Feedstuffs in Focus
Feedstuffs in Focus is a weekly look at the hot issues in the livestock, poultry, grain and feed industries. Join us as we talk with industry influencers, experts and leaders about trends and more. Feedstuffs in Focus is produced by the team at Feedstuffs.
Thu, April 03, 2025
Shell Egg Contract: Financial innovation for market volatility
Egg prices have been on a wild ride, with unprecedented volatility creating headaches for everyone from producers to restaurant chains. But what if there was a financial tool designed specifically to smooth out these price swings? That's exactly what StoneX has developed with their new shell egg contract. As Ryan Turner of StoneX explains, this innovative risk management solution emerges just as the company celebrates its centennial anniversary—a meaningful full-circle moment considering StoneX began as an egg brokerage in Chicago back in 1924. From those humble beginnings, they've grown into a global financial services powerhouse while maintaining deep agricultural roots. What makes this contract particularly valuable is its customer-driven origin. Turner emphasizes that the best financial products always emerge from client needs. While external factors like recent tariff announcements will impact commodity markets broadly, shell eggs remain somewhat insulated due to their predominantly domestic consumption. Nevertheless, having effective risk management tools becomes even more crucial during periods of geopolitical uncertainty. As Turner notes, once these financial instruments gain traction during volatile periods, they typically become standard industry tools for decades to follow. The industry's participation is vital for this contract to develop its full potential, Turner notes.
Fri, March 21, 2025
Ileitis treatment options and resulting correlation on average daily gain
Ileitis is a common cause of diarrhea in grow-finish pigs. When underdiagnosed, ileitis can result in a significant amount of money being left on the table and out of producers’ pockets. Joining our Ann Hess today to talk about ileitis and what producers can do to minimize its impact is Dr. Nate Winkelman, co-owner and veterinarian at Swine Services Unlimited. This episode is brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health , a growing business that puts livestock first. Pharmgate provides a proven portfolio of technically supported, high-quality products that are the foundation of custom herd health protocols. By offering multiple options for active ingredients, concentrations, and administration routes, Pharmgate provides you with choices to fit your needs and gets you the results you want.
Fri, March 14, 2025
PPE has a role to play in preventing influenza A
To prevent the spread of influenza in a commercial livestock system, it is highly recommended for staff to wear personal protective equipment or PPE. Considered the last line of defense to prevent an infection in an individual, it is also the least effective as wearing PPE well and consistently can be a challenge for producers and caregivers on farm. Feedstuffs Ann Hess caught up with Montserrat Torremorell of the University of Minnesota at the American Association of Swine Veterinarian’s Annual Meeting to discuss a few studies that speak to the effectiveness of on-farm PPE in preventing flu infection and transmission. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Thu, March 13, 2025
Traveling the world to tell the story of cows
With unique access to those on the frontlines of agriculture and science, two filmmakers set out on an incredible journey around the world to find the answer to what would seem like a relatively easy question. That being, Are we better off in a World Without Cows? Joining our Ann Hess from the NCBA tradeshow floor in San Antonio are World Without Cows filmmakers, Michelle Michael and Brandon Whitworth. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is brought to you by Alltech. Acting as your trusted partner, Alltech delivers integrated expertise and tailored solutions and services to provide a comprehensive one-stop resource for solving your challenges. Alltech’s expertise is your competitive edge. Visit Alltech.com to learn more.
Thu, March 06, 2025
Swine respiratory disease risk can be minimized, eliminated
Dr. Luke Strehle of Nebraska Vet Services, a full-service mixed animal practice based in West Point, Nebraska, joins us to share his insight on swine respiratory pathogens – how to reduce and eliminate their risk as well what interventions are available to manage pig health. This episode is brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health, a growing business that puts livestock first. Pharmgate provides a proven portfolio of technically supported, high-quality products that are the foundation of custom herd health protocols. By offering multiple options for active ingredients, concentrations, and administration routes, Pharmgate provides you with choices to fit your needs backed by a team with technical expertise to get the results you want.
Tue, February 25, 2025
Use or non-use of treatment therapies for respiratory disease in finishing pigs
Joining us for this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is Dr. David Baumert, Senior Technical Services Veterinarian at Zoetis Pork, to discuss the reasons why producers sometimes choose not to treat pigs — usually heavier weight finishers — in need of swine respiratory disease (SRD) therapy and the implications of non-use from a performance, labor and economic standpoint. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus has been brought to you by Zoetis Pork. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: People with known hypersensitivity to penicillin or cephalosporins should avoid exposure to EXCENEL RTU EZ. Do not use in swine found to be hypersensitive. Withdraw 6 days prior to slaughter when injection site volumes are greater than 5 mL up to 15 mL per injection site and 4 days prior to slaughter when injection site volumes are less than or equal to 5 mL per injection site. See full Prescribing Information at Excenelpork.com/PI. References Pantoja L, Kuhn M, Farrand E, et al. Impact of a Husbandry Education Program on nursery pig mortality, productivity, and treatment cost. Journal of Swine Health and Production [serial online]. 2013;21 (4):188-194. Available from: CAB Abstracts, Ipswich, MA. Accessed May 1, 2018. Pineiro C, Morales J, Doncecchi P, et al. Individual Pig Care program improves productive performance and animal health in nursery-growing pigs. Journal of Swine Health and Production [serial online]. 2014;22 (6):296-299. Available from: CAB Abstracts, Ipswich, MA. Accessed August 1, 2018. Bowersock, T. L., Meeuwse, D. M., Kausche, F. M., Lucas, M. J., Bryson, W. L. and Dame, K.J. Efficacy of ceftiofur crystalline free acid and ceftiofur hydrochloride administered intramuscularly in swine inoculated with Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae. Pharmacia Animal Health. 2001. Data on file, Study Document No. ZRD-PSC-004402, Zoetis Inc. All trademarks are the property of Zoetis Services LLC or a related company or a licensor unless otherwise noted. © 2024 Zoetis Services LLC. All rights reserved. EXC-00084
Thu, February 20, 2025
Red dye ban may have implications for feed industry
Red dye number 2 was banned in 1976 due to links to cancer in rats. Red dye number 3 was banned in 2025 over similar health concerns. Manufacturers have been given until January 16, 2027, to remove red dye number 3 from their products. What might this ban mean for the animal feed industry? Does it have application and perhaps implications? During IPPE in Atlanta, Ga, we had the opportunity to talk with David Eisenberg, President of Micro-Tracers, a manufacturer of analytical tracers that uses a minute amount of red dye number 3 in its products for the animal feed industry. The use of tracers is common among animal feed and animal health companies worldwide as a way to identify their products as proprietary.
Thu, February 06, 2025
When it comes to cows, it's not all black and white
Have you ever stopped to think what our world would be like without cows? Around the world, cows hold both cultural and economic significance. They provide nourishment of bodies and minds. They also impact climate. When it comes to cows, it’s not all black and white. Joining us to talk about a thought-provoking documentary about the cultural, economic, nutritional and environmental significance of cows and the global feed industry is Dr. Mark Lyons, President and CEO of Alltech. We caught up with Dr. Lyons in Atlanta, Ga., during IPPE 2025, where World Without Cows debuted on the opening night of the event. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is brought to you by Alltech. Acting as your trusted partner, Alltech delivers integrated expertise and tailored solutions and services to provide a comprehensive one-stop resource for solving your challenges. Alltech’s expertise is your competitive edge. Visit Alltech.com to learn more.
Thu, January 30, 2025
Policy and the new Administration: What’s likely ahead?
There is a new leadership in Washington, D.C., and changes have already started to happen on the policy and regulatory front. What’s might all the change mean for the U.S. feed industry? Joining us from IPPE 2025 in Atlanta, Ga., to talk about policy and the new Administration is Constance Cullman, President and CEO of the American Feed Industry Association. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Mon, January 27, 2025
Of pigs and men: Best-laid plans for prevention and control of African swine fever
The spread of high-risk human and animal diseases across borders in the last five years has clearly demonstrated that the best-laid plans can go wrong when it comes to infectious disease control and prevention. In fact, North American and European countries proved decades ago that swine diseases like ASF and classical swine fever can be eradicated through effective government policies, even without ideal vaccines. However, the world has since changed. Joining our Ann Hess to discuss this topic and more from the PRRS Symposium in Chicago is Dr. Jishu Shi of Kansas State University. Jishu Shi’s research programs focus on the development of novel vaccine technologies for animal infectious diseases. His team is currently evaluating novel adjuvants and strategies for vaccines targeting porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae , swine influenza virus, porcine circovirus, and avian influenza virus. In addition, his team is also investigating the molecular mechanisms of IL-1beta release from macrophages and the role of IL-1beta in macrophage-cancer stem cell interactions. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Thu, January 16, 2025
Unveiling biofilm threats: Safeguarding swine health and boosting farm efficiency
This episode explores the critical issue of biofilms in waterlines and their hidden impact on swine health and productivity. Understanding biofilms can help producers implement better management practices, ensuring optimal water quality and animal welfare. • Dr. Gabi Doughan of the Swine Medicine Education Center discusses her research on waterline biofilms in swine operations • Biofilms pose significant health risks for pigs • Importance of testing both source and in-barn water for pathogens • Regular cleaning and maintenance practices for water systems are essential • Beyond health, managing biofilms can improve overall production metrics • Need for ongoing research to refine management strategies in the swine industry This episode is brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health, a growing business that puts livestock first. Pharmgate provides a proven portfolio of technically supported, high-quality products that are the foundation of custom herd health protocols. By offering multiple options for active ingredients, concentrations, and administration routes, Pharmgate provides you with choices to fit your needs backed by a team with technical expertise to get the results you want.
Fri, January 10, 2025
IPPE 2025: What you need to know before you go
It’s the world’s largest annual poultry, feed and meat technology exposition and it’s coming up January 28-30 in Atlanta, Ga. Known as the International Production and Processing Expo, it offers a vast show floor highlighting the latest in technology, products and services, along with extensive networking and education opportunities for all. Joining us to talk about IPPE 2025 is Sarah Novak, Chief Operating Officer of the American Feed Industry Association. For more information, visit https://www.ippexpo.org
Thu, December 26, 2024
SPECIAL REPORT: State of the pork industry: Navigating economics, policy amidst challenges
In this episode, we explore strategies to bolster the pork industry's resilience. Christine McCracken, Senior Animal Protein Analyst at Rabobank, graces Feedstuffs Pork Nation with her expertise on the state of the pork industry. Curious about the path to recovery and what lies ahead in 2025 for pork producers? We're unpacking the improving financial health and potential for more robust margins, despite looming challenges like political uncertainties, tariffs, and changing immigration policies. Discover why maintaining solid trade relationships with key partners such as Mexico and Canada is more crucial than ever. We also tackle how the industry is innovatively addressing labor shortages through automation and improved workforce management. We also delve into critical economic concerns, including the national debt's effect on the US credit rating and its potential ramifications for agriculture. While sovereign debt issues linger, we discuss the importance of staying informed and engaging with lenders to mitigate risks. With only minor interest rate adjustments anticipated, some stability is expected. As we close the year, Christine emphasizes the critical need for biosecurity and community support within the industry. Risk management takes center stage as pork producers are encouraged to partner with advisors to navigate shifting market conditions and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Feedstuffs Pork Nation is brought to you by Alltech. Alltech delivers smarter, more sustainable solutions for agriculture through a diverse portfolio of products and services. Contact the Alltech Pork Team or visit go.alltech.com/swine-research to learn more.
Thu, December 19, 2024
Online dashboard offers near-real time global swine disease surveillance
The Center for Animal Health and Food Safety, in collaboration with the Swine Health Information Center, has developed a near-real-time event-based surveillance system to support informed decision making for U.S. pork producers. To further enhance disease monitoring, the team has expanded its focus to include production diseases, and develop a global swine disease dashboard. What might this mean for the hog industry? From the 2024 International Conference of Swine Viral Diseases in Chicago, Feedstuffs Ann Hess talks with Dr. Rachael Schulte, University of Minnesota to find out about the new surveillance system This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Fri, December 13, 2024
New findings on fan coverings for biocontainment of airborne swine pathogens
With disease outbreaks on the rise across the Midwest, controlling swine respiratory disease (SRD) pathogens has become even more crucial. Air filtration has been shown to reduce pathogen introduction. However, aerosol transmission into barns continues to occur. This episode is brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health, a growing business that puts livestock first. Pharmgate provides a proven portfolio of technically supported, high-quality products that are the foundation of custom herd health protocols. By offering multiple options for active ingredients, concentrations, and administration routes, Pharmgate provides you with choices to fit your needs, backed by a team with technical expertise to get the results you want. From the 2024 International Conference of Swine Viral Diseases in Chicago, Feedstuffs' Ann Hess talks with Erin Kettelkamp of Swine Vet Center to, among other things, dig into a recent study in the area of biocontainment and airborne swine pathogens and its findings. To access more SRD resources and connect with an expert, visit Pharmgate.com .
Thu, December 05, 2024
Production, labeling standards drive Germany's poultry industry
Similarities and differences exist in poultry production around the world. In Germany, production and labeling standards are driving change and creating opportunities. Likewise, technology aimed at reducing labor in all stages of production and processing are under evaluation and implementation. We catch up with Brian Earnest, lead economist for animal protein in CoBank's Knowledge Exchange research division, to get his observations from a recent trip to Germany where he visited poultry production operations, a grocery store, a feed mill and spoke during a preconference to EuroTier. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Tue, November 26, 2024
New swine respiratory disease treatment flexibility from nursery to finish
There is a new convenient, one-shot, low-volume antibiotic from Elanco Animal Health that offers swine respiratory disease treatment protocol flexibility from nursery to finish. Pradalex has a unique structure that differs from any molecule in its class. What opportunities might Pradalex have for your hog operation. Joining us to share his experience and trial work to date with Pradalex is veterinarian Dr. Paul Thomas of AMVC. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is brought to you by Elanco Animal Health. Learn more about Elanco at farmanimal.elanco.com/us/swine
Thu, November 21, 2024
Managing seasonal variation, herd constraints in a hog operation
A number of key strategies exist for managing seasonal variation and herd constraints in a hog operation, all while considering the specific herd capacity limitations and market dynamics. Our Ann Hess sat down with Mark Knauer of North Carolina State University during the Leman Swine Conference in St. Paul to talk about how best to manage seasonal variation and herd capacity constraints in hog operations. This episode is brought to you by Topigs Norsvin, the second-largest swine genetics company in the world. Topigs Norsvin is not just a genetics supplier but a production partner. By working together you can unlock your operation’s productivity and profitability. Visit topigsnorsvin.us to learn more about how partnering with Topigs Norsvin can help your business.
Thu, November 14, 2024
Federal Milk Marketing Order reform not expected to negatively impact milk checks
On November 12, USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) released a long-awaited final decision with reforms to pricing formulas used by the Federal Milk Marketing Order system. The next step is a vote of approval on the ruling by the dairy industry. That is to come in December. What does this reform in milk pricing mean for the dairy industry overall and at the farm level? Joining us today to talk about the recent reforms to milk pricing is Tim Trotter, CEO of Edge. We caught up with Tim at this week National Farm Broadcasters meeting in Kansas City. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Thu, November 14, 2024
New feed additive helps dairy farmers get more out of forage
NOVUS has launched its latest intelligent nutrition innovation. The new feed additive is scientifically shown to help dairy farmers get more out of forage by optimizing dry matter intake per pound of milk produced while maintaining milk production. NEXT ENHANCE® CGO Feed Solution supports greater returns on feed investment while providing a safeguard for feed inventories. The new campaign supporting NEXT ENHANCE® CGO boasts that a 33-pound bag of the product can save over 81,000 pounds in total mixed ration. NOVUS Technical Services Manager Sarah Stocks joins us to talk about the new product and what it means for the dairy industry. For more information, visit: https://www.novusint.com/products/dairy-next-enhance/
Thu, November 07, 2024
Animal feed sector innovations on display
EuroTier 2024 is fast approaching. It will be held Nov. 12-15 in Hanover, Germany. Holding to tradition, there will be lots of new innovation unveiled as well as valuable information for attendees to take in. Animal feeds and feeding will most certainly again be a topic of focus. Joining us in this episode is Detlef Kampf, Head of Animal Nutrition, DLG – EuroTier. Our discussion centers around the trends taking place in animal agriculture in Europe, specifically the animal feed and feeding sector. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Wed, October 30, 2024
Mhp Elimination Program Case Study: Country View Family Farms
Dr. David Baumert, Technical Services Veterinarian, Zoetis, and Dr. Kayla Castevens, NC Regional Veterinarian, Country View Family Farms, discuss their partnership in the implementation of a large Mhp-elimination project, including helpful insights and best practices to ensure long-term herd stability. In addition to this podcast, we encourage you to learn more on the topic in our recent Feedstuffs webinar with Dr. David Baumert and Dr. Kayla Castevens . Note: The customization of the Mhp Guardian Program intervention roadmaps relies heavily on the guidance and recommendations of your customer’s on-staff or consulting veterinarian working in collaboration with our Technical Services Team. The animal health information contained herein is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace discussions with an animal healthcare professional. Testimonials represent individual experience only, and the experiences and opinions herein may be unique to the patient. Individual results may vary, considering the unique characteristics of the patient. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus has been brought to you by Zoetis Pork. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Withdraw DRAXXIN/DRAXXIN 25 five (5) days prior to slaughter in swine. Do not use in animals known to be hypersensitive to the product. See full prescribing information for Draxxin and full prescribing information for Draxxin 25 . All trademarks are the property of Zoetis Services LLC or a related company or a licensor unless otherwise noted. © 2024 Zoetis Services LLC. All rights reserved. MHP-00043
Thu, October 24, 2024
Swine Respiratory Disease Management 101
Swine respiratory disease (SRD) is a commonly encountered health challenge in today’s hog industry. SRD includes a wide range of bacterial pathogens that can impact pig respiratory systems as well as the overall health of a farm system. What might all this mean for your operation, and how can you fight back? This episode is brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health, a growing business that puts livestock first. Pharmgate provides a proven portfolio of technically supported, high-quality products that are the foundation of custom herd health protocols. By offering multiple options for active ingredients, concentrations, and administration routes, Pharmgate provides you with choices to fit your needs backed by a team with technical expertise to get the results you want. Joining us today on Feedstuffs in Focus is Dr. Nic Lauterbach, technical services veterinarian with Pharmgate Animal Health. Our topic is that of how swine respiratory disease can be stopped in its tracks through the implementation of practical strategies and recommendations for improving herd health outcomes when faced with the threat of swine respiratory disease. To access more SRD resources and connect with an expert, visit Pharmgate.com .
Fri, October 18, 2024
SPECIAL REPORT: US Swine Health Improvement Plan focused on bettering animal health
The US Swine Health Improvement Plan (US SHIP) is a platform created to safeguard, certify and better animal health for the 21st Century US pork industry. It’s a program modelled after the National Poultry Improvement Plan. Where is US SHIP currently at when it comes to feed biosecurity? What’s ahead in the development of this industry critical strategy? Feedstuffs Pork Nation is brought to you by Alltech. Alltech delivers smarter, more sustainable solutions for agriculture through a diverse portfolio of products and services. Contact the Alltech Pork Team or visit go.alltech.com/swine-research to learn more. Joining hosts Sarah Muirhead and Alltech's Mark Hulsebus on this episode is Dr. Jamil Faccin, Swine Technical & Nutrition Specialist, with Alltech. Dr. Faccin gives an update on US SHIP and the value it brings to the US pork industry. Dr. Faccin joined Alltech’s US Pork team following the recent completion of his Ph.D. and postdoctoral programs at Kansas State University.
Wed, October 16, 2024
Biosecurity in livestock production: Impact on animal and gut health
Why is gut health important and what connection exists between it and biosecurity? What about feed biosecurity? What role does it play? Our guest in this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is Dr. Jordan Gebhardt, assistant professor with Kansas State University. Dr. Gebhardt joins us to discuss the link between biosecurity and gut health in livestock production. Dr. Gebhardt was part of this week’s line up of speakers at the 2024 Kemin Intestinal Health Symposium . We had a chance to catch up with him recently to get a preview of his presentation. To view the 2024 Kemin Intestinal Health Symposium in on-demand, simply go to Kemin.com/symposium and sign up. It is a free symposium open to all.
Fri, October 11, 2024
Exploring the microbial world: What is known? What is next?
Dr. Todd Callaway, a ruminant microbiologist with the University of Georgia, joins us on this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus to discuss the Microbial World: What Do We Know, What Do We Think, What Do We Hope? Dr. Callaway is part of the upcoming 2024 Kemin Intestinal Health Symposium . The sixth-annual Kemin Intestinal Health Symposium will include presentations from respected industry experts on informative topics that support the key pillars of intestinal health and provide holistic industry insights. Tune in to this free online event to learn more about microbiome and stress research, the importance of water quality for animal performance, feed biosecurity as it relates to gut health, and more. For more information, www.kemin.com/symposium
Fri, October 04, 2024
Does falling milk production mask US dairy industry capacity for growth?
According to a new report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange , the decoupling of fluid milk production and milk component production represents an important paradigm shift for the dairy industry given growing consumer demand for manufactured dairy products. More than 80% of U.S. milk production goes into dairy food products that rely on milk components while less than 20% goes into the fluid beverage category. Would U.S. milk composition and consumer demand benefit from a more comprehensive monthly report from USDA that includes milk, protein and butterfat production levels? Joining us in this episode to discuss this topic in more depth is Corey Geiger, lead dairy economist with CoBank. We caught up with Corey at this week’s World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wis., This episode has been brought to you by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Fri, September 27, 2024
New vaccine technology may offer new solution
Diseases like bovine respiratory disease (BRD) kill an estimated 8 million calves annually and create serious challenges for the cattle industry. Each year BRD alone costs the US cattle industry upwards of $1 billion. As we hear today, a new tool for producers’ toolboxes may be on the horizon. Joining us today is Dr. Shafiqul Chowdhury, professor at Louisiana State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine. While not yet cleared for use, Dr. Chowdury has developed a vaccine for bovine respiratory disease for cattle thru the application of new technology. He joins us today to those details. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Wed, September 25, 2024
SPECIAL REPORT: Mitigation of feed risk as part of best-in-class biosecurity program
It is documented that viruses can be transported in feed. That being so, what is the role of feed mitigants, and is there value in including a mitigant in a biosecurity program? Your host for this episode of Feedstuffs Pork Nation is Mark Hulsebus, along with Dr. Jose Sota and Dr. Andrew Bents, all of Alltech. They are joined by special guest Dr. Scott Dee. Dr. Dee is a leading expert in mitigating feed risk as part of a best-in-class biosecurity program. Feedstuffs Pork Nation is brought to you by Alltech. Alltech delivers smarter, more sustainable solutions for agriculture through a diverse portfolio of products and services. Contact the Alltech Pork Team, or visit go.alltech.com/swine-research to learn more.
Wed, September 11, 2024
Soybean meal net energy: Practical application to formulation strategies and economics
Soybean meal net energy has been found to be higher in commercial settings, which changes the formulation strategies and economics of soybean meal use in diets. To find out more about this difference in soybean meal net energy and productive energy in commercial swine diets versus book values and how this improved understanding impacts formulation strategies for nutritionists and economic considerations we catch up with with Dr. Aaron Gaines, managing partner of Ani-Tek, LLC, and Dr. Bart Borg, vice president of feed and nutrition with Passel Farms. Gaines and Borg spoke at the Iowa Swine Day Pre-conference Symposium titled "Soybean Meal 360° — Expanding our horizons through discoveries and field-proven feeding strategies for improving pork production.” Gaines focused on soybean meal net energy and productive energy in commercial swine systems versus industry book values, while Borg talked about the practical application of this new information relative to the conventional low-cost ingredient formulation approach. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is brought to you by U.S. Soy.
Wed, September 04, 2024
Farm economy expected to remain under pressure
Last week the 2024 Farm Progress Show took place in Boone, Iowa. Coming into agriculture’s largest farm show of the year, Rabobank took the opportunity to bring its global grains and oilseeds team together to tour Midwest fields and talk with growers and agribusiness leaders. Joining us in this episode to share their insights and global perspectives are Rabobank researchers Stephen Nicholson and Sam Taylor. We explore what looks to be ahead for this fall harvest, farm input cost trends and the impact of interest rates, US elections and more. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Tue, August 27, 2024
Camera technology has benefits in pig barns
Cameras are used for many purposes. They are frequently used to monitor such things as traffic flows, weather patterns and even to provide security in a number of different ways. But what about in pig barns? What benefit might camera technology and the resulting data collection have when it comes to managing pigs in a breeding program? Joining us today to talk about camera technology in the pig barn is Kristine Marinsen, a researcher in the health and behavior platform of Toppigs Norsvin. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin , the second largest swine genetics company in the world. The TN70 is the flagship parent sow of Topigs Norsvin , described as being a self-reliant sow capable of raising her own pigs and requiring less human intervention in the farrowing house. Visit tn70.topigsnorsvin.com to see what producers are saying about their experience with the TN70.
Wed, August 21, 2024
America’s pig farmers benefit from increased traceability
Traceability continues to be a key priority for the National Pork Board. AgView, the industry’s contact-tracing tool, has reached an all-time high of more than 1,200 producer-user adoptions, and nearly 1.5 million pig movements, since its launch in November 2020. The National Pork Board is continuing to explore advancements and opportunities while maintaining data security and integrations that make AgView so beneficial to producers. Joining our Ann Hess today to discuss AgView’s value to U.S. pig farmers is Dr. Dusty Oedekoven, Chief Veterinarian and Dr. Patrick Webb, Assistant Chief Veterinarian, both with National Pork Board. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Thu, August 15, 2024
Managing risk and creating resiliency in livestock sector
The greatest risk for the livestock sector in the remainder of 2024 is that which is related to politics and the uncertainty around what the new administration’s policy will be on the economy and agriculture. What will end up being in the farm bill? What about support for such things as foreign animal disease monitoring and prevention? How, too, can more resiliency be created in the overall supply chain and what advantages does that hold for the livestock sector? Feedstuffs Ann Hess caught up with Lance Zimmerman, Rabobank’s Senior Beef Analyst for the North America market during the recent Ag Media Summit in Kansas City. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Wed, August 07, 2024
State of the beef industry: Is liquidation finally slowing?
Is liquidation in the beef cattle sector finally slowing? What about the aging of the cow herd? What might this fall calving season hold? Herd rebuilding, drought, consumer demand and preferences as well as cost of feeding and the dairy on beef trend. These all are topics we tackle as we dig into the beef industry and what’s likely ahead. Joining us today to discuss the state of the beef industry is Don Close, chief researcher and analytics officer with Terrain Ag. We caught up with Don during this week’s Ag Media Summit in Kansas City. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Thu, August 01, 2024
EXCEDE® for Swine (ceftiofur crystalline free acid) rapidly reached therapeutic plasma concentration levels
Joining us in this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus to discuss new research findings related to how quickly EXCEDE ® for Swine reaches therapeutic plasma concentration levels in pigs is Dr. Micah Jansen, Managing Technical Services Veterinarian for Zoetis Pork. Dr. Jansen details research presented at last fall’s Leman Swine Conference and why it's relevant to veterinarians and pork producers when making antibiotic treatment decisions for swine respiratory disease. In addition to this podcast, we encourage you to learn more on the topic in our recent Feedstuffs 365 interview with Dr. Jansen. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus has been brought to you by Zoetis Pork IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: People with known hypersensitivity to penicillin or cephalosporins should avoid exposure to EXCEDE for Swine. Do not use in swine found to be hypersensitive to the product. Pre-slaughter withdrawal time is 14 days following the last dose. See full prescribing information at Excedeforswine.com/pi. References 1 Lutz, S., et. al.; Pharmacokinetics of Ceftiofur Crystalline Free Acid; Leman 2023. 2 Data on file, Study Report No. 1121R-60-04-215, Zoetis LLC. 3 Anadón A. Perspectives in Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology. Front Vet Sci. 2016 Sep 13;3:82. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2016.00082. PMID: 27679801; PMCID: PMC5020047. 4 Data on file, Study Report No ORPORK2030, Zoetis Services, LLC 5 Bowersock, T.L., et al., Efficacy of Ceftiofur Crystalline Free Acid for the Treatment of Artificially-induce Pnemonia in an Actinobacillus Pleuropneumoniae Challenge Model. Proceedings of the 18th International Pig Veterinary Society Congress, Hamburg, Germany, 2004. 6 Data on file, Study Report No. 1123C-60-08-315, Zoetis Services LLC 7 EXCEDE for Swine FOI Summary: 2004/06/18 Original NADA 141-235. All trademarks are the property of Zoetis Services LLC or a related company or a licensor unless otherwise noted. Baytril is sold by Elanco or its affiliates and is not a product of Bayer. Baytril is a trademark owned by Bayer and used under license. © 2024 Zoetis Services LLC. All rights reserved. EXS-00072
Fri, July 26, 2024
Latest measure of PRRS shows mounting cost for pork producers
The last time the estimated economic impact of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, or PRRS, was investigated was in 2013. What is the current impact of the disease on herd health and production? Feedstuffs Ann Hess caught up with Drs. Henry Osemeke and Derald Holtkamp of Iowa State University during this week’s Iowa Swine Day to find out more. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Wed, July 17, 2024
How trace minerals can help support immune function in weaned calves
Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) causes an estimated $800 to $900 million annually in economic losses from death, reduced feed efficiency, and treatment costs. Newly weaned calves are especially susceptible to BRD and other respiratory concerns. As a cattle producer, what are your options and solutions? Joining us on this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus to talk about trace minerals and immunity in weaned calves is Roberto Palomares, DVM, and Kevin Cain, DVM. This podcast is brought to you by Axiota Animal Health. Axiota discovers, develops, and commercializes scientifically proven products, such as Multimin® 90 and Lactipro®. Axiota’s non-antibiotic solutions support beef and dairy producers’ goals of optimal health, performance, and animal well-being. To learn more, visit www.axiota.com. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION FOR MULTIMIN ® 90: Not for use in humans, keep out of reach of children. Multimin 90 has a preslaughter withdrawal time of 14 days after injection. Do not use during the first trimester of pregnancy or in pre-ruminant calves as safety has not been established. Selenium and copper are toxic if administered in excess and may lead to sudden death, depression, weakness, ataxia, salivation, and drooling. Do not use concurrently with other selenium or copper injections or boluses. Maximum volume per injection site is 7 mL. Allow a minimum of 30 days before considering repeat dosing. See prescribing information at axiota.com/label
Thu, June 27, 2024
Learning to listen to nursery pigs
Early feed intake. How important is it to nursery pig performance and getting pigs off to the right start? What might it mean when it comes to supporting pigs through future health challenges? Joining us today to provide tips to help swine producers better evaluate, monitor and improve nursery pig performance is Rachel Johnson, swine technical sales specialist with Purina Animal Nutrition This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by Purina Animal Nutrition. Driven to unlock the greatest potential in every animal, Purina is an industry-leading innovator offering a valued portfolio of complete feeds, supplements, premixes, ingredients and specialty technologies for the livestock and lifestyle animal markets. For more information, visit purinamills.com . If you would like to hear more conversations about some of the big issues affecting the livestock, poultry, grain and animal feed industries, subscribe to Feedstuffs in Focus on your favorite podcast channel.
Fri, June 14, 2024
Lessons learned from wean-to-harvest biosecurity program
Fifteen research projects have now been funded as part of the Swine Health Information Center’s Wean-to-Harvest Biosecurity Program. It is a program that is being conducted in collaboration with the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research and the Pork Checkoff. What does the program mean for the US pork industry? What are the lessons learned to date? And what’s ahead? Joining our Ann Hess from World Pork Expo with an update is Megan Niederwerder, executive director, Swine Health Information Center. This episode is brought to you by Topigs Norsvin, the second-largest swine genetics company in the world. Topigs Norsvin is not just a genetics supplier but a production partner. By working together you can unlock your operation’s productivity and profitability. Visit topigsnorsvin.us to learn more about how partnering with Topigs Norsvin can help your business.
Fri, June 07, 2024
Producer tools for pig livability
Swine health concerns can challenge pig livability and various avenues of sustainability like animal wellbeing and business continuity. There are Checkoff-funded tools producers can use to improve animal health, protect pigs and people with strict biosecurity, implement traceability standards, learn from already-established resources and explore potential solutions like gene editing. Among the many topics of discussion that we had at World Pork Expo was that pig livability. Specifically, we looked into Check-off funded tools that producers can use to improve pig health. Our Ann Hess leads that conversation. While at Expo she sat down with Drs. Chris Hostetler, Director of Animal Science, Marisa Rotolo, Director of Swine Health and Brent Pepin, Director of Swine Health, all with National Pork Board. This episode has been sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Fri, May 24, 2024
Prop 12 fix, labor, foreign animal disease on pork industry radar
A prop 12 fix of the farm bill, additional funding for foreign animal disease prevention and preparedness and year-round H2a visas to combat ongoing labor challenges. What does the pork industry have on its radar screen in this legislative session? During this week’s Global Hog Industry Virtual Conference, our Ann Hess caught up with National Pork Producers Council CEO Bryan Humphreys to get more details on policy, progress and the challenges ahead. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus has been sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Fri, May 17, 2024
Versatility helps simplify mineral decisions
When it comes to minerals, what should cattle producers consider for their herds? How best to achieve the mineral intake that the cows needs or that a product is labeled for? How best to get peak herd performance and results? Joining us on this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus to talk about minerals and how to get the best performance results is Wesley Moore, Beef Technical Lead for Cargill. This podcast is brought to you by Cargill and its Vigortone mineral line. Wherever you are, Vigortone works. Formulated for every stage of production with targeted nutrition for every region, Vigortone delivers consistent animal performance. The versatility of Vigortone’s five product lines simplifies mineral decision. Trust Vigortone to work like always. Learn more at Vigortone.com .
