Cobb Strengthens Central Asia Supply with 100,000 Chick Placement in Uzbekistan

Cobb has reached a major milestone in its Central Asia growth strategy with the successful delivery and placement of 100,000 breeder chicks to long-term partner ZM Bobur in Uzbekistan.

The shipment, completed in May, represents the largest placement of Cobb chicks into Uzbekistan to date and marks the first stocking of ZM Bobur’s newest breeder farm—a key step in the company’s ambitious expansion plans.

Strengthening Regional Supply Through Local Hatching

The chicks were produced at Cobb’s fully owned hatchery in Türkiye, using eggs sourced exclusively from Cobb-owned facilities in Europe and the United States. This integrated approach ensures full quality assurance alignment across the supply chain—from breeding to hatchery to delivery.

By hatching closer to the destination market, Cobb significantly reduces transit time compared to traditional import routes, helping improve chick condition on arrival and supporting strong early-life performance.

Delivering Measurable Performance

Cobb’s focus on quality is reflected in consistently low day-old chick mortality (DOA) and seven-day mortality rates, providing customers with confidence in both product and delivery systems.

The Türkiye hatchery plays a critical role in supporting customers across Central Asia, combining global genetics with regional proximity to optimise outcomes in challenging logistics environments.

A Decade-Long Partnership Driving Growth

ZM Bobur has worked exclusively with Cobb for over 10 years. The new breeder farm is part of a wider expansion strategy that will see the company reach 1 million hatching eggs per week by 2027, with longer-term plans targeting 3 million eggs per week.

This latest placement represents the first stage in that growth journey. Abdullah Vahab, owner of ZM Bobur, commented: “Our partnership with Cobb over the past decade has been built on consistent quality and reliable supply. This latest placement is an important milestone for our business as we expand our operations, and the ability to receive high-quality chicks from a regional hatchery in Türkiye supports both performance and future growth.”

Commitment to Central Asia

Cobb continues to invest in the Central Asia region, supporting customers with high-quality genetics, reliable supply chains, and localised production capabilities.

Erol Can, Middle East & Turkiye Commercial Director commented; “This milestone demonstrates our long-term commitment to Central Asia and our ability to deliver consistent, high-quality chicks through a fully integrated supply chain. Our partnership with ZM Bobur is a strong example of how we support customer growth at scale.”

Matthew Wilson, Sales and Technical Director for Cobb Europe, added; “We continue to see strong growth in Central Asia, driven by consistent field performance and customer confidence in Cobb products. Our genetics are delivering excellent broiler performance alongside strong breeder results, including reliable hatchability and ongoing improvements in egg production.”

Where 45 Years of Greenhouse Automation Meets Decades of Livestock Knowledge

Agricontrol has spent over 45 years designing and manufacturing climate control systems and automation technologies for greenhouse and horticultural environments. Termotecnica Pericoli brings more than 60 years of experience in heating, cooling, and ventilation for livestock and agricultural facilities, with an established international distribution network across five continents.

X-TH-3T is what happens when these two knowledge bases converge: a product engineered with Agricontrol’s precision control philosophy, and shaped by Termotecnica Pericoli’s deep understanding of what livestock operations actually require from the tools they rely on every day.

One Device. Endless Configurations.

X-TH-3T is a digital thermostat featuring 3 independent, intelligent, and separately programmable contacts, each configurable to manage heating, cooling, ventilation, alarms, or any combination of these functions. One contact features a switchable NO/NC relay for maximum installation flexibility.

Unlike conventional single-stage thermostats, X-TH-3T adapts to the actual complexity of modern livestock facilities, without adding operational complexity for the people who use it.

Key features:

• 3 independent outputs, each programmable separately for heating, cooling, ventilation, or alarms
• Switchable NO/NC relay contact for maximum wiring flexibility
• PT1000 Class B temperature sensor with ±0.5°C precision (included)
• IP55 protection rating: dust and water resistant, built for harsh barn environments
• Physical buttons, gloves-ready interface, no touchscreen, no unnecessary complexity
• Programmable by non-specialists: no technical background required
• Automatic energy optimization through programmable temperature thresholds
• Supply: 230 Vac, 50/60 Hz — Outputs: 3 × 2A @ 250 Vac
• CE certified, Made in Italy, 1-year warranty

Typical configurations include (but are not limited to):

• Heating system control with dual independent setpoints and low-temperature alarm
• Combined heating, ventilation, and high/low temperature alarm management
• Exhaust fan control with independent temperature thresholds and separate cooling pump activation

Built for the Real World

X-TH-3T was designed around one principle: a thermostat for livestock must work reliably in demanding conditions, be easy to configure, and flexible enough to cover a wide range of applications without requiring a different device for every setup. The result is a product that delivers professional-grade control, accessible to any farm operator, regardless of technical background.

Discover X-TH-3T at VIV Europe 2026

X-TH-3T will make its world debut at VIV Europe, the leading international trade fair for the animal protein production chain.

Stand 07C030. 2–4 June 2026. Utrecht, The Netherlands

The Agricontrol by Termotecnica Pericoli team will be on-site to present the full range of X-TH-3T configurations and discuss specific application requirements with visitors.

About Agricontrol by Termotecnica Pericoli

Agricontrol has been developing climate control systems, fertigation units, and automation technologies for enclosed agricultural environments for over 45 years. In 2025, Agricontrol became part of Termotecnica Pericoli, an Italian industrial group with nearly 60 years of experience in heating, cooling, and ventilation for agricultural, zootechnical, and industrial applications.

The integration combines Agricontrol’s precision automation expertise with Termotecnica Pericoli’s industrial infrastructure and global distribution network.

What changes: scale, reach, and the sectors served.

What doesn’t: the technical team, the approach to support, and the commitment to every installation.

For further information inbox pit@pericoli.com or pericoli.com

A recent report from Grandview Research notes the global ice cream market size was estimated at US$121.35 billion (€104.5bn) in 2025 and is expected to reach US$169.4 billion (€145.9bn) by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 4.3 per cent through to 2033.

So it’s not just the UK. Globally, we all love ice cream. The Asia Pacific region accounted for the largest revenue share of 37.5 per cent in 2025, with the Chinese ice cream market holding a significant market share in APAC in 2025.

Ice cream bars were the universal favourite, with a revenue share of over 61.7 per cent in 2025. Dairy was top of the types with the dairy and water-based ice cream segment holding the largest revenue market share of 96 per cent in 2025.

It also turns out we all love chocolate worldwide. Based on flavour, chocolate ice cream held the largest revenue market share of 32.5 per cent in 2025. In the UK, meanwhile, we favour vanilla flavours nine times out of ten, despite the consumer desire to try new types, including lychee and mango, ube (purple yam) and the ever-present matcha. Ice cream continues to be everyone’s favourite dessert, with British consumers eating nine litres per year per person. According to the UK’s Ice Cream Alliance, there are more than 1,000 companies producing the sweet treats in the country. Plus, it’s all good for you, with most ice cream containing more milk protein weight for weight than is present in milk itself. Another reason to reach for a cone this summer, eh? Enjoy!

The post Everybody loves ice cream appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

In Sindh, camel rearing is deeply embedded in both desert and coastal ecosystems. Districts such as Tharparkar, Umerkot, Badin, Thatta, and Sujawal have long-standing traditions of camel husbandry. The Thari camel, in particular, is well known for its resilience, ability to endure prolonged dry spells, and relatively high milk production. In these regions, camels are also used for transportation and carting, especially in areas where mechanized transport is either unavailable or unaffordable. 

During periods of drought, when other livestock often perish, camels continue to provide milk, making them a crucial lifeline for local communities.Balochistan holds the largest share of Pakistan’s camel population. In districts such as Chagai, Kharan, Nushki, Washuk, Panjgur, and Awaran, camels form the backbone of livelihoods for nomadic and semi-nomadic populations.Breeds like the Kohi and Brahvi are valued for their endurance, long-distance mobility, and suitability for meat production. In a province marked by vast distances and limited infrastructure, camels continue to perform essential economic, logistical, and cultural roles that modern alternatives have yet to fully replace.

In Punjab, camel breeding is concentrated in the Cholistan and Thal desert regions. Districts including Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalnagar, Layyah, and Muzaffargarh serve as key centers of camel rearing. The Cholistani camel is one of the most recognized breeds in Pakistan, known for its strength, adaptability, and historical role in transport and agriculture. Today, however, these camels are increasingly raised for meat production and for sale during religious occasions, particularly Eid-ul-Azha, when demand rises sharply.

Camel markets across Pakistan largely operate outside formal regulatory systems. Trade is seasonal and often linked to religious events, especially Eid-ul-Azha. Rural livestock markets, or mandis, act as primary collection points where breeders sell their animals to middlemen.Camel meat, once considered a marginal food product, is gradually gaining acceptance in urban markets, particularly in Karachi and Quetta. It is lean, rich in protein, and lower in cholesterol compared to beef, making it an appealing option for health-conscious consumers. Despite these advantages, the growth of the camel meat sector is constrained by the lack of organized supply chains, hygienic slaughtering facilities, and branding strategies. Camel milk, despite its exceptional nutritional and medicinal properties, remains significantly underutilized. It is rich in vitamin C, iron, potassium, and contains insulin-like proteins that may support diabetes management. In desert regions such as Thar and Cholistan, camel milk is widely consumed and valued for its health benefits. However, due to the absence of cold storage systems, processing infrastructure, and commercial marketing, it has not yet penetrated mainstream dairy markets.Beyond milk and meat, camels also provide valuable by-products. Camel hair is durable and heat-resistant, commonly used in making blankets, ropes, tents, and rugs. Camel skin is thick and long-lasting, suitable for producing traditional items such as shoes, bags, belts, and handicrafts. Yet, these by-products remain underdeveloped due to the lack of modern processing and value-addition industries.

