can expect to learn how Alltech’s solutions support a sustainable future for the agri-food industry.

Alltech’s programs at VIV Asia include:

• Seminar: Transforming animal nutrition: Evolving technologies to shape a sustainable and profitable future
  • When: March 12, 14:00–15:45
  • Venue: Jupiter 5, G Floor IMPACT
     
• Alltech 2025 Asia Import Risk Analysis: This valuable report highlights key regional and animal-specific mycotoxin concerns in imported raw materials for animal feed.
   
• Introducing Agolin^®: This cutting-edge, eco-friendly solution is designed to promote animal productivity while supporting sustainability goals. Agolin will be featured at the Alltech booth and discussed in-depth during the event.
   
• World Without Cows screening: Filmmakers Michelle Michael and Brandon Whitworth have spent the past three years exploring a fascinating question: Are we better off in a world without cows? The thought-provoking documentary World Without Cows delves into the cultural, societal and environmental significance of cows, examining their vital role in nourishing the world and combating climate change.
  • When: March 12, 17:30–21:00
  • Venue: Summer House, Nai Lert Park 4 Soi Somkid Ploechit Road, Bangkok
     
• Alltech Happy Hour: Visitors are invited to enjoy refreshing drinks at the Alltech booth.
  • When: March 12 and 13, 15:00–16:00

For more information, visit Alltech.com.

August 3 is a date that holds special significance for the Alltech family. This year, Alltech team members around the world are reflecting on the legacy of founder Dr. Pearse Lyons, who would have celebrated his 80th birthday in 2024.

Known for his innovative spirit and compassionate heart, Dr. Lyons inspired so many to make a positive impact in the lives of others. In his honor, Alltech team members have embraced Make a Difference Day, an opportunity to give back to our communities. Frequently, Make a Difference projects extend well beyond that one day, and many are close, long-standing relationships with organizations in need.

This year, Alltech New Zealand has chosen to focus on a cause close to their hearts: Saving Hope, a dedicated pup rescue and rehabilitation organization that lives by the motto “No Dog Left Behind.” Since its founding in 2017 by mother-daughter duo Janine and Anita Hinton, Saving Hope has successfully rescued, rehabilitated and rehomed over 3,000 dogs. Its commitment to a “no-kill” policy has provided countless rescue pups with the care and love they deserve.

In alignment with the Make a Difference campaign, the Alltech New Zealand team organized a blanket drive for Saving Hope, collecting essential items such as blankets, bedding, dog food, and accessories.

They were thrilled to partner with The Natural Pet Treat Company Limited, which generously donated 3,000 bottles of lactose-free pet milk. Additionally, three local Bunnings Warehouse stores in Manukau, Mt. Wellington and Botany served as donation points, enabling the community to contribute directly to the mission.

This outpouring of generosity by the Alltech New Zealand team alongside these community partners reflects the shared commitment to animal welfare that Dr. Lyons championed throughout his life.

Saving Hope expressed gratitude on social media, stating, “It has been an incredible month for kind souls wanting to help the pups in our care.”

If you feel inspired to make a difference in the lives of rescue pups, consider ways you can donate or otherwise contribute to a dog shelter, including:

1. Pet team collaborations: Join forces with local animal shelters and organizations like Saving Hope to amplify your impact.
2. Dog shelter donations: Items such as food, blankets and toys are always in demand. Check with your local shelter for specific needs.
3. Organize a drive: Set up your own blanket or food drive in your community to collect essential items for your favorite shelter.
4. Spread the word: Share on social media about pup rescues and how others can help.

Your time and contributions can help transform lives, one pup at a time. Together, we can ensure that no dog is left behind.

For more information on how to support Saving Hope, or to learn about other ways to help rescue pups, reach out to the Alltech team or visit Saving Hope today.

About the author:

Terran Ronne is head of marketing for global pet and corporate accounts at Alltech. She has been with Alltech since 2015 and previously served as the company’s Midwest marketing specialist and Western U.S. marketing manager. She is former president of the National Agri-Marketing Association’s Northern Prairie chapter and served as the treasurer of its board for four years. Ronne holds an undergraduate degree in public relations and journalism from North Dakota State University and a master’s degree in agriculture from Murray State University. She is based in the Alltech office in Brookings, South Dakota.