Sun, May 05, 2024
Dried poultry litter unlikely cause of HPAI in dairy cattle
The feed industry and regulatory officials are challenging media reports alleging the HPAI virus has spread to dairy cattle as a result of the consumption of chicken litter on farms. Neither the U.S. Department of Agriculture nor the Food & Drug Administration have found a link to HPAI virus transmission in dairy cattle through chicken litter. Wild migratory birds are widely thought to be the likely cause of the transmission. FDA also has stated that chicken litter does not pose an animal or public health threat warranting usage restrictions. To find out more about what’s going on with dried poultry litter and HPAI, we catch up with Austin Therrell, executive director of the Association of American Feed Control Officials, to talk about why the link between the feed ingredient and HPAI in dairy cattle is unlikely. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Fri, May 03, 2024
Raw material purchasing: The basics and the future
Raw materials are the key to any feed or feeding operation. They are also one of the largest costs. How best for feed manufacturers and animal production operations to manage those costs and what does the future hold when it comes to feed manufacturing and ingredients acquisition. In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus, we catch up with Dr. Adam Fahrenholz of North Carolina State University to talk about the basics of raw material purchasing and explore the future of feed mill automation. This episode has been sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Thu, April 25, 2024
Connect to build trust around the tough issues
When people work to see the value in each other and feel connected, the world becomes a better place. When people feel disconnected, daily 'threats' of uncertainty, doubt, and change, become all that they see. During PEAK 2024 in Minneapolis we caught up with Brian Fretwell, founder of Finding Good. Fretwell lead a three-part business and leadership program focused on helping to build the clarity, confidence, and certainty that comes with connection. He believes that smarter questions (and responses) can improve conversations, relationships, and how people feel about themselves. His question process builds trust around tough issues, makes important conversations more productive, and helps others feel truly valued. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Thu, April 18, 2024
Getting the best out of a breeding operation
In order to optimize your porcine breeding process, a number of factors need to come together to ensure success. High-quality semen collection, extension, packaging and storage are a must along with good hygiene and proper handling. Equipment and infrastructure also are essential. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is brought to you by Topigs Norsvin, the second-largest swine genetics company in the world. Topigs Norsvin is not just a genetics supplier, but a production partner. By working together, you can unlock your operation's productivity and profitability. Visit topigsnorsvin.us to learn more about how partnering with Topigs Norsvin can help your business. Joining us in the episode to talk about the best ways to get the most out of a breeding operation and optimal semen handling is John Quackenbush of Minitube. Minitube is a world leader in state-of-the-art assisted reproduction technologies.
Thu, April 18, 2024
SPECIAL REPORT: Global pork and food demand amidst rapidly changing demographics
Global demographics are rapidly changing. Global population is rapidly shifting. Countries like China are ramping up pork production. What about the aging of the population in general and how might that impact demand for pork products in the future? It is no longer about how we feed the world but rather what does the world want from us. Hosts for this episode are Sarah Muirhead of Feedstuffs and Mark Huslebus of Alltech. Todd Thurman, President of Swine Insights International, joins as their guest. Thurman spends a lot of time in China and other international markets and shares a very insightful and unique perspective on the global pork industry and U.S. industry’s role in that global network. Feedstuffs Pork Nation is brought to you by Alltech. Alltech delivers smarter, more sustainable solutions for agriculture through a diverse portfolio of products and services.Contact the Alltech Pork Team or visit go.alltech.com/swine-research to learn more. Don't miss an episode of Feedstuffs Pork Nation. Sign-up now in your favorite podcast channel.
Wed, April 10, 2024
Managing the avian influenza outbreak in the dairy industry
Last week, California dairy producers requested that the State of California use its authority to ban all cattle coming into California from HPIA-infected states until further notice. Following the industry's request for additional action, the California Department of Food & Agriculture increased its health certificate requirements. Those requirements were effective immediately. What does this mean for those looking to ship cattle into the state as well as for dairy producers in California? What protection might this provide to California herds? Joining us in the episode to talk about the avian influenza in dairy cattle situation in California and nationwide is Western United Dairies CEO Anja Raudabaugh. In addition to discussing the new restrictions on dairy cattle coming into California, we discuss how the virus is possibly being spread, what things dairy producers should keep an eye out for in their herds and how best to responsibly communicate the evolving situation. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Thu, April 04, 2024
Food circularity: Time to disrupt linear model of current food system?
Of the food we grow annually, 40% is lost or wasted. Globally, food loss and waste is responsible for 10% of greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, rates of food insecurity continue to skyrocket. In 2022, nearly 828 million people faced acute food insecurity, an increase of more than 60% since 2019.These numbers are only expected to grow. So are there opportunities and for that matter reasons to disrupt the linear model of our current food system? In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus, we revisit a presentation that Pete Pearson, Senior Director, Food Loss and Waste for the World Wildlife Fund, gave as part of our recent Food Waste to Animal Feed Virtual Conference. He talks about the introduction of circularity into food cultivation and production. Circularity considers the entire life cycle of food, including its societal and environmental costs, and supports alternative models for waste prevention and upcycling. View our recent Food Waste to Animal Feed Virtual Conference in its entirety, click on this link or visit Feedstuffs.com This episode has been sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Fri, March 29, 2024
Expansion of innovative solutions drives Novus acquisition of BRI
Novus International, Inc., announced its acquisition of enzyme company BioResource International, Inc., also known as BRI, in March. Under the terms of the agreement, NOVUS became the owner of all BRI’s products and intellectual property and takes control of the company’s facilities. In making the announcement, the leader in intelligent nutrition cited supply chain optimization, product diversification, and innovation as reasons behind the deal. In today’s episode of the Feedstuffs in Focus, we talk with NOVUS President and CEO Dan Meagher about the recent acquisition of BRI and his company’s plans.
Wed, March 20, 2024
Animal feed part of food waste, loss solution
Food waste and loss are a growing concern around the world. Food left in the fields. Food not pretty enough for supermarket display cases. The list goes on and on. All too often perfectly good food ends up in landfills or is left to rot in the field. But, is there a role for animal agriculture when it comes to possibly providing a solution to the food waste situation and, if so, what might that look like? Joining us in the episode of Feedstuffs in Focus to talk about food waste as an alternative animal feed ingredient is Dr. Jerry Shurson of the University of Minnesota. We also discuss a free online conference focused on fostering a discussion around the challenges and opportunities related to food waste for livestock. That conference is hosted by the University of Minnesota, University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University and Feedstuffs with the goal of communicating and educating those in the feed and feeding industries globally about the value of food waste for livestock in the backdrop of food, climate, and sustainability challenges. The conference will be held March 26, 27 and 28. Attendee registration for this free event is recommended. Conference sponsors include the North American Renderers Association, World Wildlife Fund, International Ingredients Corp., American Feed Industry Association and the US Grains Council. This conference is also supported by a USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grant.
Wed, March 13, 2024
Pork industry resiliency makes world a better place
2023 was a year marked with numerous challenges for the pork industry but along with those challenges came opportunity. Opportunity to step back and reevaluate. Opportunity to have conversations that needed to be had with government regulators and policymakers. Opportunity to move forward with the continued objective of making the world a better place for the industry and consumers overall. The good news is that this year is looking to be stronger thanks in part to the long-standing resiliency and commitment of the pork industry. Joining Feedstuffs’ Ann Hess in this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus to discuss the state of the hog industry is Brian Humphreys, CEO of the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC). We caught up with Brian during the National Pork Industry Forum in Chicago.
Fri, March 08, 2024
Live swine traceability minimizes disease risk
The pork industry took a proactive step to protect animal health and producers’ livelihoods this week with the approval of a resolution aimed at enhancing the country’s live swine traceability system. The goal of the new standards is that of better controlling the spread of a foreign animal disease and lessening the economic impact of an outbreak should one occur. Joining Feedstuffs’ Ann Hess in this episode to discuss the importance of controlling foreign animal disease in our nation’s swine herd is Dr. Anna Forseth, Director of Animal Health for the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC). In her role, Anna is the liaison between the pork industry and the government on pre-harvest animal health and public health issues. We caught up with Anna at this week’s National Pork Industry Forum. This episode is being brought to you by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com If you would like to hear more conversations about some of the big issues affecting the livestock, poultry, grain and animal feed industries, subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast channel. For daily news, visit us at feedstuffs.com ; nationalhogfarmer.com and beefmagazine.com
Fri, March 01, 2024
Lessons learned from going Prop 12 compliant
For those farms that became Prop 12 compliant, the industry is eager to learn about the challenges, opportunities, production considerations and lessons encountered along the way. Joining Feedstuffs’ Ann Hess in this episode to discuss Country View Family Farms’ journey to become Prop 12 compliant is Dr. Carlos Roudergue, a veterinarian in the company's Production Department. CVFF includes more than 300 family farms throughout Indiana, Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, Maryland and North Carolina. All CVFF farms are create-free during gestation. It is one of the top 11 hog production companies in the US, producing some 2. 7 million pigs per year. For more information on this and other topics, visit Feedstuffs.com; NationalHogFarmer.com and BEEFmagazine.com.
Fri, February 23, 2024
Market growth, White House Egg Roll are focus of US egg industry
The American Egg Board has a number of strategic priorities in place for 2024. They include the assessment of new revenue streams, food chain outreach and engagement as well as the development of new farmer support resources. Big things also are already in the works around this year’s Easter Egg Roll at the White House, including taking it beyond Washington, D.C. This episode is being brought to you by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com Joining us to give us an updated on AEB and all of its efforts to promote US eggs and expand market growth on a global basis is Emily Metz, President & CEO of AEB. We caught up with Emily during this year’s IPPE in Atlanta.
Thu, February 15, 2024
Sustainable livestock systems can contribute to climate action
Sustainable livestock systems can contribute to climate action in several ways, including the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, improvement of resource efficiency, enhancement of carbon sequestration and minimization of environmental impacts. At the same time, there needs to be recognition of the role of livestock in meeting the public’s dietary needs. What is at stake? How important is collaboration when it comes to reducing emissions from livestock globally? Joining us on this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is Dr. Frank Mitloehner of the University of California-Davis and the CLEAR Center. We caught up with Dr. Mitloehner during the International Production and Processing Expo in Atlanta, to get the lastest update on climate-related discussions in regard to the animal agriculture.
Wed, February 07, 2024
Documentary: What’s a world without cows?
Amid narrow views about cows and climate change, there is an important conversation to be had. A conversation about the role cows play in our daily lives and world around us. A conversation about the what if … what if there were no more cows? Joining us on this episode is Dr. Mark Lyons, Alltech president and CEO. We caught up with Dr. Lyons during the International Production and Processing Expo in Atlanta where we got the first scoop on a new feature-length, 90-minute documentary that Alltech is working on that explores the true impact of cattle and the potential consequences of their removal. We also get a preview of the 2024 Alltech ONE World Tour and discussed several recent acquisitions by the company, including: Agolin - In May 2023, Alltech acquired majority interest in the Swiss-based company, Agolin developed and produced plant-based nutrition solutions that has been scientifically proven to improve herd performance, profitability and sustainability in beef and dairy cattle, including milk and meat production. Ideagro - This partnership joins two leading companies to accelerate soil and crop research, and to enhance biological and other microorganism-based offerings to producers around the world. For more information the World Without Cows documentary, visit www.worldwithoutcows.com. For more information on Alltech, visit www.alltech.com
Fri, February 02, 2024
Hatchability remains major industry challenge
The U.S. in recent years has seen some of the worst hatchability numbers since the late 1980s. The U.S. Department of Agriculture in January 2024 reported average hatchability at 79.6%. There are many factors in play, in the barn and the hatchery, that can impact hatchability. Some blame poor fertility and embryo mortality, while others consider more management-related issues. Regardless, the cause of this phenomenon is unclear. Until a firm cause is discovered and addressed, what can producers do to support hatchability and better ensure those chicks make it onto dinner plates? Joining Feedstuffs in Focus host Sarah Muirhead is NOVUS executive manager and poultry technology lead Hugo Romero-Sanchez, a poultry expert with a comprehensive understanding of the physiological, nutritional, environmental, and economic variables that affect broiler and layer performance. Dr. Romero presented a TECHTalk on the topic of hatchability during the 2024 International Production and Processing Expo this week. To learn how NOVUS is using intelligent nutrition to help poultry producers do more, visit www.novusint.com
Wed, January 31, 2024
Swine industry now in charge when it comes to PRRS
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is a significant disease and cost the swine industry some $660 million annually. For multiple decades, the industry has had its hands tied when it comes to PRRS but new research out of Pipestone shows that may no longer be the case, and in fact, producers may now the ones in charge of the virus Joining us to share newly released details on a study looking at whether the application of a comprehensive, science-based approach to breeding herd biosecurity, known as next-generation biosecurity, could reduce the PRRS risk across a large commercial production company is Dr. Scott Dee. For more information: javma-javma.23.08.0437.pdf This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Thu, January 18, 2024
IPPE: Eleven football fields of solutions and educational offerings
The International Production & Processing Expo, also known as IPPE, is held annually in Atlanta, Ga. This year’s event is set for Jan. 30-Feb. 1 and will offer the largest trade show floor space ever and more than 80 hours of dynamic education sessions focused on current industry issues. Joining Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead in this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus to talk about IPPE and everything it has to offer this year’s attendees is Sarah Novak, chief operating officer of the American Feed Industry Assn. AFIA is one of the hosting organizations of IPPE. This episode is brought to you by the International Production & Processing Expo, a collaboration of three shows representing the entire chain of protein production and processing. Make your plans today to join the feed, meat and poultry industry in Atlanta, Ga., on Jan. 30-Feb. 1, 2024. To learn more at ippexpo.org .
Fri, January 12, 2024
Unveiling economic challenges, investing in pork demand solutions
The National Pork Board collaborates with third-party experts to analyze both micro and macro-economic implications related to the challenging business landscape that American pig farmers confront. Accordingly, NPB’s producer-led board of directors allocates Pork Checkoff funds judiciously, focusing on short- and long-term demand creation strategies to enhance the value of pork and overcome barriers to consumption. Joining Feedstuffs in Focus host Sarah Muirhead to discuss the hog industry's current economic challenges and demand growth for pork are Dr. Steve Meyer, economist with Partners for Production Agriculture, and Bill Even, CEO of the National Pork Board. The National Pork Board firmly believes that all stakeholders in the pork industry, and ultimately consumers, will benefit from a better overall understanding of the economics of pork production. That said, it is always advisable to seek independent advice from a professinal before making any economic decision. Pork Checkoff funds are being used to make this podcast possible, with the primary purpose of facilitating the understanding of publicly available economic information. Stay connected with Pork Checkoff by signing up for the checkoff’s weekly email at porkcheckoff.org/email Any economic analysis, projections or opinions presented are solely those of Dr Meyer and do not represent the views or opinions of nor are they endorsed by the National Pork Board. All producers should seek independent advice from a professional before making any economic decisions.
Thu, December 28, 2023
Robust, full-value pigs offer profitability advantage
Today's hog market is challenging, making profitability even more critical. Under such conditions, robust, full-value pigs can make all the difference. So how best to navigate to ensure your herd has the advantage of profitability? Joining Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead to talk pig survivability and efficiency among the TN Duroc line is Matt Schulte, meat scientist with Topigs Norsvin. Among other things, Matt shares details of a recently completed experimental study that looked specifically at how several Duroc lines stack up. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin . Swine genetics company Topigs Norsvin is renowned for its innovative approach to implementing new technologies and its continuous focus on cost-efficient and sustainable pig production. Research, innovation, and dissemination of genetic improvements are the cornerstones of the company. For more information, visit www.TopigsNorsvin.US .
Thu, December 21, 2023
Trust your tools and third parties to cultivate confidence
There are businesses and organizations with advice, leadership and tools available to be a third-party in difficult situations. In this episode, Feedstuffs' Sarah Muirhead talks with Mary Preisler, program director, Farmer Lender Mediation Program, based in Minnesota, and Eric Osterhaus, lead advisor and firm principal with Pinion. Among other things, the strive to instill hope within the agricultural community amidst challenging times—whether those challenges are financial, familial or otherwise. Though the information presented may encompass a broad spectrum, it is encouraged to pursue tailored support for individual business needs and explore mediation options specific to your unique situation. This episode is brought to you by the National Pork Board. The National Pork Board is here for producers. Visit porkcheckoff.org to stay connected and learn more.
Wed, December 13, 2023
Soybean meal – both a nutritional and prescriptive ingredient – mitigates respiratory disease impact on pig performance
Soybean meal contains functional bioactive molecules that can help mitigate swine respiratory disease (SRD) effects on pig growth and development. Feeding elevated soybean levels can be especially cost-effective during winter/spring seasons, when barns are closed tight and SRD is more typically a challenge for veterinarians and producers to overcome. In this episode, Feedstuffs' Ann Hess talks with Dr. R.Dean Boyd, Dr. Paul Yeske and Dr. Amy Petry about how soybean meal is both a nutritional and prescriptive ingredient. Listeners can learn more about how soybean meal can be an easy-to-implement management tool to enhance profitability in health-challenged pig flows. Content brought to you by U.S. Soy. View a Feedstuffs article on this topic: https://informamarkets.turtl.co/story/feedstuffs-october-2023/page/2
Thu, December 07, 2023
Controlling and eliminating PRRSV L1C variant
There is no right answer when it comes to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome, but controlling the virus in the early days requires PRRSv herd stabilization and herd closure to be part of the conversation. In this episode, Dr. Paul Yeske, Swine Vet Center, walks us through different strategies producers can use in the field to control and eliminate PRRS L1C. Our Ann Hess sat down with Dr. Yeske at this past weekend’s PRRS conference in Chicago, IL. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com For more information on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.beefmagazine.com , www.Feedstuffs.com, and www.NationalHogFarmer.com .
Thu, November 30, 2023
Program to highlight regulatory changes for feed industry
Recent changes to animal food regulations and how such changes could affect the animal food industry in 2024 are among those topics on the minds of today’s animal food facility managers and operation/mill personnel. The big question being, of course, is how these latest regulatory requirements might impact business and the feed industry overall. With us in this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus to talk about the feed education component of the upcoming International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) and what’s on the industry’s radar when it comes to regulation and enforcement is Gary Huddleston, Director of Feed Manufacturing and Regulatory Affairs for the American Feed Industry Assn. Among other things, Huddleston is involved in pulling together the Feed Education Program held each year during IPPE in Atlanta. He also is coordinator of AFIA and Feedstuffs Feed Facility of the Year annual awards program. Adding to the excitement, this year's winner in the commercial dry category will be announced during the feed education session on Wednesday morning of IPPE. This episode is brought to you by International Production & Processing Expo, a collaboration of three shows representing the entire chain of protein production and processing. Make your plans today to join the feed, meat and poultry industry in Atlanta, Ga., on Jan. 30-Feb. 1, 2024. To learn more at ippexpo.org . For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.beefmagazine.com , www.Feedstuffs.com, and www.NationalHogFarmer.com .
Wed, November 22, 2023
Post-COVID regulatory environment brings increase in enforcement
What are the pressing issues for the animal feed and pet food industries as 2023 wraps up and we move into 2024. Rachael Dettmann Spiegel, a food lawyer with Faegre Drinker in Minneapolis, shares her insight on what to expect. To date, she says there has been an increase inspections and enforcement on the part of the Food & Drug Administration in this post-COVID era. In particular, she says, the agency is looking at companies from more of a complete perspective, making visits to all manufacturing facilities rather than picking and choosing just a few to visits. She also addresses the importance of having contracts in place with suppliers, having a safety culture throughout the team and making sure product recall preparations are in place. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.beefmagazine.com , www.Feedstuffs.com, and www.NationalHogFarmer.com .
Thu, November 09, 2023
Sizzling success: Cracking the multigenerational pork market
National Pork Board helps producers protect their freedom to operate during these difficult times by continuing to focus on its research, education and promotion mandate. Now, more than ever, NPB’s work is to drive domestic and international market demand, to better understand and overcome the barriers that prevent demand growth. Joining us on this episode to share domestic market growth strategies are Dr. David Newman, Senior Vice President of Market Growth for the National Pork Board, and Gene Noem, National Pork Board’s past president and a producer from Iowa. This podcast is funded by America’s Pig Farmers through the Pork Checkoff. Stay updated by signing up for the email at porkcheckoff.org/email .
Thu, November 02, 2023
Supporting sows and swine producers post-Prop 12
California’s Proposition 12, which restricts gestation crate usage and requires 24 square feet of space per sow, has been a hot topic of conversation in swine circles since the Supreme Court upheld the law earlier this year. While some producers swear they won’t make the change on their farms, other states are following in California’s steps. A similar law approved by Massachusetts voters in 2016 will finally go into effect this year, and recently New Jersey unanimously passed a similar law, making it the 11th state to implement such regulations. The new laws ultimately force producers to expand the physical size of their barns or reduce the number of sows in their herd to accommodate the square footage required by law. Regardless of what producers do to follow these rules, sow productivity, and piglet uniformity and livability are more important than ever. Joining Feedstuffs in Focus host Sarah Muirhead is Novus Technical Service Manager Alex Hintz and Novus Sales Manager Andrew Howerton. Hintz is a veterinarian focused on maximizing lifetime sow productivity and profitability as well as nursery and growing pig performance. Howerton is a seventh-generation pig farmer who served as a production manager for a 5,600-sow unit prior to joining Novus. Understanding the challenge producers are facing, intelligent nutrition company Novus International is sharing ways to support sows and the people who raise them. For more information, visit www.Novusint.com
Thu, October 26, 2023
Strategizing for a successful succession plan
Separating farming and non-farming assets between heirs, bringing in outside investors and management, and preparing for life’s unexpected challenges are just a few of the issues to consider when building a succession plan for your farming operation. Joining our Ann Hess to walk us through various succession planning scenarios and to discuss opportunities and challenges within each plan is Jim Marzolf, Vice President of Business, Pipestone System. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.beefmagazine.com , www.Feedstuffs.com, and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, October 26, 2023
Special Report: Practical ways to handle the most expensive swine pathogen
Production costs continue to climb across the swine industry, and the health costs associated with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome only make it worse. PRRS is estimated to cost the industry $1.8 million per day. Host Sarah Muirhead talks with Dr. Katie Coleman from Iowa Select Farms to discuss how Iowa Select reduced PRRS incidence by more than 90% in affected barns, without building new barns in a swine-dense area. They discuss: Costs of PRRS to a system A specific type of filtration addition that didn’t require a new barn build Timeline necessary for modifications and culture shift How improved herd health benefits employees Tools they used and lessons learned This podcast is one of a four-part series on controlling costs with herd health, which is brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health. Check out the other three episodes for discussions on Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae , Lawsonia and porcine sapovirus. Call your Pharmgate representative or visit pharmgate.com to learn about their broad portfolio of options to support your protocols.
Fri, October 20, 2023
Special Report: Emerging diseases: Sapovirus
There are plenty of diseases that can affect a production system, but what happens when the standard culprits don’t show up on a diagnostics test? Host Sarah Muirhead sits down with Dr. Tom Petznick of ArkCare to discuss lessons learned in uncovering and controlling porcine sapovirus. They discuss: Realizing he was dealing with a new challenge Next generation gene sequencing Treatments for a little known virus The costs of sapovirus to a system Lessons learned from a sneaky virus Dr. Petznick, veterinarian at ArkCare, has been practicing swine veterinary medicine for 25 years and is this year’s Allen D. Leman Science in Practice Award winner. His expertise in managing purebred sows has made him an in-demand consulting swine veterinarian. This podcast is one of a four-part series on controlling costs with herd health brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health. Check out the other three episodes for discussions on PRRS, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and Lawsonia . Call your Pharmgate representative or visit pharmgate.com to learn about their broad portfolio options to support your protocols.
Thu, October 19, 2023
Maximizing labor efficiency with feeds that challenge the assumptions
Good help can be difficult to secure for your ranch, and that makes finding ways to maximize animal performance with less labor input even more important to your bottom line. Joining us on this segment of Feedstuffs in Focus to explain how labor efficiency can be maximized through feed is Dusty Abney, Ph.D., with Cargill Animal Nutrition. This podcast is brought to you by Cargill Animal Nutrition and its Ranger Limiter Technology, a proprietary technology that works with your forages and feeding programs to meet your animal performance goals in a self-fed format. Ranger provides versatility to fit a variety of commodities and feed ingredients while optimizing performance and the right gain for your cattle and operation. Ranger Limited, do it your way. Find out more about Cargill and Ranger Limiter at RangerLimiter.com For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.beefmagazine.com , www.Feedstuffs.com, and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Fri, October 13, 2023
Roadmap to better animal welfare and its impact
Can animal welfare practices be related to gut health, and how can improvements in gut health contribute to overall animal welfare? Joining Feedstuffs’ Ann Hess today to share her expertise on animal welfare is Dr. Jennifer Walker. Dr. Walker is Co-Founder and Chief Animal Welfare Officer at Kinder Ground and Director of Quality and Care for Danone North America where she is responsible for managing milk quality from farm to factory gate as well as the development and management of Danone North American’s industry leading animal welfare program. You can hear more from Dr. Walker and many other experts for FREE at the virtual Kemin Intestinal Health Symposium – Sessions are available for on-demand viewing now. Register and access today at www.kemin.com/symposium . For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com, and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, October 12, 2023
Special Report: Lawsonia: Silent robbers of feed
“There is no such thing as normal diarrhea.” This comes from someone who has dedicated nearly 40 years to controlling and establishing immunity to ileitis, a leading cause of diarrhea in pigs. Host Sarah Muirhead speaks with Dr. Nate Winkelman from Swine Services Unlimited about practical strategies and lessons learned for controlling Lawsonia . They discuss: Costs of Lawsonia to a system Why ileitis is so endemic in the swine industry Types of diagnosis and treatments The future of ileitis control This podcast is one of a four-part series on controlling costs through herd health, which is brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health. Check out the other three episodes for discussions on PPRS, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and porcine sapovirus. Call your Pharmgate representative or visit pharmgate.com to learn about their broad portfolio of options to support your protocols.
Fri, October 06, 2023
Drinking water challenges require identifying, correcting
The quality of animal drinking water has been historically overlooked in production systems. The good news is that is changing and more attention is starting to be paid on-farm to water quality and quantity. Joining us to share her expertise on water is Dr. Susan Watkins. Dr. Watkins is a distinguished professor emeritus of the University of Arkansas’s Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service. During her 22-year career, she assisted the poultry industry throughout the US and world with identifying, quantifying and correcting drinking water challenges. You can hear more from Dr. Watkins and many other experts for FREE at the virtual Kemin Intestinal Health Symposium – Sessions are available for on-demand viewing now. Register and access today at www.kemin.com/symposium . For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com, and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Wed, October 04, 2023
Special Report: Mycoplasma knocks down ADG and secondary cull markets
In an industry where health challenges can determine the difference between profitability and loss, why not eliminate a challenge when you can? Host Sarah Muirhead sits down with Dr. Amy Maschhoff from The Maschhoffs LLC System to discuss practical strategies, lessons and benefits seen from eliminating M. Hyo , a common cause of coinfections. They discuss: Costs of mycoplasma to a system Lessons learned from eliminating the disease Benefits to the production system as a whole Backup plans if the original elimination plan doesn’t work Future opportunities Dr. Amy Maschhoff is the director of health and animal care for The Maschhoffs, LLC. She earned her veterinary degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and began her career as herd veterinarian for The Maschhoffs. Now she serves in a more central role for the Maschhoff system. This podcast is one of a four-part series on controlling costs with herd health brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health. Check out the other three episodes for discussions on PRRS, Lawsonia and porcine sapovirus. Call your Pharmgate representative or visit pharmgate.com to learn about their broad portfolio of options to support your protocols.
Fri, September 29, 2023
Renewable fertilizer mines of the future
Industry disruptors. Those people, those companies and that technology that are changing things up and bringing forward new ideas and often times new solutions for agriculture. Joining us on this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is a leading disruptor in the agricultural input sector. The company is Phinite and has developed an innovative approach to animal manure. Jordan Phasey, founder and CEO of Phinite, is here to tell us more. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com, and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Fri, September 22, 2023
Prop 12 certification: What do you need to know
When it comes to animal welfare, the rules and regulations can often be vague and hard to keep up with. How best to sort through it all and make sure your operation is in compliance, particularly with Prop 12 on the horizon come January 2024? During this week’s Allen D. Leman Swine Conference we caught up with Jason McAlister, President and CEO of CloverLeaf Animal Welfare Systems, to get a status update on how certification, among other things, under Prop 12 is progressing. McAlister created CloverLeaf in 2017 with the goal of making animal welfare easy, accessible and widespread throughout the world. For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com, and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, September 14, 2023
Soybeans: Exports, food vs fuel, economic benefit to US economy
The National Oilseed Processors Association and the United Soybean Board recently unveiled a new study examining the value of the American soybean industry. The study, “The Economic Impact of the U.S. Soybeans & End Products on the U.S. Economy,” found that the total economic impact of the US economy from the soybean sector is around $124 billion annually. Breaking that down, it comes to $85.7 billion from soy production and $9.8 billion from the processing side of the soy industry. During the recent Farm Progress Show we caught up with Mac Marshall, Vice President of Market Intelligence with the United Soybean Board, to get more details on the recently completed study of the soybean industry to the overall economy and to get an update on exports and the food vs fuel debate. What might all the extra soybean meal mean for those of us in the US livestock industry. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com, and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, September 07, 2023
The soybean meal NE value conundrum
In this episode, host Sarah Muirhead talks with Dr. R.Dean Boyd and Dr. Aaron Gaines about establishing reliable net energy (NE) values for soybean meal (SBM) in commercial growing and finishing swine diets. Boyd and Gaines are the authors of a recently published Feedstuffs article , “Soybean meal NE value for growing pigs is greater in commercial environments.” Typically, academic research facilities lack pathogen and/or environmental stressors that are encountered in commercial barns, which typically house 1000 pigs or more per room. The authors discuss how the apparent difference in NE estimates between academic and commercial environments are determined and will propose that health-promoting molecules specific to SBM contribute to the difference. Listeners can learn more about why there is a difference between the two environments (as well as a comparison to other industry references, such as NRC) and the key takeaways in terms of new opportunities – and value – for the industry.