Economically, camels represent a significant asset. Prices vary depending on breed, age, and purpose, ranging from approximately Rs150,000 for younger animals to over Rs2 million for premium camels during Eid-ul-Azha. Despite this strong market value, the sector continues to face structural neglect. There are no dedicated camel breeding farms, veterinary outreach is limited, disease surveillance systems are weak, and pastoral communities have minimal access to credit, insurance, and formal markets.Pakistan’s camel sector also holds considerable export potential, particularly in Middle Eastern markets where demand for camel meat and milk is high. However, this opportunity remains largely untapped due to the absence of quarantine facilities, traceability systems, and export-grade processing infrastructure. As climate change intensifies and water scarcity becomes more severe, camels offer a highly practical and climate-resilient livestock solution. Their ability to survive and remain productive under harsh environmental conditions makes them increasingly valuable for sustainable livelihoods. Recognizing camels as a strategic asset, investing in value chains, strengthening veterinary services, and integrating pastoral communities into formal markets could unlock significant economic and social benefits.

In regions such as Tharparkar, Cholistan, and Balochistan, camels are not remnants of a fading past but vital assets for the future. Strengthening this sector can enhance food security, support rural economies, and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable livestock system in Pakistan.

My sister-in-law asked if we had probiotics, as she had run out of her capsules. I was able to direct her to the Danone Actimel we have in our refrigerator. How things change. I remember when I mentioned probiotics many moons ago, and my American friends had no idea what I was talking about. Even those of us who grew up drinking just milk (there was semi-skimmed milk?) now have such a selection of dairy products for whatever we’d like to consume. Pretty much, if you can envision it, the dairy sector has a product for it. It’s kind of a marvel how this sector has changed over the last couple of decades.

I am also off on a swimming holiday to Croatia this week, leaving the spouse at home to complete projects. This is a nervous time as sometimes I come home to strange eBay purchases, such as a beautiful, enormous mahogany bookcase, in pieces because it was so very large, all over my upstairs hallway. It was going very cheap because most houses can’t accommodate such a massive piece of furniture here. I believe a couple of the shelves are now holding books here.

Never mind. Paški sir, an award-winning, hard sheep’s milk cheese, is from Croatia, but I will be south of where it is produced. I am sure I will be able to find the cheeses somewhere on my travels around the country. When I’m not paddling around the islands.

The post When we examine consumer behaviour appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

Among its activities, the Pittsboro, North Carolina-based not-for-profit organization is responsible for the annual Conservation Priority List, a roster of more than 180 endangered breeds across 11 species ranks the extinction threat for America’s farm animals. 

“The International Heritage Breeds Week campaign was created to increase global awareness of these lesser-known breeds and the important genetic diversity they contain,” explained Allison Kincaid, executive director of The Livestock Conservancy. “These breeds, including donkeys, cattle, goats, horses, sheep, pigs, rabbits, chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys, often have longer lifespans and productive years, a slower growth rate, and are adapted to specific environments, making them unique and fascinating. They thrive when raised by more traditional farming practices.” 

Kincaid said there is tremendous value in preserving and protecting heritage breeds. 

“Many of our breeds contain traits carefully developed over hundreds of years. Today, heritage breeds serve as primary reservoirs of genetic diversity in most domesticated animal species. Up to 50% of a breed’s biodiversity is found nowhere else within the species,” she said. 

Biodiversity matters. Today, three-quarters of the world’s food supply draws on just 12 crops and five livestock species, according to the United Natithat rare breeds of livestock and poultry play in protecting agricultural biodiversity, strengthening food security and preserving genetic diversityons. Yet, global demand for livestock products is expected to increase 70% by 2050.      

“The Livestock Conservancy works year-round with academic institutions and others to document, research and maintain the genetic diversity contained in these animals,” Kincaid added. “Each year, we provide Microgrants to heritage breed farmers and breed organizations to support their conservation work with these rare breeds. We also develop educational resources, including webinars, blogs, and podcasts, to provide practical information for producers and promotional materials that help supporters share the importance of heritage breeds at events and throughout their communities.” 

Throughout the weeklong observance, The Livestock Conservancy and its sister organizations in other nations hope to spread the important message of heritage breeds. Additionally, many members of the organization, historical farms, museums and participating zoos will be holding informational booths, educational outreach efforts and special events highlighting endangered agricultural breeds. 

The post International Heritage Breeds Week, May 17-23 appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

Celebrating the Next Generation in Heritage Breed Conservation

This month marks International Heritage Breeds Month, and the “Celebrating 250” blog is taking a break from exploring the history of breeds on the Conservation Priority List to focus on the vital role that young people play in agriculture and in conserving heritage breeds. From America’s earliest homesteads to innovative programs we see today, young people have always been central to farming. They bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm and a tireless spirit that helps keep agricultural traditions alive.

Why Youth Matter

Throughout history, young people’s involvement in farming has been crucial for passing down knowledge, culture and genetics from one generation to the next. In the days when farming was more widespread, youth often learned by doing – feeding animals, herding livestock, collecting eggs, milking, shearing, building fences and nurturing the land. These tasks weren’t merely “chores”; they provided valuable lessons in breeding, animal care, responsibility and stewardship.

Today, farm life is less common. As we concentrate on the intentional conservation of rare heritage breeds in today’s culture, it is essential that we pass on the knowledge of farming traditions and adaptations to the next generation. Only knowledgeable and dedicated caretakers can ensure the survival of heritage breeds, and this is where the youth come in – they will select, raise and cherish these breeds to ensure they thrive in our modern world. But we must provide them with the opportunities to learn about them.

Engaging Young Leaders

International Heritage Breeds Week offers an excellent opportunity to engage young people in our mission. Programs like 4-H, founded in the early 1900s, and the National FFA Organization (formerly Future Farmers of America), founded in 1928, provide great frameworks for youth involvement by emphasizing skill-building, record-keeping and leadership. Initially, youth in these programs worked with a wide variety of livestock breeds, but after World War II, the focus increasingly narrowed to commercial breeds, leading to a decline in knowledge about heritage breeds.

Over the last half-century, concern about genetic loss and conservation has grown, sparking renewed interest among youth in heritage breeds and fostering the development and strengthening of heritage-breed organizations. Today, young people play an expanding role in conserving heritage breeds. Through these organizations and individually, owners and breeders of heritage breeds can find creative ways to empower these future stewards of genetic diversity.

Effective breed conservation is chain that goes from generation to generation of stewards. Any break in the chain can threaten the survival of a heritage breed Our youth are a valuable and essential “next link” in the chain that will keep these breeds vital and viable for a sustainable future. Sometimes these youth connections aren’t necessarily family-based. They might appear as a passionate youth at a local fair, an interested student in an FFA chapter at the local high school or a young neighbor whose opportunity to interact with heritage livestock or poultry is through your animals. We each can play a role in mentoring and encouraging the next generation of heritage-breed stewards if we look for and use these opportunities.

Looking to the Past for Inspiration

History shows that youth and young adults rise to the occasion when their involvement is needed. During World War II, young volunteers stepped up to fill labor shortages and support food production. Today’s challenge for heritage breeds is equally significant. With the decline in biodiversity and a widening gap in agricultural experience, we need to inspire and mentor younger generations to carry on this important work.

Building the Future Together

As we celebrate this International Heritage Breeds Week, let’s consider how we can support the next generation. Breeders can encourage young leaders within organizations, create youth-friendly membership options and fund scholarships. Educators and mentors can develop engaging programs that equip young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to become the next generation of heritage-breed owners and advocates.

Youth and young adults already communicate in ways that resonate with their peers – through social media posts and videos, and by participating in virtual events. By engaging them as leaders, we can ensure that the narrative of heritage breeds evolves with our culture, showcasing their importance in modern agriculture and local food systems.

Join Us in Celebrating the Next Generation

As we launch International Heritage Breeds Week, we hope you’ll join us in bringing youth to the forefront of heritage breed conservation this week and throughout the coming year. We invite you to share ideas, experiences and activities this week on our social media pages to help us showcase the incredible contributions of young people working with heritage breeds in your organizations and communities.

Thank you for being a part of our mission. Together, we can equip the next generation not only to farm, but also to safeguard irreplaceable genetic resources, build a vibrant future for heritage breeds and become agricultural leaders!

Happy International Heritage Breeds Week!

Phil Sponenberg is professor emeritus of pathology and genetics at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech and serves as techinal adviser to The Livestock Conservancy. Allison Kincaid is executive director of The Livestock Conservancy.

The post The Next Generation in Conservation appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

The early success of AGRITX F-65 demonstrates the efficacy of an eggshell application, and the goal of the Consortium is to evaluate similar hatchery-based interventions. “It’s surprising how little focus there is on intercepting pathogens at this stage of production,” said Sloan. “To better understand how to combat bacteria like Salmonella or Campylobacter at the hatchery, this group is developing models that mimic colonization and transmission within the typical environment.” 

The Consortium is comprised of avian veterinarians, scientists, and researchers with unique specializations. They convene monthly to collaborate and share updates. AGRITX will post significant milestones and updates on the company’s blog page regularly throughout the remainder of the year.

ABOUT AGRITX:

AGRITX is an AgTech startup developing patented avian nutritional formulas to positively impact avian gut health from embryo to processing. AGRITX leadership envisions creating a sustainable future for poultry farmers by infusing resilience and forward-thinking into the industry while mitigating environmental impact. To learn more, visit www.agritx.farm

Representing the publication as part of the international press delegation, M. Matt is covering the latest developments and business opportunities connecting global dairy producers with the fast-growing Middle East and Asian markets.

“The dairy industry continues to evolve rapidly with new technologies, value-added products, and sustainable production systems. TUTTOFOOD 2026 offers an excellent platform for international dairy businesses to explore emerging opportunities in the Middle East and Asia,” said M. Matt.

The magazine’s coverage will highlight dairy innovations, livestock-linked food production, processing technologies, and international trade trends shaping the future of the agri-food industry.

For the full programme, please visit: https://www.tuttofood.it/en/conferences-2026/

We also got a lecture about how pervasive the Dutch dairy industry is, which is true. They have a lot of cows for a small country. I mentioned the historical movement of Dutch dairy farmers to Canada, where they can have thousands of cows, and the other person said, you know, I wondered about that when I lived there. Lots of Dutch surnames in certain Canadian provinces, apparently. Who knew? We knew.