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Alltech has released its annual Sustainability Report, which demonstrates the actions the company is taking to align its business with its purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty^®, reducing its environmental impact and advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Alltech is committed to prioritizing the efficient and profitable production of nutritious food while helping producers worldwide implement solutions to their sustainability and productivity challenges. The Alltech Sustainability Report highlights how Working Together for a Planet of Plenty shapes Alltech’s business — and its future.

“Everything we do is centered on helping us advance our purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty,” said Tara McCarthy, global vice president for ESG at Alltech. “We have made great progress toward our ESG goals, but we know that there is always more work to be done. Alltech team members around the world have shown unwavering commitment to sustainable and ethical business practices. We continue to strive for ambitious ESG targets, find areas for improvement and innovation, and nurture a culture of sustainability.”

Guided by its Planet of Plenty purpose, Alltech is committed to:

• Delivering measurable impact via nutritional technologies and services that maximize producer profitability, production efficiency and sustainability.
• Connecting with global partners to solve high-impact issues and advance sustainable agricultural practices.
• Advocating for the agri-food industry, sharing the sustainable power of science in agri-food via its Planet of Plenty website and through projects like the upcoming documentary World Without Cows.
• Investing in education and research to address issues such as soil health, greenhouse gases, carbon sequestration, methane mitigation, antimicrobial resistance — and more.
• Sharpening its ESG strategy by continually reducing its environmental impact, prioritizing social responsibility and adopting governance practices that ensure transparency and accountability.

Through data and stories from Alltech team members around the world, the 2023 Alltech Sustainability Report emphasizes the role of agriculture in combatting climate change and creating healthy, sustainable food systems. It also includes information about Alltech’s emissions reduction goals and highlights its efforts to improve energy usage, reduce waste, and advance environmental actions in the industry. Additionally, the report outlines the steps Alltech has taken to promote a diverse and inclusive work environment and demonstrates its team members’ efforts to make a difference in the communities in which they live and work.

2023 highlights include:

• Alltech has reduced its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 19.8% from its 2021 base year. It aims to reduce its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 42% by 2030 (from its 2021 base year) and its Scope 3 emissions by 25% by 2030 (from its 2023 base year).
• Alltech completed 19 energy efficiency projects. It conducted 31 energy efficiency project feasibility studies and six renewable energy project feasibility studies. The company invested $3.85 million in efficiency projects in 2023, resulting in the reduction of 8,990 metric tons of CO₂e.
• Alltech completed 74 core product life-cycle analyses across its top seven specialty ingredients and 17 production facilities.
• Alltech was awarded three EcoVadis sustainability medals in 2023.
• Alltech Serdán was recertified in 2023 as Empresa Socialmente Responsible (ESR).
• Alltech was accredited by the Pet Sustainability Coalition for the third year in a row.
• Sixty team members participated in the Women in Food & Agriculture Mentorship Program.

“2023 was another milestone year for Alltech as we advanced our mission and vision of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech. “In the five years since it was launched at the Alltech ONE Conference in Kentucky, Planet of Plenty has become a strategic driver of our business and an accelerator of what is even more important: our impact. Through new partnerships and ongoing collaboration with trusted allies we’ve worked alongside for decades, we continue to drive progress toward our shared goal of a world of abundance for future generations.”

Alltech continues to serve as a voice for the industry, advancing agri-food innovation and highlighting agriculture’s role in nourishing the world and nurturing the planet. Through publications like the Alltech Sustainability Insights Report, the Alltech Sustainability Report, Agri-Food Outlook, Harvest Analysis, Import Risk Analysis and others, the company serves as an industry thought leader and helps to address some of the most pressing issues facing the agri-food community.

Alltech shares the sustainable power of science in agri-food through stories, podcasts, blogs and videos on its Planet of Plenty website. This year, Alltech is promoting Planet of Plenty’s first feature-length documentary, World Without Cows, a three-year exploration of the true impact of cattle on our world.