Wed, August 30, 2023
Old crop, new crop: How’s this fall harvest season setting up
What might this fall harvest season have in store when it comes to the markets and market prices? Where might the cost of diesel and propane be as growers fire up those combines and grain driers? What about the market for various feed ingredients? Is it advisable to stock up now or hold off a bit on those purchases? The markets for beef cattle and hogs look to be making some adjustments as well. What might those look like as we head into the end of the year? Lots of questions and to find out more we caught up with Andrew McCarty and Domenic Varricchio, co-founders of Pluto Commodities, during this week’s Farm Progress Show in Decatur, Illinois. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com, www.BeefMagazine.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Wed, August 23, 2023
Color stability differences in pork muscle
Meat discoloration during retail display is a process characterized by changes in the pigment of meat. In beef, that discoloration has been linked back to muscle type. Studies regarding the color stability of different pork muscles, however, has been more limited. Joining us today to talk about meat discoloration at retail is Dr. Bailey Harsh, assistant professor of meat science in the Department of Animal Science at the University of Illinois. Dr. Harsh’s research is dedicated to the development of application-focused solutions aimed at challenges in food and production agriculture and increasing consumer demand for meat products. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored byTopigs Norsvin. Swine genetics company Topigs Norsvin is renowned for its innovative approach to implementing new technologies and its continuous focus on cost-efficient and sustainable pig production. Research, innovation, and dissemination of genetic improvements are the cornerstones of the company. For more information, visit TopigsNorsvin.us. For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, August 10, 2023
Role of biodiversity in a profitable and sustainable farm
When looking to increase crop yields, a stable biological environment really should be the ultimate goal. Environmental needs vary from crop to crop, but the one constant is that each crop has an optimal environment to support maximum yields and crop quality. Creating and maintaining this environment is key to a successful farm. Joining us to talk about how best to achieve an optimal biological environment through high-quality data that is collected through well planned, accurate field trials is Dr. Sagi Katz, Vice President Agronomy at Agmatix . Agmatix is an agro infomatics company offering data-driven solutions for ag professionals worldwide. For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, August 03, 2023
The new Model Pet Food and Specialty Pet Food Regulations: What do we need to know
Pet owners will soon find updated packaging and labels when shopping for pet food and specialty pet food products. This is because the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) has approved new suggested labeling guidelines. Guidelines that will ensure consistency and transparency and allow consumers to more easily make more informed buying decisions for their pets. Passage of the revised Model Regulations for Pet Food and Specialty Pet Food sets a new standard for pet food manufacturers and distributors and is the result of feed regulatory professionals across the United States and Canada working cooperatively with consumers and professionals within the pet food industry on a strategic course to ensure pet food labels provide a more comprehensive view of the product. Joining us in the episode with all the details is Austin Therrell, Executive Director of AAFCO. We talk about what the new guidelines will mean for pet owners and feed manufacturers. We also talk about what's ahead in terms of adoption of the new guidelines at the state level and, for that matter, what may be the best approach to the regulation of pet foods and animal food. For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, July 20, 2023
Productive energy: A new, old way to approach bird diets
Productive Energy, also known as Arkansas NE, is a way of more efficiently influencing performance, breast meat yield and even the economics and sustainability of broiler production, say researchers. It is thought to be the only energy system that can significantly predict the feed conversion ratio and feed intake for broilers. It’s a way of looking at what happens in the bird in terms of body composition. Research is underway at the University of Arkansas looking at the area of productive energy, and to date they have found very interesting results that indicated perhaps a change may be needed in how broiler diets are formulated. Joining us from the Poultry Science Assn annual meeting in Philadelphia is Diego Martinez from University of Arkansas. Martinez is Program Associate in Dr. Craig Coon's poultry nutrition lab at the University of Arkansas. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com. For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Fri, July 14, 2023
How to build a better laying hen
Is it possible to build a better laying hen? Perhaps so, according to University of Guelph researchers. During the Poultry Science Assn. annual meeting in Philadelphia earlier this week, Drs. Tina Widowski and Ana Rentsch shared their findings on how bird welfare can influence bird productivity throughout the bird's lifetime. Their work has shown how a modification of early life experience along with attention to bird welfare and health can make a difference particularly when paired with specific housing systems. The results they were reporting on at PSA were largely focused on birds being house in aviaries. For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, July 06, 2023
New product promotes successful farrowing and pig livability
Alltech has introduced Triad, an innovative solution that promotes successful farrowing and pig livability through a palatable, proprietary blend of Alltech ingredients. During World Pork Expo, our Ann Hess caught up with Andy Rash, general manager of Alltech’s U.S. swine business to find out more about Triad and what opportunities it has to offer hog producers. As Rash explains, sow throughput can be compromised by a higher incidence of stillborn pigs and pre-wean death losses, decreasing overall performance for swine producers. Effective during short feeding intervals, Triad supports sows during parturition and lessened pre-wean mortality, driving more pigs and more pounds long-term. “Helping producers keep more pigs they work so hard to produce in the production chain is a great challenge to address,” Rash said. “The industry makes such a large investment in total pigs born but focusing on pigs weaned is the real opportunity.” This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is brought to you by Alltech, a global leader in animal nutrition. For more information on Alltech and Triad, visit Alltech.com . For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, June 29, 2023
Managing economic uncertainty in pork sector
The swine industry is currently facing some real economic challenges. Joining us from World Pork Expo to provide perspective on the industry and what is driving this economic uncertainty, as well as thoughts on how long it might last is Dr. Matt Ritter, Sr. Vice President Research & Development with United Animal Health. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, June 22, 2023
New discoveries in the connection between swine nutrition and immune health
Researchers in swine nutrition have focused much of their recent efforts on exploring how feed can benefit sows and pigs beyond growth and production. Historically, interventions have concentrated on attacking a particular pathogen, but modern technologies have shown promise in proactively supporting and developing pigs’ immune systems. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by Purina Animal Nutrition. Driven to unlock the greatest potential in every animal, Purina is an industry-leading innovator offering a valued portfolio of complete feeds, supplements, premixes, ingredients and specialty technologies for the livestock and lifestyle animal markets. For more information, visit purinamills.com . For additional background on this topic: https://www.feedstuffs.com/news/purina-announces-new-swine-feed-additives With us today to talk about the science behind the immune system as well as new feed additives that proactively support immune function is Dr. Erin Bryan, a swine nutritional immunologist with Purina Animal Nutrition. Dr. Bryan is on the Swine Innovation Team and conducts much of her research at the Purina Animal Nutrition Center, the company’s state-of-the-art research farm in Gray Summit, Missouri. Dr. Bryan and Feedstuffs’ Ann Hess caught up at the World Pork Expo in Des Moines, Iowa. For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, June 15, 2023
Generative AI: What's it mean for your business?
It’s all the buzz in the business world. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) as a public relations, and even marketing, tool is on the rise and making headlines. But what is true risk? What is the real cost of getting your messaging wrong or using AI to craft your messaging? Is AI a business opportunity, risk or a bit of both? Hinda Mitchell, President of the Inspire PR Group, shares with us her insight on AI and automation as a replacement for trained marketing and PR staff. For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Fri, June 09, 2023
Intelligent nutrition comes to the animal protein industry
During World Pork Expo in Des Moines, Iowa, NOVUS International, a global feed additive company, revealed its comprehensive rebranding initiative. The changes reflect the more than 30-year-old company’s promise to deliver more to its customers and its commitment to providing solutions created through advanced technology, based on global scientific research that goes further to offer unexpected benefits to customers. “Intelligent nutrition is how we support animal health and performance,” says NOVUS SVP and Chief Commercial Officer Ed Galo in this week’s Feedstuffs in Focus podcast and press release. “Our novel combination of experienced people, insightful perspective, and smarter solutions allows us to put more into everything we create. Because we want to deliver more benefits that deliver more for producers. That’s intelligent nutrition.” As Galo explains, Made of More™, the company’s new slogan, represents the focus of all its future endeavors. NOVUS liquid and dry methionine solutions utilize the HMTBa molecule, which is a precursor to L-methionine. Because of this unique molecule, ALIMET® feed supplement, MHA® feed supplement and MFP® feed supplement are nitrogen-free and have properties of an organic acid benefiting overall gut health. Liquid ALIMET® feed supplement requires virtually no handling thanks to the company’s automated inventory system for customers (AIMS). HMTBa is also the backbone for MINTREX® bis-chelated trace minerals, highly bioavailable and absorbable organic zinc, copper, and manganese that allow producers to use lower inclusion of minerals in the ration while seeing the same or improved performance and growth. MINTREX® is also a source of methionine through HMTBa. ACTIVATE® nutritional feed acid is made from a blend of organic acids and HMTBa shown to reduce the survivability of certain pathogens in feed. Just as NOVUS works to do more for its customers, it’s also working to offer more to the industry. Galo says new products – created in-house, through partnerships, or via mergers and acquisitions – are on the horizon. “Innovation remains our core priority. As experts in the global food system, we can see where the animal protein industry is heading and this vision directs how we can help meet regional goals from performance and environmental sustainability to return on investment,” he says. “We are driven to create new ideas and technologies that improve the health of animals and animal protein production.” For more information on intelligent nutrition and how NOVUS is made of more, visit http://novusint.com/MADE-OF-MORE .
Fri, June 02, 2023
Sow pelvic organ prolapse appears to have genetic, environmental basis
Globally pork production continues to grow. Improvements in management and genetics have enabled a significant improvement in the production efficiency of sows through increases in the number of piglets born alive and weaned and consistent litter performance across parities. Unfortunately, a concomitant steady rise in sow mortality. One of the major reasons for sow mortality is pelvic organ prolapse (otherwise known as POP). Joining us today to talk about some recent research findings related to POP are Dr. Jack Dekkers of Iowa State University and Vishesh Bhatia, a Ph.D. student of Dekkers. They along with Dr. Jason Ross, also of Iowa State University, investigated the genetic basis of uterine prolapse with the assistance of Topigs Norsvin. The main finding of their work has been that uterine prolapse appears to be even more genetically influence than what was previously realized. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin . Swine genetics company Topigs Norsvin is renowned for its innovative approach to implementing new technologies and its continuous focus on cost-efficient and sustainable pig production. Research, innovation, and dissemination of genetic improvements are the cornerstones of the company. For more information, visit www.TopigsNorsvin.US . For additional background on the topic: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fgene.2023.1154713/full For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, May 25, 2023
Better understanding needed of protozoal disease in turkeys
The US turkey industry continues to battle costly protozoal diseases such as coccidiosis, blackhead disease and more. While there are vaccines, medications and alternative products available for managing coccidiosis, there are few dependable options for managing the others. Little also is known about how these protozoal diseases interact. To help the turkey industry get a firmer grip on protozoal diseases, a roundtable was recently held featuring three experts from research, production and industry. Each panelist shared experiences and provided ideas on how to address protozoal diseases and maintain the health, well-being and productivity of turkeys today. Joining us today to discussion the roundtable and protozoal disease in turkeys are Dr. David Rives, senior technical services veterinarian with Zoetis, and Dr. Olivia Wedegaertner, US turkey account manager, also with Zoetis. Interested in reading the entire roundtable discussion? It is available here: https://poultryhealthtoday.com/pht-perspectives/managing-protozoal-diseases-in-turkeys/ . For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Fri, May 12, 2023
Next steps following Supreme Court Proposition 12 ruling
The U.S Supreme Court this week rejected an appeal filed by the National Pork Producers Council and American Farm Bureau Federation challenging California’s controversial Proposition 12. That law, which passed in 2018, requires pork meat sold in the state to come from pigs born to a sow housed in at least a 24-square-foot-pen. In response to the law, the NPPC and AFBF filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn Proposition 12. They claimed it violated the U.S. Constitution’s Commerce Clause, which gives Congress the authority to regulate interstate commerce. After the case was thrown out by a lower court, they appealed to the Supreme Court. While the Supreme Court ruled that the case was properly dismissed by lower courts, the decision leaves many unanswered questions about industry-wide changes, pork prices, exports and future legal challenges. In this episode, our Ann Hess talks with NPPC President Scott Hays and Michael Formica, NPPC’s chief legal strategist, about the Supreme Court ruling and what’s next for the US pork industry. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, May 04, 2023
Accelerating practical solutions for agriculture
A new effort to better connect food and agriculture leaders with real-world field experience has kicked off in the Chicago area. Farm Foundation, an accelerator of practical solutions for agriculture, recently started the 2023 planting season by sowing three acres of oats on its new farm in Libertyville, Illinois. The farm is the future site of the Innovation and Education Campus, which will host a range of Farm Foundation programs, including the newly introduced AG 101 Bootcamps . Joining us in this episode to tell us more about the farm and the plans for the farm/innovation campus is Shari Rogge-Fidler, president and CEO of the Farm Foundation. Shari has a long career in business and agriculture. She is a fifth-generation farm owner from Nebraska and hods a MBA from Harvard Business School. Her bachelor of science degree is in business administration from the University of Kansas with an emphasis on international finance. For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Fri, April 28, 2023
The ups and downs of today's ag economy
The global and US economies have been on a rollercoaster ride since COVID-19 entered the picture. As we monitor consumer trends, and what many believe is an impending recession, what should we be prepared when it comes to the resulting effects on the ag economy. Today, we catch up with Don Close, Chief Research and Analytics Officer with Terrain, to get his take on what’s likely ahead for US agriculture. Don was a panelist on this topic during this week’s National Agri Marketing Association conference in St. Louis, Mo. Among other things we address the overall track of US economy and the defining line between a soft landing, a mild recession and a deep recession that everyone talks about. Interest rates and the labor situation in relation to the ag economy also are discussed. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at www.UnitedANH.com For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, April 20, 2023
Rendering industry gets its own day
There is a new day on the National Day Calendar. April 21 is now National Rendering Day. It’s recognition the rendering industry sought as a way to educate the public on the efforts and accomplishments of renderers as well as a way to spread the word about the positive environmental impact of rendering. The date of April 21 was specifically chosen to fall on the day before Earth Day (April 22) in order to represent the sustainable nature of the rendering industry and its contributions to food waste reduction and environmental protection. In this episode, we turn to Anna Wilkinson, Vice President of Communications, and Kent Swisher, President and CEO, of the North American Renderers Association (NARA), to find out more and to learn about the inaugural National Rendering Day and how it came to be. “Rendering companies and their employees are longstanding members of their communities, improving the quality of life by volunteering and supporting local charities, providing jobs, and offering essential recycling services for farmers, restaurants and food service,” Swisher said. “Rendering upcycles by-products that would otherwise be wasted and is the purest example of the circular economy. The observance of National Rendering Day is a great way to educate the public on the efforts and strides of renderers and the positive environmental impacts of rendering.” For more information on NARA and the rendering industry in general, follow NARA's podcast, "The Invisible Industry." Video version YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaVVglav_bmR0Ks3jBrz-PA NARA website: https://nara.org/media/nara-podcast-the-invisible-industry/ Audio Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4h5ntK5tW0AMPvZcrw7Fz6 For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Fri, April 14, 2023
Private cellular networking may benefit on-farm data collection
Rural commercial cellular coverage is spotty, and Wi-Fi is not always effective in poultry and livestock barns or, for that matter, in remote locations on the farm and in the country. A lack service and reliability can be frustrating at best but it also can cost farmers and ranchers dollars in lost efficiency and an inability to easily access and track critical data. In this episode, we turn to Sean Horan, Vice President of Sales for GXC, and Nick Moser, Vice President of JBI Distributors and Services, to learn more the operational, biosecurity, and safety advantages of deploying wireless communications utilizing private cellular networking. What is a private cellular network and a cellular mesh? How can they extend wireless coverage throughout an ag enterprise and what they might that mean for your operation or business. For more information, on this and other topics, including additional coverage from the AASV meeting, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, April 06, 2023
OTC to prescription: What might GFI 263 mean for you?
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration Guidance for Industry (GFI) No. 263 goes into effect in June 2023, transitioning 91 livestock antibiotics, previously available over the counter (OTC), to prescription status. Some manufacturers may transition before this timeframe. Joining us to help get us ahead of the changes to come is Valley Vet Supply Technical Service Veterinarian, Dr. Lacey Fahrmeier. The intent of this guidance is to try to maintain those antibiotics that are important for human medicine use from being used incorrectly and having microbes develop resistance to those antibiotics. FDA didn't do it out of spite or to make things more inconvenient for people. In a lot of ways, some good could come out of this guidance, according to Fahrmeier. Fahrmeier is a graduate of Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. In addition to her role on the Valley Vet Supply Technical Service veterinary team, she is a practicing veterinarian and owner at a Southern Montana veterinary clinic. Frequently Asked Questions about GFA#263: https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/unpublished-judicious-use-antimicrobials/gfi-263-frequently-asked-questions-farmers-and-ranchers For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, March 30, 2023
Rail mergers, river situation: What's likely ahead for this spring?
What might spring bring in terms of the export and shipping situations? What about Canadian Pacific Railway’s acquisition of Kansas City Southern Railway? What's the latest on the Mississippi River situation? Mike Steenhoek, Executive Director of the Soy Transportation Coalition, joins today us with an update. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com For more information, on this and other topics, including additional coverage from the AASV meeting, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Fri, March 24, 2023
Advancing sustainability in U.S. pork industry
America’s pig farmers have long had a commitment to do what’s right for people, pigs, and the planet. With that in mind, the National Pork Board – alongside the National Pork Producers Council – has established new industry-wide sustainability goals and metrics to drive the industry forward. These commitments are rooted in the We Care® Ethical Principles established more than 15 years ago and represent the industry’s collective commitment to food safety, animal well-being, our people, public health, the environment, and local communities. In September 2022, the Advancing U.S. Pork Sustainability grant submitted by National Pork Board (NPB) and six collaborating organizations was awarded $20 million through USDA’s Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities program. The grant program is designed to increase the sustainability of U.S. pork products by advancing climate-smart agriculture practices in Iowa, Minnesota and Missouri. In this episode, we take a look at the efforts that are underway in the pig industry as it strives to be a leader in sustainability. Joining our own Ann Hess for that update is Ashley McDonald, assistant vice president of sustainability with the National Pork Board. For more information, on this and other topics, including additional coverage from the AASV meeting, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Thu, March 16, 2023
New methodology that proves ROI of early disease detection
Before investing in new technology that can lead to earlier disease detection, producers rightly want to understand the return on investment. To dig more into that topic our own Ann Hess is joined today by Dr. Dale Polson and Dr. Carmen Alonso, both with Boehringer Ingelheim. Dr. Polson’s focus is that of Global Integrated Health Management. Dr. Alonso is senior technical manager. In this episode, we take a look at precision swine production in general as well as a new methodology that proves the ROI of early detection. Let’s start with a discussion of research findings presented during the AASV meeting in Denver. For more information, on this and other topics, including additional coverage from the AASV meeting, we invite you to visit our websites - www.Feedstuffs.com and www.NationalHogFarmer.com . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Fri, March 10, 2023
Belt and suspender opportunity exists in PRRS battle
For the hog industry, the fight with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) continues, but perhaps there are things that hog producers can do to get the upper hand on the disease. What can be done on the farm to start taking control of your own destiny? Feedstuffs Ann Hess caught up with Dr. Clayton Johnson of Carthage Veterinary Service Ltd. during the recent American Association of Swine Veterinarian annual meeting in Denver to get an update on PRRS and what he sees as the belt and buckle opportunity to minimize PRRS. They also dig into on-farm monitoring, the value of air filtration systems and other tools for minimizing disease risk. For more information, on this and other topics including additional coverage from this year's AASV annual meeting, we invite you to visit our website . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Fri, March 03, 2023
Southeast Asia key part of Cargill global animal nutrition growth
A gap exists today in production yields seen across the Southeast Asia region as compared to the global average. This industry challenge must be addressed to meet the region’s nutrition needs. Cargill is one company focused on the innovation, investment and infrastructure needed to modernize the industry and serve diverse customer needs. With its long heritage of more than 75 years in the APAC region, Cargill views this market as one of the most critical long-term growth opportunities and is committed to advancing productivity gains and sustainability. In the last four years alone, Cargill’s animal health & nutrition business has grown by double and even triple digits in key countries across the region. In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus, we talk with Adriano Marcon, Cargill’s president and group leader for global animal nutrition, for an inside look at Cargill’s growth plans for the APAC region, and how these fit in with the company’s larger global strategy around animal health and nutrition. For more information, on this and other topics, we invite you to visit our website . While you are there be sure to check out our digital editions and our new Feedstuffs 365 platform.
Fri, March 03, 2023
Using art to tell a story, convey life messages
Hollis Williford was an American artist known for his remarkable versatility and creative range. He excelled in drawing, sculpting, painting and etching. His work earned him esteem among collectors and institutions alike. The genius of Williford's work is how it often occupied two spaces and two points in time at once. He also was a master at capturing the peak of action, leaving one wondering the outcome. Eric Grant of Grant Company has put together a 330-page masterpiece that explores the life, work and creative processes of the artist. Grant joins us in this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus to talk about the motivation and backstory behind his new book, Hollis Williford: The crossing at the river . If you are interested in learning more, or to order a copy, visit www.holliswilliford.com . This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com
Fri, February 24, 2023
Animal disease impact on human and public health
There is a side of animal disease that tends to get overlooked, and that is the mental health part of the equation. Having to watch or help out as a flock or herd is depopulated. Being the cause of an outbreak and, as a result, shunned by the community and fellow producers. Even the financial impact when disease hits and the stress that can put on the family’s finances and overall home life, or, for that matter, a business and its employees. These are all things that are difficult to prepare for and even harder to know how to cope with should the need arise. Discussion about how we as an industry can help to destigmatize mental health was part of a recent webinar that Feedstuffs and National Hog Farmer co-hosted with the University of Minnesota. In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus, we hear some of that discussion. Specifically, Dr. Jeff Bender, professor and director at the University of Minnesota, and Dr. John Gibbons, Captain United States Public Health Service, share their thoughts on the potential impact of animal disease on human and public health. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting the website at UnitedANH.com Thank you for tuning into Feedstuffs in Focus. For more conversations about some of the big issues affecting the livestock, poultry, grain and animal feed industries, subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast channel including Apple and Google podcast. You can also follow us www.Feedstuffs.com.
Thu, February 16, 2023
Finding that balance
Balancing the roles of being a parent and an industry professional is possible, but it can, at times, be challenging. As our guest shares, it's okay to step back and not feel guilty that nothing got scratched off that to-do list today. It’s okay to have everything delivered to your doorstep. Likewise, it’s okay to say no thanks to the negative influences of say, social media. Joining us on this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus to talk about how she approaches a work / life balance is Dr. Amber Stricker. Dr. Stricker is a swine veterinarian with Suidae Health & Production clinic out of Algona, Iowa. She has a demanding career as a swine veterinarian along with four children at home to care for. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin , a swine genetics company known for its innovative approach to implementing new technologies and its continuous focus on cost-efficient and sustainable pig production. Research, innovation, and dissemination of genetic improvements are the cornerstones of the company. For more information, visit TopigsNorsvin.US
Fri, February 10, 2023
Certification and audits under Prop 12: What do you need to know
Proposition 12 in California continues to be a top-of-the-mind issue for pork producers across the nation. A ruling by the US Supreme Court on Prop 12 is expected by no later than this June. Under Prop 12, producers in California would be required to comply with the new space requirements even if their pigs are not being raised in California. The industry is hopeful the court will rule in its favor, putting care decisions back into the hands of those that know what’s best, including that of the producer, their veterinarian and their state last-grant university. Lauren Davis, Chief Operating Officer and director of global operations for CloverLeaf Animal Welfare Systems, joins us to discuss Prop 12 from the standpoint of audits and certification. Davis holds a bachelor's degree in animal science from Kansas State University and has worked with two of the largest protein harvest companies in the world, serving in various roles from food safety to animal welfare manager and livestock operations. She also has served on the animal welfare committee for national organizations and holds several certifications in training and auditing. The President and CEO of CloverLeaf is Jason McAlister, one of the world's leading experts on meat animal welfare from the beginning to harvest. He has been in the industry since the early '90s, working in all areas of production from his start in a small mom and pop shop in rural Iowa. He founded CloverLeaf on the belief that animal welfare should be based on science and what the science shows is best for the animal. For those wanting more information on CloverLeaf and Prop 12 certification, the company will be hosting a webinar on Feb 28 at 2:00 PM Central Time on the topic of its Animal Welfare Systems Prop 12 pre evaluation and certification. To register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Owv5AM9-Ql2VmLNZ13doVQ Thank you for tuning into Feedstuffs in Focus. For more conversations about some of the big issues affecting the livestock, poultry, grain and animal feed industries, subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast channel including Apple and Google podcast. You can also follow us www.Feedstuffs.com.
Thu, February 02, 2023
What does global feed production reveal about future of agri-food?
For the past 12 years, Alltech has taken a look at the global feed industry on an annual basis. The latest snapshot was released last week as part of the 2023 Agri-Food Outlook . Overall, the numbers show world feed production remained steady in 2022 with a slight decrease of 0.42% to 1.266 billion metric tons. Feed production increased in several regions, including Latin America (1.6%), North America (0.88%) and Oceania (0.32%), while Europe decreased by 4.67%, Africa by 3.86% and the Asia-Pacific region also dropped 0.51%. Globally, increases in feed tonnage were reported in the aquaculture, broiler, layer and pet food sectors, while decreases were reported in the beef, dairy and pig sectors. Although it experienced a narrow reduction in feed production, China remains the largest feed-producing country in the world, followed by the United States and Brazil, according to the survey. Joining us today is to provide his insight on the current global situation related to agriculture and to provide his perspective on 2023 Agri-Food Outlook is Alltech CEO and President Dr. Mark Lyons. Dr. Lyons also shares an update on this year’s ONE Conference which will be taking on a more global approach. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by Alltech , where the focus is on working together for a planet of plenty. To learn more about the One Conference visit https://one.alltech.com .
Thu, January 26, 2023
African swine fever and the feed mill: How best to minimize risk
African swine fever can be devastating to a hog operation but what about to a feed manufacturing facility. Research is being conducted at Kansas State University to evaluate the feed safety risk related to the feed manufacturing process and what can be done to mitigate that risk. Unfortunately, it isn’t as simple as relying on the heat of the pellet mill to kill the virus and/or removal of dust from the facility. And when it comes to chemical mitigation formaldehyde is an effective treatment but this important tool is currently under attack by the EPA. To walk us thru the work being done related to ASF and feed manufacturing is Kansas State University’s Dr. Chad Paulk. We caught up with him during the IPPE convention in Atlanta. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, January 20, 2023
Time to rethink zinc in pig diets?
In the US swine industry, the thinking has long been that the feeding of high zinc levels offers health and productivity benefits to pigs. In fact, research has confirmed the positive effect of elevated dietary zinc. However, zinc can have negative effects for the environment and public health. Today, we talk with Dr. Jerry Shurson, professor of swine nutrition at the University of Minnesota, to find out more. Dr. Shurson, along with Dr. Yuan-Tai Hung, swine research manager with Devenish, have taken a deep dive into zinc levels in diets and believe the time is now to rethink zinc use. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, December 23, 2022
Pondering 'The Future of Agriculture' in terms of technology, innovation, capital
What does the future of agriculture look like? It’s a question often pondered as one year draws to a close and another dawns, with prognosticators thinking about everything from market outlook and economic conditions to questions of technology, innovation, and the rate of change in the business. Aidan Connolly, a long-time feed industry leader now working as an investor in the ag-tech space via his AgriTech Capital firm, recently published a book tackling the question of “The Future of Agriculture.” The book offers information that will help readers from a range of backgrounds to Find ways to protect, maintain and prudently deploy limited resources; and Map technological innovation to produce foods that meet the health and nutrition needs of a burgeoning population; and Ensure that food and farming evolve in ways that will also ensure the sustainability of the planet’s natural resources. Connolly focuses on practical answers and specific examples, innovative ideas and new concepts, and thought leadership across a rich array of technologies. Sorted by both technologies and species, with local examples and a global perspective, it offers readers a unique snapshot of a food and farm industry in mid-evolution, providing insight, context, and framing for the coming changes.
Fri, December 16, 2022
Biosecurity app aids producers, veterinarians and government officials
Biosecurity is one of the most important aspects of a successful livestock enterprise, with a growing number of threats in the form of viral disease outbreaks or the potential for foreign animal disease incursion. Technologies to help producers in the fight are proliferating, including a new app to help producers, veterinarians, and public health officials share information as quickly as possible. Gustavo Machado is an epidemiologist specializing in emerging and transboundary infectious diseases at North Carolina State University. At the North American PRRS Symposium held earlier this month in Chicago, Machado sat down with National Hog Farmer editor Ann Hess to discuss the Rapid Biosecurity App , a tool that standardizes Secure Pork Supply biosecurity plans and creates maps to visualize the biosecurity infrastructure of individual farms across multiple states. According to Dr. Macado, in each state, the RABapp provides the pork producer and Department of Agriculture with rapid access to approved biosecurity plans status to expedite outbreak responses.
Fri, December 09, 2022
Discussing PRRS and Senecavirus with Scott Dee
Viral diseases are a top-of-mind concern for the U.S. livestock industry, and perhaps most especially in the swine business. Experts recently gathered in downtown Chicago at the North American PRRS Symposium to discuss topics ranging from virus transmission and biosecurity to specific concerns about senecavirus. Scott Dee is director of research at Pipestone Applied Research. Dee is one of the leading voices on the topics of disease transmission, and has conducted considerable research in the areas of viral transport and transmission in feed, feed biosecurity, and on-farm antimicrobial resistance. During the conference, he spoke with Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead. You can read more of our coverage of animal health issues and the latest research in the pages of Feedstuffs . You can find our latest issue and past editions by visiting Feedstuffs.com and clicking on “Digital Editions.”
Fri, December 02, 2022
Averting a rail strike: What it means for feed, livestock industries
Congress intervened this week in an effort to avert an economy-crippling rail strike. What does the labor conflict mean for agriculture, and the feed industry in general? And what does the situation tell us about vulnerabilities to the U.S. logistics infrastructure system? Late Thursday, the Senate approved a resolution to implement a tentative agreement brokered by the Biden administration with rail labor unions and management. The House approved the measure on Nov. 30, and it now heads to President Biden’s desk for signature. A few hours prior to the Senate’s vote, Feedstuffs spoke with Max Fisher, chief economist at the National Grain and Feed Association, about what the possibility of a strike meant for the feed industry and the broader agriculture industry. He explained the situation, how the parties arrived at a place requiring the federal government to get involved, and the long-term prospectus for labor relations in the rail space. More broadly, Fisher discussed the current state of the commodity logistics chain, from challenges facing our inland waterways, a lingering lack of truck drivers, and now the vulnerabilities facing the rail system. A few hours after our conversation with Fisher, the Senate approved a measure to implement a tentative agreement to avert the strike, which NFGA, the American Feed Industry Association, the Soy Transportation Coalition, and other relevant industry groups hailed as an important step in averting a national crisis. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, November 18, 2022
Is there really a shortage of butter or turkey this holiday season?
According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, the price of the average Thanksgiving dinner for 10 this year is up 20% as inflation continues to take a bite out of the U.S. consumer’s wallet. But are media reports of potential shortages of butter and turkey accurate, or are these key holiday meal ingredients readily available? Throughout the month of October and into November, news stories suggested that a range of grocery items, most notably butter, eggs, and turkeys, might be harder to find this holiday season. To get to the bottom of the supply chain situation, we spoke with Michael Dykes, president of the International Dairy Foods Association, and Brian Earnest, senior protein analyst with CoBank. This episode is sponsored by Novus International , a leader in swine, poultry and dairy nutrition solutions driven by science. Novus’ products and services look at the whole animal, focusing on productivity and well-being, in order to feed the world affordable and wholesome food. For more information, visit Novus’ website at www.novusint.com
Fri, November 11, 2022
U.S. poultry industry generates nearly $560B in economic impact
The poultry industry plays a significant role in U.S. agriculture, from providing chicken, turkey and eggs to consumers to consuming a goodly quantity of feed ingredients and related services. But how big, overall, is the economic footprint of the combined industry? And what does the trend look like in terms of economic growth tied to U.S. poultry production? The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY), National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation and United Egg Producers recently released an updated economic impact study that highlights the positive impact the poultry industry has on jobs, wages, and federal and state revenue in the United States. Conducted every two years, the study provides an in-depth look at the broad impact poultry production has in terms of growing the U.S. economy, providing jobs to more than 1.5 million workers, and generating billions of dollars in tax revenue to the federal, state, and local governments. In this episode we hear from Gwen Venable, Executive Vice President, Communications for the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, to learn more about the study and its findings. To learn more, you can dig into the data by visiting PoultryFeedsAmerica.org . You can also read our latest coverage of the business of poultry and egg production in the pages of Feedstuffs . Find our latest issue and past editions by visiting Feedstuffs.com and clicking on “Digital Editions.”
Fri, November 04, 2022
Work to reduce environmental footprint of animal ag comes under attack
Agricultural research at land-grant universities is an important part of the story of the success of U.S. agriculture of the past century. One university researcher working on mitigating the livestock industry’s role in climate change came under attack this week for the sin of… working with the livestock industry? This week the New York Times and the environmental activist group Greenpeace targeted the CLEAR Center at the University of California-Davis, and the efforts of the Center and its founder to reduce the footprint of animal agriculture by calling to question the Center’s source of funding and its close ties to animal agriculture groups. Dr. Frank Mitloehner, Director of the Center and a University of California-Davis faculty member, joined us Thursday on the Feedstuffs 365 livestream channel to share his thoughts on why it's important that animal agriculture works together to address the issue of sustainability, and to respond to the attacks on his credibility. Watch the full interview with Dr. Mitloehner at Feedstuffs 365; he discusses sources of funding in agricultural research and what the attacks on his work say about the broader effort of activist groups to put animal agriculture out of business. You can also read more of our coverage of the impacts of climate change on the livestock industry in the pages of Feedstuffs . You can find our latest issue and past editions by visiting Feedstuffs.com and clicking on “Digital Editions.”
Mon, October 31, 2022
SPECIAL REPORT: Writing and executing effective swine health protocols
Welcome to this episode of Feedstuffs Swine Healthline, brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health and focused on writing and executing effective swine health protocols. One aspect of the job as a swine veterinarian is helping your customers or your teams develop and write swine health protocols. No matter how good the protocol, it won’t work to protect pigs if the steps aren’t being executed in the barn, at the truck wash or on the road between farms. Are you confident your protocols are being accurately executed? How do you know? Today’s guest spends much of his time helping pork production systems answer those questions. Dr. Jerome Geiger is a health assurance veterinarian with Pig Improvement Company. Dr. Geiger has seen plenty of cases in which biosecurity protocols were executed differently than they were written. He will explain four strategies you can use to ensure your protocols work as well in real life as they do on paper. And, he will share what he thinks is the most important piece of successful swine health protocols. This is the last in a four-part podcast series about Swine Respiratory Disease Complex brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health. Call your Pharmgate representative or visit pharmgate.com to learn about their broad portfolio options to support your swine health protocols. Download the other podcasts in the series to learn about the latest research in PRRSV cases, the challenges posed by endemic bacterial agents in swine facilities and advice when considering disease elimination from a system or pig flow.