It is a discussion that usually ends in a lot of smiles, because everyone has dairy in their fridges. People grew up with it, and even when they give up on other sectors – meat of varying kinds, processed foods – they stick with dairy. I usually wind up with their grocery list. I have kefir and yogurt and cheese, and the ultimate question is asked. What is your favourite cheese? For myself, I recently managed to buy some Bidlea Blue from Burt’s Cheese recently, registered for the masterclass at the Academy of Cheese, and then proceeded to skip the masterclass and scarf the cheese. Burt’s Blue was also quickly dispatched by us all. Oh they were divine. I apologise for missing the class, but by golly it was tasty cheese. (www.burtscheese.co.uk)

The post Dairy for all appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

Australian agri-tech company núaFEEDs is advancing a circular agriculture innovation in the UAE that would convert surplus bread from bakeries and retailers into livestock feed sourced locally in the Emirates. The model is designed to give surplus grain-based products a second life within the agricultural system while reducing reliance on imported feed used by dairy and livestock producers.International grain markets have experienced significant volatility in recent years as conflicts, transport bottlenecks, and climate related disruptions affect production and shipping routes. For livestock producers in import dependent regions such as the Gulf, where 80% of animal feed is imported, these shocks can translate into higher feed costs and supply uncertainty.

Using its proprietary, UAE-owned IP, AEROFLOW technology, núaFEEDs converts grain-based products into a high-value nutrition livestock feed ingredient with 99.7 percent purity and 15.9 percent crude protein, offering a potential substitute for some imported base grains used in livestock diets.Chava Berrill, CEO of núaFEEDs, said: “Recent years have shown how vulnerable global food supply chains can be. Turning surplus food into a valuable local resource can help strengthen supply resilience while supporting the UAE’s long term food security vision.”

The model aligns with the UAE National Food Security Strategy 2051 and the Circular Economy Policy 2021 to 2031, which encourage technologies that reduce food waste and strengthen domestic production systems.Each tonne of bread diverted from landfill can prevent more than 500 kilograms of CO₂ equivalent emissions while recovering approximately 13 cubic meters of water embedded in grain production.

núaFEEDs is currently finalising its first UAE processing facility and building supply partnerships with bakeries, retailers, and livestock producers to create a circular feed system within the Emirates. The company is also engaging UAE based partners as it develops the project, reflecting growing interest in scalable technologies that contribute to national food security and sustainability goals.This business model represents one of several agri-tech and circular economy solutions that UAE leadership has encouraged as part of broader efforts to strengthen long term food system resilience.

About núaFEEDs

núaFEEDs is a food systems innovation company that transforms surplus bread into safe, nutritious livestock feed. Founded on a farm in regional Australia, the company was built on a straightforward conviction: that waste is a design flaw, not an inevitability.Now operating in the United Arab Emirates, núaFEEDs works with supermarkets, bakeries, and food producers to collect unsold bread and upcycle it into high-quality animal feed, diverting thousands of tonnes from landfill while reducing farms’ dependence on imported feed grains. The company’s UAE facility directly supports the country’s Food Security Strategy 2051 and Circular Economy Policy.
More than a feed producer, núaFEEDs is a catalyst for smarter agriculture and circular economy leadership, proving that local insight, science, and a commitment to regeneration can turn one of the world’s oldest problems into a scalable solution.

This year, the show will focus on AI, robotics and automation and visitors can head to Ishida’s stand (Hall 11, Stand 11.D020) to see some of the latest poultry production line technology aligned with these themes. These include its IX-PD-Poultry X-ray inspection system, its RobotGrader robotics solution for tray and bulk packing simultaneously, and Ishida’s AI-powered production monitoring software, Sentinel 5.0. The IX-PD-Poultry takes centre stage for Ishida and has been designed specifically for the quality control and inspection challenges poultry processors face. Integrated with Ishida’s patented Genetic Algorithm (GA) technology and enhanced with dual-energy processing, the IX-PD-Poultry ensures a higher resolution and clearer image than can be achieved with conventional X-ray machines. This enables more reliable detection of low-density items such as bone fragments in poultry fillets. The X-ray inspection system’s advanced image processing provides consistent performance across varying product types, while its algorithmic learning helps poultry processors maintain stringent quality standards without compromising on output. 

Ishida will also be presenting the RobotGrader, which was brought into its portfolio at the end of last year. RobotGrader is a fully automated, high-speed packing solution that combines robotics with intelligent weighing and grading. Designed to reduce manual handling, the system automatically and precisely selects, grades and places products into trays or bulk crates. The Ishida RobotGrader can handle up to 320 pieces per minute, helping to reduce reliance on labour, increasing production output whilst reducing product giveaway. Completing the line‑up is Sentinel 5.0, Ishida’s AI-powered remote production and monitoring platform. Capable of machine learning, Sentinel 5.0 provides real‑time visibility of machine performance across entire production lines, even with non-Ishida machines. This functionality means it can provide predictive maintenance, faster troubleshooting and data‑driven optimisation. The revolutionary software helps processors reduce unplanned downtime, improve OEE and maximise the return on their equipment investment. 

Darren Chandler, General Manager for Protein Solutions at Ishida Europe, said: “Rising costs, lack of skilled labour, quality control and processing speeds are common pressures all poultry processors face. VIV Europe is a key opportunity for us to demonstrate how advanced inspection, grading and digital technologies can transform performance for them. “The IX‑PD‑Poultry, RobotGrader and Sentinel 5.0 each address critical industry needs, from labour shortages to quality control and line efficiency. Together, they show how automation and intelligent data can deliver higher throughput, greater consistency and stronger commercial returns. We’re looking forward to engaging with processors across Europe and showcasing the real values these systems can bring to our customer’s operations.” 

 Ishida Europe will exhibit at Hall 11, Stand 11.D020 at VIV Europe 2026. To find out more, visit www.ishidaeurope.com/en 

However, as a recent salmonella recall in the US of finished products containing whey powder, not to mention the ongoing cereulide-containing infant formula recalls globally, reminds everyone that having safe food ingredients is key to the safe food chain. Without the safeguards in place, up and down the line, it becomes a matter of endangering public health. Once this occurs, getting one’s ingredients from a supplier on the other side of the world suddenly seems less like a good idea. A company’s reputation can be damaged by a failure by an ingredient that gets into the finished product, but is not reliable.

That being said, the demand for whey continues. The global market was estimated to be US$9.35 billion in 2025, according to industry analysts Market Data Forecast, and is expected to see a compound annual growth rate of 8.1% through 2032. Rather interestingly, it is the older segments of the population who are demanding it to preserve muscle tissue, according to the report. The US based Council for Responsible Nutrition says that 43% of US adults regularly consume protein supplements, which are usually whey based. (www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/whey-protein-market)

So, this shall be interesting for the international whey market. As we all get older, we’re not just looking for longevity, but healthy lives for longer. Whey containing products, which are used for infants and athletes, are being added to the older generations’ diets, in many formats.

The post All the whey with whey appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

CDX, which takes place annually, presents technical solutions for Canadian dairy producers, ranging from milking technologies, nutrient management, forage equipment, genetics, nutrition and pharmaceuticals. The event attracts 350 exhibitors and includes a comprehensive technical program with numerous presentations, in depth discussions, and networking opportunities.A standout trend of this year’s show was the continued growth of youth engagement, an encouraging signal for the future of the Canadian dairy industry. “CDX 2026 drew an incredible number of young dairy producers, engaging in buying decisions and participating in every aspect of the event,” said Jordon Underhill, Director DLG Markets North America Exhibitions. “As dairy operations grow in scale, there is a need to retain the family unit to operate them. In youth we see the future and the future looks bright for the Canadian dairy industry.”
 
Youth-focused programming played a central role in the event, with Youth Day on day two featuring a highly attended “Dairy Showing Clinic and Fitting Clinic” in the aptly named Cow Coliseum. These hands-on learning opportunities continue to build skills and confidence among the next generation of dairy producers.Fundraising efforts at CDX 2026 once again delivered strong results for 4-H and Junior Farmers, highlighted by record-breaking grilled cheese and milkshake sales. These initiatives raise important funds that help foster the next generation of dairy producers. This fundraising success would not be possible without the generous support and product donations from Gay Lea Foods and Chapman’s Ice Cream.
 
International influence was another defining feature of CDX 2026, as the event expanded its global showcase with dedicated country pavilions and themed experiences. “The international flair at this year’s CDX was undeniable with large tour groups attending from Australia and Ireland,” said Jens Kremer, Managing Director of DLG Markets. “From the German and Netherlands pavilions to the Irish-themed DairyFEST, we brought a global perspective to CDX that added culture, innovation, and new ideas for Canadian dairy producers.”
 
The “Calves for a Cause sale” saw significant growth in 2026, with gross sale revenues increasing by 31 percent over the previous year. Gross sales climbed from $370,805 CAD in 2025 to $484,248 CAD in 2026, representing a significant donation to the Children’s Health Foundation. For the first time, the sale sold fresh cows that were displayed in the “Genetics in Motion Showcase” by four leading AI companies. Live and frozen genetics were sold across Canada and the United States, highlighting the sale’s growing reach. The high seller was a red Holstein, Lot 20, which sold for $19,000 to Alphie Stoltzfus of Gap, Pennsylvania. Another highlight was Jersey Lot 36, which sold for $11,500 to a member of the Eramosa 4-H Dairy Club. This purchase will become part of a TVO documentary titled “The Show Ring,” following the 4-H member and calf throughout the entire 2026 show season.The “Canadian Dairy Business Summit”, held one day prior to CDX, also returned for another successful year, with over 100 attendees – increasing by 20 percent – in its new location, on site at CDX. Building on this momentum, organizers plan to continue the Summit in 2027 with expanded programming, including afternoon sessions specifically tailored to exhibitors participating at CDX.

CDX would not be possible without the continued support of its Founding Partners, including Grand Valley Fortifiers, Progressive Dairy, Diamond V, Baker Tilly, and BVL, along with the many sponsors and exhibitors who bring innovation and energy to the XPO each year. “Looking ahead, we invite the industry to mark their calendars for the 13th edition of the Canadian Dairy XPO April 7-8, 2027, in Stratford, Ontario,” concluded Underhill.
 