The film takes viewers to more than 40 locations around the world to hear insights from leading scientists, farmers, economists and other experts about the cultural and economic significance of cattle, their role in nourishing the world and their impact on climate. It aims to broaden the conversation about the role of cattle and to inspire deeper reflection about their role in the vitality of our planet. Learn more at worldwithoutcows.com.

For more information and to download the 2023 Alltech Sustainability Report in full, visit alltech.com/sustainability.

Functional nutrition and your pet

Like humans, pets rely on balanced nutrition to support their bodies in every way, from providing energy to promoting immunity, well-being, brain function and even reproduction. This means that for optimal health, pets need a diet full of essential nutrients and functional ingredients.

Modern pet nutrition begins with solutions for the gut, where the animal’s food is initially absorbed and utilized. Without a healthy gut, all other body systems suffer — and the key to maintaining pet gut health is introducing beneficial bacteria.

We may think of bacteria as a bad thing, but in fact, all animals rely on beneficial bacteria for health. The bacteria in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract constitute the gut microbiome, which needs to maintain enough good bacteria to keep the bad bacteria in check. With a good gut microbiome balance including diverse and healthy bacteria, nutrients from food are readily absorbed and utilized, maximizing nutrition and minimizing food waste.

Of course, a healthy gut supports healthy digestion, helping your pet avoid common GI issues such as loose stools. But a strong gut barrier and gut immune response also have benefits across multiple body systems. With a strong microbiome, your pet is more likely to have healthy skin and a glossy coat, plenty of energy, and overall comfort and well-being.  

From giving a puppy or kitten the best start in life to supporting a senior pet’s changing needs, and at every stage in between, providing the right diet is essential. It can also help a pet’s GI system recover when it is damaged due to illness, infection or antibiotic treatments.

The gut health and immunity connection

The gut has a strong influence on immune response. It is often the first system to “recognize” pathogens and respond to infections. Disruptions to gut health can compromise these immune functions and increase the animal’s susceptibility to disease. In fact, research has found that 90% of diseases can be traced back to problems with gut health and the microbiome. This highlights the significant benefits of a healthy gut for resistance and resilience against illness and infection.

The power of prebiotics

You may have heard of probiotics, but what about prebiotics? These innovative fiber supplements boost microbial diversity, strongly supporting your pet’s natural defenses.

Microbuild™, from Alltech, is a prebiotic fiber supplement that nurtures gut health and overall pet well-being. This nutritional technology is based on a specific strain of yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which has been specifically selected and cultivated by Alltech scientists for maximum efficacy in promoting intestinal health.

Microbuild, launched in 2023, got its start in the revolutionary science of nutrigenomics, which studies the unique relationship between nutrition and gene expression. It’s also based on decades of Alltech research and development, using yeast-based solutions to address a broad range of health issues across multiple species.

Even during bacterial challenges, Microbuild works to increase microbial diversity in the gut, sustaining pet health across the lifespan. With the simple inclusion of Microbuild in a balanced and nutritious diet, pet owners will see a real and lasting difference in their pets’ health.

To learn more about how Microbuild works and how you can use it to promote a happier, healthier life for your pet, contact us at alltech.com/microbuild.

About the author: 

Steve Elliott serves as global vice president, corporate accounts and pet, at Alltech. Prior to this role, Elliott was Alltech’s global director of the mineral management and enzyme divisions. He has worked with Alltech for nearly 30 years.

Elliott sits on the executive board of the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) and also serves on its equine committee. He is an active member of the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists (ARPAS). Elliott has authored or co-authored numerous articles for professional journals and trade publications about trace mineral status and how it can affect the well-being of animals and local populations. His current research focuses on the various ways that organic trace minerals — and selenium in particular — can improve the health and performance of modern livestock.

Elliott holds an undergraduate degree in animal science and a graduate degree in nutrition from the University of Florida.

[DUNBOYNE, Ireland] – Alltech has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting gender diversity, equality and inclusion across the global meat and food supply chain by signing a two-year strategic partnership with Meat Business Women.