Fri, October 28, 2022
A nutritionist's perspective on pre, pro, and postbiotics in food animal production
As nutritionists and livestock producers focus more on the intestinal health of animals, more attention has been paid to pre, pro, and postbiotics. But a good deal of misunderstanding remains about what these products are, and what they might do for the animal’s health and productivity. At the 4th annual Kemin Intestinal Health Symposium earlier this month, veterinarians, nutritionists and food animal producers discussed the latest research on topics related to intestinal health in the livestock space. In this episode we talk with one of the presenters at the Symposium, Tania Cubitt, an equine nutritionist with Performance Horse Nutrition. Cubitt explains the basics of these products, and how her insights from the world of performance horses can help food animal producers better understand what’s happening in their animals GI tracks and how to unlock the potential benefits from using pre, pro, and postbiotics as part of the nutrition plan. You can read more of our coverage of of the Intestinal Health Symposium coming up in the November issue of of Feedstuffs in a few weeks. In the meanwhile, you can find the October issue and past editions by visiting Feedstuffs.com and clicking on “Digital Editions.”
Mon, October 24, 2022
SPECIAL REPORT: Advice on dealing with chronic health challenges and disease elimination programs
Welcome to this episode of Feedstuffs Swine Healthline, brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health and focused on transitioning a sow herd or pig flow to high-health status. You’ve probably heard the saying that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. Today’s guest says that’s how it can feel when dealing with a chronic disease challenge in pork production. Dr. Jeremy Pittman is a veterinarian with Smithfield Hog Production who has helped multiple production sites work through transitions to high-health status. Today, Dr. Pittman will talk about what he learned while planning and executing a disease-elimination program. He will also recommend questions veterinarians can ask their customers or teams to decide whether the transition to high-health status could be profitable. This is the third in a four-part podcast series about Swine Respiratory Disease Complex brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health. Call your Pharmgate representative or visit pharmgate.com to learn about their broad portfolio options to support your swine health protocols. Next week on Swine Healthline, we will talk about a common challenge in pork production: When health protocols don’t work in real life as well as they do on paper. It happens more often than anyone wants to admit, says Dr. Jer Geiger, health assurance veterinarian with PIC. How can you be sure your protocols are executed successfully in the barn or the feed mill? Join us next week to find out.
Fri, October 21, 2022
Intestinal health from a swine production system lens
In recent years the livestock industry has focused more attention and research on the topic of intestinal health in food animal production. At a recent industry symposium on the topic, a leading veterinarian at one of the nation’s largest swine production systems discussed the swine vet’s perspective and advice. At the 4th annual Kemin Intestinal Health Symposium last week veterinarians, nutritionists and food animal producers discussed the latest research on topics related to intestinal health in the livestock space. In this episode we talk with one of the presenters at the Symposium, Dr. Amy Maschhoff. Associate director of health at The Maschhoffs, one of the largest swine production systems in the U.S., Dr. Maschhoff discusses how production systems should approach the topic of intestinal health, and what she and her colleagues have learned from first-hand experience in their system.
Mon, October 17, 2022
SPECIAL REPORT: The latest on endemic bacterial research and whole genome sequencing
Welcome to this episode of Feedstuffs Swine Healthline, brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health and focused on endemic bacterial agents. Increasingly, the swine industry's attention is focused on epidemic agents, such as PRRS and PED, or the constant threat of foreign animal diseases, such as African Swine Fever. In this episode, we switch gears and talking about an ever-present challenge posed by endemic bacterial agents, such as Streptococcus suis and Glaesserella parasuis – bacterial agents that jeopardize herd health, compromise animal well-being and drag down performance potential. Our guest is Dr. Maria Jose Clavijo, a research assistant professor at Iowa State University and a health assurance veterinarian with The Pig Improvement Company (PIC). Dr. Clavijo will talk about trends that show an increase in the diagnosis and detection of certain bacterial pathogens. She’ll also explain how whole genome sequencing helps identify different pathogen strains, opening the door to more effective disease control programs. This is the second in a four-part podcast series about Swine Respiratory Disease Complex brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health. Call your Pharmgate representative or visit pharmgate.com to learn about their broad portfolio options to support your protocols. Join us next week on Swine Healthline to hear from Dr. Jeremy Pittman, a veterinarian with Smithfield Pork. He will talk about the complex factors of successful disease elimination strategies and how you as a veterinarian can ask the right questions to help your customers meet their pork production goals.
Fri, October 14, 2022
Nutrition program designed to improve dairy cow lactation performance
Dairy producers face a number of challenges in producing milk profitably, and an understanding of rumen function and ways nutritional strategies can unlock additional pounds of milkfat is one avenue for increasing the opportunity for profitability. At the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin, earlier this month, Novus International debuted a new program called Scale Up™; the program is designed to turn production challenges into herd profitability by providing innovative feeding strategies that optimize milk and component yields. Along with increasing beneficial microbiota in the rumen and optimizing rumen function, the program aids in optimizing feed intake and meeting the metabolic needs of lactating cows. In this episode we talk with Ceclia Lopez, Novus’ North America ruminant marketing manager, and Dr. Will Seymour, ruminant technical services manager, to learn more about Scale Up. This episode is sponsored by Novus International. You can learn more about the Scale Up program for Dairy by visiting NovusINT.com .
Tue, October 11, 2022
SPECIAL REPORT: An update on the current state of PRRS in the U.S.
Welcome to this episode of Feedstuffs Swine Healthline, brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health and focused on what the latest veterinary diagnostic data tells us about the state of PRRS in the U.S. Our guest is Dr. Daniel Linhares, associate professor and director of graduate education at Iowa State University. Dr. Linhares provides the latest data and discusses what it says about the current state of Porcine Respiratory and Reproductive Syndrome virus across the U.S. swine herd. Dr. Linhares’ research focuses on swine population health, including strategies to prevent, detect or manage infectious diseases in field conditions. Today, he will talk about the latest PRRS data compiled from primary veterinary diagnostic laboratories across the U.S. and insights on how you can use the data in your practice or system. Find more information about today’s topic as well as disease-monitoring information and other tools at field.epi.org. This is the first in a four-part podcast series about Swine Respiratory Disease Complex brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health. Call your Pharmgate representative or visit pharmgate.com to learn about their broad portfolio options to support your protocols. Join us next week on Swine Healthline to hear from Dr. Maria Clavijo, research assistant professor at Iowa State University and health assurance veterinarian at Pig Improvement Company. She will share her latest research regarding endemic bacteria in pork production and how to manage the costly impacts.
Fri, October 07, 2022
What U.S. cattle producers can learn from Brazilian ranchers response to extreme weather
Farmers and ranchers around the world are increasingly forced to adapt to changing weather patterns. And while a lot of agricultural research has focused on mitigation strategies for crop production, livestock producers face a unique set of challenges that have not yet received the same level of academic inquiry. One professor at the University of Illinois is working to change that. A new study from the University of Illinois examined how cattle ranchers in Brazil are responding to climate change in the Amazon. Previous research shows the dry season is increasing up to 0.6 days per year, putting more stress on animals. That is pushing ranchers to sell their cattle early, according to Marin Skidmore , assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics at U of I. Her paper was recently published in the American Journal of Agricultural Economics , and in this episode we talk with Dr. Skidmore about her findings, and the implications for U.S. cattle producers dealing with extended drought here at home. You can read more of our coverage of the impacts of climate change on the livestock industry in the pages of Feedstuffs . You can find our latest issue and past editions by visiting Feedstuffs.com and clicking on “Digital Editions.” This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, September 30, 2022
River levels complicate already complex set of challenges facing ag exports
Have you ever said the phrase, “If it isn’t one thing, it’s another?” Usually said in frustration while feeling like you're beset from all sides with challenges, it’s a phrase agricultural shippers are probably thinking lately, as the commodity logistics chain finds itself dealing with challenges related to ocean freight rates, container availability, possible rail strikes, not enough truck drivers, and now… not enough water in our inland rivers and waterways? Several vulnerabilities in the supply chain were exposed during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, and although the industry worked through many of those challenges with an impressive resiliency, there is little question that concerns remain. The availability of labor and the issues with ocean-going freight, for example, are still very much a challenge for the industry. And now, due in no small part to the effects of climate change and erratic weather patterns, concerns have emerged about the volume of water in the U.S. inland waterway system, a system of rivers, locks and dams that have long been a competitive advantage for U.S. agriculture in the global marketplace. In this episode we talk with Mike Steenhoek, Executive Director of the Soy Transportation Coalition, about the nature of the concern and what it means heading into harvest across the Midwest.
Fri, September 23, 2022
Understanding the Latest Research on Feed Ingredients and Swine Biosecurity
The transmission of disease-causing pathogens via feed ingredients has garnered a tremendous amount of study in recent years. With the specter of African Swine Fever in the minds of every U.S. pork producer, understanding the survivability of viral pathogens in a variety of vectors is critically important to adequate biosecurity on hog farms. Dr. Scott Dee is a veterinarian and research at Pipestone Applied Research. He and his colleagues have done as much or more study into the role feed ingredients play in virus transmission as anyone in the business. His most recent paper looked at a case study in which Senecavirus A was introduced into a historically-negative country via soybean meal imported from a positive country. In this episode we talk with Dr. Dee about the findings from this case study, how they apply to U.S. swine biosecurity efforts, and what veterinarians and producers need to do more generally to achieve what he describes as “next-generation biosecurity”. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin. Swine genetics company Topigs Norsvin is renowned for its innovative approach to implementing new technologies and its continuous focus on cost-efficient and sustainable pig production. Research, innovation, and dissemination of genetic improvements are the cornerstones of the company. Topigs Norsvin’s approach of breeding pigs for enhanced, natural robustness to disease challenge is a viable solution for disease control. You can learn more about Topigs Norsvin and their natural breeding approach by visiting their website TopigsNorsvin.us .
Fri, September 16, 2022
Selecting breeding stock for enhanced disease robustness
Breeding pigs for increased natural robustness to disease has become an important tool in the effort to raise healthier pigs in the modern swine production system. With a variety of disease pressures facing producers, using every tool in the toolbox is necessary to maintain profitability and strong animal welfare. One swine genetics company is focusing their research on ways to further enhance their pigs’ natural robustness. Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger is a swine geneticist at Topigs Norsvin, where she’s spent the past four years applying her research to the genetic programs of one of the world's largest swine genetics companies. In this episode, Dunkelberger explains what she and her colleagues have learned about the role of genetics in managing swine diseases, and shares the results of some of her latest research into selecting for robustness to disease in the company’s breeding goal. This episode of Feedstuffs in Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin. Swine genetics company Topigs Norsvin is renowned for its innovative approach to implementing new technologies and its continuous focus on cost-efficient and sustainable pig production. Research, innovation, and dissemination of genetic improvements are the cornerstones of the company. Topigs Norsvin’s approach of breeding pigs for enhanced, natural robustness to disease challenge is a viable solution for disease control. You can learn more about Topigs Norsvin and their natural breeding approach by visiting their website TopigsNorsvin.us .
Fri, September 09, 2022
Volatility is name of game in grain markets
Commodities are often referred to as a “hedge against inflation” in the financial markets. With inflation at generational highs, what is the outlook for agricultural commodities – particularly feed grains – as harvest gets underway? Prices are always a hot topic in agricultural circles, and they were certainly on the minds of many farmers attending the Farm Progress Show in late August. Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead spoke with a pair of analysts from Rabo AgriFinance to get to the bottom of what the industry should expect as combines start rolling in earnest later this month. Sarah spoke first with Andrick Payen Diaz de la Vega about the inherent volatility in the current markets; later, you'll hear from Sam Taylor about a global perspective on the seed and inputs underpinning the cost of producing feed grains.
Fri, September 02, 2022
Tackling food insecurity in uncertain times
Food insecurity is often a topic of discussion in agriculture, but often within the frame of how will the industry feed a growing population. But the sad reality is that food insecurity is a challenge right here at home, and a large percentage of the funding promulgated in the Farm Bill is dedicated to solving the complex challenge of helping farmers feed their fellow Americans. Lisa Hamler-Fugitt is Executive Director of the Ohio Association of Foodbanks, an organization representing Ohio’s 12 Feeding America foodbanks and their 3,600 member hunger relief programs. Recently inducted into the Ohio Agriculture Hall of Fame, she is an advocate not only for the food insecure, but for farmers and the vital role they play in feeding all of us; she is often heard explaining, “We all have to eat.” Earlier this week her organization hosted a convening on the topic of the Farm Bill, bringing together people from farm organizations, state and federal government, food and hunger organizations, and industry and academia. The broad topic was how the next Farm Bill – the legislation that funds the U.S. Department of Agriculture and its many and diverse programs from commodities and conservation to nutrition and rural development – will shape the scope and nature of food insecurity in this country over the next 5 to 10 years. Feedstuffs broadcast editor Andy Vance moderated a panel at the event on tackling food insecurity in uncertain times, and spoke with Hamler-Fugitt about her unique perspective on the Farm Bill, and her concerns for the often tenuous coalition it takes to pass such a massive piece of legislation in a hyper-partisan environment. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Thu, August 25, 2022
Inflation: How long can meat prices stay this high?
Protein prices have increased rapidly in the past 24 months, amid the broader press of inflation. With inflation at its highest rate in more than 40 years, the question becomes how long beef, pork and poultry prices can remain at such elevated levels before demand erodes significantly. David Williams is senior vice president of procurement and management at CTI Foods, based in Texas. In this episode, Williams discusses the current state of the animal protein markets, with an eye toward the implications of sustained food price inflation on demand, and how those same factors will influence the supply side of the equation over the next 12-to-24 months. We also discuss the persistent drought in cattle country, and why he says most analysts are underestimating how much the cattle herd is shrinking as producers struggle in the absence of hay and pasture. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, August 19, 2022
Understanding a U.S.-based solution to rising fertilizer costs
Livestock producers could play a role in helping crop producers manage one of their costliest inputs. A simple, sustainable, and effective - yet not well-known - solution for rising fertilizer prices, is digestate, the byproduct of anaerobic digestion of organic waste material like animal manure. In this episode we talk with Patrick Serfass, Executive Director of the American Biogas Council , who shares his insights on what’s happening in the fertilizer market and how this alternative source of nutrients can be a boon for livestock and feed grain producers alike. You can read more of our coverage of the commodity markets and developing production technologies in the pages of Feedstuffs ; you can find the latest issue now by visiting Feedstuffs.com and clicking on “Digital Editions.”
Fri, August 12, 2022
Consumers still buying meat in face of inflation
Inflation will continue to be the top challenge to retail meat demand for the foreseeable future. Retail meat and poultry prices were as much as 18% higher, year over year, in May according to the Consumer Price Index, and inventories remain below pre-pandemic levels. That combination of tight supplies and solid demand kept meat prices 20% higher than the five-year average for the March-May period overall, according to the latest analysis from CoBank. Brian Earnest is the lead economist for animal protein in CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange division. He provides market and industry research for the poultry, pork, and beef sectors, and in this episode shares his latest analysis of those markets with a particular eye on the role inflation might play in tempering consumer demand. He also shares his analysis of the supply-side situation, from inventory reductions in the beef space to expansion in the poultry sector. You can read more of our coverage of the animal protein markets in the pages of Feedstuffs ; you can find the latest issue now by visiting Feedstuffs.com and clicking on “Digital Editions.”
Thu, August 04, 2022
Examining opportunities, challenges in exporting more meat to Africa
Of the $5 billion of U.S. beef exported around the world through May of this year, only $8 million has been to Africa. But Africa is a very promising destination for beef variety meats, a low-cost protein that helps meet Africa’s nutritional needs. There is also growing interest in higher-end beef cuts that draw interest from Africa’s growing middle class. Matt Copeland, U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) representative in Africa, says that a growing population, an expanding need for affordable protein, an explosion in western-style retail outlets and some softening in regulatory barriers signal the region is a potential growth market for U.S. red meat. In this episode Copeland explains how USMEF, with support from USDA and the Beef Checkoff Program, is laying the groundwork with importers, retailers and suppliers to expand U.S. red meat sales in the region. You can read more of our coverage of global meat trade in the pages of Feedstuffs ; you can find the July issue now by visiting Feedstuffs.com and clicking on “Digital Editions.” This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, July 29, 2022
Beef industry priorities in next farm bill
Farm Bill discussions often center on crop-centric programs in the commodity title, tweaks to food and nutrition programs, or ways to enhance USDA’s conservation mission. But what do livestock producers need from the next Farm Bill? This week in Reno, Nevada, cattlemen and beef industry participants gathered for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Summer Business Meeting. As part of the meeting’s policy focus, industry leaders turned their attention to the 2023 Farm Bill. For a deep dive on NCBA’s Farm Bill priorities – including conservation, risk management and disaster relief programs – we’ll hear from NCBA’s Executive Director of Government Affairs Allison Rivera. You can read more of our coverage of the 2023 Farm Bill in the pages of Feedstuffs ; you can find the July issue now by visiting Feedstuffs.com and clicking on “Digital Editions.”
Fri, July 22, 2022
Economic headwinds, drought cloud outlook for cattle producer profitability
Economic headwinds and ongoing weather concerns are the major storylines heading into the back half of 2022. With ongoing uncertainty about inflation, interest rates, global conflict and drought across large swaths of cattle country all on the table, beef producers have plenty to think about when looking at the big picture. Lance Zimmerman was recently named Senior Beef Analyst at Rabobank’s Food and Agribusiness research team. Zimmerman joined Rabobank after nearly 12 years at CattleFax, where he served as CattleFax’s Manager of Research, Analysis and Data from 2016 to 2021, and most recently as Director of Research and Protein Market Analysis. Prior to joining CattleFax, Zimmerman spent more than six years at Certified Angus Beef, where he led their marketing and supply development efforts. In this episode, Zimmerman discusses the liquidation of the U.S. cattle herd due to ongoing drought challenges, and what current economic conditions portend for the future of the beef industry as a whole. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, July 15, 2022
Labeling, regulation key to novel food ingredients
Innovation is a given in the food industry as companies look for new ways to meet the always changing demands of consumers. Our Sarah Muirhead was on the trade show floor in Chicago this past week at IFT First to learn about some of the products that are under development and to talk with the experts involved in moving new products from concept to the dinner table. One of the experts she caught up with was Dr. Ray Matulka with the Burdock Group, who provided insight into food regulation and labeling on novel food ingredients and processes, including alternative meat and dairy products.
Fri, July 08, 2022
Tackling biosecurity in finishing phase of swine production
In response to data from the Swine Disease Reporting System , leaders of the Swine Health Information Center recently shifted $1 million of its 2022 budget to focus specifically on biosecurity in the finishing phase of hog production. The data showed a number of disease pressures on finishers, from APP to PRRS, prompting the additional focus on that segment of the production chain. Megan Niederwerder is a veterinarian and swine health researcher serving as Associate Director of the Swine Health Information Center, otherwise known by the acronym SHIC. In this episode Dr. Niederwerder explains what the Reporting System showed in terms of disease outbreaks in finishing barns, and why SHIC opted for a mid-year shift in its programming in response to that data. We’ll also focus specifically on recent APP outbreaks, and why those are particularly concerning to producers and the veterinarians who care for the pigs in finishing operations. For more of our coverage of animal health and related research, check out the latest dynamic digital edition of Feedstuffs HERE .
Fri, July 01, 2022
Economist David Widmar examines corn usage and outlook for feed and fuel
With high corn prices very much on the minds of livestock feeders, what does available data tell us about corn usage trends? While it might be true to say that usage is only down 2% off all-time records, it would also be fair to say that trendline usage off by a billion bushels, the worst in nearly a decade. Let’s peel back the figures and take a deeper look at corn prices, usage, and the future for the feed and biofuels sectors. David Widmar is an agricultural economist writing at Agricultural Economic Insights . In this episode the former Purdue University professor and Kansas Department of Agriculture economist discusses corn usage trends in the era of persistent high prices, and his expectations for how the Federal Reserve will handle generationally-high inflation with an eye toward keeping recessionary fears at bay. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, June 24, 2022
Attracting capital investment in animal agriculture
Animal agriculture is lagging when it comes to investment dollars. Why is that? In this episode we talk with Aidan Connolly of AgriTech Capital to get his thoughts on what the industry can do to catch up with other sectors in attracting investment.
Fri, June 17, 2022
Inflation making for interesting choices at meat case
Inflation is running rampant, with the cost of energy driving everything higher, including prices of meat and protein products at retail. And yet, inflation may also be removing some tariff barriers to U.S. meat exports. In this episode we focus on the broader agricultural implications of nearly double-digit inflation, and then focus more specifically on its effects at the meat case. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin , the second largest swine genetics company in the world. The TN70 is the flagship parent sow of Topigs Norsvin, described as being a self-reliant sow capable of raising her own pigs and requiring less human intervention in the farrowing house. When challenged with finding qualified employees, hire the TN70. Visit tn70.topigsnorsvin.com to see what producers are saying about their experience with the TN70.
Fri, June 10, 2022
Preparing for foreign animal disease outbreaks in pork industry
Keeping the U.S. pork supply safe and secure from the threat of Foreign Animal Disease – and preparing to maintain continuity of business should such an outbreak occur – is one of the key concerns of industry leaders. Stakeholders from across the pork value chain have been working diligently on plans and processes, redoubling efforts with regard to biosecurity and traceability in recent years. Creating a system of cooperation and collaboration to prevent – or prepare for - foreign animal disease challenges has been one of the main areas of focus for the National Pork Board. Outgoing President of the Board Gene Noem, a producer from Iowa, sat down with Feedstuffs at World Pork Expo in Des Moines this week to discuss the challenge and the work he and his fellow farmer-leaders have done via the Pork Checkoff. Stay tuned for our coverage of World Pork Expo in the pages of Feedstuffs – just visit Feedstuffs.com and click on “digital editions” – or watch interviews with industry leaders like Gene via our livestream video channel, Feedstuffs365.com and via our social media channels at Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
Fri, June 03, 2022
What does inflation, interest rate risk mean for farmland values?
In 2022 it seems that the only certain thing in business is uncertainty. Supply chain issues, never experienced to this degree before, have created uncertainties in product availability, technology deployment, exports, processing, equipment repairs, and more, and Russia’s war in Ukraine has thrown in a multitude of additional uncertainties for food and ag that have not been seen in decades. Along with rising input costs for feed, fuel and fertilizer, overall the specter of inflation is front and center after being mostly absent for decades. Interest rate direction will also impact agriculture, particularly with regard to what all these uncertainties might hold for land prices. During the main thrust of planting season we spoke with Randy Dickhut, Senior Vice President – Real Estate Operations with Farmers National Company during a segment on Feedstuffs 365, our live video streaming channel. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com . You can read more about the markets and overall agricultural economy in the pages of Feedstuffs – just visit Feedstuffs.com and click on “digital editions” – or watch interviews with industry leaders like Randy via our livestream video channel, Feedstuffs365.com .
Fri, May 20, 2022
Inside Washington from a beef industry perspective
To say that we live in interesting times, from an agricultural policy standpoint, might border on understatement. The regulatory, political, and trade environment in the animal agriculture space has rarely been more fraught. What does that mean for the feed and livestock industries? We’ll find out in this edition of Feedstuffs In Focus. Earlier this week as part of The Virtual BEEF Experience, an online event hosted by our sister publication BEEF, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead sat down with Farm Progress policy editor Jacqui Fatka for a rundown of some of the biggest topics facing livestock producers today in the policy arena. Here’s Sarah. You can read Jacqui’s Inside Washington column each month in the new dynamic digital edition of Feedstuffs ; the May issue is now available by clicking HERE .
Fri, May 13, 2022
Mark Lyons talks sustainability and previews Alltech ONE Conference
One of the top leaders of the global feed industry previews an upcoming feed and livestock industry conference, in this edition of Feedstuffs In Focus . Dr. Mark Lyons is president and CEO of Alltech, one of the largest players in the global feed industry, and the driving force behind the Alltech ONE Conference. In this episode Dr. Lyons previews the event, held in-person for the first time since 2019. This episode is sponsored by Alltech , host of the Alltech ONE Conference, coming up May 22-24 both in Lexington, Ky., and virtually from anywhere around the world. Together we can spark meaningful change as we enter a new golden age of agri-food. The Alltech ONE Conference unites changemakers and thought leaders in a collaborative exploration of solutions within agribusiness and beyond. Learn more and register at one.alltech.com .
Fri, May 06, 2022
Russia's war on Ukraine taking toll on European feed, livestock Industry
On the backside of a global pandemic that wreaked havoc on the global supply chain, the Russian invasion of Ukraine added further strain and chaos to the global marketplace. In the short run, the unprovoked war drove commodity prices higher, but what will the long-term consequences be for the global meat and animal feed markets? In this episode we’ll dig into the broader implications of Russia’s war on Ukraine for the global meat trade. U.S. Meat Export Federation vice president of economic analysis Erin Borror explains that the war is impacting red meat availability and production, but is having an especially large impact on the cost and availability of key feed ingredients. Borror also discusses how the war is accelerating consolidation in the European swine industry. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, April 29, 2022
Rail delays cost grain industry more than $100M this year
Rail service failures in recent months have led to widespread delays of train delivery at major grain export destinations. Failures and delays that have cost the grain industry more than $100 million through the first quarter of 2022, according to the National Grain and Feed Association. NGFA testified this week before the Surface Transportation Board about those failures and costs to the industry, calling on the Board to implement financial incentives for the railroads to perform more efficiently – similar to what the railroads do to keep shippers loading and unloading rail cars as efficiently as possible. The Association also testified on a wide set of policy issues, from reciprocity on switching rules, requiring additional data reporting, and developing additional guidance to railroads on their statutory obligations on service. In this episode we talk with NGFA Chief Economist Max Fisher about the current situation with the railroads, and what NGFA asked the Board to do to alleviate the burden on grain shippers and other agricultural customers. RELATED: If you want to learn more about the problems facing U.S. transportation and logistics, including rail, truck and ocean freight shipments, visit Feedstuffs 365 and watch our recent interview with Ken Eriksen of S&P Global.
Fri, April 22, 2022
Research quantifies cost of "gilt gap"
Researchers at Kansas State and Ohio State universities recently calculated that performance gaps between barrows and gilts cost integrated swine operations as much as $5.12 per gilt, a significant cost you might think of as “The Gilt Gap.” Dr. Jason Woodworth, a nutritionist at Kansas State University, and Dr. Ben Bohrer, a meat scientist at The Ohio State University, conducted a statistical analysis of the combined results of 34 peer-reviewed scientific studies representing almost 16,000 pigs. The study showed gilts were associated with 5.9% lower average daily gain, 11.4% lower average daily feed intake and 4.3% better feed efficiency rate compared with barrows. In this episode, Dr. Woodworth and his post-doctoral research associate Dr. Jamil Faccin share their findings about “the gilt gap” and what producers need to know about the gilts in their operation. RELATED: Read more about the gilt gap at Feedstuffs.com , or watch our recent Feedstuffs 365 interview with swine industry consultant Steve Pollmann for some insights into the practical implications of the study.
Fri, April 15, 2022
A Conversation with New Animal Ag Alliance CEO Hannah Thompson-Weeman
Next month the Animal Agriculture Alliance will be under the leadership of a new president and CEO. The Alliance, a decades-old consortium of trade associations, companies and other stakeholder groups in the food animal sector, recently announced the promotion of Hannah Thompson-Weeman, the organization’s current vice president of strategic engagement, following the departure of its longtime president, Kay Johnson Smith. Johnson Smith, who has served as president and CEO across three decades, is joining the executive leadership team at Dairy MAX, a regional dairy council representing farmers in eight states in the southern and southwestern U.S. In this episode, we talk with Thompson-Weeman about the mission of the Alliance, how the societal conversation regarding animal welfare has evolved over the past 30 years, and her vision for the future of the organization.
Fri, April 08, 2022
Legal strategies to avoid litigation in the livestock industry
Environmental compliance, right-to-farm laws, contracting issues and more. Agriculture is not without its legal risk management challenges, particularly in the livestock sector. What strategies can producers adopt to protect themselves from potential liability and litigation? At the Midwest Poultry Federation Convention in Minneapolis, Minn., last month, attorney Paul Goeringer presented a workshop on understanding legal strategies used to avoid litigation in an ever-evolving regulatory environment. Goerginger is a Senior Faculty Specialist and the Extension Legal Specialist at the University of Maryland, and we sat down with him to discuss what livestock and poultry producers need to understand when it comes to legal risks and how best to manage those within their operations. This episode is sponsored by Novus International, Inc. , a leader in swine, poultry and dairy nutrition solutions driven by science. Novus’ products and services look at the whole animal, focusing on productivity and well-being, in order to feed the world affordable and wholesome food. For more information, visit Novus’ website at www.novusint.com You can see more of Feedstuffs ' coverage of the Midwest Poultry Convention by visiting our video channel, Feedstuffs 365 . Also watch your inbox for the latest dynamic digital edition of Feedstuffs , or access the issue by visiting Feedstuffs.com and clicking on “digital editions.”
Thu, March 31, 2022
SCOTUS to Hear Prop 12 Case Brought by Farm Bureau, Pork Producers
After nearly two months of waiting, the U.S. Supreme Court this week announced they would be hearing the case brought by the National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau Federation challenging California’s Proposition 12 requiring additional space requirements for gestating sows. The state law seeks to ban the sale of pork from hogs that don’t meet what agriculture groups describe as the state’s arbitrary production standards, even if the pork was raised on farms outside of California. The NPPC-AFBF case, which argues that Prop. 12 violates the Constitution’s Commerce Clause, limiting states’ ability to regulate commerce outside their borders, was finally granted certiorari March 25. NPPC and AFBF will file their initial brief with the Supreme Court in the coming weeks; the Justices could hear oral arguments in the fall and could render a decision by the end of the year. In this episode we talk with Travis Cushman, Senior Counsel for Public Policy at the American Farm Bureau Federation. Cushman is one of the attorneys working on the case on behalf of the agriculture industry. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, March 25, 2022
High pathogenic avian influenza: What's the same, what's different?
Animal disease challenges are simply a part of life in livestock production, but some disease challenges are more problematic than others. One major problem facing the poultry industry this spring is highly-pathogenic avian influenza, a viral disease currently popping up in flocks and in wild birds across the country. How well-prepared is the poultry industry for this challenge, what is the current state of affairs, and what can the swine industry learn from how chicken and turkey producers handle this latest outbreak? At the Midwest Poultry Convention in Minneapolis. Feedstuffs' Andy Vance sat down with veterinarian Mark Bienhoff, leader of the pathogen control team at Kemin, to discuss high pathogenic avian influenza, and how this outbreak is similar or different from the major outbreak of 2015. After listening to this week's episode, you can watch all of Feedstuffs coverage of the Midwest Poultry Convention via Feedstuffs 365, our live streaming channel, at Feedstuffs365.com . Also, look out for the next digital edition of Feedstuffs for an in-depth report on the high path AI situation. You'll find the dynamic digital edition of Feedstuffs at Feedstuffs.com .
Fri, March 18, 2022
Effect of rising interest rates and inflation on ag exports
The Fed increased Interest rates this week as part of its plan to tackle inflation. The modest rate hike is part of a strategy to ensure a smooth "glide path" for the economy, which heated up in part due to the unprecedented events of the COVID-19 pandemic and the attendant federal efforts to help consumers and businesses stay afloat. But what will that rate hike mean for agriculture? We'll discuss it in this week's episode of Feedstuffs In Focus . We'll hear from: Mike North of EverAG on the rate hike and inflation; Cortney Cowley with the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City on the 2022 outlook for the ag economy; Congressman Austin Scott of Georgia and House Ag Committee Chair David Scott on what Russia's attack on Ukraine means for food production; ...and from U.S. Meat Export Federation chairman-elect Dean Meyer on red meat exports and grain prices.
Fri, March 11, 2022
Is long-term growth in the agricultural equipment market sustainable?