About the Canadian Dairy XPO
CDX was incepted in 2013 and is located in Stratford, Ontario, the heart of Canada’s dairy production. DLG (German Agricultural Society) acquired CDX from North American event organizer Underhill Enterprise Inc. in June 2024 and established its subsidiary DLG Markets North America in Elora, Ontario. Set up to manage DLG’s activities across the continent, the subsidiary aims to provide North American farmers with access to technical solutions and best-practice knowledge. Its first major initiative was the launch of ADX – American Dairy XPO. The new subsidiary draws on DLG’s 135 years of international exhibition expertise to foster knowledge exchange and innovation in agriculture. The mother company, DLG Markets is a global leader in agricultural exhibitions, including the international trade shows Agritechnica and EuroTier in Germany.
 
For more information about Canadian Dairy XPO, visit canadiandairyxpo. ca

With a strong crush capacity of 7,500 MT/day, MGI’s decision is a key step towards deeper integration of supply chain transparency and sustainability in Bangladesh’s feed and food industry.

“Sustainability is at the core of MGI’s long-term vision, and the Sustainable U.S. Soy logo is a meaningful step in that journey,” added Tanzima Mostafa, Director, MGI. “It allows us to back our commitment with verified, credible standards — assuring our customers that the products they choose are rooted in responsible and transparent agricultural practices. For our customers, this is more than a label; it is the assurance that their investment aligns with a sustainable future. By embedding sustainability into our supply chain, we are not only delivering premium nutrition but also creating lasting value for our customers and the planet.”

With 51 years of experience, MGI has established itself as one of Bangladesh’s largest conglomerates, with a diverse portfolio spanning animal feed, crushing, edible oil, FMCG products, logistics, and more.

MGI now joins 20 forward-looking companies across South Asia that have signed agreements to adopt the SUSS labels, demonstrating the region’s growing shift towards embracing verified sustainable sourcing.

“We are very proud to see MGI’s leadership in adopting the Sustainable U.S. Soy label,” added Kevin Roepke, Executive Director, USSEC. “This partnership with U.S. Soy shows their dedication to integrating sustainability into their supply chains.  Bangladesh is one of the world’s most vulnerable countries to climate change and by leaning into this program, MGI is demonstrating meaningful action.”

A strong trading partner, Bangladesh has already imported 1.13 million metric tons of soybeans from the U.S. in the 2025/2026 marketing year,[1] with MGI representing more than half of that volume. The adoption of the label builds on letters of intent that MGI signed last year, along with Bangladesh’s key stakeholders, to increase U.S. Soy purchases to $1.25 billion.  

At the core of this milestone is the  U.S. Soy Sustainability Assurance Protocol (SSAP). Recognized worldwide as a symbol of responsible soybean sourcing, the label is available at no cost to qualifying companies. U.S. Soy is grown using verified sustainable farming practices that enhance soil health, air quality, water management, and more.

About The U.S. Soy Sustainable Assurance Protocol (SSAP): The SSAP is a tool that aggregates sustainability and conservation principles to verify sustainable soy production on U.S. soybean farms. The protocol verifies shipments of U.S. Soy as sustainable through a national system of sustainability and conservation laws and regulations. It is based on biodiversity and high carbon stock; production practices; public and labor health and welfare; and continuous improvement. The verification process also involves the careful implementation of best production practices by more than 270,000 U.S. soybean farms and their voluntary participation in numerous audited sustainability and conservation programs.

About U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC):

The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) focuses on differentiating, elevating preference, and attaining market access for the use of U.S. Soy for human consumption, aquaculture, and livestock feed in more than 90 countries internationally. USSEC members represent the soy supply chain including U.S. Soy farmers, processors, commodity shippers, merchandisers, allied agribusinesses, and agricultural organizations. USSEC is funded by the U.S. Soy Checkoff, USDA Foreign Agricultural Service matching funds, and industry.

Visit www.ussec.org for the latest information about USSEC and U.S. Soy internationally. 

The show welcomed 7,100 professional visitors from 37 countries, 101 industry leaders, 23 VIPs and dignitaries from national and international government bodies, and 130 exhibitors spanning poultry production, dairy technology, animal health, feed ingredients and additives, breeding and hatching technology, food engineering, aquaculture, and agri-tech. Participation which filled the 10,000 sqm exhibition floor came from companies across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and South America reflecting India’s growing importance as a destination market for global innovation in animal protein production. The show was covered by 39 members of the local press.

Over the first two days, the conference programme highlighted sessions in Advances in Poultry Sector and Advances in Biologicals and Vaccines with speakers coming from leading Indian and international companies and institutions.

Where Indian Industry and Global Innovation Converged

Exhibitors at the inaugural edition included Big Dutchman, JBT Marel India, Viscon Hatchery Automation, De Heus Animal Nutrition India, FAMSUN, and Venky’s India, Biozene, ASM Process Automation, Sanzyme Biologics, Optima Poultry and many other Indian and international companies. The exhibition floor offered solutions across automation, precision farming, animal

health, biosecurity, processing technology, and digital tools designed for the specific production realities of the Indian market.

The show opened with a formal inaugural ceremony attended by senior government and industry figures, including H.E. Ms. Marisa Gerards, Ambassador of the Netherlands Embassy in India, Nepal & Bhutan; Mr. Jeroen van Hooff, President and CEO, Royal Jaarbeurs and VNU Group; Mr. Mahipal Dhanda, Hon’ble Education Minister, Government of Haryana; Mr. Ranpal Dhanda, President, PFI; Dr. S.K. Dutta, Joint Commissioner (NLM), Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India; and esteemed dignitaries from PFI. The ceremony was moderated by Dr. Jeetendra Varma.VIV Square served as the hub for professional dialogue throughout the three days, with sessions addressing poultry production, dairy advancement, animal health, nutrition strategy, processing performance, and the integration of automation and AI in livestock management — all grounded in the challenges and opportunities facing producers in India.

A highlight was the Dairy Conference, which drew strong attendance and brought together industry leaders, farmers, and innovators for a dedicated day of dialogue. Discussions ranged from India’s dairy sector within a global context to strengthening Indo-Dutch partnerships aimed at supporting medium-sized dairy farmers, generating significant engagement and reflecting the collaborative momentum shaping the sector’s future.

Patrick van Rooij, Project Manager of VIV Select India, shares, “The response from the Indian industry to this first edition has been something we are genuinely proud of. Producers, integrators, technology providers and policymakers came together with a shared intent: to exchange, to learn, and to build. What we saw on this show floor gives us every confidence that this platform will grow into something of lasting value for the sector.”

Arriving at India’s Moment of Transformation

India’s animal protein sector is undergoing rapid change. As the world’s largest milk producer and one of the fastest-growing poultry markets globally, the country is at a point where scale must be matched by efficiency, resilience, and smarter use of technology. VIV Select India was conceived as a long-term platform to support that transition, connecting the full feed-to-food value chain in a way that reflects the specific needs and structure of the Indian market.The partnership with PFI has been central to the event’s foundation. As PFI President Ranpal Dhanda noted ahead of the show, the collaboration is designed to help Indian producers access cutting-edge technologies and international best practices, while showcasing India’s production potential to the global community — a two-way exchange the inaugural edition actively delivered upon.

Rajeevan Vattakat, VIV Worldwide representative in India happily says, “VIV Select India 2026 has exceeded all expectations and delivered a quality show which the Indian animal protein industry was looking for many years. There were quality visitors, an excellent atmosphere to discuss business opportunities and moreover, attendees from India and abroad.”

First Edition Sets the Foundation for Future Growth

The breadth of participation at VIV Select India 2026 from domestic producers and national associations to international exhibitors and government stakeholders reflected a genuine appetite for a dedicated, high-quality platform of this kind in India.Jeroen van Hooff, President and CEO of Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs and VNU Group, remarks, “VIV Worldwide has spent over four decades building trust with the industries and markets it serves. We do not enter a market for a single edition — we enter to build something durable. India is one of the most significant animal protein markets in the world, and the response to this inaugural edition reinforces our belief that this is the right platform, in the right place, at the right time. VIV Select India is a long-term investment in the Indian industry, and we are proud to stand alongside the Poultry Federation of India and the broader sector in that commitment.”

The VIV Worldwide team and its partners extend their gratitude to the exhibitors, visitors, speakers, industry associations, and government stakeholders whose participation made VIV Select India 2026 a strong and purposeful debut.Building on the strong rebook interest of the current exhibitors and the wider industry support, the next edition of VIV Select India is set to take place from April 21–23, 2027, in New Delhi.

Visit india.viv.net for more information on VIV Select India and viv.net for all the shows under the VIV Worldwide portfolio.

I learned before I even hit Blackheath walking. One, the stewards are already there at 6am, lining the roads. Two, there’s the reverse night marathon, where over 1,000 people ran the route, starting at the Mall at just after midnight, and ending in Blackheath. Medals and everything. I ran into three of them on my way. They were headed to get breakfast and go home. Considering they had been loping along in the dead of night, they all looked surprisingly chipper.

Three, I am unable to recognise anyone due to a few things: if they are out of context (say, in running gear) and are below a certain age, I have no idea. My facial recognition skills are poor on a good day. So, we had a lot of people who are celebrities go by and nope, I was clueless. Plus, everyone’s so busy getting folks ready for their run.

I probably did see Sabastian Sawa (first sub two hour marathoner), but I was busy admiring people’s Puma rainbow trainers on the start line, as well as chatting about those gel packets they all have. And then getting out of the way.

The thing about this type of volunteering is that it’s slow to start and before you know it, the day is done and off you go. You do meet such interesting people. I did chat with a woman from Merrick, New York, which is 20 minutes from where I grew up, who was running. There was one woman who was on marathon 64. Every single one of those 59,000 or so had a story. We even got one wave to do a Mexican wave with us.

I went home, sunburnt, and put my feet up after 12.7km of walking. Couldn’t even imagine doing the 43km, which is what the marathons are. But will definitely try and volunteer again. A grand day out.