Meat Business Women and Alltech will work together to develop and empower team members through access to masterclasses and mentoring development resources. They will also collaborate to attract new talent into the agri-food sector. As a strategic partner, Alltech will provide expertise and input into the group’s strategic direction and support its wider mission of raising the profile of women in the meat industry.

The organisations will also collaborate on two regional “Community Connect” events which will facilitate networking opportunities for professionals working across the entire agri-food supply chain. These networking events will both take place at Alltech offices: one in Stamford, UK, on Thursday, July 11, 2024, and one in Dunboyne, Ireland, on Thursday, September 5, 2024.

Orla McAleer, Alltech’s chief culture officer, will speak at both events, and will be joined in Stamford by Dr. Jules Taylor-Pickard, global technical director at Alltech, and in Dunboyne by Tara McCarthy, Alltech’s global vice president of ESG. They will speak about pivotal moments from their career journeys and share more about why the two organisations are working together.

“We are thrilled to partner with Meat Business Women to champion gender diversity and inclusion within the agri-food sector. By empowering women through access to invaluable resources and networking opportunities, we are not only fostering individual growth but also driving positive change across the industry,” said McAleer. “Alltech believes that inclusion cultivates creativity, drives innovation and is essential to the company’s purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty™. In 2019 Alltech selected Gender Equality as one of the nine United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to which the company is committed to advancing.”

Harriet Wilson, partnerships director at Meat Business Women, says, “We are delighted that Alltech has joined the Meat Business Women family as a strategic partner and look forward to working closely with their brilliant team. We know that networking is a crucial skill for women to develop, so we’re delighted that Alltech has generously agreed to support us with these two events across the UK and the Republic of Ireland so that even more of our community can come together, learn, connect and develop their careers.”

Meat Business Women is the United Nations’ recognised global professional network for women working across the meat industry. It was created to improve the sustainability of the meat sector and grow the pipeline of female talent in this male-dominated industry.

Alltech is a global leader that delivers smarter, more sustainable solutions for agriculture. Its diverse portfolio of products and services improves the health and performance of animals and plants, resulting in better nutrition for all and a decreased environmental impact. Learn more at alltech.com.

To learn more about Meat Business Women, visit meatbusinesswomen.org. To book your place at a Community Connect event in Stamford or Dunboyne, visit our website here.

Pet brands that focus on sustainability have grown 7.1 times faster than their conventional counterparts in the last five years. This insight comes from our latest episode of the AgFuture podcast. This week, we are joined by Jim Lamancusa, Executive Director of the Pet Sustainability Coalition; Hannah Tirrell-Wysocki, Accreditation Manager at the PSC; and Kami Grandeen, Alltech’s North American Companion Animal Sales Manager. They discuss the mission and growth of the PSC, Alltech's recent reaccreditation with the PSC, and the platinum, gold, and silver sustainability medals from EcoVadis, an organization that provides business sustainability ratings. They also explore the shifting demand for sustainable pet foods by Millennials and Gen Z. Tune in to learn how these initiatives are transforming the pet industry.

The following blog is a summary of the Ag Future podcast episode with Jim Lamancusa, Hannah Tirrell-Wysocki and Kami Grandeen, hosted by Tom Martin. Click below to hear the full audio or listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Tom:                      For Ag Future, I’m Tom Martin. Today, we’re focusing on sustainability efforts in the pet industry. With me are Jim Lamancusa, executive director of the Pet Sustainability Coalition. Welcome, Jim.

Jim:                         Thanks for having me.

Tom:                      Hannah Tirrell-Wysocki, Pet Sustainability Coalition accreditation manager. Thanks for joining us, Hannah.

Hannah:                  Thanks. Great to be here.

Tom:                      And Alltech’s North American companion animal sales manager, Kami Grandeen. Hello, Kami.

Kami:                      Hi, Tom. Thanks for having us today.

Tom:                      Jim, let’s start with you. A broad question: If you would, just tell us about the Pet Sustainability Coalition. How did it come about, and what’s the mission?