Despite strong growth in both the agriculture and construction sectors over the past 18 months, fewer equipment companies are optimistic about that growth trend continuing in 2022, particularly given the ongoing issues with inflation, workforce shortages and supply chain disruptions. With costs on the rise across the manufacturing and logistics sectors, is long-term growth in agricultural equipment sustainable? Benjamin Duyck is the director of market intelligence for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers , an organization representing more than 1,000 North American construction and agriculture equipment manufacturers and their value chain partners. Duyck spoke with Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead about what his organization’s research suggests about the state of the economy, as well as how AEM members feel about the outlook for growth in the industry. This episode is sponsored by Novus International, Inc. — a leader in poultry, dairy and swine nutrition solutions driven by science. Novus’ products and services look at the whole animal, focusing on productivity and well-being, in order to feed the world affordable and wholesome food. For more information, visit Novus’s website at www.novusint.com
Fri, March 04, 2022
Animal disease preparedness and response: A state veterinarian's perspective
Animal disease outbreaks are one of the key challenges facing livestock producers and veterinarians. State veterinarians and related animal health officials at the state level play a critical role in managing outbreaks of certain diseases that could devastate the industry. Significant progress has been made in recent years but there is more that needs to be done to support the preparedness and planning effort of the states. Earlier this week, Feedstuffs visited with several swine industry professionals at the American Association of Swine Veterinarians annual meeting. We spoke with Indiana State Veterinarian Dr. Bret Marsh about his role in disease preparedness in his state, and what state health officials can and should be doing to help the industry be ready for potential foreign animal disease issues. We also talked with Dr. Marsh about the current avian influenza outbreak in the Hoosier State. You can see more of our coverage of the AASV annual meeting at Feedstuffs365.com . This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, February 25, 2022
Labor challenges: Preventing and managing employee burnout
The COVID-19 pandemic created a complex and confusing labor market on a national scale, and the agriculture sector is feeling the strain both literally and figuratively. Combatting employee burnout is critical to the bottom line of the business, and something that isn’t easily done given the generational diversity seen in the modern workforce. While much of the current labor challenge centers on simply finding enough people to get the job done, one of the bigger issues stems from current employees facing the very real issue of burnout. With fewer people to get the job done, coupled with persistent stressors at home and in the workplace, many workers are quite simply at their wits’ end. What can managers and business owners do to help support these employees and help them achieve the seemingly mythical work-life balance? In this episode, Feedstuffs poses that question to business consultant Melissa Furman , the former assistant dean and current faculty member at the James M. Hull College of Business at Augusta University in Augusta, Georgia. Dr. Furman, in addition to her consulting work with businesses in a variety of industries, has a background in academic research on issues of generational diversity, unconscious bias, career and leadership development, emotional intelligence, and assisting technical professionals transition into management roles. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin , the second largest swine genetics company in the world. The TN70 is the flagship parent sow of Topigs Norsvin , described as being a self-reliant sow capable of raising her own pigs and requiring less human intervention in the farrowing house. When challenged with finding qualified employees, hire the TN70. Visit tn70.topigsnorsvin.com to see what producers are saying about their experience with the TN70.
Fri, February 18, 2022
Understanding the beef supply chain in a "Post-COVID world"
Beef prices – like all food prices – have increased as the inflationary story in the marketplace unfolds. Thus far consumers haven’t balked at paying higher prices for their favorite center-of-plate protein, but how long can that demand hold out? And what is the outlook for the cattle producer as feed costs escalate, too? Don Close is an agricultural economist, and senior animal protein analyst with Rabobank’s Food & Agribusiness Research team. He recently released a report on the beef supply in a “post-COVID world”, discussing a series of challenges facing the beef supply chain in the coming year. I spoke with Don about those challenges, and how beef demand has remained so resilient in the face of inflation the likes of which hasn’t been seen in a generation. This episode is sponsored by Novus International, Inc. — a leader in poultry, dairy and swine nutrition solutions driven by science. Novus’ products and services look at the whole animal, focusing on productivity and well-being, in order to feed the world affordable and wholesome food. For more information, visit Novus’s website at www.novusint.com
Fri, February 11, 2022
Vaccine mandates and OSHA: What you need to know
After the Supreme Court ruled that the Biden Administration had overstepped its authority in mandating COVID-19 vaccination for businesses, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration withdrew its vaccine and testing rules. So where does that leave private employers, and do feed manufacturers and large livestock operations have any regulatory responsibilities with regard to the ongoing pandemic? Earlier this week via Feedstuffs 365 , Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead spoke with Garry Huddleston, director of feed manufacturing and regulatory affairs at the American Feed Industry Association, about the scuttled vaccine mandates and what employers in the industry need to know. Huddleston provided an overview of the situation and how the Court ruled, and provided some guidance on what feed and livestock facilities should be doing now to prepare and comply with OSHA rules and to prevent liability and exposure more generally. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, February 04, 2022
Beef nutrition program features 100% organic trace minerals
A great nutrition program is foundational to success in livestock production, and mineral supplementation is a big part of proper nutrition. One company says it has pioneered a unique approach to mineral supplementation that will lead to improved daily gains and profitability. Neil Bumgarner is the Director of Sales for Ridley Block Operations, an Alltech Company, and manager of the Blueprint animal nutrition program. Since graduating from West Virginia University, Neil has spent almost 17 years in plant operations, sales, and sales leadership in the animal nutrition business throughout the eastern half of the US. Neil, his wife Blair, and their two young sons also own Mountaineer Meadows Farm in Point Pleasant WV, a 100-cow Angus seedstock operation. In this episode, Bumgarner discusses Alltech's new Blueprint animal nutrition program, and why a program built around 100% organic trace minerals is a major step forward in a beef supplementation program. This episode is sponsored by Alltech, makers of the new Blueprint animal nutrition program. Blueprint products contain 100% organic trace minerals made from the highest quality, most research-proven trace minerals available. Blueprint goes beyond just meeting trace mineral requirements — its superior bioavailability supports exceptional animal performance and health. Blueprint is targeted nutrition, without excess, for peak performance. To learn more, visit BlueprintAnimalNutrition.com .
Fri, January 28, 2022
Discussing challenges, opportunities and 2022 global protein outlook
Two years into a global pandemic, the challenges facing the animal protein and animal feed industries are many, from labor and logistics to inflationary pressures and ongoing human health concerns. Leading a global company in this space is no small task in the best of years, let alone in the current environment. At this week’s International Production and Processing Expo in Atlanta, Georgia, leaders of the global animal feed and poultry production companies gathered to reconnect, and to discuss challenges and opportunities amid the various headwinds facing the industry. During the Expo Feedstuffs broadcaster Andy Vance sat down with Alltech CEO Dr. Mark Lyons to discuss his perspective on the current situation, drawing on his extensive experience in China. We also discuss his outlook for the animal protein sector in 2022 and beyond, including the findings of this year’s Alltech Agri-Food Outlook survey. This episode is sponsored by Alltech.
Fri, January 21, 2022
How does EPA figure into 2022 ag policy outlook?
To many in agriculture, the letters E-P-A may as well spell a four-letter word. Long a source of frustration for landowners and producers of a variety of commodities, the Environmental Protection Agency plays an important role in regulating a variety of aspects of food production and natural resource stewardship. At this week’s Farm Futures Business Summit, hosted by our sister publication Farm Futures , Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka shared her outlook for 2022 in terms of policy and legislation affecting agriculture. One key area of focus is on what EPA might be up to this year. In this episode, farm broadcaster Mike Pearson talks with Jacqui for some deeper insights into environmental policy under the Biden Administration. If you want to view Jacqui’s full Summit presentation, you can register for the virtual summit at FarmFuturesSummit.com . This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, January 14, 2022
Trade NAFTA visa program could help with ag labor challenges
You’ve seen the signs; from your local diner to national retail chains and seemingly every business in between, the “help wanted” sign is practically everywhere you turn. Although the COVID pandemic created a complex and confusing labor market on a national scale, the agriculture sector has dealt with labor challenges for a long time, particularly in the areas of live animal production and logistics. One area where food animal producers and processors have turned to overcome domestic labor shortages is across the border. According to HR professional Silvia Castañeda with Eichelberger Farms , producers might be overlooking one specific visa program in their efforts to source foreign workers on their farms. In this episode, Silvia explains some of the specific challenges to recruiting and retaining employees in the swine industry, and about her company's experience with the Trade NAFTA Visa program. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin , the second largest swine genetics company in the world. The TN70 is the flagship parent sow of Topigs Norsvin, described as being a self-reliant sow capable of raising her own pigs and requiring less human intervention in the farrowing house. When challenged with finding qualified employees, hire the TN70. Visit tn70.topigsnorsvin.com to see what producers are saying about their experience with the TN70.
Fri, January 07, 2022
Plant-to-plate: Plant-based market offers new premium opportunities
The plant-based market continues to grow, particularly in the human and pet sectors. Along with that growth new premium market opportunities for soybean growers are emerging. In this segment, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead catches up with Bruce Bennett, president of ingredients at Benson Hill, to talk about those market opportunities in general as well as the things the company is doing to expand the processing side of its business needed to allow for identity preservation. This episode is sponsored by Novus International, Inc. — a leader in poultry, dairy and swine nutrition solutions driven by science. Novus’ products and services look at the whole animal, focusing on productivity and well-being, in order to feed the world affordable and wholesome food. For more information, visit Novus’s website at NovusInt.com .
Thu, December 09, 2021
Honoring a legacy of service to the hog industry
The National Pork Industry Foundation has announced the Neil Dierks Scholarship, created to support students seeking a graduate degree, in a field related to the pork industry, at a land grant university. As CEO of the National Pork Producers Council for more than 30 years, Neil Dierks devoted himself to U.S. pork producers’ well-being. His 2021 retirement created an opportunity to honor his contribution to the US pork industry and legacy as a leader, while carrying on his passion of equipping the next generation of pork industry leaders. Joining Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead to reflect on his legacy and contributions to the industry are Ken and Julie Maschhoff of The Maschhoffs. For more information on how to support the newly created Neil Dierks Scholarship, visit NPPC.org . This podcast is sponsored by Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production and their #ScienceHearted podcast, “Food Chain Chats. In the latest episode, hear from Dr. Sangita Jalukar, Technical Services Manager at ARM & HAMMER, about recent groundbreaking cytotoxicity research and the “PPR” approach to helping animals battle mycotoxin challenges – from the inside out. Listen and subscribe to “Food Chain Chats” HERE , or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
Thu, December 09, 2021
Managing economically important diseases in swine industry
PRRS and PEDv are diseases of particular concern to the swine industry, but they are far from the only economically important diseases of note in pork production. How big is the financial impact of these disease challenges for the average producer, and what are some management strategies that can help producers reduce or eliminate these pressures from their herd? That’s the subject of this week’s edition. Alex Hintz is a swine veterinarian working with Novus’ customers across the country on strategies and management practices to minimize disease pressures on their operation. Dr. Hintz received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Wisconsin in 2015 and spent a couple of years after graduation as a practicing veterinarian focused on swine production & health in the midwestern United States. Dr. Hintz spent the past 5 years working in technical services in North America and has been the Technical Manager focused on swine health through nutrition for Novus International for the last two years. This episode is sponsored by Novus International, Inc. —a leader in poultry, dairy and swine nutrition solutions driven by science. Novus’s products and services look at the whole animal, focusing on productivity and well-being, in order to feed the world affordable and wholesome food. For more information, visit Novus’s website at www.novusint.com
Fri, December 03, 2021
Recruiting, retaining employees: Tips you can use
“Help Wanted” signs seem to hang in the window of every business in America these days, and the labor shortage is a frequent topic of discussion on the nightly news. How has the pandemic changed the job market for companies in the essential industries of animal agriculture and construction? In this episode we talk about the challenges employers face in the agriculture industry, and the outlook for recruiting and retaining employees in the new year. Kasey Sheldon of the Bahler Management Group is a specialist in talent acquisition; she joins Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead to provide some insights on labor-related matters, and to offer some tips for employers on navigating the latest challenges in talent acquisition and retention. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, November 26, 2021
Consequences of their choices need conveying to consumers
Standing at the intersection of nutrition, technology, science, policy, and consumer values is our food system. It’s a complex system that consistently delivers a safe and affordable food supply with a dizzying array of choices to fit a growing list of customer needs and wants. With families across the country gathering around the table to break bread and give thanks this week, let’s take a moment to ponder the future of that ever-evolving system and what that future holds for those involved in the industry. During a recent animal welfare symposium in Orlando, Florida, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead caught up with one of the keynote speakers, internationally-recognized food futurist Jack Bobo, to get his insights on current consumer perceptions related to food choices, sustainability, technology and more. They also discuss policy at the international level and what those discussion might hold for the future of the food system and agriculture in general. This episode is sponsored by Novus International, Inc. , a leader in poultry, dairy, and swine nutrition solutions driven by science. Novus’ products and services look at the whole animal, focusing on productivity and well-being, in order to feed the world affordable and wholesome food. For more information, visit Novus’s website at www.novusint.com
Fri, November 19, 2021
Advancing animal agriculture together: What will it take?
Animal welfare has long been a topic of discussion, and even some debate, across the food sector and within agriculture but when both sectors can come together to discuss moving forward, it’s a powerful thing. That is exactly what took place this week in Orlando, Fla., and Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead was on hand and had the opportunity to catch up with symposium organizer Angela Baysinger, DVM, MS, MSc, North America Animal Welfare Lead on Merck Animal Health’s Veterinary & Consumer Affairs Team. In this week’s episode, they discuss the key learnings and takeaways from the meeting and share thoughts on what the group learned from a visit to the local zoo to talk with the welfare specialist there where the animals are always in front of the public. This episode was sponsored by Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production and their #ScienceHearted podcast, “Food Chain Chats. In the latest episode, hear from Dr. Sangita Jalukar, Technical Services Manager at ARM & HAMMER, about recent groundbreaking cytotoxicity research and the “PPR” approach to helping animals battle mycotoxin challenges – from the inside out. Listen and subscribe to “Food Chain Chats” wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
Fri, November 12, 2021
Diversifying strategy so US pork remains competitive globally
Global exports have become an important part of the U.S. pork industry’s growth in recent decades, and the emergence of African Swine Fever – particularly in China – has had profound impacts on the flow of pork products around the world. Recent research funded by the National Pork Board looks at the ways the industry can and should diversify its global marketing strategy to adjust and adapt to those changes, and to ensure growth into the future. Earlier this week as part of a Feedstuffs 365 live panel discussion, we talked with four experts from the pork industry, including a producer, the National Pork Board’s director of global marketing strategy, one of the industry’s top agricultural economists, and one of the researchers who developed the report. Joining us to discuss the report and related topics are Rupert Claxton of Gira; Missouri pork producer David Newman; Dr. Dermot Hayes of Iowa State University and Dr. Clay Eastwood of the National Pork Board. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin , the second largest swine genetics company in the world. Topigs Norsvin’s unique breeding program is designed to accelerate genetic progress at the customer level by creating innovative products and solutions that benefit the entire pork production chain. To get more information, visit TopigsNorsvin.us .
Fri, November 05, 2021
U.S. protein sector needs trade negotiators back at table
Over the past two decades, U.S. animal protein exports grew from $7.4 billion to $20.7 billion, driven by a combination of strong marketing by the industry and a series of trade negotiations between governments. Today, global trade accounts for 10%-30% of U.S. animal protein production, depending on industry segment. But with the Trump Administration’s harder line on trade changing the tone of U.S. policy, where do things stand today, and what upside potential is there yet to grow U.S. protein exports even further? In this episode we talk with agricultural economist Brian Earnest of CoBank about his recent report examining the importance of maintaining strong relationship with existing trade partners like Mexico, Canada and Japan, while also growing trade with China and other key markets overseas. We’ll also discuss the Biden Administration’s approach to trade policy and the importance of confirming the chief ag negotiator in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. You can read Brian's full report HERE . This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, October 29, 2021
Management and nutrition tips to optimize milk components
The dairy market has shifted more toward an emphasis on components in recent years, giving farmers an important incentive to think about the production of those components rather than on the overall volume of milk produced. What can dairy farmers do in terms of management and production to optimize for those components? In this episode we talk with Hannah Tucker, a Ruminant Technical Services Manager Novus International working with livestock producers in the U.S. and Canada. Dr. Tucker grew up in Michigan’s scenic dairy country. She received her bachelor’s degree in Animal Science at Michigan State University and then pursued her Master’s in Dairy Science at Virginia Tech under Dr. Mike Akers and her PhD in Animal Science under Dr. Kristy Daniels. Upon graduation, she worked as a ruminant nutritionist for Sioux Nation Ag, trouble shooting for dairy and beef customers. In July of this year, she started her career at NOVUS. This episode is sponsored by Novus International, Inc. — a leader in dairy, poultry and swine nutrition solutions driven by science. Novus’ products and services look at the whole animal, focusing on productivity and well-being, in order to feed the world affordable and wholesome food. For more information, visit Novus’s website at www.novusint.com
Fri, October 22, 2021
Regenerative farming and the future of the meat industry
The term “regenerative agriculture” has become more commonly discussed in recent years, but like many new terms – and like many oft-repeated buzzwords in agriculture and food marketing – it may not be well understood by most people, or even well-defined in general. What does regenerative agriculture mean, and what role does regenerative farming play in the future of the meat industry? In this episode we talk with Robby Sansom, the co-founder of Force of Nature, a regeneratively-sourced meat company, and from Curt Covington, senior director of AgAmerica Lending. Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talked with Sansom and Covington during a recent Feedstuffs 365 livestream to explore what is being done by producers of all sizes to keep meat on consumers’ plates, as well as what the structure of the future meat industry might look like. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, October 15, 2021
Pathways to Dairy Net Zero climate initiative garners global support
Achieving something known as net zero – in other words, balancing the amount of greenhouse gas produced by an activity and the amount removed from the atmosphere – is a key focus of leaders in the global livestock industry and among food manufacturers and retailers. What will it take to achieve net zero, and how will the effort affect food production and consumption around the globe? Pathways to Dairy Net Zero, a ground-breaking new climate initiative, has launched with some 40 leading organizations, including 11 of the 20 largest dairy companies in the world, declaring their support for the effort. Collectively, these supporters represent approximately 30% of total milk production worldwide. The new climate initiative demonstrates the global dairy sector’s commitment to reducing GHG emissions while continuing to produce nutritious foods for six billion people and provide for the livelihoods of one billion people. In a recent edition of Feedstuffs 365 , our Sarah Muirhead sat down Donald Moore of the Global Dairy Platform to find out more about achieving net zero. Moore also provided an update on the recent U.N. Food Systems Summit. This podcast was sponsored by Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production and their #ScienceHearted podcast, “Food Chain Chats. In the most recent episode, listen to Dr. Jack McReynolds, Director of Research and Development, and Dr. Christine Alvarado, Technical Services Director , tap into their extensive hands-on expertise as part of the Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production team and discuss some of the most pressing food safety topics.Listen and subscribe to “Food Chain Chats” wherever you dig-in to your favorite podcasts.
Fri, October 08, 2021
Optimizing nutrient management while decreasing greenhouse gas emissions
EnTech Solutions has formed a joint venture with Northern Biogas LLC aimed at providing a sustainable energy future utilizing local agriculture, specifically dairy waste. Recently, EnTech added to its clean energy solutions portfolio an active biogas facility in the Middleton, Wis. Utilizing anaerobic digestion, the facility turns organic waste from local dairy farms into renewable energy. Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead toured the facility on her way to World Dairy Expo to learn more about the facility and the benefits it offers to local dairy producers as well as the regional ecosystem through the utilization of advanced filtration technology. In this episode, she talks with Jeff LaViolette, civil/environmental engineer with Northern Biogas. This episode is sponsored by Novus International, Inc.—a leader in dairy, poultry and swine nutrition solutions driven by science. Novus' products and services look at the whole animal, focusing on productivity and well-being, in order to feed the world affordable and wholesome food. For more information, visit Novus’s website at Novusint.com
Fri, October 01, 2021
Sustainable food production is focus of dairy industry partnership
Sustainability is such an oft-discussed topic of conversation in the food space that it’s become a buzzword. Who defines it? What does it mean? Aren’t farmers already doing a lot to improve soil, air and water quality? In this episode we talk with Lauren Brey, managing director of the Farmers for Sustainable Food Coalition. We caught up with Lauren at the World Dairy Expo this week in Madison, Wisconsin, to answer some of those big questions about sustainability. She is one of the farmers leading the effort to better define and document the sustainability work happening on farms every day across the country, and to get in alignment with the food companies and supply chain partners who are more and more driving the discussion every day. For all of our coverage of World Dairy Expo , log in to Feedstuffs365 , our video streaming platform, for a series of interviews with farmers, dairy business leaders and technological experts. We covered everything from new livestock identification and monitoring technology to the outlook for dairy producer profitability over the next two years. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, September 24, 2021
Wrangling over budget, infrastructure funding, taxes
Between the budget battle, funding the infrastructure bill and an ambitious tax proposal, tens of billions of dollars in the agricultural economy hangs in the balance as legislators in Washington wrangle over signature pieces of President Joe Biden’s domestic policy agenda. In this episode we’ll hear from agriculture policy expert Emily Buckman of the American Farm Bureau Federation, a member of the banking community about her group's concerns with the House-passed version of the federal budget and a looming government shutdown. Then we'll hear from Paul Merski of the Independent Community Bankers Association about one troubling provision of the infrastructure bill with regard to how the administration plans to pay for the new spending. And finally, Congressman Glenn Thompson of Pennsylvania, ranking member of the House Agriculture Committee, explains why he's not in favor of the administration's tax proposal because of the effects it would have on rural America specifically. This episode is sponsored by Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production and their #ScienceHearted podcast, “Food Chain Chats.” In a new episode, hear Dr. Tom Rehberger, Director of Innovation and Product Development at Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production, discuss optimal rumen function and the role that products like CERTILLUS™ can have on ultimate success. Subscribe and listen to “Food Chain Chats” wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
Mon, September 20, 2021
Quorum sensing: Understanding the science of bacterial communication
Bacteria are all around us, and the role these microorganisms play in our environment – both on the farm and inside the animals themselves, is an increasingly important area of study in animal science. Quorum sensing is bacteria’s unique biochemical communication system. It’s how bacteria interact and talk with each other. Understanding how that communication works and how we can use it in a variety of applications is a new frontier in animal health and wellbeing. To explore how quorum sensing science works and what benefits it offers the dairy industry, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talked with Dr. Jeff Brose, director of technical services with AHV International out of Fort Collins, Colorado, to find out more. Prior to joining AHV International, Brose served as a consultant as AHV prepared to enter the U.S. market. He previously held positions with Cargill and Monsanto after managing his own private veterinary practice.
Fri, September 17, 2021
Using genetic selection to reduce uterine prolapse in sows
Uterine prolapse is a serious issue of concern to swine producers. A 2018 Iowa State University study involving 400,000 commercials sows found that vaginal or uterine prolapse accounted for 15% of all sow mortalities during the study period, and earlier research found that all pelvic organ prolapses cost producers roughly $5,220 per 1,000 sows per year. What hasn’t been as well understood until more recent research is the various factors influencing the incidence of uterine prolapse in the sow herd. In this episode we talk with Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger, a geneticist with Topigs Norsvin, about those factors and specifically about recent research into the role genetics play in the incidence of uterine prolapse. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin , the second largest swine genetics company in the world. Topigs Norsvin’s unique breeding program is designed to accelerate genetic progress at the customer level by creating innovative products and solutions that benefit the entire pork production chain. To get more information, visit TopigsNorsvin.us . For any questions or additional information about the work Topigs Norsvin has done to implement selection against uterine prolapse, email info@topigsnorsvin.us .
Fri, September 10, 2021
Assessing damage to grain, soy trade from Hurricane Ida
Hurricane Ida rocked the Gulf coast last month, making landfall at New Orleans and causing significant damage to the infrastructure that supports the U.S. soy and grain export business. It damaged at least one major terminal and left several without power for several weeks. In this episode we talk with Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition for a look at how badly Ida hurt trade at the gulf, what damage is yet to be repaired, and what lessons the industry might learn from this latest weather-related challenge to our infrastructure. Steenhoek also provides an update on the latest in Washington on the Infrastructure Bill after it cleared the Senate, and why lies ahead in the House. This episode is sponsored by Novus International, Inc. — a leader in dairy, poultry and swine nutrition solutions driven by science. Novus’ products and services look at the whole animal, focusing on productivity and well-being, in order to feed the world affordable and wholesome food.
Fri, September 03, 2021
Policy Update: WOTUS and Infrastructure Spending
Quite a lot has happened in Washington recently, from work on the federal budget to movement on further COVID-related relief policy. How has agriculture fared in recent policy movement? In this episode we hear from Farm Progress policy editor Jacqui Fatka. Speaking with colleague Mike Pearson at the Farm Progress Show earlier this week, Fatka explains the latest wrangling over the Waters of the U.S. rule and what it means for farmers, the latest on the infrastructure bill as it relates to agriculture, and the prospects for budget reconciliation in Congress. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com.
Fri, August 27, 2021
Challenge of manufacturing feed operation amid drought, wildfire
Producing more than 1.4 million tons of dry commercial feed every year is no small feat… doing it in a state beset by wildfires is another matter entirely. Western Milling’s facility in Goshen, Calif., is one of the largest and most diverse animal food production operations in the U.S., and currently handles more than 1,200 active and unique formulations. What does it take to not only operate at that scale, but to be recognized as one of the top commercial feed mills in the nation? Feedstuffs has partnered with the American Feed Industry Association since 1985 to recognize the most outstanding animal food manufacturing operations in the industry through the Feed Facility of the Year program. Western Milling’s Goshen plant is the most-recent winner in the commercial dry feed category . In a recent edition of Feedstuffs 365 , our Sarah Muirhead and AFIA’s Gary Huddleston talked with Dan Rice and Buster Freeman of Western Milling about what makes an exceptional commercial feed mill. Rice and Freeman also discuss some of the unique challenges of operating in California, from the vast diversity of customers they serve to the several challenges they’ve faced in recent years from persistent drought to wildfires and related supply chain disruptions. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, August 20, 2021
Drought, COVID and the cattle cycle
We’re on the tail end of the cattle cycle, according to Oklahoma State University agricultural economist Derrell Peel, and a combination of COVID-19’s supply chain disruptions and drought across large swaths of cattle country have fueled a very interesting run in the cattle markets. How have those factors altered the outlook for cattle producer profitability over the next 12 months? In this episode we talk with Dr. Peel, a highly-respected expert in cattle marketing, about what’s happening as the industry works through a backlog of cattle caused by last year’s COVID-forced shutdowns. Peel discusses the cattle cycle in general, where we are at the moment, and which segments of the industry are making money and the ongoing concern about drought. This podcast is sponsored by Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production and their #ScienceHearted podcast, “Food Chain Chats.” In a new episode, listen to Elliot Block, Research Fellow and Director of Technology at Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production, talk about the role diet can play in helping beef cattle when they need it most – and why it matters to your herd. CLICK HERE to listen to “Food Chain Chats,” or subscribe wherever you satisfy your podcast cravings.
Fri, August 13, 2021
Animal protein outlook remains strong despite inflation concerns
The animal protein markets are very strong at the moment, given robust consumer demand for meat, milk and eggs, both in the domestic and export markets. The question then becomes how long that demand might hold if inflationary pressures dampen spending at some point in the coming year, or how additional COVID-related challenges such a surge in variant-fueled infections – and any new lockdowns or restrictions – might throw a wrench in the system. In this episode we talk with Brian Earnest, a protein analyst with CoBank, the national cooperative financial institution focused on rural America as part of the Farm Credit System. Earnest describes the current macroeconomic situation, including his insights on inflation and his level of concern about the prospect of rising prices in the year ahead. We also discuss the prospects for continued consumer demand, and what a resurgence of COVID might do to the U.S. meat industry. Run of Show 0:00 Welcome to the show! 1:09 Brian Earnest explains that in the current markets, "a rising tide lifts all boats" 2:00 What about inflation? How concerned should beef producers be about inflation? 3:58 Consumers seem to be relatively happy to pay higher prices for beef at retail at the moment , but how much more are they willing to pay? 6:08 Earnest discusses the general state of the domestic economy, from jobs and unemployment to overall consumer spending. 8:40 What about pork and poultry? Earnest discusses how the outlook is similar and different from the beef market. 11:29 Let's dive into alternative proteins! Should beef producers be concerned about the rise of alternatives? For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, August 06, 2021
Can animal health industry move environmental needle?
As consumer demand for animal-derived protein grows, so do concerns among some consumer segments about the overall sustainability of livestock production. Increasingly, the animal health industry is researching the development of products and services that enable livestock producers to deliver products that fit consumer preferences for environmentally sustainable protein options. In this episode we talk with Jenna Lansing, Director of the Agri-Food WatchDesk at Aimpoint Research, a global strategic intelligence firm specializing in the agriculture and food sectors. The firm blends military intelligence techniques with market research capabilities to help organizations in the industry understand what’s really happening in the marketplace, what’s going to happen in the future, and what to do to ensure success no matter what that future brings. Lansing manages a team of analysts who monitor hundreds of intelligence sources daily to understand what’s happening across the value chain, helping clients see potential impacts and disruptions they might not have otherwise seen. She discusses discusses recent launches, development and approval of new products that reduce methane and ammonia emissions in food animal production, allowing farmers to raise more livestock while reducing their environmental footprint. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, July 23, 2021
Leading through adversity and change
In this segment of Feedstuffs in Focus, we talk with Chad Gregory, president and CEO of the United Egg Producers, and recently named Ag Association Leader of the Year by the National AgriMarketing Assn. We caught up with Gregory this week in Kansas City to talk about what it takes to lead in challenging times and to get an update on some of the issues the egg industry is currently facing and what’s likely ahead. One such topic of discussion what that of how COVID-19 changed the industry overnight, shutting down foodservice and causing major disruptions in the retail sector. Proposition 12 in California and other state initiatives that are set to mandate such things as cage-free production was also explored. The egg industry is ready for the transition that goes into play within the next few months but stands to face insurmountable obstacles if those requirements expand to other states. Other topics discussed were the United Nation’s upcoming Food Summit, truthful labeling regulations and where the industry stands in regard to environmental sustainability. Finally, Gregory shared how having a good team in place and being proactive are critical to weathering any crisis. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, July 16, 2021
What research tells us about limited feeding heifers and bunk space
Stocking density and available bunk space play a significant role in determining rate of gain and feed efficiency in growing dairy heifers. While the research on heifer feeding isn’t as plentiful as it is in other areas of dairy nutrition, there are still some important findings for dairy producers and heifer developers. In this episode of Feedstuffs In Focus we talk with Feedstuffs columnist and longtime dairy nutritionist Dr. Al Kertz about what the literature says regarding limit-feeding heifers and the importance of bunk space. Dr. Kerz explains that studies find yearling bred Holstein heifers with free or restricted diet access gained about 9% more with about 1.6% greater intake when not limited in access to the feed bunk. You can watch Dr. Kertz’s full presentation via Feedstuffs 365 , our virtual community and education platform. It’s available via Feedstuffs.com as part of your Feedstuffs subscription. This episode is sponsored by Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production and their #ScienceHearted podcast, “Food Chain Chats.” Check out their recent episodes to hear former USDA Undersecretary, Dr. Mindy Brashears, give insights and projections for advancing food safety from the farm to the table. Subscribe wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
Fri, July 09, 2021
GIPSA, "Product of the USA" labels, ocean freight: What's ahead for agriculture?
On July 9th, President Biden signed a raft of Executive Orders targeted at strengthening the U.S. economy by aiming to, quoting from the press release, “reduce the trend of corporate consolidation, increase competition, and deliver concrete benefits to America’s consumers, workers, farmers, and small businesses.” The President’s directives had several issues specific to agriculture, including the livestock and animal feed industries. In this episode we talk with Feedstuffs and Farm Progress policy editor Jacqui Fatka about what the President’s orders hold for the animal protein and animal food sectors. We’ll discuss the Packers & Stockyards Act, rules related to “Product of the USA” labeling for meat, and getting the Federal Maritime Commission to enforce rules on competitiveness in shipping goods and services in and out of the U.S.
Fri, June 25, 2021
A pulse on beef industry’s environmental hoofprint
Last month Elanco and Ducks Unlimited announced a partnership to emphasize the strong bond between environmental sustainability and agriculture – specifically beef cattle production – across North America. Over the next two years Elanco will invest $50,000 annually with Ducks Unlimited to help purchase grass seed to support reseeding efforts on working lands in western Kansas, enough to reseed at least 1,000 acres during the course of the project. The grassland restoration initiative is part of the existing SAFE (State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement) project. The SAFE project is an existing collaboration between the USDA Farm Service Agency and Ducks Unlimited with the goal of restoring grasslands and protecting embedded playa wetlands in western Kansas. How does this partnership relate to the sustainability of beef cattle production? And what is one of the world’s leading animal health companies doing to help producers address consumer concerns about the overall environmental impact of livestock and meat production? In this episode we talk with Dr. Sara Place , Elanco’s Chief Sustainability Officer, to answer those questions, and to get her take on ways the beef industry has improved its sustainability in recent years, and how producers can better communicate those improvements to a highly-engaged consuming public. Prior to joining Elanco, Dr. Place worked as senior director of sustainable beef production research at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and was previously an assistant professor of sustainable beef production systems at Oklahoma State University. RELATED WEBINAR: A Pulse on the Beef Industry’s Environmental Hoofprint: Sustainability & Policy Perspectives
Fri, June 18, 2021
How worried should livestock and feed producers be about inflation?