The post The world comes to London appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

Gulizia originally wanted to be a veterinarian and credits his longtime mentor, educator Kevin Downs, Ph.D., with the shift to animal agriculture.“While I was studying animal science at Middle Tennessee State University, I conducted undergraduate research in ruminant and poultry nutrition with Dr. Downs,” he says. “He introduced me to animal agriculture research and encouraged me to pursue graduate studies in poultry science.”NOVUS Exec Manager-Global Poultry Technology Lead Hugo Romero, Ph.D., says having the young researcher join his team fits the company’s goals for poultry research.

“We specifically wanted someone who would bring fresh energy, curiosity, and new ideas into our poultry research program—someone who can grow within the company by challenging the status quo and contributing to meaningful, longterm improvements,” says Romero. “Although Joseph is just completing his postdoctoral fellowship, his academic and research accomplishments already rival those of seasoned industry professionals.”Gulizia has led broiler nutrition trials, published peer‑reviewed research, and built deep expertise in feed additives, calcium and mineral nutrition, gut health, and nutrient digestibility. Romero says his background blends strong statistical and experimental design training with hands‑on experience in feed milling, including particle size analysis, pelleting, and feed manufacturing workshops.

“His innovative mindset, extensive publication record, and ability to translate complex data into practical insights make him the ideal scientist to help us expand our research capabilities at NOVUS,” says Romero.Gulizia’s research at NOVUS will focus on understanding the company’s organic trace mineral, eubiotic, and enzyme products through bird performance, nutrient utilization, and gut health to support customers and the poultry industry.“I’m still early in my time at NOVUS, but I have already seen that the poultry team is highly committed to developing innovative nutritional strategies and feed solutions to help customers manage challenges such as necrotic enteritis and support overall flock performance,” he says.

A native of Tennessee now residing in North Carolina, Gulizia is a member of the Poultry Science Association and World Poultry Science Association.NOVUS is the intelligent nutrition company combining global scientific research with local insights to develop innovative, advanced technology that helps farmers get more from their herds and flocks. Learn more about how NOVUS is supporting poultry to meet their full potential at novusint.com.

Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Growtech Middle East brings together 9,000+ attendees and 150+ exhibitors across seven key sectors, making it the region’s leading meeting point for agriculture innovation and investment.

The show unites the full agricultural ecosystem under one roof, from seeds, plant nutrition and crop protection to greenhouse technologies, irrigation systems, agricultural machinery, livestock, poultry and aquaculture. It showcases solutions designed to support productivity, efficiency and sustainability in the region’s challenging climate.

As the UAE advances its Food Security Strategy, Growtech Middle East plays a key role in connecting global expertise with regional opportunity, bringing together government entities, buyers, distributors and industry leaders.

With strong international reach and a highly engaged audience, the event offers a platform to build connections, launch products and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving sector.

For more information https://informaconnect.com/agra-middle-east/

“Sustainability is at the core of MGI’s long-term vision, and the Sustainable U.S. Soy logo is a meaningful step in that journey,” added Tanzima Mostafa, Director, MGI. “It allows us to back our commitment with verified, credible standards — assuring our customers that the products they choose are rooted in responsible and transparent agricultural practices. For our customers, this is more than a label; it is the assurance that their investment aligns with a sustainable future. By embedding sustainability into our supply chain, we are not only delivering premium nutrition but also creating lasting value for our customers and the planet.”

 With 51 years of experience, MGI has established itself as one of Bangladesh’s largest conglomerates, with a diverse portfolio spanning animal feed, crushing, edible oil, FMCG products, logistics, and more.MGI now joins 20 forward-looking companies across South Asia that have signed agreements to adopt the SUSS labels, demonstrating the region’s growing shift towards embracing verified sustainable sourcing.

“We are very proud to see MGI’s leadership in adopting the Sustainable U.S. Soy label,” added Kevin Roepke, Executive Director, USSEC. “This partnership with U.S. Soy shows their dedication to integrating sustainability into their supply chains.  Bangladesh is one of the world’s most vulnerable countries to climate change and by leaning into this program, MGI is demonstrating meaningful action.”

A strong trading partner, Bangladesh has already imported 1.13 million metric tons of soybeans from the U.S. in the 2025/2026 marketing year,[1] with MGI representing more than half of that volume. The adoption of the label builds on letters of intent that MGI signed last year, along with Bangladesh’s key stakeholders, to increase U.S. Soy purchases to $1.25 billion.  

At the core of this milestone is the  U.S. Soy Sustainability Assurance Protocol (SSAP). Recognized worldwide as a symbol of responsible soybean sourcing, the label is available at no cost to qualifying companies. U.S. Soy is grown using verified sustainable farming practices that enhance soil health, air quality, water management, and more.

About The U.S. Soy Sustainable Assurance Protocol (SSAP): The SSAP is a tool that aggregates sustainability and conservation principles to verify sustainable soy production on U.S. soybean farms. The protocol verifies shipments of U.S. Soy as sustainable through a national system of sustainability and conservation laws and regulations. It is based on biodiversity and high carbon stock; production practices; public and labor health and welfare; and continuous improvement. The verification process also involves the careful implementation of best production practices by more than 270,000 U.S. soybean farms and their voluntary participation in numerous audited sustainability and conservation programs. 

About U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC):

The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) focuses on differentiating, elevating preference, and attaining market access for the use of U.S. Soy for human consumption, aquaculture, and livestock feed in more than 90 countries internationally. USSEC members represent the soy supply chain including U.S. Soy farmers, processors, commodity shippers, merchandisers, allied agribusinesses, and agricultural organizations. USSEC is funded by the U.S. Soy Checkoff, USDA Foreign Agricultural Service matching funds, and industry. Visit  www.ussec.org for the latest information about USSEC and U.S. Soy internationally. 

Modern Milkman has expanded its dairy range with the introduction of “brewed milk” brand Mossgiel from Scottish organic farm Mossgiel Organic Dairy. The milk has an RSP of £2.80 for a one-litre glass bottle, which to my mind is what people should be paying for a litre of the white stuff anyway. The £1.20 for two pints usual is barely covering costs.

Mossgiel’s “brewed milk” offers a seasonally evolving flavour, with a natural cream layer for texture. Gently pasteurised at a lower temperature (68°C for five minutes), it preserves proteins and full flavour while remaining safe and non-homogenised, the company says. The process is also highly efficient, using about 90% less energy than traditional methods.

While raw milk itself cannot be widely sold across the UK, the move marks the latest step in Modern Milkman’s strategy to champion high-quality, minimally processed dairy, it says.

The milk’s taste comes from Mossgiel’s grass-fed cows, which are fed a completely natural, seasonal diet free from concentrates, GMOs, chemicals and synthetic additives. Elements such as seaweed are included to provide natural iodine and support with the cow’s immunity, resulting in a clean, evolving flavour.

Every bottle supports regenerative farming and the highest animal welfare standards, bringing together two sustainably led businesses in the Mossgiel offering via Modern Milkman. Plus, it is also supporting Scotland’s organic dairy farmers.

Mossgiel was the first UK dairy to eliminate single-use plastics, while Modern Milkman reinforces this commitment through its reusable glass bottles and doorstep collection model, an approach still rare at scale for one-litre formats nationwide. I for one like the one-litre format, as you can see from my fridge layout in the photo. More one-litre bottles would be space-saving.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International. Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

The post Modernising the milk supply with Mossgiel appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

This landmark approval was granted by MPI after a rigorous evaluation process. This milestone helps ensure that Cobb‑Vantress New Zealand can continue exporting broiler breeding stock to countries accepting compartment status, even in the event of a national disease outbreak, including High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI) or Newcastle disease (ND).The compartment covers CVNZ’s rearing, production farms and hatchery operations. The compartment status applies to HPAI, Low Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (LPAI), Newcastle disease, Salmonella ser. Gallinarum var. Pullorum and Salmonella ser. Gallinarum var. Gallinarum, providing confidence to international customers and trading partners that stringent biosecurity, surveillance, and management systems are in place.“Achieving compartment status is a very significant accomplishment for our New Zealand team and the wider Cobb‑Vantress organization,” said Roy Mutimer, Vice President EMEA and Asia-Pacific. “This achievement reflects more than a year of rigorous planning, surveillance, validation, and collaboration with MPI and our verification partners to meet one of the highest international standards for poultry disease management.”

First in New Zealand History

Cobb‑Vantress New Zealand’s approval marks the first implementation of poultry compartmentalization in New Zealand’s history, setting a new benchmark for biosecurity and export resilience within the country’s poultry sector.Under the compartment model, animal health and trade continuity are maintained through strictly controlled biosecurity systems and management practices, rather than being determined solely by regional or national disease status. This approach aligns with international standards established by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) and is increasingly critical as global poultry industries face heightened disease risks.

Protecting Customers and Global Supply

For CVNZ customers, the new status provides added assurance of continuity of supply, even during disease events that might otherwise disrupt international trade.

“Compartment status allows us to better help protect our customers, by safeguarding genetic supply chains, and maintaining business continuity under challenging conditions,” added Mutimer. “It reinforces Cobb‑Vantress’ long‑term commitment to New Zealand, our people, and our global customers.”Ongoing verification of the CVNZ compartment will be conducted by AsureQuality Limited, ensuring stringent compliance with MPI requirements and robust oversight of all approved operations. We look forward to the authorities in importing countries recognizing the CVNZ Compartment and amending import conditions accordingly.

ABOUT COBB
Cobb-Vantress, LLC is the world’s longest-established pedigree broiler breeding company and a global leader in poultry genetics. Headquartered in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, we are dedicated to advancing the science of poultry breeding to help feed the world with healthy and affordable protein. Our innovative genetic solutions help empower producers in more than 100 countries to meet growing demand with efficiency and confidence. Learn more at cobbgenetics.com.

Exhibitors and Technologies on Display
VIV Select India 2026 features over 130 exhibitors, representing a strong mix of Indian and international companies. Participation spans Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, underscoring India’s growing importance as a destination for innovation, investment, and long term collaboration in animal protein production.