Jim:                         Sure. We’ve been around for 11 years, and it was recognized 11 years ago that there are major sustainability challenges to the pet industry that can’t be solved by one individual company. And so, back 11 years ago, we had eight founding members that came together to form the Pet Sustainability Coalition. Now, fast forward 11 years later, we have over 200 members across 17 countries, and we are helping our members to become more sustainable brands and individual companies themselves. We’re also tackling these larger sustainability challenges that the pet industry faces.

Tom:                      And how is that working? How are your practices advancing the pet business?

Jim:                         There’s a couple what we call legs to the stool. One of them is around ingredients. We help our brands to focus on more sustainable ingredient sources like regenerative agriculture meat and proteins, or alternative proteins like insect proteins, that help reduce their carbon footprint. We also help brands on the packaging side, so moving packaging from virgin plastics to recycled content: recyclable, biodegradable, and paper-based packaging products that, again, reduce the environmental impact. Third is, we help our brands focus on social sustainability initiatives, so employee surveys, supply chain mapping. We help supply chain roadmapping, helping build a green team within your pet food company. Those are just a couple examples about what we do with our members.

Tom:                      Okay. Hannah, let’s bring you in. You’re an accreditation manager with the Pet Sustainability Coalition. Alltech’s been re-accredited by the coalition. Why is accreditation by the PSC important to Alltech?

Hannah:                  The PSC accreditation is a little bit different from our membership. We have an open membership model, which means that any company, regardless of where they are on their sustainability journey, is welcome to join as members. We think that that’s really important because we need everyone at the table when it comes to making change. But our accreditation is really reserved for companies who are further along on that sustainability journey. Companies like Alltech, who are really leading in the pet industry when it comes to their social and their environmental impact.

                               So, companies like Alltech, who are accredited, must measure, verify, and commit to continual improvement.

                               Measurement refers to an assessment that these companies take, which is based on the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals. And then verifying refers to a third-party verification that happens where companies submit documentation to substantiate their assessment responses. And then the third part is my favorite part, really, is that companies who are accredited are committed to continually improving on their sustainability. And I think this is so important because sustainability is a moving target, right? Like, as technology advances and as business grows, there’s always room for improvement.

                               And again, Alltech has committed to all three of those and are one of our accredited companies.

Tom:                      All right, Kami, let’s get your perspective from the Alltech point of view. What is the value of this accreditation to customers like Alltech?

Kami:                      Overall, the PSC group is just a great guide on our sustainability journey. I really think for Alltech and our pet business, it does two different things. The verification and the accreditation really ensure that we are on the right path, that we’re doing the right things. It’s pushing us to do even more things. Like both Jim and Hannah said, continuous improvement. We’re not gonna be satisfied with where we are today or where we are tomorrow. We’re gonna keep moving.

                               So it firstly helps us and guides us. And I think the second piece of that is, it tells our customers the pet brands that we supply ingredients to. It tells the pet industry as a whole that we are truly committed to sustainability. We are trying to improve. We’re looking for ways that we can be more efficient, more environmentally and socially responsible. So I think it solidifies that commitment to the industry.

Tom:                      Let’s talk about that. Tell us about Alltech’s sustainability initiatives that you have underway.

Kami:                      Really, a lot of the continuous improvements. We’re dedicated. We’ve signed up for 9 of these 17 U.N. Sustainable Development Goals, which is, I think, a really big wish list there, but continuously making improvements. We are committed to the 10 Principles of the U.N. Global Compact as well. We’ve made some really great strides so far. If you just look at some highlights from our last Sustainability Reports, we’ve had 4.5 million invested in efficiency projects. Through these projects, we’ve taken 7,600 metric tons of CO₂ out of the system, through these efficiency projects. And 100% of our production team members are trained on health and safety.

                               So, kind of across the board, I think we’ve made some good strides, and we’re gonna continue to get better.

Tom:                      Well, Kami, staying with you: Last year, Alltech was recognized with platinum, gold, and silver sustainability medals from EcoVadis, an organization that provides business sustainability ratings. And I understand that this recognition places Alltech among some industry heavy hitters globally. What does it mean to the company, to Alltech, to be recognized in this way?