As the U.S. economy pulls out of a pandemic-induced recession, the specter of inflation has reared its head. Wednesday the Federal Reserve hiked its expectations for inflation this year and signaled that it would move up the timetable for raising interest rates. All of this has great implications for the livestock and animal feed sectors, from the increased cost of inputs and materials to an increased cost of capital. Last week at World Pork Expo in Des Moines, Iowa, we sat down with Jayson Lusk , a distinguished professor and Head of the Department of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University, to get an economist’s take on how worrisome inflation is to the industry at this point. Dr. Lusk also shared his view of what macroeconomic factors he’s watching as the economy fully reopens moving into the second half of the year. This episode is sponsored by CENTRAL LIFE SCIENCES. Get control of flies on your dairy operation with an integrated pest management program built around ClariFly Larvicide and Starbar Products from Central Life Sciences. ClariFly Larvicide offers feed-through control that prevents the emergence of nuisance flies from the manure of treated animals by as much as 96%, and Starbar features a lineup of baits, traps and sprays that address fly problems in all areas of your dairy operation. Flies can spread disease and lead to decreases in milk quality and yields. Learn how to limit their impact at centralflycontrol.com .
Fri, June 11, 2021
What does Biden's infrastructure bill hold for agriculture?
President Biden has proposed a massive investment in U.S. infrastructure as part of his policy agenda, asking Congress to fund $2 trillion in a wide-ranging set of investments from roads, bridges, and waterways to electrification, broadband, and healthcare. But with a sharply-divided Congress, which – if any – of the President’s proposals will move forward? Earlier this week at World Pork Expo in Des Moines, Iowa, we caught up with Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition about the infrastructure bill, and the latest wrangling over the package in Washington. This episode is sponsored by CENTRAL LIFE SCIENCES . Get control of flies on your dairy operation with an integrated pest management program built around ClariFly Larvicide and Starbar Products from Central Life Sciences. ClariFly Larvicide offers feed-through control that prevents the emergence of nuisance flies from the manure of treated animals by as much as 96%, and Starbar features a lineup of baits, traps and sprays that address fly problems in all areas of your dairy operation. Flies can spread disease and lead to decreases in milk quality and yields. Learn how to limit their impact at centralflycontrol.com .
Fri, June 04, 2021
JBS ransomware attack highlights vulnerabilities in protein value chain
The Federal Bureau of Investigation said Wednesday that it continues to investigate the weekend cyberattack on JBS, revealing that the May 30 attack was the work of a Russian ransomware gang. The incident, which shut down nine beef plants across the U.S., was the latest cyberattack on U.S. infrastructure and one of the first in the food production industry to gain widespread media attention. While JBS said that production at all JBS USA and Pilgrim’s Pride facilities resumed Thursday, the incident highlighted the potential vulnerabilities of our technologically advanced, digitally-oriented food production and processing system. In this episode we talk with Professor James Lowe , director of the I-Learning Center at the University of Illinois’ College of Veterinary Medicine. Lowe says disruptions anywhere in the food animal supply chain cause major impacts up and down that chain. COVID-19 was the most recent major disruption to the meat industry, but he says this cyberattack exposes another vulnerability in a highly-mechanized industry. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, May 28, 2021
African swine fever in Vietnam: An update and future research
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the global disease keeping U.S. swine producers awake at night was African Swine Fever. A virulent disease that devastated the Chinese swine herd and ran rampant throughout several Eastern European countries, the virus was clearly something that hog farmers on this side of the ocean wanted to keep as far away as biologically possible. With China struggling to rebuild its herd due to the continued presence in country, the implications for our domestic pork and feed markets are considerable. Earlier this week, as part of the Global Hog Industry Virtual Conference hosted by National Hog Farmer , our Andy Vance spoke with Dr. Paul Sundberg, executive director of the Swine Health Information Center, about the latest ASF developments around the globe. In this excerpt from that session, Sundberg also discusses research he and his colleagues are supporting in Vietnam, including the results of a recent study on rodents as a potential vector for the disease. This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, May 21, 2021
Gene-editing may face an uphill battle with dairy farmers
Advances in biotechnology have garnered the spotlight in recent years, particularly with regard to landmark uses of genetic biotechnology… think of the role mRNA technologies played in developing vaccines for COVID-19 as a recent example. Biotechnologies are increasingly utilized in agricultural and environmental applications, with terms such as CRISPR gaining widespread recognition among the consuming public But what do farmers think about implementing these types of technologies in their operations? In this episode Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talks with Michigan State University researchers Danielle Ufer and David Ortega about the findings of a recent study of more than 500 American dairy farmers on their willingness to adopt gene-edited genetics in their herds. Their research suggests that farmers may be a little gun shy when it comes to adopting new biotech applications, and that gene editing may face an uphill battle in the dairy sector. This podcast is sponsored by Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production and their #ScienceHearted podcast, “Food Chain Chats.” Check it out to hear insights on how the food supply chain is taking lessons learned from 2020 disruptions into 2021. Subscribe wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
Fri, May 14, 2021
Navigating Prop 12 compliance without sacrificing farrowing rates
The concept of group sow housing in swine production is far from new, but the implementation of California’s Prop 12 imposes a much heavier burden on producers in terms of the space required for gestating sows in a group system. That burden generally means smaller inventories and higher costs – not a winning recipe for profitable pork production. In this episode of Feedstuffs In Focus we talk with Dr. Hyatt Frobose of JYGA Technologies about what exactly Prop 12 means for the swine industry, and more importantly how producers who want to access the California market can most effectively build or retrofit their facilities to be Prop 12 compliant… without sacrificing farrowing rates in the process. Dr. Frobose is the U.S. Commercial Director for JYGA Technologies, the designer and manufacturer of Gestal swine feeding systems. Prior to joining JYGA, he earned a doctorate in swine management and nutrition at Kansas State University; his research evaluated stimulating estrus in sows during late lactation as a means to improve sow welfare, and the use of novel feeding technology to optimize sow performance. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin , the second largest swine genetics company in the world. Topigs Norsvin’s unique breeding program is designed to accelerate genetic progress at the customer level by creating innovative products and solutions that benefit the entire pork production chain. To get more information, visit TopigsNorsvin.us .
Fri, May 07, 2021
Container shortage creates major challenges for ag exporters
Nearly 300 U.S. agriculture and forest products companies and associations delivered a letter to Secretary of DOT Pete Buttigieg last week, calling for the immediate intervention to protect U.S. exporters and their access to foreign markets. A global shortage of containers and ocean-going vessels, along with carriers’ increasingly-frequent refusal to carry agricultural products from the U.S. back across the ocean, has led to a disastrous situation for U.S. agricultural exporters. In this episode we talk with Peter Friedman, executive director of the Agriculture Transportation Coalition, to get an update on the situation and discuss specific measures being proposed. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, April 30, 2021
What lessons has feed industry learned from COVID-19?
According to the International Feed Industry Federation, the commercial feed manufacturing industry is a nearly half-trillion dollar business globally. In the U.S. alone, according to the American Feed Industry Association, there are more than 5,800 animal food manufacturing facilities producing more than 284 million tons of finished feed and pet food each year. The past year has presented a series of challenges to the industry unlike any other year in recent memory. In this episode we talk with Dr. Mark Lyons, CEO of Alltech, about what he and his colleagues in the global feed business have learned over the past year, and the challenges his company continues to face in COVID hotspots like India and Brazil. We’ll also discuss the results of the company’s annual Global Feed Survey, and the trends the survey uncovered from around the world. Finally, we’ll preview the Alltech One Ideas Conference. This episode is sponsored by Alltech . Join Alltech for the annual Alltech ONE Ideas Conference coming up May 25-27. You can register for this virtual global agri-food conference by visiting one.alltech.com.
Fri, April 23, 2021
As country "reopens", foodservice challenges remain
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. consumers spent more than half of their food dollar on what the U.S. Department of Agriculture calls “food away from home;” in other words, on food consumed at restaurants and other foodservice establishments. The pandemic flipped that pattern on its head, with spending on food away from home dropping by more than $32 billion between February and April 2020. In this episode we talk with Hinda Mitchell , founder and president of Inspire PR Group, a practice focused on strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, crisis preparedness and response and issues management. Many of her clients are national restaurant companies, food manufacturers and agricultural commodity groups, giving her an in-depth perspective on the foodservice segment and its relationship to the entire animal protein value chain. Mitchell describes the current state of affairs in the foodservice space, and some of the ongoing challenges facing restaurants, from ongoing restrictions in some states to a broader issue attracting and retaining a highly-engaged labor force. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, April 16, 2021
Tyson Foods lets the chickens do the choosing
Tyson Foods is one of the world’s largest food companies. With a massive global footprint and millions of animals in production, the company has taken an increased look at animal welfare with a scientific approach to figuring out ways to improve animal health and wellbeing. Recently, the company’s animal welfare research team embarked on a study that leveraged animal preference to test which environmental enrichments chickens on the company’s broiler farms prefer. In this episode Feedstuffs Editor Sarah Muirhead talks with Dr. Karen Christensen, Tyson Foods’ Senior Director of Animal Welfare, about the the company’s Broiler Welfare Research Farm, a state-of-the-art four-house commercial broiler farm, and how it allows the company’s Office of Animal Welfare and university research partners to scientifically evaluate and understand how welfare practices can impact broiler behavior and welfare outcomes in a commercial setting. RELATED: You can watch Sarah Muirhead’s full interview with Dr. Karen Christensen of Tyson Foods via Feedstuffs 365 , our virtual community and events platform. Feedstuffs 365 is part of your subscription to Feedstuffs and can be accessed via Feedstuffs.com . This podcast is sponsored by Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production and their #ScienceHearted podcast, “Food Chain Chats.” Check it out to hear insights on how the food supply chain is taking their experiences from 2020 disruptions into 2021. Subscribe wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
Sat, April 10, 2021
SPECIAL REPORT: Practical experience in developing a Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae elimination program
Welcome to this episode of Feedstuffs Swine Healthline, brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health and focused on Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae. M. hyo doesn’t have to be a part of pig production anymore. As we hear in this episode, elimination programs can be a cost-effective solution versus controlling this troublesome pathogen. Our guest is Dr. Amy Maschhoff, DVM, associate director of health for The Maschhoffs, LLC. Dr. Maschhoff earned her veterinary degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and began her career as herd veterinarian for The Maschhoffs. Now she serves in a more central role for The Maschhoff system, as well as supports the health assurance program for Acuity Genetics. Dr. Maschhoff also served on the National Pork Producers Council Swine Veterinarian Public Policy Advocacy Program. She is actively enrolled in the University of Illinois Swine Executive Veterinary Program. Dr. Maschhoff shares practical, on-farm experiences with eliminating M. hyo., the benefits of developing an elimination program, as well as the factors veterinarians should take into consideration when moving from M. hyo. control to elimination. She shares the lessons she has learned and will use in the future to improve elimination programs, as well as gilt monitoring programs. Thank you for listening to the podcast series, made possible by Pharmgate Animal Health.
Fri, April 09, 2021
What Biden's infrastructure plan does for ag industry
On the heels of passing a $1.9 trillion COVID relief bill, the Biden Administration released details of a $2 trillion infrastructure initiative that would make massive investments in roads, bridges, inland waterways, rural broadband and other key pieces of the nation’s logistics and utilities grid of importance to agriculture. But will the nature of partisan Washington politics get in the way of good policy? What’s in the bill, and can it pass with anything resembling bipartisan support ? In this episode we talk Farm Progress Policy Editor Jacqui Fatka about President Biden’s “American Jobs Plan” and how the agriculture community reacted to its far-reaching proposals . She’ll also describe how farm-state legislators of both parties are increasingly frustrated at the lack of bipartisanship inside the Beltway, and how that might lead to another reconciliation bill. You can read Jacqui’s latest Inside Washington column on what ag-focused legislators are doing about persistent congestion issues at U.S. ports at Feedstuffs.com. Also, join us April 15th in our new virtual community and events platform, Feedstuffs 365 , for a discussion about the proposed merger of the Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern railways. Experts Max Fisher of the National Grain and Feed Association and Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition will discuss what this merger means for the feed and grain industry.
Fri, April 02, 2021
Plant-based gets the press, but beef still king of grill
The emergence of plant-based proteins and other would-be meat alternatives has many in the traditional animal protein industries concerned about losing market share among U.S. consumers. But what does the data actually tell us? How many consumers are willing to pay the premium price many plant-based proteins currently command at retail? In this episode we talk with Glynn Tonsor, a leading agricultural economist at Kansas State University , about research he and his colleagues conducted over the past year regarding consumer attitudes about beef and plant-based meat alternatives. Among the study's key findings, the researchers learned that consumers who regularly eat beef said they are willing to pay nearly $2 more per meal for a beef burger rather than the plant-based alternative, when dining at a restaurant. On the flip-side, those who have a preference for plant-based protein alternatives are equally passionate, saying they would be willing to pay $1.48 more per meal. We’ll also hear why Tonsor isn’t overly concerned about animal-derived proteins losing market share, and what the literature tells us about who prefers plant-based, and who would rather have the real deal. Read the full study and an executive summary .
Fri, March 26, 2021
Exploring feed and grain producer priorities in upcoming infrastructure policy
Infrastructure – namely, the ability to quickly and efficiently transport commodities and other goods – has been a competitive advantage for a number of U.S. industries, especially agriculture. From our inland waterways to our extensive network of highways, the U.S. farmer, livestock producer and agribusiness professional has benefited for centuries from the best overall logistics infrastructure in the world. Unfortunately, in recent decades the country has failed to keep pace with maintaining and modernizing our infrastructure, and unless something changes soon, that long-held competitive advantage could quickly become a relative disadvantage. In this episode we talk with Max Fisher, Vice President of Economics and Government Relations for the National Grain and Feed Association , about the state of infrastructure policy proposals, and what lies ahead with a new Congress and a new administration. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Thu, March 25, 2021
SPECIAL REPORT: Immune responses following Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae infection
Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae has a complex interaction with a pig’s immune system. Understanding this response is essential to recognizing the pathogen’s role in respiratory disease, as well as treatment and prevention decisions. Welcome to the third of four episodes of Feedstuffs Swine Healthline, brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health and focused on Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae . Our guest is Dr. Dominiek Maes with the Ghent University Porcine Health Unit in the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. A veterinarian by training, Dr. Maes specializes in different infectious diseases with emphasis on respiratory disease (in particular M. hyopneumoniae ), along with research in sow management and reproduction. Internationally recognized for his expertise in these areas, he’s authored 310 publications in international peer-reviewed scientific journals and given 540 presentations during national and international conferences.
Fri, March 19, 2021
Research shows strong consumer trust in U.S. farmers
For those who spend too much time online, it may seem that farmers are frequently under the gun for a range of issues, from greenhouse gas emissions to GMOs. But despite the occasional hue and cry from some quarters, recent survey data suggests that the average consumer actually holds the U.S. farmer in relatively high regard. In this episode we talk with one of the leaders at the United Soybean Board about a recent consumer survey that found farmers rank as the most trusted members of the food supply chain. We'll also discuss how the soybean industry is working to quantify and promote on-farm efforts to combat climate change and produce a more sustainable animal food supply. Mace Thornton is Vice President of Communications and Marketing Strategy at the United Soybean Board, the farmer-led organization mandated with administering the farmer-funded soybean checkoff. Thornton explains what the Checkoff learned from its recent consumer survey, as well as what Checkoff-funded research is doing to help livestock and poultry producers answer the call to produce more sustainable meat, milk and eggs. This podcast is sponsored by Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production and their #ScienceHearted podcast, Food Chain Chats . Check it out to hear insights on how the food supply chain is taking their experiences from 2020 disruptions into 2021. Subscribe wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
Fri, March 12, 2021
Talking food price inflation, livestock feed costs and commodity supercycles with economist Scott Irwin
Recent headlines have suggested that food prices are rising faster than inflation or incomes, prompting concerns that consumers struggling through a pandemic-racked economy may be spending more of their dollars to feed their families. But what is the data really saying – are we talking about retail grocery prices, food consumed away from home, or simply about rising commodity prices? In this episode we talk with Scott Irwin, the Laurence J. Norton Chair of Agricultural Marketing at the University of Illinois. His research on agricultural markets is widely cited by other academic researchers and is in high demand among market participants, policymakers, and the media. He is best known for his work on the impact of speculation in commodity markets. Irwin recently noted that headlines in consumer press about food price inflation are a bit misleading. In a wide-ranging interview, he peels apart the layers of the food price inflation discussion, and the related implications for farm and food policy. He also discusses the concept of a commodity market “supercycle,” if we are or are not entering one now, and prospects for general inflation over the next 3-5 years. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, March 12, 2021
SPECIAL REPORT: Tools for practical diagnosis of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae
Accurate detection of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae infection in live pigs is critical for timely disease control, but it is challenging. New, practical tools that improve upon or complement existing diagnostics can make a difference. Our guest is Dr. Maria Pieters, a faculty member with the Veterinary Population Medicine Department and the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at the College of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Minnesota. A veterinarian by training, she has dedicated more than 15 years of research efforts to defining and developing areas of diagnostics, epidemiology, and control of swine Mycoplasma species, with a special interest in disease elimination. She is the principal investigator of the UMN Mycoplasma Research Laboratory and an active member of the International Organization for Mycoplasmology. The podcast is brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health.
Fri, March 05, 2021
Survey results suggest farmers threatened by new Administration and Congress
At first glance, Donald Trump would not have appeared to be the type of politician rural Americans would identify with; a lifelong New York real estate developer, born with the proverbial silver spoon in his mouth, and with essentially zero experience dealing with agriculture or other issues of importance to those of us who live in “flyover country.” And yet, for the past four years the former President captivated the majority of voters across farm country and earned the overwhelming support of those involved in farming and agribusiness. Despite a crippling trade war with China, incremental gains from converting NAFTA to USMCA, and some not-insignificant slip-ups with small oil refineries weaseling out of the Renewable Fuels Standard, Trump made the connection with farm voters through his brash talk, push for deregulation and tax relief. So how do rural Americans feel about his successor, President Joe Biden? In this episode we talk with Mike Wilson, the executive editor of Farm Futures , about the magazine’s latest survey of farmers on their thoughts and fears about President Biden’s policies related to farming and agribusiness.
Sat, February 27, 2021
SPECIAL REPORT: Relevance and impact of swine respiratory disease complex and Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae in modern pork production
You know that Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae is a primary pathogen in swine respiratory disease (SRD) complexes and a gateway to endemic health challenges. Jordi Mora of ECO Animal Health explains the impacts of M. hyo and swine respiratory disease in modern finishing operations and what swine health professionals can do to prepare for continuing challenges. This podcast is brought to you by Pharmgate Animal Health.
Fri, February 26, 2021
Precision technology in the barn: Where are we, and where are we going?
Technology drives so much of the modern economy. From app-based food ordering to online banking to the idea that someday we may be ferried about in autonomous vehicles, our lives are increasingly aided or driven by technological advancement. What about livestock production? Are food animal producers keeping pace with the developments in automation, innovation, big data or artificial intelligence? In this episode we talk with a pair of technological innovators in food animal production about the state of technology in barns, and what’s coming in the years to come. Jon Hoek is president of Summit SmartFarms , a company focused on the integration of human capital and technology solutions for protein producers. Jon and his colleagues work with livestock producers to better manage their animals and employees – and how the animals and employees interact. Scott Whitlock is President of Flexware Innovation , a 25-year old software and automation technology integrator.Scott grew up on a pig farm and uses his firm’s production and manufacturing integration experience to augment Summit’s focus on people, culture, and process. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production and their #ScienceHearted podcast, “Food Chain Chats.” Each episode is a #ScienceHearted discussion about the topics that matter most in the world of animal and food production—and food safety. Subscribe wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
Fri, February 19, 2021
Record winter storms pummel cattle country
Winter Storm Uri, the latest in a series of winter storms this month, pummeled much of the Heartland, from deep into Texas on through the High Plains and across the Midwest. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, more than 73% of the Lower 48 states was covered in snow by Wednesday — the largest snowcover for a single day since NOAA began tracking this data in 2003. With extreme cold temperatures lasting far longer than normal in several regions affected by the storm, the implications for livestock producers and marketers are significant. During a Feedstuffs 365 live panel this week , Dennis Smith with Archer Financial predicted that cattle slaughter will likely drop 40,000 head this week due to the situation. Although most of the issues with plant shutdowns are happening in Texas due to the significant strain placed on the state’s electric grid, plants in Kansas were also being idled, shut down, or slowed. In this episode we talk with Oklahoma State University agricultural economist Derrell Peel , who was – in his words – hunkered down due to the storm during our conversation. He provides some insights into what cattle and hog producers are up against, and what it might mean for cattle and hog slaughter, as well as how the extreme weather might affect consumer meat demand in the coming days. RELATED STORY: Winter Storm Uri batters agriculture supply chain
Fri, February 12, 2021
Opportunities for 2021 pork exports after record-setting 2020
Last year was a record-setting year for U.S. pork exports. Sales abroad in 2020 were up 11% by volume and value increased 11% compared to 2019, according to recent data released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation. From January to December, 6.56 billion pounds of U.S. pork and pork variety meat, valued at $7.7 billion, were exported globally. Pork exports accounted for 29.3% of total U.S. pork production. In this episode we talk with a pair of pork industry experts on how the U.S. achieved these record-setting sales volumes and values, and what the road ahead looks like for the industry in 2021. First, we’ll hear from Dr. Clay Eastwood, Director of International Marketing for the National Pork Board, about how the Pork Checkoff and the U.S. Meat Export Federation navigated the uncharted waters of overseas marketing during a global pandemic. Later in the episode we’ll talk with noted agricultural economist Brett Stuart, founding partner of Global AgriTrends, about his analysis of what’s happening in China and his projections for 2021 pork exports. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, February 05, 2021
Cattle liquidation delay has implications for pork, poultry
The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported last week that beef cattle inventories were slightly smaller than a year ago, but given long-term market trends, there may yet be too many cows producing too many calves to keep producers profitable over the long haul. Couple that with rising feed costs and a shifting policy situation in Washington, and it’s an interesting time — to put it mildly — to be in the animal protein business. In this episode of Feedstuffs In Focus we talk with a long-time animal protein analyst with one of the world’s leading agri-finance companies about what he took away from last week’s Cattle Inventory Report, and what the data means for beef, swine and poultry producers. Don Close is a senior animal protein analyst at Rabo AgriFinance in the RaboResearch Food & Agribusiness group . There he is responsible for analyzing all animal protein sectors with a specialization in beef. His extensive research experience includes confinement cow/calf operations, ground beef, and development in international trade. Close explains not only what we learned from the latest USDA data, but also what it means for beef, pork and poultry producers over the next year, including price implications and the possibility of shrinking profits given higher feed costs that could go higher yet. He also discusses his concerns for ag-related policies from a new administration and how they could affect producers out in the countryside. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com .
Fri, January 29, 2021
Consumer 'food values' remain steady in spite of COVID-19
When you go to the grocery store, why do you buy what you buy? Are you most concerned with price, with a product’s taste or appearance, or are you more interested in its impact on your body and the environment? And has the importance you place on those attributes shifted over the past 10 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic? In this episode we talk with a University of Illinois economist who recently published results of the latest survey into consumer food values and learn what has or hasn’t changed in the factors that drive food purchasing decisions for most consumers. Brenna Ellison has been studying consumer behavior in the food retail space her entire career. There are many factors that influence our food purchasing decisions – taste, price, appearance, environmental impact, and so on. Researchers and marketers alike are interested in the weight we place on these different factors, also referred to as “food values”. And while research has shown food values to be relatively stable over time, the Covid-19 pandemic has upended all that is normal. Ellison and her colleague Melissa Ocepek released the results of their latest consumer food values survey, showing that the underlying food values driving those purchases have remained largely stable despite the shifting economic realities of the past year. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production and their #ScienceHearted podcast, “Food Chain Chats.” Check it out to hear insights on how the food supply chain is taking their experiences from 2020 disruptions into 2021. Subscribe wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
Fri, January 22, 2021
African swine fever vaccine: What could it mean for the hog industry?
Initial research in the U.S. on African swine fever started in the 1970s when the viral disease was spreading through Spain and Portugal. In the 1990s, USDA’s Agricultural Research Service started looking for a vaccine. After years of work, sometimes was a bit sporadic due to funding, the U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced that it has a new vaccine for African swine fever that is headed toward commercialization. What potential might it have for the hog industry? Feedstuffs' Krissa Welshans catch up with USDA researchers Dr. Douglas Gladue and Dr. Manuel Borca to find out more. Dr Gladue and Dr. Borca are the agency’s experts and head researchers for the vaccine. They work out of the Plum Island Animal Disease Center. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, January 15, 2021
Feeding, housing and managing "The Millennial Pig"
Now two decades into the “new” millennium, there is little question the livestock industry has changed, and continues to grow and evolve as time goes by. While technological improvements get a great deal of attention, one nutritionist says the evolution of genetics over the past 10 years has radically changed the way the swine industry feeds, houses and manages the modern hog. In this episode we talk with Jeffrey Knott of Ideal Animal Nutrition about the animal he calls “The Millennial Pig,” and discuss what makes this pig different from its ancestors and forebears. Knott is the founder and principal nutritionist of Ideal Animal Nutrition; he has more than 15 years of industry experience and is a specialist in providing technical nutritional support to swine producers around the world. After completing his bachelor’s degree in Animal Science at North Dakota State University, he earned his master’s and doctoral degrees in swine nutrition from the University of Minnesota. He has vast domestic and international swine nutrition and business experience, having spent 10 years with a national nutrition company prior to founding IDEAL Animal Nutrition. He spoke with Feedstuffs about his views on the modern hog, and how understanding its genetic evolution and potential can help nutritionists and producers make better decisions about feeding and managing this “Millennial Pig.” This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin, the second largest swine genetics company in the world. Topigs Norsvin’s unique breeding program is designed to accelerate genetic progress at the customer level by creating innovative products and solutions that benefit the entire pork production chain. For example, Topigs Norsvin has made natural selection for robustness a priority in the breeding programs for its TN Tempo terminal sire and TN70 parent female . Selecting for for specific natural resistance to PRRS, as well as overall robustness characteristics, to further enhance the production performance of TN Tempo and TN70 offspring. The robustness advantage of the TN Tempo has been verified by independent research. Their customers report improved piglet vitality, uniformity, and barn throughput as well. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook . Learn more about TN Tempo at T-N-tempo-dot-com, and to learn a
Fri, January 08, 2021
Feedstuffs launches new virtual community, feed ingredient pricing tool
A new year, a new way of communicating, and a new benefit to Feedstuffs subscribers: Feedstuffs 365 , a new virtual community and events platform for the feed and livestock industry, launches later this month. In addition to delivering live, interactive presentations and discussions on the day’s leading news and technical information, the new service also includes a new, more in-depth look at feed ingredient prices around the world. In this episode, Feedstuffs publisher Sarah Muirhead explains more about the new platform, and the new benefits to Feedstuffs subscribers, launching January 25. Additionally, Feedstuffs subscribers now have access to a new digital feed ingredient pricing tool . Subscribers have long relied on the Feedstuffs database of feed ingredient prices from around the country. We’re taking this data to the next level by partnering with Glowlit to bring subscribers unprecedented access to real-time prices for a range of feed ingredients and additives. Instead of weekly updates, prices will now be available 24/7 as they are reported. All charts are live and interactive and have been populated with decades of Feedstuffs price history. Also in this episode, Glowlit president Guy Soreq describes the new tool as essentially an online crowdsourcing platform for feed ingredient market intelligence. Through its technology, Glowlit allows market professionals like you to anonymously benchmark your prices against other verified deals in the surrounding area. It is all possible with a simple click on a product name. This new price tool can be found under the Ingredient Market Price navigation link at Feedstuffs.com, and we’ll feature weekly discussion and analysis of pricing trends via Feedstuffs 365 . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, December 18, 2020
Canada, now Australia, why not the U.S.?
When it comes to imported feed ingredients, it is important for feed manufacturers and livestock producers to have as much information as possible related to that ingredient and its origin. At stake is the health of our nation’s herds as unapproved ingredients can introduce significant disease risks. Unlike in Canada and now in Australia, the U.S. lacks any requirement that a supplier or trader confirm each imported biological ingredient is approved for animal feed use. Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead recently caught up with Dr. Scott Dee of Pipestone Veterinary Services to talk about how some countries are taking biosecurity to the next level and what needs to be done here in the U.S. to put in place those same safeguards. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, December 11, 2020
Agriculture and environmental groups form alliance on climate policy
While the world has been focused on dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, a small but diverse group of members of the food supply chain gathered to evaluate if there are enough shared goals and beliefs on climate policy to speak on the issue with a unified voice for agriculture. In the past, climate legislation has failed in the U.S. in no small measure because the agriculture and forestry industries weren’t unified on the issue, and didn’t have a seat at the table. In an effort to correct that, the Food & Agriculture Climate Alliance (FACA) was formed in February 2020 by four groups that now co-chair the alliance: American Farm Bureau Federation, Environmental Defense Fund, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives and National Farmers Union. The alliance has since expanded to include FMI – The Food Industry Assn., National Alliance of Forest Owners, National Association of State Departments of Agriculture and The Nature Conservancy. In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus , Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka talks with Chuck Connor, CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, about the work of the Alliance, including the more than 40 recommendations the group developed on climate policy this year. RELATED STORY: Unlikely bedfellows unite on ag climate policy This episode is sponsored by Balchem Animal Nutrition and Health. Balchem has launched a new podcast called the Real Science Exchange. Get to know top researchers like you’ve never known them before: Search for “Real Science Exchange” on your favorite podcast platform. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, December 04, 2020
A conversation with Farm Credit Administration chairman Glen Smith
In 1987, when Congress voted to keep the Farm Credit System going with an infusion of funds, a contingency was that each of the system institutions needed to have a young, beginner and small farmer program. With the average age of the U.S. farmer pegged at 57.5 years, that young, beginner and small farmer program is a particular focus of the current chairman of the Farm Credit Administration. In this episode, Feedstuffs editor Jacqui Fatka talks with Farm Credit Administration Chairman and CEO Glen Smith, an Iowa farmer who has led the regulatory arm of the federal Farm Credit apparatus since 2017. Smith said he sees a common theme in successful young and beginning farmer programs: a good relationship with the Farm Service Agency (FSA), in particular with regard to access to that agency’s guaranteed loan programs for beginning farmers. RELATED STORY: FSA, Farm Credit Administration refocus on younger farmers This episode is sponsored by Hog Slat ; from cleanup to startup, we're here to supply the products you need. As close as your local Hog Slat store or order online at www.hogslat.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Tue, November 24, 2020
China's rebuilding of hog sector to require adjustment for U.S. industry
U.S. pork exports to China skyrocketed in 2020 as African swine fever (ASF) eroded two-thirds of China’s hog herd and drove local hog prices to record highs. A new report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange notes that exports to greater China now accounts for nearly 8% of U.S. pork production, compared to just 2% in 2018. However, the report also suggests that as China makes progress rebuilding its hog herd, this jeopardizes the U.S. export picture over the next three to five years. Will Sawyer is an economist with CoBank who authored the bank’s recent outlook for pork exports. He told Feedstuffs editor Krissa Welshans that although ASF will likely remain an issue in China’s hog industry for years, if not decades the financial incentive to expand the country’s domestic production is quite compelling. Producer margins in China averaged hundreds of dollars per head for several months in 2020. With that in mind, massive investment in building Chinese production facilities should push U.S. producers to look for additional customers — at home and abroad — with an eye toward a day when China’s purchases return to historic norms. RELATED STORY: CoBank gives U.S. pork industry advice as China rebuilds This episode is sponsored by HogSlat. From cleanup to startup, HogSlat is there to supply the products you need. As close as your local Hog Slat store or order online at www.hogslat.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Sat, November 21, 2020
Turkeys and presidential pardons have long tradition
Kicking off this year's holiday season will be a couple of real turkeys. That is, turkeys raised by National Turkey Federation chairman Ron Kardel and his wife Susie on their farm near Walcott, Iowa. They have produced the birds for this year's National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation at the White House. The Kardels will be accompanying the birds to the White House this week and presenting them to President Donald Trump, who will pardon them in a tradition that dates back many years. Following their trip to the nation's capitol, the turkeys will reside at their new home on the campus of Iowa State University. Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead caught up with the Kardels this week to find out more about what goes into raising turkeys capable of such public display, how the birds are named and even a bit about how the pandemic has impacted the turkey industry this holiday season. Take a listen and Happy Thanksgiving to all.