The event is supported by a broad coalition of national and regional industry associations, reinforcing its role as a unifying platform for poultry, dairy, and allied livestock sectors.
The exhibition floor presents a comprehensive cross section of technologies and services designed to enhance productivity, efficiency, sustainability, and product quality across animal protein production. Visitors can expect solutions ranging from automation and precision systems to animal health, biosecurity, processing, and digital tools.International and Indian companies such as Big Dutchman, JBT Marel India, Viscon Hatchery Automation, De Heus Animal Nutrition India, FAMSUN, Venky’s India, and Himalaya Wellness Company are among those confirmed—alongside many other technology providers serving integrators, producers, processors, and service companies.

VIV Square: Knowledge Exchange at the Core
VIV Square opens with a formal inaugural ceremony marked by the presence of senior industry leaders and government representatives, including Mr. Jeroen van Hooff, President & CEO of Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs and VNU Group, Mr. Ranpal Dhanda, President of the Poultry Federation of India, and Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Honorable Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying. The opening is further distinguished by participation from key public and diplomatic stakeholders such as Ms. Varsha Joshi, Additional Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India, H.E. Ms. Marisa Gerards, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and Shri Mahipal Dhanda, Education Minister of Haryana.

Across the three days, the programme includes expert-led sessions addressing critical developments in poultry production, dairy advancement, and animal health. Industry leaders from companies including Viscon Hatchery Automation, De Heus Animal Nutrition, JBT Marel, Venkateshwara Hatcheries (Ventri Biologicals), MSD Animal Health, HIPRA, CEVA, Holm & Laue, Binsar Farms, and Verka Dairy are all to share insights on topics such as automation and AI in production systems, nutrition strategies, processing performance, international dairy collaboration, and advances in vaccines and biologicals.

Patrick van Rooij, Project Manager – VIV Select India shares, “The poultry and livestock sectors are entering a phase where scale must be matched by efficiency, resilience, and smarter use of technology. VIV Select India has been developed to support that shift—by connecting the value chain, facilitating knowledge exchange, and giving professionals direct access to solutions that work in real production environments. This platform is as much about dialogue and learning as it is about business. Our goal is to create conversations that lead to stronger partnerships, better decisions, and long term value for the industry as a whole.”

Registration and Visitor Information
VIV Select India 2026 is open exclusively to trade professionals active across the animal protein and livestock value chain, including producers, integrators, processors, veterinarians, feed manufacturers, technology providers, consultants, policymakers, and industry media.Visitor admission is free of charge and includes access to the full exhibition floor as well as all sessions at VIV Square, the show’s integrated knowledge programme. Advance online registration is recommended to ensure smooth entry and timely access to event updates and programme scheduling. The show is open during the event dates from 10:00 to 18:00.

Visitors can register online at india.viv.net/registration.

Rabbits are relative newcomers in the gallery of domestic animals, having only been domesticated and shaped into what we know as breeds in the last few hundred years.

All our modern rabbit breeds descended from the European wild rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus, which was first discovered by Phoenician sailors around 1000 BCE on the Iberian Peninsula. From there, they spread across the globe and are now found on nearly every continent as domestic animals.

Over 300 rabbit breeds exist worldwide in the present day.  French monks are credited with developing some of the first breeds. While no records exist of their process, it’s easy to imagine them taking advantage of random genetic mutations to tweak colors and patterns. The brown agouti color of the original model is rarely found today, and an entire gallery of colors and patterns exists, as well as a wide range of body types and sizes.

Walled rabbit “gardens” soon became the strict province of the French nobility. These gardens weren’t like the gardens we think of today, rather, they were large areas reserved for hunting. Rabbit warrens, which we are more familiar with today, developed from there.

By the late 1890s, dozens of breeds and varieties had been developed, and the Belgian Hare craze had just started to make its way to the United States. Exorbitant prices were being paid for Belgian Hares, and names like Rockefeller and Guggenheim were showing up in the show ring. Rabbits were no longer just for food or fur, but the show fancy had taken root.

In the early 20^th century, three uniquely American breeds were developed, which have been recognized on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List.

The American Blue was recognized as an official breed in 1918. Furriers were crazy over the beautiful blue color of the pelts, and a good breeding doe could command a princely sum of $25 at the time. They are also a good meat breed, with their mandolin body shape offering a longer loin. The American White was developed soon after in 1925.

The American Chinchilla followed soon after, in 1919. These excellent meat rabbits were also prized for their fur; the “salt and pepper” look of the fur is from distinct color bands along each hair shaft. Edward Stahl, the gentleman credited with developing the breed, made a million dollars with them during the depression.

The Silver Fox came along in 1925 and was recognized in both black and blue. Their unique pelts feature a “stand up” fur, which remains upright when stroked

Silver Fox doe

backward, rather than snapping back to its original position. They are solid-colored, with white hairs scattered throughout their dense fur.

All three of these breeds were excellent meat rabbits and spread widely throughout the country, providing both food and profit from pelts for the people raising them.

As time went on, American culture shifted from more rural to more urban, and many people left their rural roots for the opportunities available in cities. Rabbit fell out of favor as beef and chicken became more readily available in grocery store meat counters. The development of synthetic fibers meant no one needed fur. Many rabbit breeds became hard to find, and some barely hung on thanks to the efforts of a small handful of dedicated breeders and fanciers. A few, sadly, became extinct. Many of the breeds now shown by the American Rabbit Breeders Association are small, pet-type breeds rather than the larger, meat-type breeds of old.

Fortunately, a pendulum always swings back, and the blooming interest over the last 25 years in more sustainable farming, homesteading and growing your own food has given rabbits a new lease on life.

Rabbits can provide quality protein with less space than just about any other type of livestock. They are one of the most sustainable species of livestock for the homestead. They grow quickly and can be table-ready in 8-12 weeks after birth or ready to be breeding stock in about 6 months. They are easy to skin, and processing is much less messy than plucking chickens. They won’t annoy your neighbors with relentless morning crowing either! The rabbit’s habit of consuming their night fecal pellets and digesting their food twice means their manure is not considered “hot” and can be applied directly to the garden.

Rabbit meat is also high in protein, iron and B vitamins, and low in fat, as they do not deposit fat intramuscularly like beef, for example.

Smaller pet-type breeds may hold sway in the rabbit world today, but there is still a place and a home for meat rabbits in a sustainable farmstead. A huge thanks goes out to the dedicated breeders who kept these breeds and types around for us to be able to enjoy them today!

Special thanks to the American Rabbit Breeders Association for sponsoring Celebrating 250 outreach and content about rabbits. Visit them at www.arba.net.

If you’re considering sheep ownership, you can learn more about each heritage breed on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List at https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/conservation-priority-list/.

If you’re ready to purchase sheep or want to talk with a breeder, you can most likely find what you’re looking for in our online Breeders and Products Directory at https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/breeders-directory/

If you would like to support the ongoing work of The Livestock Conservancy, you can become a member or make a donation at https://livestockconservancy.org/

Raising awareness of heritage breeds is the first step to preventing their extinction. You can help by following our Facebook or Instagram page and sharing our posts to spread the word. https://www.facebook.com/livestockconservancy

The post Heritage Rabbits in American History appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

Ireland produces some of the most carbon-efficient milk in the world while sustaining a €7.3 billion dairy export industry that supports 60,000 jobs. Global demand for animal protein is projected to rise 20% per capita by 2050, and Ireland is one of the few places equipped to meet this demand responsibly. While Ireland’s leadership in sustainable dairy production is recognized globally, less well understood are the pressures that come with it.

What “The Pasture Paradox” means

Ireland’s mild climate, high rainfall and fertile soils grow grass for most of the year — and it’s that lush grass, converted by 1.6 million dairy cows, that powers one of the world’s most efficient dairy systems. This natural advantage has built a global reputation and an export industry that anchors rural communities while playing an outsized role in meeting global protein needs. But maintaining the productivity of Ireland’s pastures requires nitrogen, which is putting pressure on the nation’s historically pristine rivers and waterways. This tension has become an increasingly complex challenge within one of the world’s most efficient and sustainable food systems.

The Irish dairy sector faces many challenges, including a workforce facing generational turnover, geopolitical tensions, policy changes and tight margins, as well as a consumer base that is growing up further removed from agriculture — but the problem of nitrates and water quality may be the most pressing.

A recent private screening and panel discussion of The Pasture Paradox brought together leaders from across the Irish agri-food industry to examine the tension between Ireland’s outsized role in global dairy production and the environmental limits shaping the nation’s future. The panel included Tom Cronin, executive director, Our Food Roots; Niall Moore, farmer; Dr. Lisa Koep, chief ESG officer, Tirlán; Dr. Laura Burke, former director general, EPA; and Tara McCarthy, vice president of ESG at Alltech.“The Pasture Paradox and panel discussion show a sector that understands both its strengths and its responsibilities,” McCarthy said. “Grass-based production, family farming and strong assurance systems are real assets to Irish dairy. But today’s conversation has also reinforced something equally important: that having a low global footprint does not exempt us from local accountability, particularly when it comes to water quality and environmental outcomes at catchment level.”

“Farmers have always been incredibly adaptable and innovative, and that gives me hope that they can face future challenges,” said Dr. Lisa Koep of Tirlán. “Incentivizing change is very important too for sustainable solutions. A lot of these solutions have costs associated with them and we need to explore how the co-ops, policy-makers and government can help make some of these solutions better value.”Niall Moore said, “Farming does face challenges but the science and desire to solve these challenges also keeps getting better. There is an answer to any and all of the questions or issues we have out there, so we will continue to improve. I really believe in the quality of the milk we produce.”

For more information, visit worldwithoutcows.com/ireland.

Indeed, as people up and down the supply chain seek to lower their carbon footprints, this trend will continue its ascent, rather than decrease. Scope 1 and 2 are being done by companies worldwide, and now it is everything from the farm to the fork that is being examined for carbon and resource reductions for scope 3.

Packaging is a key aspect of this systemic inspection, as explained by the UK’s National Grid website (in charge of the energy network in the country): “Scope 3 encompasses emissions that are not produced by the company itself and are not the result of activities from assets owned or controlled by them, but by those that it’s indirectly responsible for up and down its value chain. An example of this is when we buy, use and dispose of products from suppliers. Scope 3 emissions include all sources not within the scope 1 and 2 boundaries.”