Kami:                      Yeah, we’re extremely proud of this. This, as you can imagine, is an incredible amount of work. This doesn’t just happen because leadership says, We’re gonna get this accreditation, we’re gonna do these things. This happens because our team does a lot of hard work. They innovate. They look for ways to improve. They forge new paths. They look for new answers that maybe weren’t the answers that they were using yesterday and maybe won’t be the answers that they’re using tomorrow. We’re incredibly proud of this. I think we’re always learning new things. I think we can learn something from every accreditation, every verification that we go through. We continuously learn new things that we can do better and learn how to make things more efficient and more environmentally and socially sustainable.

Tom:                      Alltech ran a sustainability insights survey among leading agri-food businesses to get a sense of the issues that matter most to the agri-food value chain. What did you learn from that?

Kami:                      Yeah, the agri-food insights [survey] was really interesting. I think it was eye-opening to a lot of us because we did interview global leaders. And I think that the interesting part was, as a whole, the agri-food industry is really looking for ways to be more sustainable. And that’s probably going to come through innovation, through collaboration, through communication, to figure out how to solve this problem collectively as an industry.

                               But if you break it down by different regions, the top concerns really do vary. I mean, for example, in the EU, emissions were the thing that we found were the biggest priority. If you look at Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, it was sourcing raw materials. Latin America’s focus was more on water and soil health. And then if you look at the U.S., or North America, more on the economic sustainability. How do we keep family farms in business?

                               I think if you look collectively, everyone’s focused on these, but the priorities by country were very different, and I think it gives us all a chance to work together and communicate maybe how the EU is working on emissions today will be a priority for the U.S. tomorrow. So I think it was good insights.

Tom:                      Well, you mentioned collaboration, and I know the survey indicates a great deal of interest in the industry in partnership and collaboration, but are these competitive interests that we’re talking about? How does that work?

Kami:                      Yeah, that’s always a challenge. I think, as businesspeople, we’re naturally going to be competitive. And I think we can put away our competitiveness for this because we all are working toward the same goal. But I think that’s where groups like the Pet Sustainability Coalition really come in and help bring us together, get us all on the same page, and get us communicating and talking about what we’re doing. We’re not competing with each other on this. We are working together on this.

                               So it is a great way, a great organization, to guide us into working together. And all kudos to PSC for being open and willing, and starting these discussions, and figuring out ways to get people who may be competitors to share ideas and work together.

Tom:                      All right, Hannah, back to you. While there might be some debate over it still, climate change appears to be a given in the agri-food industry. How is climate change impacting the industry now, and what are some anticipated future impacts?

Hannah:                  One of the big ways that climate change is impacting the industry is really what the changing climate means for farming. So, you think about changes in precipitation patterns, changes in extreme weather events, reductions in water availability, negative impacts on biodiversity like pollinators, sea level rise rate. Think about drier areas getting drier, wetter areas getting wetter. All of this obviously has an impact on productivity and yield, so we will likely see more disruption of the supply chain because of this.

                               But one of the solutions, actually — Jim mentioned this earlier — that PSC is really focused on is looking at ways to transition our food system to a more regenerative agricultural system, meaning that farmers are working with the land in these age-old, proven ways to support the soil health, which ultimately makes the whole system more resilient to the changes that are ahead. And this type of farming can also create more of a carbon sink, sequestering more carbon in the soil, in the plants, which ultimately contributes to the solution.

Tom:                      Jim, does the industry have any data indicating that consumers are paying attention to companies that employ sustainable production methods? Is it having a market impact?

Jim:                         It sure is. It sure is. Some of these numbers that I’m gonna give you are from Packaged Facts, which is a great industry body that does surveys to all consumers. 87% of consumers are actively looking for products that reduce packaging waste, 82% of consumers are concerned with environmental footprint of pet products that they buy, 71% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products. And what’s really interesting is that Gen Z and millennials are the most concerned and most likely to make purchasing decisions around sustainable products, of any generation in history.