Fri, November 20, 2020
Global feed biosecurity aim of port analysis
Feed ingredients imported into the U.S. from countries with known foreign animal disease risks, such as African swine fever (ASF), present a threat to the U.S. pork industry. But just how great is this risk and where exactly does it originate when it comes to entry into the U.S.? To answer those questions, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead catches up with Dr. Scott Dee of Pipestone Veterinary Services for this segment of Feedstuffs in Focus. They discuss a recent analysis of soya-based feed ingredients from ASF-positive countries focused on identifying the most common entry points via our nation’s seaports. Dee believes that access to current and future information on this topic will enhance the accuracy of risk assessments and drive the continual development of efficacious feed-based mitigation strategies that will ultimately bring the health status of the country of origin into the forefront of philosophies regarding the global trade of feed ingredients. Take a listen. RELATED STORY: Analysis evaluates ASF risk through U.S. ports For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, November 13, 2020
EPA, dairy industry sign MOU on sustainability
For the first time, the dairy industry has signed an agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to reinforce "shared values" in the areas of environmental and economic sustainability for dairy farmers. Earlier this month EPA signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy. Lisa Watson, social responsibility officer for the Innovation Center, said the MOU builds on the work of the Dairy Sustainability Alliance, an alliance that brings together farmers, retailers, customers, non-government organizations and government groups to talk about all things related to dairy sustainability. In this episode, Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka talks with Watson about the MOU, and the strides the industry has made in the areas of environmental and economic sustainability in recent years. This episode is sponsored by Balchem Animal Nutrition and Health. Balchem recently launched an extension of the Real Science Lecture Series in podcast form, called the Real Science Exchange . Get to know top researchers like you’ve never known them before: Search for “Real Science Exchange” on your favorite podcast platform today. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Wed, November 04, 2020
Promoting the brand, creating miles of smiles
The “Wienermobile” is that hot-dog-on-a-bun-shaped vehicle long used by the Oscar Mayer company to promote and advertise its products in the U.S. The first Wienermobile was created by Oscar Mayer’s nephew Carl G. Mayer in 1936. Today, there are six such giant hot dog vehicles that travel the nation promoting the brand and creating miles of smile. The Wienermobile concept has evolved over the years, so much so that in June 2017, the company added several new hot-dog-themed vehicles to its line, including the WienerCycle, WienerRover and WienerDrone. Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead caught up with a couple of “Hotdoggers” while they were in the Chicagoland area recently to find out more about this long-standing marketing initiative by Oscar Mayer and to learn more about the Wienermobile and what it takes to be a hotdogger. In this segment, she is joined by Zach Chatman, professionally known as Zach n Cheese, and Maggie Thomas, otherwise known as Mustard Maggie. Of course, the question of Ketchup or Mustard had to be asked. Grab a hot dog and take a listen! This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, October 30, 2020
Talking CFAP and more with FSA's Fordyce
Meat, poultry, dairy and grain markets were all rocked by COVID-19 in the early months of 2020, and the ongoing repercussions from the pandemic injected massive uncertainty for farmers throughout the rest of the year. As with a variety of industries, agriculture was the beneficiary of government stimulus efforts coordinated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency. In this episode we talk with the administrator of FSA, the arm of USDA tasked with delivering a variety of financial programs enacted by Congress and delivered through the Department, about the alphabet soup of programs designed to help mitigate the negative effects of COVID-19 on the farm economy. Richard Fordyce is a fourth-generation farmer from Bethany, Missouri, and has served as FSA Administrator since May of 2018 after serving as the state executive director for FSA in Missouri and as Missouri Director of Agriculture. In a conversation with Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka, Fordyce explains the difference between the two Coronavirus Food Assistance Programs approved by Congress and how much of the more than $30 million allocated for the programs has been paid to farmers through mid-October. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, October 23, 2020
Taking the pulse of consumers: Conversation with Jayson Lusk
COVID-19 injected massive disruption into the meat supply chain throughout the first half of 2020. From plant-shutdown supply shocks to foodservice-shutdown demand shocks, the animal protein markets have been rocked on a variety of fronts. But what about the consumers of meat? How has a global pandemic and relatively unprecedented economic uncertainty affected their purchasing habits and preferences? In this episode we talk with one of the foremost academic experts on consumer trends and preferences in the meat space, and hear about his research into what meat buyers are thinking about heading into the final months of 2020. Jayson Lusk is Distinguished Professor and Head of the Department of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University . He earned a BS in Food Technology and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics from Kansas State University. He was previously Regents Professor and Willard Sparks Endowed Chair in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Oklahoma State University and Assistant Professor at Mississippi State and Purdue. Lusk is a food and agricultural economist who studies what we eat and why we eat it. Since 2000, Lusk has published more than 200 journal articles in peer reviewed journals, including several of the most cited papers in the profession. He has served on the editorial councils of eight academic journals and published several books on topics ranging from farm animal welfare to consumer reactions to farming practices and technologies. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin , the second largest swine genetics company in the world. Topigs Norsvin’s unique breeding program is designed to accelerate genetic progress at the customer level by creating innovative products and solutions that benefit the entire pork production chain. To get more information, visit TopigsNorsvin.us . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, October 16, 2020
Capitalizing on consumer interest in local meat processing
COVID-19 caused some significant disruption in the food system in March and April of this year, with consumers stocking up on a number of meat items, and retailers limiting the purchases of a number of staples like eggs and dairy products. That disruption fueled a spike in demand for local meat processing as consumers — many for the first time ever — sought out a small butcher or processor to source their family’s protein needs. Major disruptions can often lead to opportunities for new entrants in established markets. One midwestern agribusiness concern is hoping to leverage the renewed interest in local processing into opportunities for farmers, including beef producers. In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus , editor Jacqui Fatka talks with Karla Klingner, CEO of Palindromes , a Missouri-based company focused on reimagining the agriculture value chain. Klingner discusses some of their work on establishing new meat processing facilities in the Midwest – one each dedicated to handling beef, pork, poultry and sheep – that are larger than most local facilities, but not on scale with traditional national or regional packers. The goal? To add more value to farmers through what Klingner describes as controlling and verifying the “chain of custody” in the meat value chain. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, October 09, 2020
Increasing milk protein is one way to improve dairy profitability
With milk protein values near all-time highs, increasing milk protein is one way dairy producers can improve income over feed costs. A solid nutritional strategy will not only increase milk protein, but also improve producer profitability. Cornell University professor Mike Van Amburgh is an expert in rumen function, nitrogen metabolism and fiber digestibility. With the rise in milk protein value, Van Amburgh says nutritionists and dairy producers need to look for ways to take advantage of these premiums. In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus , Van Amburgh talks about his research, and explains some of the tactics nutritionists should implement to capture as much of the milk protein premium as possible while optimizing income over feed costs. This episode is sponsored by Balchem Animal Nutrition and Health. Join Balchem for their Real Science Lecture series, a weekly webinar series featuring ruminant nutrition experts discussing vital topics for today’s dairy industry. You can watch Mike Van Amburgh’s presentation on milk protein at BalchemANH.com/RealScience .
Fri, October 02, 2020
Solution for minimizing wildfire risk not easy but needed
A combination of hot temperatures, dry conditions and poor forest management practices have resulted in another year of devastating losses for farmers and ranchers in the West. Wildfires have already burned through millions of acres and continue to rage, with rains not expected for weeks . Smoke alone has caused substantial crop and soil damage as well as respiratory issues for livestock. In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus , Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talks with Jamie Johansson, president of the California Farm Bureau Federation , about the losses for agriculture to date, mandatory evacuation from his family’s olive and citrus operation and what’s being pushed at state and federal levels to reduce wildfire risk and support those hard hit. As Johansson explains it will not be an easy fix but rather one that will take a near total mindset shift and generations of change. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Hog Slat and Georgia Poultry. New for 2020, the Classic Pullet feed pan. Built to handle the most aggressive birds, the Classic Pullet features an anti-rotation clip, feed shut-off slide, and a shallow divided pan. Learn more at HogSlat.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, September 25, 2020
Amino acid imbalance aids in slowing of pig growth rate
The coronavirus pandemic resulted in delays and extended shutdowns at numerous packing plants, all the while straining the pork industry as market hogs had to be held in facilities longer than expected. To minimize sorting losses and keep as many pigs in market condition as possible, the feed industry stepped up to help hog producers adjust their rations. The goal was that of reduced growth rates and feed intakes. In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus , Feedstuffs e ditor Sarah Muirhead talks with Dr. Jim Smith, senior technical swine nutritionist at Kent Nutrition, to discuss how amino acid imbalances can aid in the slowing of pig growth. Specifically, they discuss the reduction of DL-methionine in rations of late finishing pigs. This episode is sponsored by Hog Slat ; from cleanup to startup, we're here to supply the products you need. As close as your local Hog Slat store or order online at www.hogslat.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs .com . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, September 18, 2020
Dairy checkoff does COVID-19 pivot
What has COVID-19 meant for the dairy checkoff? Where is the dairy industry and dairy checkoff heading in these pandemic times? In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus , Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talks with Barb O’Brien, president of DMI and the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy. We are more than seven months into a pandemic that has interrupted the daily operations of schools, food services/restaurants as well as some dairy producers as they have struggled to keep their team members on the farm safe and healthy. Pizza has been a category of strength for the dairy industry. DMI and the dairy checkoff have worked hard to leverage corporate and regional relationships to eliminate in-store signs that limited milk purchases. What about the school meal programs? What adjustments have been necessary there? Has COVID-19 had an impact on the sustainability and the environmental goals that the dairy industry is pursuing? Take a listen as we talk about this and more. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, September 10, 2020
Decline in school lunch milk consumption may affect future health
Fluid milk consumption among children is vital, as adequate consumption of dairy products, especially during childhood, has beneficial health outcomes later in life. These benefits include reduced risk of osteoporosis, hypertension, obesity and cancer in adulthood. Milk consumption among children has been declining for decades, so understanding and fulfilling the needs of children is crucial to reverse the decline. In an article appearing in the Journal of Dairy Science , scientists from North Carolina State University and Cornell University studied key contributors to increasing milk consumption among children. Factors evaluated in the study included food trends, nutritional and school meal program requirements, children’s perceptions and preferences, and environmental influences. Among these influences, flavor and habit were the primary drivers for long-term milk consumption. In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus , Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talks with senior author MaryAnne Drake, PhD, department of food, bioprocessing and nutrition sciences, North Carolina State University, and Dr. David Barbano, professor of food science at Cornell University about their ongoing research. “Making milk more appealing to children, having schools include milk in their meal plans, and increasing the types of milk available in schools are all positive options to encourage children consume fluid milk and receive those health benefits,” said Drake. “The findings in this study, however, reveal critical insights that will aid in efforts to increase milk consumption among children.” This episode is sponsored by Balchem Animal Nutrition and Health – join Balchem for their Real Science Lecture series, a weekly webinar series featuring ruminant nutrition experts discussing vital topics for today’s dairy industry. You can learn more at BalchemANH.com/RealScience . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, September 04, 2020
Former Sen. Heitkamp discusses her One Country Project
Rural voters played an important role in the 2016 presidential election and appear poised to do so again in 2020. According to a recent Farm Futures survey , three-quarters of U.S. farmers say they will vote to reelect the President despite ongoing trade disruptions, falling grain prices and rising farm bankruptcies. One former U.S. Senator says farmers were not always a reliable voting bloc for the Republican Party and is trying to better understand the concerns of rural voters in general. After the 2018 election, former U.S. Senators Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota and Joe Donnelly of Indiana founded the One Country Project . The project does “social listening” on political issues to learn how those insights can be translated into policy efforts. For example, recent work discovered that rural Americans are deeply concerned about the Post Office, as well as access to health care and veterans’ issues. Senator Heitkamp, a Democrat, sat down with Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka to discuss the goals of the project, as well as what the organization has learned about rural Americans’ attitudes regarding COVID-19 heading into the final weeks of the campaign cycle. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, August 28, 2020
Sustainability to be focus of nation’s largest research dairy
The University of Idaho’s Center for Agriculture, Food & the Environment – or CAFE – took a major step forward this spring with the launch of design and planning for a $22.5 million research dairy near Rupert. The dairy is scheduled for completion in 2023 and to begin milking cows by 2024. The dairy will house 2,000 cows and allow researchers to better integrate animal and plant agriculture, said Michael Parrella, University of Idaho College of Agricultural & Life Sciences dean. Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead recently talked with Parrella to find more about the dairy and a related demonstration farm. The research dairy and its related farm will address the connection between plant and animal agriculture, Parrella said. The 640-acre site near Rupert will be among the best equipped sites in the nation to find solutions. The dairy is the largest of four components that make up the center. It includes a discovery center and offices near Jerome and expanded food processing research and education with the College of Southern Idaho in Twin Falls. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, August 21, 2020
‘Ice-block’ challenge model tests virus mitigation in feed
The role of animal feed as a vehicle for the transport and transmission of viral diseases was first identified during the porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) epidemic in North America. Since that time, various feed additives have been evaluated at the laboratory level to measure their effect on viral viability and infectivity in contaminated feed using bioassay piglet models. While a valid first step, the conditions of these studies were not representative of commercial swine production. In this episode, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talks with Dr. Scott Dee of Pipestone Applied Research, about his “ice-block” challenge study and how it was set up to evaluate the ability of some 15 feed additive products to mitigate the risk of virus-contaminated feed. Dee say the model involved freezing the viruses in ice and simulate real-world conditions on the farm. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, August 21, 2020
MCFAs serve multiple roles in swine rations
Activated medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) support feed biosecurity as they can weaken some viruses lurking in feed before they even enter the pigs' system. According to Stacie Crowder, monogastric product manager with PMI Nutrition , a good place to start is with a tool that does more than one job such as medium-chain fatty acids. Multifaceted, MCFAs work in more than one way to protect pigs from bacteria and viruses and support pig performance. Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead caught up recently with Crowder to talk about how MCFAs serve multiple roles when incorporated into swine rations. Among other things, Crowder explained that, activated MCFAs can work in feed to weaken pathogens before they reach the pig. They also work inside the pig to support immune activity, gut health and pig performance. In this episode you'll also find out how you as a producer or feed company can choose the right MCFA for your operation. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, August 14, 2020
Dairy market outlook murky after rebounding from COVID-19
Class III milk prices whipsawed between $12 and $24 per hundredweight from May to July as the effects of COVID-19 continued to work its way through the supply chain and on consumer demand for dairy products. Now five months after widespread adoption of stay-at-home orders and other pandemic mitigation strategies, what is the outlook for the dairy industry in the remaining months of a tumultuous 2020? Mark Stephenson is Director of Dairy Policy Analysis at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Director of Wisconsin’s Center for Dairy Profitability . An agricultural economist by trade, he studies milk processing costs and technologies, farm costs and price risk management, as well as dairy policy related to milk pricing and trade. He spoke with Feedstuffs editor Krissa Welshans about how the industry is currently navigating a marketplace still struggling with COVID-19, and how a rough forecast is coming together for milk prices and demand in 2021. Stephenson says long-term strategies in the dairy supply chain have been adjusted to short-term timeframes as challenges persist. He explains that product demand and industry fluidity will remain key as the world grapples with the ongoing impacts of COVID-19. This episode is sponsored by Balchem Animal Nutrition and Health – join Balchem for their Real Science Lecture series, a weekly webinar series featuring ruminant nutrition experts discussing vital topics for today’s dairy industry. You can learn more at BalchemANH.com/RealScience . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, August 07, 2020
COVID, cage-free movement pose ongoing challenges to egg industry
The egg industry saw drastically different impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic when liquid egg prices decreased from $0.25 to $0.08 per pound while dried egg price decreased from $2.15 to $2.02 per pound. Meanwhile shell egg prices increased from $0.79 to $1.79 per dozen. Liquid egg producers saw dramatic price impacts despite being denied assistance under the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) proposed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in May. Ken Klippen, president of the National Association of Egg Farmers , has been busy writing to USDA administrators to share egg farmers’ story. Another major priority for Klippen is the ongoing mandated shift in the egg industry to require cage-free production systems. “We’re very concerned about what the year 2025 will bring for the egg industry. In a word, it’s going to be chaos,” Klippen said. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Hog Slat and Georgia Poultry. New for 2020, the Classic Pullet feed pan. Built to handle the most aggressive birds, the Classic Pullet features an anti-rotation clip, feed shut-off slide, and a shallow divided pan. Learn more at HogSlat.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, July 31, 2020
These goat interns aren’t half baaaahhhhd!
From endearing bleats and “bahs” to their eco-friendly way of life and nose-to-the-ground work ethic, goats are ideal partners for energy company ComEd. In this episode, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talks with Emily Kramer, Manager of Vegetation Management for Commonwealth Edison, about ComEd’s “Goatternship” program. The program, now in its second year, involves some 200 goats taking their place among the ComEd ranks. They are part of a targeted grazing program and serve as a safer and more sustainable way to clear vegetation in hard-to-reach terrain and, therefore, ensure reliable power. On average, a goat can clear one acre of land a week - equivalent to what a team of people can do with machinery in the same amount of time – but at a much lower cost. To highlight the unique program, which was the first of its kind by an energy company in the Midwest, ComEd launched an educational social media campaign, “Goatternship,” across its social media channels. The “Goatternship” campaign chronicled the experiences of this summer workforce, shared backstories of individual goats - with names like “SelenaGoatmez” and “Great Goatsby”—and played off features of the traditional internship experience, including orientation, on-the-job training and performance reviews. ComEd is a unit of Chicago, Ill.-based Exelon Corp., the nation’s leading competitive energy provider, with approximately 10 million customers. ComEd provides service to approximately 4 million customers across northern Illinois, or 70% of the state’s population. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, July 23, 2020
Demonstration project evaluates viral survival in feed
In this episode, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talks with Dr. Scott Dee of Pipestone Applied Research about a demonstration project conducted to evaluate viral survival in feed. A demonstration project is a new way of taking what has been learned in the lab and running a trial under more real-world conditions. In this case, Dee took samples of soybean meal, conventional and organic, lysine, choline and vitamin A that were all spiked with a mixture of PRRSV 174, PEDV and SVA and transported for 21 days in a trailer of a commercial transport vehicle. Samples were then tested for viral genome and viability at the end of the transit period. The demonstration project showed that three significant viral pathogens of pigs could survive in select feed ingredients during commercial transport, involving diverse environmental conditions and realistic transit period. Dee talks about the project and the results. This episode is sponsored by Hog Slat ; from cleanup to startup, we're here to supply the products you need. As close as your local Hog Slat store or order online at www.hogslat.com . Related Feedstuffs article: Time to get personal: Consumer outreach may help protect animal agriculrue in next crisis For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs .com . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, July 16, 2020
A meat scientist's perspective on backyard grilling, meat quality
Summer grilling season is in full swing, even with the shadow of COVID-19 putting something of a damper on spirits and the size of backyard gatherings. For the pork industry, as consumers fire up the grill, it’s a chance for packers, processors and producers to work through a backlog of hogs created by plant closures necessitated by the spread of the novel coronavirus. In this episode, we talk with one of the industry’s leading young meat scientists about his perspective on the current state of the industry, how the industry is communicating with consumers, and – just for fun – what he’s throwing on the ol’ Weber this summer. Dustin Boler, originally from Spencer, Ind., is a meat scientist for Topigs Norsvin known for his experience with pork quality, growth promoting technologies in meat animals, and contemporary issues facing the meat industry. He has worked with pharmaceutical companies, genetic companies, and with many major meat packers throughout his time in industry and academia. His research has focused generally on topics of meat quality, such as the improvement in tenderness when pork is cooked to 145°F , and determining changes in pork quality as pigs are marketed at increasingly heavier weights. Boler was recently named by the American Meat Science Association as one of the recipients of the organization's Distinguished Achievement Award for 2020. He was specifically recognized for the quality and volume of his research contributions both in industry, and while on faculty at The Ohio State University and the University of Illinois. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin , the second largest swine genetics company in the world. Topigs Norsvin’s unique breeding program is designed to accelerate genetic progress at the customer level by creating innovative products and solutions that benefit the entire pork production chain. To get more information, visit TopigsNorsvin.us . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, July 10, 2020
Vilsack says jury still out on USMCA, dairy exports
The U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement – what some policy watchers have referred to as “NAFTA 2.0” – went into effect July 1. Economists and ag policy groups generally hailed NAFTA and its successor agreement as huge wins for farmers and food producers with Mexico and Canada serving as the largest export markets for U.S. farm products. Former U.S. secretary of agriculture Tom Vilsack serves as the president and CEO of the U.S. Dairy Export Council. In a wide-ranging interview, Feedstuffs Farm Policy Editor Jacqui Fatka recently spoke with Vilsack about the newly implemented USMCA, as well as discussing the improving U.S. dairy export picture and the dairy industry’s ambitious goals on sustainability and carbon emissions. USMCA went into effect July 1, but already Vilsack warned that the actual implementation of the deal could fall short of the dairy industry’s expectations due to the way Canada interprets the agreement’s tariff rate quotas for dairy. He also discussed the challenges in growing exports to Mexico given that country’s struggling economy. This episode is sponsored by Balchem Animal Nutrition and Health – join Balchem for their Real Science Lecture series, a weekly webinar series featuring ruminant nutrition experts discussing vital topics for today’s dairy industry. You can learn more at BalchemANH.com/RealScience . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, July 02, 2020
It’s about taking on, working through, challenges
For shell egg producer, MPS Egg Farms, the COVID-19 pandemic has meant struggles to meet demand, keep grocery store shelves stocked and make sure employees are kept safe. In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talks with Sam Krouse, vice president of business development at MPS, to get his perspective on egg industry challenges brought about by COVID-19. The egg industry’s move to cage-free production and how consumers responded in the marketplace when temporary egg shortage emerged. This episode is sponsored by Hog Slat and Georgia Poultry. New for 2020, the Classic Pullet feed pan: built to handle the most aggressive birds, the Classic Pullet features an anti-rotation clip, feed shut-off slide, and a shallow divided pan. Learn more at HogSlat.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, June 25, 2020
National Pork Board CEO talks current state of market
While all segments of the agriculture industry have felt pain from COVID-19, perhaps no single segment has felt it quite as acutely as the pork industry. From the agony of euthanizing animals due to packing plant closures to the lingering stress of low prices, the nation’s swine producers have been dealt an incredibly raw hand in 2020. What does the outlook for hog prices and pork values hold in the second half of an already unprecedented year? In this edition we talk with Bill Even, CEO of the National Pork Board . Even spoke with Feedstuffs editor Krissa Welshans about the many challenges facing the nation’s hog farmers, and provides an update on current pork slaughter capacity and the backlog of hogs packers are trying to work through. As with all segments of the industry looking forward, the questions and unknowns at this stage are legion. Even describes how The Pork Checkoff is helping producers navigate those unknowns, providing useful tools and information to consumers cooking more pork at home, as well as to farmers struggling to manage a disastrous financial situation . This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health , a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website UnitedANH.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Tue, June 23, 2020
Charting a path forward for beef markets
It’s been a tough row to hoe for cattle producers this year, as COVID-19 disrupted the normal flow of beef through the foodservice and retail channels, with restaurants largely closing and grocery stores struggling to meet panic-fueled demand in a relatively short period of time. Cutout values skyrocketed but prices paid for cattle fell as plants slowed line speeds or shutdown altogether as workers fell ill to the novel coronavirus. What does the outlook for cattle and beef values hold in the second half of an already unprecedented year? In this episode we hear from Don Close , senior animal protein analyst with Rabo AgriFinance. Close spoke with Feedstuffs editor Krissa Welshans about the unique challenges facing the nation’s farmers, ranchers and cattle raisers, recapping the wild ride the cattle markets took between February and June of this year, and offering his insights into a path forward for producers and packers. The questions and unknowns at this stage are many, and Close provides a framework for understanding what the cattle industry has in store as we barrel headlong toward 2021. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, June 19, 2020
Is current COVID-19 aid for livestock producers enough?
All segments of the agriculture industry have been impacted in some way by COVID-19. From supply chain disruptions to altered consumption patterns; eating at home instead of at restaurants, for example. The animal protein segments have been particularly hard-hit with reduced slaughter capacity driving down prices at the farm level despite higher prices at retail. In this episode we hear from Ethan Lane, vice president of government affairs for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association . Lane spoke with Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka about the unique challenges facing the nation’s farmers, ranchers and cattle raisers, including the organization’s concerns with some of the current government stimulus programs like CFAP. While some estimates project government assistance as high as 36% of farm income this year, to many it feels as though more can be done . Lane outlines some of the things NCBA is asking of Congress and USDA to help bring some additional relief to farm country, and discusses the challenges of asking for more in an election year… and figuring out how to pay for it all. He also explains NCBA's current policy and priorities related to a host of other issues, including Mandatory Price Reporting, Country of Origin Labeling, and voluntary process-verified origin labeling programs. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, June 11, 2020
People factor essential to animal agriculture's ethical obligation
The interconnectivity between animals, people and the environment is important and influential when it comes to how the public views animal agriculture overall. In this episode, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talks with Dr. Candace Croney, director of the Center for Animal Welfare Science at Purdue University, about One Welfare and how when entities do not work together harmoniously, gaps and vulnerabilities result that can be potentially problematic for animal agriculture and society as a whole. Consumer trust is put at risk. People have legitimate concerns about food animals and the current animal production systems that give them the animal products they enjoy, and those concerns should be heard and addressed. “There really needs to be a better mechanism for dialogue,” says Croney. Likewise, she points out that animal agriculture has ethical obligations to everyone it serves. “I think what's sad, and what's been lost in some of the conversations that have taken place about food chain fracturing and vulnerabilities and animal welfare concerns is the people factor, and, whether one wants to recognize it or not, that is what’s very much embedded in all of these conversations.” For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, June 05, 2020
Ag lender advises to 'control what’s controllable'
Nate Franzén, president of the agri-business division for First Dakota National Bank, had some optimism coming into 2020 as producers were positioning themselves to be viable in a lower commodity market and saw some hope on improved trade relations. Although that all changed with the introduction of COVID-19 to the market, the financial fundamentals remain the same. “I always go back to the fundamentals when we get into a challenging environment like this and control what's controllable,” Franzén said. “I think it’s really important you don’t get too caught up in those things that we have very little control over.” Instead, farmers need to focus their energy and effort into what they can do to give themselves the best potential opportunity to work through today's environment. The balance sheet offers the staying power to weather bumps in the cycles or bumps in the road whether it’s Mother Nature or the markets. Working capital has been dwindling down in this down cycle, but Franzén said there are still opportunities to bolster your working capital position. He also discusses updating your budget as conditions change and looking to leverage debt. This is significantly helped by government payments this year, which could approach as 40 to 60% of a potential Schedule F for farmers this year. Finally, it’s important not to equate net worth with self-worth. Often farmers want to put their heads down and just go it alone and figure things out, but these challenging times require farmers to lean on experts they can trust. “The people that are the strongest who perform the best, they lean on others. They lean on their advisors and they have an advisory team around them and see seeking advice as a strength, not a weakness.” This episode is sponsored by Hog Slat and Georgia Poultry. New for 2020, the Classic Pullet feed pan: built to handle the most aggressive birds, the Classic Pullet features an anti-rotation clip, feed shut-off slide, and a shallow divided pan. Learn more at HogSlat.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, May 28, 2020
Hey animal agriculture, it’s time to get personal
It’s time for livestock and poultry producers to better connect with consumers on the issues and more actively engage and communicate with consumers as to why they do what they do, according to David Ortega, associate professor in the department of agricultural, food and resource economics at Michigan State University, and Danielle Ufer a doctoral candidate at Michigan State. In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus, they share their insight with Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead and discuss how consumer outreach could help protect animal agriculture when the next crisis hits. Ortega and Ufer are in the middle of a three-year study looking specifically at consumer preference and attitudes toward animal agriculture. They believe the future of animal agriculture depends on what steps farmers are allowed to take moving forward and consumer attitudes toward those practices and technologies. This, they say, may well be pivotal in herd and market restoration, particularly as the industry works its way out of the current COVID-19 pandemic. This episode is sponsored by Hog Slat ; from cleanup to startup, we're here to supply the products you need. As close as your local Hog Slat store or order online at www.hogslat.com . Related Feedstuffs article: Time to get personal: Consumer outreach may help protect animal agriculrue in next crisis For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, May 21, 2020
Unpacking consumer research, meat panic-buying amid COVID-19
The entire meat supply chain was buffeted by COVID-19. From major disruptions in foodservice consumption to panic buying at retail, the ripples of pandemic-related demand shocks were felt acutely in the early days of the crisis. And then as employees at packing plants fell ill in greater numbers, the supply-side shocks to the system only exacerbated an already frustrating situation for producers, packers, marketers and customers. In this episode we talk with one of the industry’s foremost experts in meat marketing and consumer messaging around meat about how consumers are reacting to the pandemic, including some surprising insights into millennials and panic pandemic purchasing. Michael Uetz is one of the managing principals of Midan Marketing , a firm providing strategic marketing and consumer research services to help the meat industry sell more fresh meat. Uetz manages the firm’s Chicago office, and is responsible for establishing and maintaining Midan’s vision and strategic direction. He also leads the firm’s proprietary and client-driven meat consumer research projects, which over the past three months have focused in large part on consumer reactions to the novel coronavirus and ways the meat industry can reassure consumers about the safety of the U.S. meat supply chain. Articles Referenced in This Episode: Self-Quarantine Reflections: Two Action Steps for the Meat Industry Millennials Driving Pandemic Meat Purchasing [Infographic] Eight Ways to Reassure Consumers the U.S. Meat Supply Chain is Secure Chaos Follows Crisis: What We Can Expect This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus i s sponsored by Topigs Norsvin , the second largest swine genetics company in the world. Topigs Norsvin’s unique breeding program is designed to accelerate genetic progress at the customer level by creating innovative products and solutions that benefit the entire pork production chain. To get more information, visit TopigsNorsvin.US , and to learn more about the TN Tempo line visit TNTempo.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on
Thu, May 14, 2020
Business insurance in pandemic times
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to take its toll on the economy, many businesses have been forced to furlough staff or close their doors altogether. Even companies able to stay afloat during this time have experienced financial setbacks from which they will take years to recover. While government subsidies are available for many businesses, available funds run out quickly and can take weeks or months to make it to the business owner. In the meantime, businesses who can’t wait are forced to make tough decisions. Also in the news of late have been stories on how businesses thought they were covered from an insurance standpoint but it turns out they were not. COVID-19 and other such business slowdowns are not among those things that generally trigger payment under a typical business policy. James Allen Insurance’s CEO Tim Craig saw a need to cover businesses experiencing this hurt and launched the Pandemic Insurance Policy in March. The policy covers added out-of-pocket expenses and lost revenue associated with the outbreak of disease. Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead caught up with Craig this week to talk insurance and COVID-19. He noted that while the nation’s food and hospitality establishments have been hit the hardest, some farmers, agribusinesses and, of course, packing plants also have felt the strain. Among other things, Craig noted that his company’s new pandemic policy got its roots from animal disease policy coverage created by the company several years back to protect livestock producers in the unfortunate outbreak of African swine fever and several cattle diseases. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, May 07, 2020
'Farmer Focus' drives growth of Shenandoah Valley organic poultry
During the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Outlook forum in late February, Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka sat down with Corwin Heatwole, founder and CEO of Shenandoah Valley Organic , a relatively new organic poultry producer in the Mid-Atlantic region. A sixth-generation poultry farmer, Heatwole sought out a way to revolutionize the profitability and the structure of his own farms. Rather than grow for a larger integrator, he launched Shenandoah Valley Organic in 2012 as a small-scale organic farm—raising just 300 chickens. He then turned to other local producers to add to his operation. He says the company's “Farmer Focus” business model emerged from conversations with local farmers about the potential of creating a new kind of company. The innovative contract model allows farmers ownership of their chickens, their feed, and control of their farming operations. Heatwole said this ownership concept is very important to give farmers more than increased profitability – it also gives farmers something they are very proud of, including the husbandry and care they’re able to deliver to animals. This allows Shenandoah Valley to further transfer that ownership to treat farmers as true partners and allow them to manage their own risk. “This ensures farms are profitable and sustainable for the next generation,” he said. In 2014 SVO launched its own processing plant, helping increase organic product offerings to consumers through food and farming partnerships as well as through larger retailers such as Costco. This was recorded in late February, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. In an update at the end of April, Heatwole reported that the company’s people are healthy and orders are strong since it predominantly services the retail sector. “We have seen a new wave of organic purchasers as people who like to eat healthy were forced to cook at home and this should sustain well past the pandemic." Heatwole said. "As you can imagine, retail sales have increased and food service has decreased, leaving us in a very blessed position as anyone else should be that services the retail category." For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, May 01, 2020