It is a terrific challenge, but I feel like with other things humans have done right lately, it can be done. We’ve flown people the furthest away from the earth, ever, in the past week or so. We have seen a rebound in global whale populations from 10,000 in the 1970s to around 80,000 now. The ozone layer hole, which was quite big, is now set to recover to previous smaller levels due to the Montreal Protocol (1987) and the banning of ozone depleting chemicals. It seems that, once we stop doing stupid, destructive things, we can continue to make our home planet better.

The post What’s in the package appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

Asia’s aquaculture industry is facing a new level of complexity. Ingredient markets are volatile, traditional raw materials such as fishmeal and fish oil are becoming less predictable, and sustainability expectations continue to shape feed development decisions. Many companies are adjusting formulations to control costs — but without a solid, species-specific nutritional foundation, cost reduction efforts can unintentionally reduce performance and create long-term inefficiencies.

Leadership aligned with long-term direction

“Antonin brings a strong combination of strategic insight and practical experience,” said Aviagen CEO Jan Henriksen. “His understanding of Asia’s poultry markets and production realities positions him well to lead our business in the region. I am confident that his vision and commitment to sustainable growth will support our customers and help guide our future in Asia.”Antonin highlighted the importance of collaboration with teams and customers across the region. “Asia brings many different poultry production models and expectations,” he said. “I look forward to working with our teams and customers to support their goals and continue breeding success together.”

Proven leadership with deep regional experience

Antonin brings more than 24 years of international leadership experience across Asia, with a strong understanding of diverse poultry markets and customer needs. Known for his entrepreneurial approach, he has driven business growth through strategic planning, practical execution, and the leadership of cross-functional teams in multicultural environments.He joins Aviagen from Ceva Animal Health, where he spent 13 years in senior leadership roles, including Country Manager for Vietnam, Cambodia, and China, followed by Asia-Pacific Vice-President.Antonin holds a Master’s in Business Administration and a Master’s in Agribusiness.

Supporting a diverse and dynamic region

Across Asia, poultry production and consumption vary widely, shaped by local markets, climates, and customer priorities. Aviagen’s multi-brand approach — with Arbor Acres^® , Indian River^® and Ross^® lines of premier breeding stock — is designed to reflect this diversity, helping customers select solutions suited to their markets.

Antonin will deepen the focus on supporting customers with breeding strategies that align with their day-to-day production needs and long-term objectives, while promoting strong animal welfare outcomes alongside performance. By linking global research closely with regional teams and farm-level application, and by strengthening regional supply networks, Aviagen aims to help customers build resilient poultry production operations that contribute to food security and shared success across the region.

Unibio welcomed SIIG as an investor in 2023. Since then, the partners have made significant progress preparing to build the world’s largest single-cell protein plant in Saudi Arabia based on Unibio’s patented vertical loop bioreactor technology. With its abundance of natural gas, Saudi Arabia is an ideal location to use Unibio’s unique fermentation technology to produce single-cell protein – Uniprotein® – with natural gas as feedstock. As part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is looking to diversify its economy and create dynamic opportunities for its citizens through education, entrepreneurship and innovation. Unibio’s transformational technology and SIIG’s strategic aspirations mark a significant milestone by bringing the most sophisticated industrial fermentation to the Kingdom.

The plant will be located in Al Jubail and will produce an initial 50,000 tonnes of Uniprotein® annually with plans to increase to over 300,000 tonnes in the coming years. The plant aims to reduce Saudi Arabia’s dependency on animal feed imports. The Uniprotein® produced is expected to be sold both domestically and internationally.

‍Gas turned into feed‍

The plant will use Unibio’s proprietary vertical loop bioreactor technology, a continuous-flow fermentation process that replicates nature in converting methane into Uniprotein®, a high-quality and sustainable single-cell protein for animal feed.

Uniprotein® has been tested successfully in various animal species. Non-GMO, free from pesticides, and fully traceable, it is approved for aquaculture in Saudi Arabia, for feed in the EU and has additional registrations globally.

The front-end engineering design (FEED) was completed last year, and construction of the plant is anticipated to commence in the second half of 2026, with commercialisation expected to start in 2028. This facility will be the largest single-cell protein facility ever built in the world. A gas allocation for the plant has been received from Saudi Ministry of Energy, and a site has been nominated by the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu. The project has also received strong support from a number of related Saudi Government entities.

The Joint Venture agreement follows a US$ 70 million investment in Unibio from SIIG in 2023. SIIG’s strategy to grow and diversify its business – will be accelerated by its investment in Unibio.

‍Commenting on the JV, David Henstrom, CEO of Unibio said:

“The world needs innovators who collectively want to find a solution to providing food stability for future generations. We believe that our fermentation technology, which incorporates the most efficient reactor of its kind in gas fermentation, is ideal for Saudi Arabia. We are delighted to join with SIIG as a JV partner to bring industrial scale fermentation to the Kingdom and look forward to working together to address an authentic problem – how to feed a growing population with minimal impact on the planet”.

‍Mr. Abdulrahman Alismail of Saudi Industrial Investment Group, added:

“We are excited to work on developing this project alongside our partner Unibio, and look forward to bringing sustainable protein production to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, our region, and the rest of the world. We see this as a strategic investment for our company and the long-term growth in shareholder value. Using Unibio’s technology, we aim to make Saudi Arabia the leader in single-cell protein production and improve food security for both Saudi Arabia and the world’s growing population”.

For more information, visit www.unibio.dk

Space travel shows us truths about ourselves on this planet. Look, we are small and those astronauts are so very brave. I look forward to all the space photos that we have not seen in decades and new ones besides.

While governments and their leaders down here seem to be hellbent on ruining the planet we live on and destroying places we call home, the space flight reminds us of how beautiful and fragile it all is. Our blue and green lovely home. We should be working on keeping it safe and secure, not wrecking it. Let’s face it, if we can have whale populations rebounding after many years of hunting them, then perhaps other areas of our globe can be improved as well, with some work.

I also enjoy the songs the astronauts are woken up to every day. This morning it was a voice note from the late Jim Lovell of Apollo 13, passing on the torch to the current crew, whereas on day four it was Chappell Roan’s Pink Pony Club.

Meanwhile, the giant that is India in dairy and most other human endeavours is waking up too, with the news that Amul has passed one trillion rupees in turnover, with its 1.6 million farmers (as if Estonia decided to have every one of its inhabitants be a dairy farmer, and add in Iceland as well). The second White Revolution is underway in India, and as Amul starts an export push to markets in the US and elsewhere, it shall be of interest to see how this affects the global markets.

The post Artemis and the moon appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

Hamlet Protein is widely recognized for its highly digestible soy-based ingredients that promote gut health and consistent early-life performance. Its patented technology ensures reliable and consistent quality, which is crucial for feed manufacturers. The company employs around 115 people and operates production facilities in Denmark and the United States and a sales office in China, serving customers worldwide.Integrating Hamlet Protein’s capabilities with Royal Agrifirm Group’s nutritional expertise and global network strengthens the combined offering for early-life nutrition. CEO Piet Hilarides said the acquisition aligns completely with the company’s mission, explaining that “Hamlet Protein’s proven technology strengthens our ability to help customers achieve optimal animal health and performance throughout the life cycle, driven by our shared focus on early feeding. This fits directly with our purpose of contributing to a responsible food chain for future generations.”

Hamlet Protein’s current owner, Altor, expressed confidence in the transition. Søren Johansen, Senior Partner at Altor, said the agreement places Hamlet Protein with the right long-term partner, stating that “Agrifirm’s focus on specialty nutrition, and its international presence create an excellent platform for Hamlet Protein to further scale its technology and impact.”For Royal Agrifirm Group’s Specialties business, the acquisition expands both technological capabilities and market relevance. Bas van Driel, Group Director Specialties, noted that “Hamlet Protein is a strong addition to our strategy of bringing differentiated, science-based concepts to our valued customers and partners in the feed industry worldwide. Their early-life protein solutions and know-how allow us to develop more integrated nutritional concepts that support customers in achieving consistent performance and improved feed efficiency.”

Hamlet Protein CEO Erik Visser highlighted the opportunity for growth and innovation, noting that “joining Royal Agrifirm Group allows us to accelerate our development, expand our global reach and continue delivering high-digestibility solutions that support young animal health. This step creates exciting new opportunities for both our customers and our employees.”After closing, Hamlet Protein will continue operating under its own name as part of Royal Agrifirm Group. Both organizations will work closely together to combine their capabilities and further strengthen differentiated nutritional concepts for their valued customers in the global feed industry.

About Hamlet Protein

Hamlet Protein is a global leader in high quality soy-based protein ingredients for piglets, poultry, pet and cattle feed. Since 1989, the company has focused on optimal nutrition during the earliest stages of life, which is essential for the health, welfare and performance of animals. Hamlet Protein has production plants in Denmark and the United States. The company serves customers around the world through a network of own sales offices and distributors. With scientifically supported solutions and worldwide collaborations, Hamlet Protein contributes to sustainable and profitable farming operations.

About Royal Agrifirm Group

With more than 3.000 dedicated employees driven to excel every day, Royal Agrifirm Group contributes to a responsible food chain for future generations. The company delivers measurable, relevant and sustainable value to farm, field and industry level. Founded over 130 years ago in the Netherlands, Royal Agrifirm Group is now a leading agricultural cooperative with an international network of subsidiaries within Europe, South America, USA and Asia and a worldwide distribution network.

www.agrifirm.com

In this study, published in Animal Welfare, researchers from Bristol Veterinary School used a “conditioned place preference” test, a method commonly used in neuroscience to explore what animals remember of past experiences. The key principle is simple, animals should develop a learnt preference for places where they felt good/better.Twenty domestic chicks from a laying hen strain were trained in a two‑chamber set‑up, each marked with different colour cues.  After their initial preferences were recorded, the chicks completed a series of pairing sessions. 

One chamber with gentle human handling, slow stroking and soft speech, and the other with a neutral human presence, still and silent. When tested after the conditioning sessions, the chicks consistently spent more time in the chamber previously associated with gentle human handling, demonstrating a positive association with this experience.Crucially, the chicks did not avoid the chamber linked to neutral human presence, indicating their behaviour suggested attraction to the gentle‑handling environment rather than avoidance of the neutral human presence.