                               And this is turning into revenue for brands. So, brands that focus on sustainability have grown 7.1 times faster versus their conventional counterparts in the last five years. All of this combines to reduced costs for these brands, increased customer loyalty, and develops a more resilient supply chain.

                               And on top of all of that, not only is it better for the brands and their revenue, but we’re seeing these government regulations and laws that are coming out. In the EU, they’ve launched something called the CSRD, which requires brands to report on their carbon impact and have a plan to reducing their carbon footprint. In the U.S., the SEC just released rules in March of this year that any brand that’s over $75 million in revenue has to report on their carbon emissions. So, not only is it these bigger brands that have to report on it, but it also goes through the entire supply chain.

                               So, imagine that you’re a farmer or an ingredient supplier that is supplying one of these larger companies. The larger company’s requiring to understand the carbon footprint of your particular ingredient so that they can calculate their entire footprint. So it’s having ripple effects through the entire industry where it has been a wonderful thing from — we call it the carrot. The carrot of sustainability is that it increases customer loyalty. It should help grow your brand, increase revenue, increase velocity at store, but now there is more of a stick approach that is coming quickly that you’ll be required to have these initiatives in place. And so, it is a little bit of a plug for PSC, but we really exist to help brands navigate these waters so that we can help them identify what is not only beneficial for the environment, but sustainability doesn’t have to cost more. You actually can do a lot of measures that will not only be sustainable but reduce your cost as a business. So we like to find win-wins for our brands and then provide a roadmap toward more difficult sustainability measures going forward.

Tom:                      That generational data is really interesting. It really says something about the future, doesn’t it?

Jim:                         It sure does.

Tom:                      All right, that’s Jim Lamancusa, executive director of the Pet Sustainability Coalition. Thank you, Jim.

Jim:                         Appreciate being here.

Tom:                      Hannah Tirrell-Wysocki, Pet Sustainability Coalition accreditation manager. Thank you, Hannah.

Hannah:                  Thank you.

Tom:                      And Alltech’s North American companion animal sales manager, Kami Grandeen. Thank you so much, Kami.

Kami:                      Thanks, Tom.

Tom:                      And for AgFuture, I’m Tom Martin.

Since 2005, the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) and Alltech, a global leader in agriculture and animal nutrition, have partnered to support the Young Leaders in Agricultural Journalism Awards that recognize the leadership potential of young members (under 35 years of age). As young agricultural journalists and communicators, they have the important role of sharing the stories of agriculture with the world.

IFAJ and Alltech offer 10 scholarship opportunities to attend the IFAJ Congress, held this year in Interlaken, Switzerland, in August. The winners also participate in a unique three-day professional development workshop immediately prior to the IFAJ Congress. The workshop emphasizes reporting skills and leadership training and includes agriculture tours.

The 2024 IFAJ/Alltech Young Leaders include:

• Alex Black, United Kingdom
• Emma Davies, Ghana
• Courtney Girgis, United States
• Kristina Hansén, Sweden
• Wiebke Hermann, Germany
• Brooke Littlewood, Australia
• Duncan Masiwa, South Africa
• Daniel Plaiasu, Romania
• Michaela Sandmayr, Austria
• Carola Urdangarin, Argentina

"Alltech is proud to partner with IFAJ to support the Young Leaders program, as we all share a commitment to supporting journalists who give voice to farmers and producers and ensure that agriculture stories continue to be told around the world," said Jenn Norrie, North American and European communications manager at Alltech.

“The Young Leaders program has helped agricultural journalism guilds and IFAJ grow for nearly two decades,” said IFAJ secretary-general, Addy Rossi. “The IFAJ/Alltech Young Leaders program is more than just an award to recognize rising young stars in our industry—it provides training, networks and contagious energy to tomorrow's guild and federation leaders."

"Many of the officers and active volunteers in national guilds and IFAJ's governing bodies have been Young Leaders,” he added. “With its generous sponsorship and deep commitment to the future of agricultural journalism, Alltech has helped train a generation of world leaders."

For more information on IFAJ and the Young Leaders program, visit www.ifaj.org. For more on Alltech, visit www.alltech.com.