Biosecurity, disinfecting of pig barns shouldn’t be ignored
No doubt about it. It’s a challenging time for our nation’s hog producers. With so much market uncertainty related to the COVID-19 pandemic, many are struggling and facing tough, heart-wrenching decisions. According to Jesse McCoy, business unit specialist, water treatment/animal safety, with Neogen, one thing that producers should be paying particular attention to right now is biosecurity. He believes it is time to ramp up for the safety of the pigs and staff. In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talks with McCoy about the benefits that can come from making sure facilities are properly cleaned and disinfected. Also discussed are different ways to approach the overall cleaning of a facility as well as water and feed lines and why that is critical to pig and staff health and safety. This episode is sponsored by Hog Slat ; from cleanup to startup, we're here to supply the products you need. As close as your local Hog Slat store or order online at www.hogslat.com . Recent Feedstuffs in Focus Episodes on COVID-19 Talking COVID-19 and the impact on livestock markets NCBA CEO talks COVID19, Brazil beef, GIPSA Frontline observations from animal food industry in COVID-19 battle Farm Bureau economist discusses COVID-19 impact COVID-19 emergency school nutrition campaign takes on hunger COVID-19 takes toll on packing plant workers, operations Pigs saving lives hard hit by COVID-19 Water quality a matter of life or death For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter <a href='https://twitter.com/feed
Wed, April 29, 2020
Iowa fish farm poised to take on import-dominated market
Iowa might seem an unlikely location to harvest fish, but it’s the lack of fish there that makes it the perfect place, says Joe Sweeney, CEO of Eagle’s Catch. Located in Ellsworth, Iowa, his company is one of the largest fish farms in the nation and growing. The market for tilapia in the U.S. is dominated by imports. In fact, only about 5% of tilapia sold in the U.S. is actually produced domestically. Farming tilapia in the Midwest just makes sense and has a strong sustainability story, according to Sweeney. In this episode of Feedstuffs in Focus, Feedstuffs Editor Sarah Muirhead caught up with Sweeney to talk about the potential for domestic fish farming and why indoor fish farming is an approach that makes sense. “We want to offset the amount of imported seafood sold in the United States,” he says. “We want to do better for the oceans and provide safer food for families." For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Wed, April 22, 2020
Pigs saving lives hard hit by COVID-19
Pigs and COVID-19. We’ve all been hearing about the unfortunate shutdown of various pork packing and processing plants these last two weeks but pigs are playing another role in the current pandemic as well. In fact, it is a rather unexpected role at that. In this episode, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talks with University of Illinois professor Dr. Matt Wheeler about the role pigs and his team are playing in an experiment that could be save many lives. Wheeler, who has built and tested lifesaving medical devices animals before, was called upon last month test a new emergency ventilator that is designed to save lives of COVID-19 patients. “If this device saves one person, we did our job. Hopefully it'll save a whole lot more than that,” says Wheeler, professor in the department of animal sciences at University of Illinois. Recent Feedstuffs In Focus Episodes on COVID-19 Talking COVID-19 and the impact on livestock markets NCBA CEO talks COVID19, Brazil beef, GIPSA Frontline observations from animal food industry in COVID-19 battle Farm Bureau economist discusses COVID-19 impact COVID-19 emergency school nutrition campaign takes on hunger COVID-19 takes toll on packing plant workers, operations For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, April 17, 2020
U.S. pet food industry feeds pets, economy
The country’s 500+ pet food manufacturers not only provide balanced, safe meals for America’s dogs and cats, but also stimulate the overall agricultural economy through the purchase of ingredients, labor and services from related industries. With over two-thirds of U.S. households owning a pet and over $30 billion in pet food sales, the Institute for Feed Education & Research (IFEEDER), North American Renderers Assn. (NARA) and Pet Food Institute (PFI) came together to better understand what goes into the production of pet food. The groups have conducted first-of-its-kind research into the purchasing power of the $30 billion pet food industry and its economic implications for U.S. agriculture and rural communities. In the general sense, the research found that U.S. pet food manufacturers give back to the agricultural economy by using 8.65 million tons of animal- and plant-based ingredients for dog and cat food to provide the complete nutrition that pets need, at a value of $6.9 billion. In this episode, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talks with Rob Cooper, executive director of IFEEDER, to learn more. A full version of the report, “U.S. Pet Food Manufacturers Feed Pets, Economy”, as well as an interactive map detailing economic projections at a state level, are available online at www.ifeeder.org . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Tue, April 14, 2020
Special Report: COVID-19 takes toll on packing plant workers, operations
With COVID-19 positive employees becoming an increasing issue for the nation’s beef, pork and poultry processing plants, and announcements of packing plant closures becoming more commonplace, we turned to former U.S. Department of Agriculture undersecretary for food safety Dr. Richard Raymond to gain his insight on the situation. A regular columnist for Feedstuffs , Raymond graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical School and had a long-time family practice in Nebraska where he also served as that state’s Chief Medical Officer. He served as undersecretary of food safety at USDA from 2005 to 2008. Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talked with Raymond about matters related to COVID-19 and food safety, employee risk and more. Raymond is located in Colorado not far from a major packing plant area hit hard by the virus. In fact, the JBS meatpacking plant in Greeley, Colo., was closed April 13 , the day this podcast was recorded, after two workers died of the novel coronavirus. The company is now working with the state and county health officials and the plan is to reopen after testing and a containment strategy are put in place. Recent Feedstuffs In Focus Episodes on COVID-19 Talking COVID-19 and the impact on livestock markets NCBA CEO talks COVID19, Brazil beef, GIPSA Frontline observations from animal food industry in COVID-19 battle Farm Bureau economist discusses COVID-19 impact COVID-19 emergency school nutrition campaign takes on hunger For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, April 09, 2020
COVID-19 emergency school nutrition campaign takes on hunger
GENYOUth , a national nonprofit organization dedicated to creating healthier school communities, announced this week the establishment of a COVID-19 Emergency School Nutrition Fund to assist schools nationwide as they strive to provide school meals containing essential nutrition to students during the coronavirus pandemic. Approximately 124,000 U.S. public and private schools across the nation are now closed as a result of COVID-19 but they remain a critical source for the 30 million students who rely on school meals for a substantial portion of their daily nutrition. Across the nation, school nutrition professionals and volunteers are adopting new methods of delivering healthy meals during school closures. To meet this unprecedented need, GENYOUth has launched, "For Schools' Sake – Help Us Feed Our Nation's Kids!" Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talked with Ann Marie Krautheim , president and chief wellness officer of GENYOUth, to find out more about the new program, how it works and role that America’s dairy farmers and others play in making it possible. As Krautheim explained, this is a national call-to-action for corporations, foundations, athletes, influencers and individuals to raise their hands with urgency and compassion to support the COVID-19 Emergency School Nutrition Fund and spread the word to help feed the need #ForSchoolsSake. They can do this by making a donation at www.genyouthnow.org and by posting pictures with their hands raised in support for school nutrition professionals and volunteers on their social media channels. Likewise, dairy farmers are being encouraged to post pictures of themselves with their cows. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Balchem Animal Nutrition and Health . Join Feedstuffs and Balchem April 29 for a virtual mini-symposium on on Methyl Donors and 1-C Metabolism in Dairy Cattle . Watch for registration information at Feedstuffs.com , and via the Feedstuffs Daily eNewsletter. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, April 02, 2020
Water quality: A matter of life or death
Water is not water is not water, at least when it comes to what’s best for livestock and poultry. Jesse McCoy is an environmental scientist with Neogen specializing in production agriculture. He has extensive experience working with large integrated production agriculture companies as well as independent producers to implement solutions to reduce pathogen loads at production facilities. In this episode we talk with McCoy about water treatment system design for production agriculture and the need for accurate water analysis. He explains why it all comes down to expectations of water quality and the desired performance outcome. Water, after all, is the largest oral input in any production system and can be a matter of life or death in a barn. This episode is sponsored by Hog Slat and Georgia Poultry . New for 2020, the Classic Pullet feed pan . Built to handle the most aggressive birds, the Classic Pullet features an anti-rotation clip, feed shut-off slide, and a shallow divided pan. Learn more at HogSlat.com . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, March 26, 2020
Livestock tech industry faces connectivity challenges
The current state of rural internet connectivity is generally poor and particularly challenging in rural areas located farthest from major roads, cities and larger towns. For the livestock industry, a lack of connectivity can limit the technological advancements that can be adopted and implemented at the farm level. Video, sensor data, even basic data transfer all require the ability to quickly move information from one place to another. This episode of Feedstuffs IN FOCUS is sponsored by Hog Slat , introducing the 54-inch Infinity fan. By utilizing advanced motor technology, this fan offers precise variable speed control with lower energy costs and reduced maintenance. Learn more at HogSlat.com . At this year’s American Association of Swine Veterinarians annual meeting Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead caught up with Dr. Dale Polson to get his thoughts on the issue. Polson, global technical manager of the diagnostics and monitoring strategic business unit at Boehringer Ingelheim, is an expert on precision livestock farming. Discussed were the current and future states of rural connectivity and what’s likely ahead for livestock producers and veterinarians. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Wed, March 25, 2020
Special Report: Farm Bureau economist discusses COVID-19 impact
John Newton, chief economist at the American Farm Bureau Federation, has been working with Congress since late last week to try to get some sort of ag-related stimulus package through Congress. Specifically, agricultural groups are seeking an increase in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s borrowing authority up to $50 billion under the Commodity Credit Corporation. “Farmers need to know that USDA is going to have their back,” he said in an exclusive interview with Feedstuffs . “We've seen commodity prices fall pretty sharply across the whole sector.” Specifically, the deterioration in commodity values has been devastating. Live feeder and fat cattle prices were down 20 to 30%, ethanol May futures were down nearly 40%, Class IV milk prices down nearly 30% and at one point lean hogs were down more than 20%. “I believe that once we turn a corner on this virus, once the demand picks up, these commodity prices are undervalued and they’re going to pop back up,” he said. He noted when you look at data on consumer spending, consumers spent $1.7 trillion on food in 2019, and about $680 billion was spent in restaurants and $620-$630 billion spent at the grocery store. Yet, the cuts of meat that people are buying at the supermarket is different than what they would buy at restaurant. “What we’re actually seeing the last two weeks is that restaurant demand has been moved to the grocery store. So that’s obviously going to have an impact on the type of commodities and the type of products that people are buying,” he said. “I think this, this thing could potentially have a long tail, and we're going to need to evaluate what the ultimate impact has been once we start to see a recovery on what that's doing to commodity prices.” Newton added, “I think we're, we're still very early in this baseball game that we're playing. And I think once we turn the corner, we'll start to see and watch just how we start to pick the pieces back up and get this economy started up again.” In this fourth episode in our series on agriculture and COVID-19, Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka talks with Newton about Farm Bureau's efforts on Capitol Hill, and the broader market implications of COVID-19 related to the food and ag industries. Recent Feedstuffs In Focus Episodes on COVID-19 Talking COVID-19 and the impact on livestock markets NCBA CEO talks COVID19, Brazil beef, GIPSA Frontline observations from animal food industry in COVID-19 batt
Tue, March 24, 2020
Special Report: Frontline observations from animal food industry in COVID-19 battle
Flatten the curve. That is the term of the day as the nation responds to the spread of COVID-19, a deadly virus of concern to human lives, particularly the elderly and immune compromised. The staff at the American Feed Industry Assn. (AFIA) has been actively monitoring developments and working to get the animal food industry’s voice heard in the many regulatory and policy discussions taking place. In this episode, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talks with Leah Wilkinson, AFIA’s vice president of public policy and education, to find out how the industry has been preparing for COVID-19. Among other things, they discuss what animal food manufacturers are doing to protect the health of their employees and their customers while continuing to keep our livestock, poultry and companion animals fed. In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, AFIA has launched a members-only webpage to help member companies prepare facilities & staff to respond to the emerging public health threat. It can be found at afia.org/coronavirus . This is a third in a series on agriculture and COVID-19. Recent Feedstuffs In Focus Episodes on COVID-19 Talking COVID-19 and the impact on livestock markets NCBA CEO talks COVID19, Brazil beef, GIPSA Farm Bureau economist discusses COVID-19 impact For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, March 19, 2020
NCBA CEO talks COVID19, Brazil beef, GIPSA
Since the first trading day of the year, the April live cattle futures contract is off 25% and the April feeder cattle contract is down 22%. All segments of cattle production have taken a significant market hit over the past several weeks, sending ripples up and down the beef value chain as the market reacts to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this episode, National Cattlemen’s Beef Assn. CEO Colin Woodall offers his insights into what the COVID-19 pandemic is doing to the beef business, including concerns over continued availability of USDA meat inspectors, securing emergency-type loans for producers, ensuring packers remain committed to keeping plants up and running, and conversations with the CME over market volatility. Drilling into the beef-specific effects of the pandemic, Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka spoke with Woodall about the latest developments and how the industry is responding. The two also talked about the latest updates on a “Product of the USA” label for beef, USDA’s recently lifted ban on Brazilian beef and the GIPSA rule. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Mon, March 16, 2020
Special Report: Talking COVID-19 and the impact on livestock markets
The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell nearly 13% Monday, reflecting growing fears over the spread of coronavirus in the U.S. and across Europe, and what a prolonged period of business closures and social distancing might mean for the global economy. Already down nearly 32% since Feb. 12, the Dow and other relevant financial indicators signaled the end of the great Bull Market that had run seemingly unabated since emerging from the Great Recession of 2008 and 2009. In this episode of Feedstuffs In Focus we’ll tackle a pretty big question: What does the largest domestic public health crisis since the spread of polio in the 1950s mean for the U.S. livestock industry, both in the short term and in the coming months? We pose that question to Arlan Suderman , chief commodities economist at INTL FCStone , about what’s happening at home and around the world as markets grapple with the reality of coronavirus, including recent restaurant closures stateside and lockdowns in Italy and other European nations struggling to respond. As analysts digest the seemingly endless stream of updates and information related to the pandemic, Feedstuffs editor Krissa Welshans spoke with Suderman about the latest developments in the U.S. and in China, and how the U.S. livestock industry is responding to this latest challenge. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, March 12, 2020
Farmer of the Future: What will agriculture look like in 2040?
Some estimates suggest that just 5% of farms will produce 75% or more of America’s agricultural output by 2040. While the forces of consolidation and transformation are well known to industry leaders, the nature of the farmers of the future is open to speculation, according to new research from Scott Caine, executive vice president of Aimpoint Research. In this episode we talk with Caine about his company's research on the " Farmer of the Future ," and discuss the trends and issues at play over the next 20 years. We do think farmers are going to decrease, and the number of farms are going to decrease significantly and by significantly we say by like 45% over the next several decades and it's not a loss as much as it is a change, Caine told Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka last month at the Ohio Agribusiness Assn.'s annual industry conference. "As, as all economies mature, there are changes in the marketplace and you're going to have some people who see that our value across the entire chain as a way of making things more efficient," Caine said. "It's a dynamic marketplace and what we're seeing are those people who are willing to step into it, look for the opportunities, find those because that's their disposition are the ones that we think are going to continue to grow, continue to be the dominant producers in the future, and will likely be part of that community that exists in 20 years where others will have been left behind and they're going to have to search for their marketplace." This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Balchem Animal Nutrition & Health . If you missed Balchem's recent mini-symposium on methyl donor metabolism, you can watch a series of short videos recapping presentations held during the Florida Ruminant Nutrition Symposium: Visit BalchemANH.com/Florida to watch these short videos. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, March 05, 2020
A trade chat with USDA undersecretary Ted McKinney
Trade is hugely important to U.S. agriculture. In late February, U.S. Department of Agriculture chief economist Robert Johansson said U.S. agricultural exports will top $139.5 billion in 2020 . With ongoing trade tensions with China and growing concerns about the economic impact of a potential global coronavirus pandemic, the outlook for U.S. ag trade may be more uncertain than the numbers suggest. One USDA leader, however, is plenty bullish on the prospect of a return to growth in U.S. ag sales abroad. On the sidelines of the USDA Ag Outlook Forum in late February, Feedstuffs p olicy editor Jacqui Fatka caught up with USDA undersecretary for trade and foreign ag affairs Ted McKinney. With his stated goal of reaching the "million-mile club" in flying around the world to promote U.S. agricultural products as context, McKinney offered an update on recent trade deals including USMCA, Japan and the Phase One agreement with China . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, February 27, 2020
USDA's Greg Ibach talks African swine fever
As the livestock and poultry industries have become more global in nature, concern over the spread of foreign animal diseases seems to be an ever-present issue. Most recently, the rapid spread of African swine fever throughout Asia presented significant challenges to the international trade of pork and feed ingredients. How will the U.S. swine industry react if ASF makes its way across the ocean and lands on our domestic shores? In this episode we talk with Greg Ibach, U.S. Department of Agriculture under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs about what USDA is doing to prevent the arrival of ASF in the U.S., and the department’s planning for what happens if the disease breaks here anyway. Earlier this month at the annual USDA Ag Outlook Forum, Ibach hosted a panel discussion on ASF. After the session he sat down with Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka to recap the discussion. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by United Animal Health, a leader in animal health and nutrition. You can learn more about United Animal Health and how they are working to advance animal science worldwide by visiting their website . For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, February 20, 2020
How Walmart is shaking up beef supply chain
Last month Walmart officially entered the beef business when it opened a case-ready beef plant in Thomasville, Ga. The plant will process whole-muscle cuts produced by Walmart’s new Angus beef supply chain for 500 stores in Florida, Georgia and Alabama. As the largest grocery retailer in the U.S., Walmart’s move toward vertically-integrating part of its beef supply sent ripples through the industry. In this episode of Feedstuffs In Focus we talk with Will Sawyer , lead animal protein economist at CoBank, about what Walmart’s move means for the beef supply chain in general, and how it compares to other similar moves by retailers such as Costco. Sawyer recently authored a report on Walmart’s new beef plant in which he called the investment “more sizzle than steak” for now, but said that the development bears watching as much for how consumers react as for how it changes the dynamics of the supply chain. At the Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show earlier this month in San Antonio, Sawyer talked with Feedstuffs editor Krissa Welshans about Walmart and how this plant could lead to much bigger and more significant investments in the future. The two also discussed recent developments in plant-based and lab-grown meat alternatives. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, February 13, 2020
Talking dairy innovation with 'Chad the cheese guy'
In this episode we hear from one of the leaders at Dairy Management Inc. , the organization working to increase demand for dairy through research, education and innovation using farmers’ dairy checkoff investment. Chad Galer is vice president of food safety and product research at DMI, where he is one of several dairy industry professionals working to grow the dairy category on behalf of farmers. From 1983 to 2018, per capita consumption in the U.S. grew 73 lb., to 646 lb. per capita, nearly matching peak consumption recorded way back in 1962. Total dairy sales have grown 86% since 1983, according to DMI data, with cheese, yogurt and other innovative products all playing a role. Galer, known for his "Chad the cheese guy" YouTube videos sharing fun tidbits about cheese, recently talked with Feedstuffs editor Krissa Welshans about innovation in the dairy industry, including some reasons for optimism in the fluid milk space given the wildly successful launch of Fairlife and its recent acquisition by Coca-Cola. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Balchem Animal Nutrition & Health . If you missed Balchem's recent mini-symposium on methyl donor metabolism, you can watch a series of short videos recapping presentations held during the Florida Ruminant Nutrition Symposium: Visit BalchemANH.com/Florida to watch these short videos. For more information on this and other stories, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, February 06, 2020
Getting to Know AFIA's New President Constance Cullman, and Talking Turkey (and broilers and eggs) with Brian Earnest
The feed, poultry and meat industries gather every January at the International Production and Processing Expo, what the organizers describe as “the world's largest annual poultry, feed, and meat technology exposition.” More than 32,000 attendees attended this year’s Expo in late January, discussing topics ranging from the global markets to animal disease outbreaks and international trade. One attendee – the new President and CEO of the American Feed Industry Association – was particularly interested in how those issues and discussions affect the nearly 700 domestic and international companies and organizations her association represents. In this episode we hear from Constance Cullman, AFIA’s new chief executive , to get her first impressions of the state of the industry just months into her tenure. We’ll also talk with Brian Earnest, a commodity analyst with IHS Markit , about the status of the poultry markets and his outlook for 2020. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Hog Slat and Georgia Poultry . New for 2020, the Classic Pullet feed pan: Built to handle the most aggressive birds, the Classic Pullet features an anti-rotation clip, feed shut-off slide, and a shallow divided pan. Learn more at HogSlat.com .
Thu, January 30, 2020
A Conversation with Alltech CEO Mark Lyons
The feed and livestock industry is a major part of the global economy, and what happens in one corner of the globe – say a major swine disease outbreak in China, for example – has far reaching implications around the globe, from animal health to dollars and cents. Understanding how global customers make food-buying decisions, anticipating future needs of the international market, and dealing with trade disruptions and political flare ups are all part of the deal for leaders in this industry. In this episode we sit down for a fireside chat with Dr. Mark Lyons , the CEO of Alltech , a global animal nutrition and biosciences company with 6,000 employees operating in more than 120 countries. Dr. Lyons has at different points in his career led the company’s efforts in Brazil and most recently in China, where he led the Alltech office in Beijing and focused on building bridges between China and the wider industry through research, education and strategic initiatives. In a wide ranging conversation drawing on his vast global experience and perspective, Lysons discusses topics including his company's work on the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals , issues and opportunities to grow the feed and animal protein business in China and Brazil, and the effect African Swine Fever has had on the feed and livestock industries. We also discuss the shifting sands of animal disease issues and consumer feelings toward agriculture technologies, get his sense of where the industry is heading in the decade ahead, and learn about his vision for a " planet of plenty ." For more information, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, January 23, 2020
Individualizing Sow Care to Reduce Losses, Optimize Performance and Well-being
Increased sow mortality rates have a serious impact on farm profitability and employee morale. Issues including lameness, feet and leg issues and prolapses are all significant aspects of rising sow mortality rates. Research published in 2018 from veterinarians at the Swine Vet Center in St. Peter, Minnesota, estimate that prolapses on a 2,500-sow farm cost roughly $34 per inventoried sow or $850 per prolapsed sow. Earlier research from the University of Minnesota found that reducing sow mortality from 10% to 6% would add $4,000/year in income for a 600-sow farm, or roughly 33 cents per weaned pig. In this week’s episode, we talk with a veterinarian at Zoetis about her company’s effort to teach production managers the value of conducting health, welfare and performance assessments on every sow, from every breed group, every day. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Hog Slat, and their new 54-inch Infinity fan . By utilizing advanced motor technology, this fan offers precise variable speed control with lower energy costs and reduced maintenance. Learn more at Hog Slat.com . At this week’s Iowa Pork Congress in Des Moines, Zoetis introduced their Individual Sow Care program — a comprehensive, on-farm training program designed to get production managers and on-farm caregivers on board with daily health, welfare and performance assessments – for every sow. Veterinarian Eva Jablonski says sow mortality rates in the U.S. have increased dramatically in recent years and now average about 15 percent, leading Zoetis to create a training program focused on proactively assessing sow health, performance, body condition and environment as part of the quest to improve sow longevity and productivity. For more information, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, January 17, 2020
Swine Genetics and Robustness to Disease
Good pigs start with good genetics. As our understanding of the animal’s genetic code deepens and technology advances, so does the industry’s ability to enhance and influence a suite of traits and characteristics. One relatively new area of focus is breeding pigs for increased natural robustness to disease – in other words, breeding pigs that are hardier in the face of disease pressure and are even less likely to get sick in the first place. This episode of Feedstuffs In Focus is sponsored by Topigs Norsvin , the second largest swine genetics company in the world. Topigs Norsvin’s unique breeding program is designed to accelerate genetic progress at the customer level by creating innovative products and solutions that benefit the entire pork production chain. Jenelle Dunkelberger earned her doctorate in genetics at Iowa State University, where she studied the role of host genetics in susceptibility to viral disease in pigs. Since completing her graduate studies, she’s spent the past three years applying her research to the genetic programs at Topigs Norsvin. In this episode, Dunkelberger explains what she and her colleagues have learned about the role of genetics in managing swine diseases. For more information, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, January 10, 2020
Taking a Deep Dive into USMCA and Key Trade Policy Issues
One of the biggest continuing storylines in the feed and livestock sector is trade policy, and how its twists and turns shift and shape markets for feed ingredients and animal proteins. Headlines on topics from trade wars to trade agreements were a frequent feature of our coverage in 2019 and that looks to continue well into the new year . USMCA moved one step closer to ratification with the Senate taking action this week , but the deal isn't across the goal line just yet. Meanwhile trade tensions linger with China, and the hopes agriculture interests from a variety of sectors hang in the balance. In this episode of Feedstuffs In Focus sponsored by Balchem Animal Nutrition and Health , American Farm Bureau Federation economist Veronica Nigh walks us through a deep dive of what USCMA means for U.S. ag interests, with a particular focus on dairy. Nigh also updates us on progress toward more amicable trade relations with China, and the opportunities for increased trade with Japan. 0:00 In many ways, 2019 was a big year for trade. USMCA was one of the biggest storylines of the year, and has big implications for U.S. agriculture, as do storylines involving Japan, Korea and China. 5:05 What does USMCA mean for U.S. farmers in terms of opportunities for better profitability in the export market? 8:40 In some ways, USMCA provides a blueprint for future trade agreements and partnerships. 11:25 Dairy is one of the biggest winners of USCMA, but it's not the only sector that will benefit from the new agreement. 13:18 USMCA wasn't the only deal done in 2019; Japan was another key market where trade policy was in play last year. 21:11 Korea is also an important U.S. ag export market that saw policy movement of note. 23:30 Everything comes back to China. Nigh talks the latest developments with a trade agreement moving forward in the coming days. 28:35 Where are other opportunities for increased agricultural trade overseas? 31:35 As we look to 2020, Nigh gives an outlook for the year in trade and what it means for the ag markets generally. For more information, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Tue, December 31, 2019
Livestock Outlook: Fresh Start or More of the Same?
The new year is a time when many people reflect on the successes and challenges of the previous 365 days and look ahead with excitement for the opportunities that lie in the 12 months ahead. For the agriculture industry in general and livestock producers in particular, 2019 was fraught with frustrations. From trade tensions to political uncertainty, it was a year that saw the slowest global economic growth since the depths of the financial crisis. While a "Phase One" trade agreement was reached with China a few weeks ago, following movement on trade deals involving Japan and the USMCA, plenty of economic headwinds persist as a new decade dawns . In this episode, American Farm Bureau Federation livestock economist Michael Nepveux talks with Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka about those headwinds, and what he sees ahead for livestock production and trade in the days ahead. 0:00 Happy New Year! Welcome to the year's first episode. 1:46 AFBF livestock economist Michael Nepveux describes the 2019 livestock markets, including: - Black Swan events like the Holcomb fire and its effect on the beef markets; - Why a trade deal with Japan is important given the U.S. withdrawal from TPP; - Continued expansion in pork production side, and how ASF-related issues continue to influence that market; and, - What implications African Swine Fever has for the U.S. poultry market. 5:45 All of those issues and opportunities in the livestock sector have a direct impact on feed markets as well. 9:20 China may be the 800-pound gorilla of global trade, but it is not the only destination for U.S. exports. Nepveux discusses opportunities aside from China for U.S. meat, poultry and dairy sales abroad. 13:27 It's a new year; does that mean new opportunities, or more of the same for the feed and livestock markets? For more information, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, December 19, 2019
State of the Industry: NGFA's Randy Gordon on 2020
Political volatility, uncertainty in the export markets, spring flooding and propane shortages… these are just a few of the big challenges that faced grain handlers and feed manufacturers in 2019. How did elevators and feed mills weather the literal and metaphorical storms of the year, and what is the outlook for the industry in 2020? In this episode we discuss those topics, and a few more, with Randy Gordon, president of the National Grain & Feed Assn. At NGFA's Country Elevator Conference in early December, Gordon hosted a fireside chat with Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue on trade issues from China to the USMCA agreement. Gordon discussed those issues with Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka in this episode, and explained why trade is such an important issue for members of his organization. Gordon also discusses the work of an NGFA task force on issues related to the regulation of the U.S. rail industry and how some “systemic problems and flaws” in those regulations are problematic for the grain industry “given the ever-growing exercise of market power by Class I railroads." For more information, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, December 12, 2019
Behind the Meat Case: Thinking Like a Retailer
What do food buyers at the grocery store really want when it comes to meat? For livestock producers, packers, food processors and retailers, sometimes answering that question feels like hitting a moving target. To get a better look at what moves the needle in the meat case, we talked with a case-ready commodity manager at one of the nation's largest grocers. Judson Armentrout is a commodity management coordinator at The Kroger Company , the largest supermarket chain in the U.S. and the second-largest general retailer behind Walmart. Operating 2,759 supermarkets and multi-department stores in the U.S. along with 35 food processing and manufacturing facilities, Kroger is as close to having a finger on the pulse of the American consumer as you can get. In this episode Armentrout discusses a wide range of topics, from meat packaging and label claims to concerns over swine gestation stalls and similar issues consumers raise with regard to livestock production systems. 0:00 Judson Armentrout discusses his background in agriculture and retail meat marketing, and what his team does at Kroger. 3:33 What are the current trends in the meat case - what are consumers buying, and how does that influence Kroger's labeling and branding strategy? 6:00 Are consumers open to purchasing meat products from gene-edited livestock? 8:23 Armentrout provides an update on Kroger's decision to eliminate gestation stalls from its pork supply chain, and how the company is working with suppliers to do so. 10:27 What, precisely, is the difference between terms like "organic," "clean" and "natural"? Armentrout explains what they mean in terms of Kroger's Simple Truth brand. 13:41 What does a state-level mandate such as California's Proposition 12 mean for a national retail chain like Kroger? 15:14 Armentrout looks into the future, and describes what he sees coming ahead for the pork industry at retail, including his company's initiatives on food security and food waste. Related: Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka covered the latest judicial ruling on a challenge by the North American Meat Institute to California's Proposition 12. For more information, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Thu, December 05, 2019
Projecting Moderate Feed Prices in 2020
Despite challenging weather conditions and an erratic global trade situation, there is a good chance feed prices could stabilize in 2020. Softer exports and strong planting intentions could keep corn prices below $4, and protein sources from soy to fishmeal should see plentiful supplies keep a lid on prices, too. Agricultural economist Ben Brown oversees the farm management program at The Ohio State University. On the sidelines of Ohio State’s annual farm outlook conference in mid-November he spoke with Feedstuffs policy editor Jacqui Fatka about what USDA's latest stocks and usage data tell us about the outlook for feed prices in the new year. For more information, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Wed, November 27, 2019
Understanding Financial Stress In Farm Country
U.S. net farm income is projected to hit $88 billion for 2019, a third-consecutive year of at least modest growth. But federal trade assistance payments are the underlying reason for that growth according to Ohio State University agricultural economist Ani Katchova. Crop-sector receipts are expected to decline this year while animal product receipts are expected to remain flat in 2019. Modest growth has been seen in land values, and although cash rents are up roughly 1-2% in the U.S., rents remain stagnant after adjusting for inflation. While there are signs of financial stress in farm country, ag loan delinquency rates and bankruptcy rates have remained at historic lows during the past few years. In this episode we ask the question, how bad is it out there, really ?
Wed, November 20, 2019
Veterinarians Discuss African Swine Fever Prevention
African Swine Fever is a fatal swine disease with a near-100% fatality rate according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. In the first year since its detection in Asia, more than 5 million pigs have died or been culled to prevent the spread of the virus. The latest data provided by FAO indicates that current losses represent more than 10 percent of the total pig population in each of China, Vietnam and Mongolia. Veterinarians tending the U.S. swine herd are working with pork producers, the feed industry and regulatory officials to prevent the arrival of the disease and to prepare plans to mitigate its spread if ever it does land in the U.S. But what if ASF is already here? One veterinarian speaking at the Ohio State University Agricultural Policy & Outlook Conference in mid-November thinks that is a possibility given the number of people in the industry traveling between the U.S. and affected regions of the world. In this episode, Cooper Farms veterinarian Don Davidson, and National Pork Producers Council chief veterinarian Liz Wagstrom share their perspectives on the disease and take a deeper dive into the ongoing efforts of the industry to keep ASF out of the U.S. For more information, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Wed, November 13, 2019
Growing the Global Market for Protein: Perspectives from the Soybean Industry
The world is hungry for protein. According to data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, annual per capita meat consumption nearly doubled between 1961 and 2014, nearing 95 pounds. Over the next five years, some analysts project plant-based protein markets will top $14 billion globally, and the global protein ingredient markets will near $71 billion by 2025. What does that explosive growth mean for the broader agribusiness industry? In this episode, United Soybean Board CEO Polly Ruhland and Liz Hare of the World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) at the American Soybean Association (ASA) discuss efforts by the soybean industry to grow protein as a category - not just soy-based proteins, but all proteins - with an eye toward giving customers a wide variety of choices and providing farmers and agribusiness interests with a wide array of potential markets. For more information, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
Fri, November 01, 2019
Livestock Production and Climate Change: A conversation with Robin White of Virginia Tech
Climate change. It has become one of the thorniest political problems and most socially-contentious issues in recent memory. From “Meatless Mondays” to the Impossible Burger, the notion that eating less meat might be good for the environment has gained traction in media coverage of climate issues and among consumers. But what does the data say? According to the 2019 Global Agricultural Productivity Report, " Productivity Growth for Sustainable Diets, and More ," released last month by Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences , agricultural productivity growth – increasing output of crops and livestock with existing or fewer inputs – is growing globally at an average annual rate of 1.63 percent. Unfortunately however, that rate is below what is needed to reach future anticipated global needs. Animal agriculture in the U.S. has experienced significant productivity gains over the past 30 years, dramatically reducing the environmental footprint of the livestock production industry. Robin White , assistant professor of animal and poultry science at Virginia Tech explains that if livestock production in the U.S. was eliminated , total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions would decline by only 2.9 percent. In this episode, White takes a deeper look at the data underlying this thorny issue, and offers some hope for livestock producers and for consumers of animal-sourced proteins. For more information, visit Feedstuffs online . Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs , or join the conversation via Facebook .
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