Dr Ben Lecorps, Senior Lecturer at Bristol Veterinary School, and the study’s principal investigator, said: “Our findings show that gentle human contact can trigger positive emotions in young chicks. The study demonstrates how simple, calm handling has the potential to shape the human-animal relationship from fear-inducing to positive and consequently improve the chicks’ welfare.”The study’s results highlight how humans can play a meaningful role in shaping animals’ early affective experiences, with potential benefits for husbandry practices and welfare assessment frameworks.

Working closely with breed associations, breeders and conservationists, The Livestock Conservancy thoroughly analyzes data on each breed’s status, risks and opportunities. The results place each breed in one of four categories, from Critical (most endangered) to Threatened, Watch and Recovering (least threatened). The annual list drives specific conservation programs, outreach efforts and promotion of heritage breeds. Thousands turn to the CPL when selecting heritage livestock and poultry breeds for their operations. This is the 40th year for the CPL. 

“More than 4,000 volunteer breeders and 150-plus breed associations work diligently to ensure these endangered breeds don’t disappear from our farms, ranches and backyards throughout America,” explained Allison Kincaid, executive director of The Livestock Conservancy. “In addition to historical roles tracing back as much as 500 years in North America, these breeds continue to make important contributions to our country’s sustainable food and fiber needs.” 

Belgian Horses Graduate 

Belgian Draft Horses

The Belgian Horse graduates from the CPL in 2026. It is the most common draft horse breed in the United States, but this was not always the case.  

Following several importations from Belgium in the late 1800s, the breed enjoyed tremendous popularity as a draft horse in the U.S. Subsequent importations and active breeding in America met the demand. American breeders began to make the “Great Flemish Horse” their own. They selected for a taller, less massive horse than the original type and preferred chestnut and roan colors. 

Imports nearly halted after the World Wars in Europe, and American horses were cut off from their Belgian cousins. As with many draft breeds, the popularity of mechanized equipment at this time also led to a decline in demand. Horses that once found a home on farmsteads across America, doing the heavy work of plowing, logging and hauling, were soon replaced by tractors and automobiles. 

The dedicated work of the Belgian Draft Horse Corporation of America and hundreds of breeders has restored the breed’s popularity, making the Belgian, as they call it, “America’s Draft Horse Breed Supreme.” Thanks to their efforts, Belgian horses graduate from the CPL with more than 25,000 horses. 

Silver Fox Rabbits Graduate 

Rabbits were added to The Livestock Conservancy’s mission in 2005, first appearing on the CPL in 2006. Twenty years later, Silver Fox rabbits are the first

Silver Fox Buck

breed of rabbit to graduate from the CPL. First listed in the Critical category in 2006, the impressive growth of Silver Fox rabbits took place through diligent breeding and promotion for both meat production and exhibition. Silver Fox rabbits are an American breed, found nowhere else in the world. Breeders have emphasized selection for growth and body weight, as well as dense fur that characterizes the Silver Fox.  

A census conducted by members of the Silver Fox Rabbit Breeders Club in late 2023 found over 3,200 rabbits in rabbitries and on homesteads and small farms across the country. Growth has continued, and as of 2025, more than 1,050 rabbits have been shown at National shows in the past five years, and there were 207 registered rabbits.  

“This club has worked tirelessly to make this happen, and I am thrilled with this accomplishment!” Hannah Ramirez, president of the Silver Fox Rabbit Breeders Club, said. 

With well over 250 breeders actively raising Silver Fox rabbits, this useful and attractive breed is on secure ground for the future.  

Several more rabbit breeds have improved their status. American, Blanc de Hotot and Silver rabbits move from Threatened to Watch, while Palomino rabbits move to Recovering. On the other hand, monitoring global status is vital to conserving breeds like Cotswold sheep, where the population in the U.S. now represents about half of the global population of roughly 2000 sheep. Declining numbers in their native United Kingdom led to the Cotswold sheep being placed in Critical this year.

Shetland ducks

New to the CPL is another U.K. emigrant, the Shetland duck.   

“Thanks to the hard work of family farmers and the associations that represent individual breeds, several breeds of livestock and poultry, such as Red Devon cattle, Tennessee Fainting goats and Polish chickens, need only a few more serious breeders to achieve the next step in growth that will help them graduate from the List,” Alison Martin, program director for The Livestock Conservancy, said. 

Kincaid added that further conservation work is needed not only to improve the status of breeds but also to ensure the survival of unique livestock and poultry. 

“Many of the breeds that are found only in North America and have played important roles in our nation’s history are now critically endangered,” she said. “Rare farm animals represent an irreplaceable piece of the Earth’s biodiversity. They offer remarkable genetic diversity and distinctive production traits, including disease resistance. Saving these breeds is vital to meeting today’s sustainability challenges and ensuring food security for the future.” 

Since its inception four decades ago, no breed on the CPL has gone extinct. In the last dozen years, 14 endangered breeds have graduated from the CPL. 

Find the full Conservation Priority List:

2026 Livestock CPL

2026 Equine CPL

2026 Poultry CPL

The post 2026 Conservation Priority List appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

Working closely with breed associations, breeders and conservationists, The Livestock Conservancy thoroughly analyzes data on each breed’s status, risks and opportunities. The results place each breed in one of four categories, from Critical (most endangered) to Threatened, Watch and Recovering (least threatened). The annual list drives specific conservation programs, outreach efforts and promotion of heritage breeds. Thousands turn to the CPL when selecting heritage livestock and poultry breeds for their operations. This is the 40th year for the CPL. 

“More than 4,000 volunteer breeders and 150-plus breed associations work diligently to ensure these endangered breeds don’t disappear from our farms, ranches and backyards throughout America,” explained Allison Kincaid, executive director of The Livestock Conservancy. “In addition to historical roles tracing back as much as 500 years in North America, these breeds continue to make important contributions to our country’s sustainable food and fiber needs.” 

Belgian Horses Graduate 

Belgian Draft Horses

The Belgian Horse graduates from the CPL in 2026. It is the most common draft horse breed in the United States, but this was not always the case.  

Following several importations from Belgium in the late 1800s, the breed enjoyed tremendous popularity as a draft horse in the U.S. Subsequent importations and active breeding in America met the demand. American breeders began to make the “Great Flemish Horse” their own. They selected for a taller, less massive horse than the original type and preferred chestnut and roan colors. 

Imports nearly halted after the World Wars in Europe, and American horses were cut off from their Belgian cousins. As with many draft breeds, the popularity of mechanized equipment at this time also led to a decline in demand. Horses that once found a home on farmsteads across America, doing the heavy work of plowing, logging and hauling, were soon replaced by tractors and automobiles. 

The dedicated work of the Belgian Draft Horse Corporation of America and hundreds of breeders has restored the breed’s popularity, making the Belgian, as they call it, “America’s Draft Horse Breed Supreme.” Thanks to their efforts, Belgian horses graduate from the CPL with more than 25,000 horses. 

Silver Fox Rabbits Graduate 

Rabbits were added to The Livestock Conservancy’s mission in 2005, first appearing on the CPL in 2006. Twenty years later, Silver Fox rabbits are the first

Silver Fox Buck

breed of rabbit to graduate from the CPL First listed in the Critical category in 2006, the impressive growth of Silver Fox rabbits took place through diligent breeding and promotion for both meat production and exhibition. Silver Fox rabbits are an American breed, found nowhere else in the world. Breeders have emphasized selection for growth and body weight, as well as dense fur that characterizes the Silver Fox.  

A census conducted by members of the Silver Fox Rabbit Breeders Club in late 2023 found over 3,200 rabbits in rabbitries and on homesteads and small farms across the country. Growth has continued, and as of 2025, more than 1,050 rabbits have been shown at National shows in the past five years, and there were 207 registered rabbits.  

“This club has worked tirelessly to make this happen, and I am thrilled with this accomplishment!” Hannah Ramirez, president of the Silver Fox Rabbit Breeders Club, said. 

With well over 250 breeders actively raising Silver Fox rabbits, this useful and attractive breed is on secure ground for the future.  

Several more rabbit breeds have improved their status. American, Blanc de Hotot and Silver rabbits move from Threatened to Watch, while Palomino rabbits move to Recovering. On the other hand, monitoring global status is vital to conserving breeds like Cotswold sheep, where the population in the U.S. now represents about half of the global population of roughly 2000 sheep. Declining numbers in their native United Kingdom led to the Cotswold sheep being placed in Critical this year.

Shetland ducks

New to the CPL is another U.K. emigrant, the Shetland duck.   

“Thanks to the hard work of family farmers and the associations that represent individual breeds, several breeds of livestock and poultry, such as Red Devon cattle, Tennessee Fainting goats and Polish chickens, need only a few more serious breeders to achieve the next step in growth that will help them graduate from the List,” Alison Martin, program director for The Livestock Conservancy, said. 

Kincaid added that further conservation work is needed not only to improve the status of breeds but also to ensure the survival of unique livestock and poultry. 

“Many of the breeds that are found only in North America and have played important roles in our nation’s history are now critically endangered,” she said. “Rare farm animals represent an irreplaceable piece of the Earth’s biodiversity. They offer remarkable genetic diversity and distinctive production traits, including disease resistance. Saving these breeds is vital to meeting today’s sustainability challenges and ensuring food security for the future.” 

Since its inception four decades ago, no breed on the CPL has gone extinct. In the last dozen years, 14 endangered breeds have graduated from the CPL. 

Find the full Conservation Priority List:

2026 Livestock CPL

2026 Equine CPL

2026 Poultry CPL

The post 2026 Coservation Priority List appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

Ancient horses roamed freely across the North American wilderness for millions of years. Scientists suggest they began to live alongside this continent’s earliest settlers nearly 30,000 years ago, co-existing with other large wild mammals, some of which were predators.

However, a pivotal shift occurred around 8,000 to 10,000 years ago when horses mysteriously disappeared from North America. Scholars continue to speculate about the reasons this happened: was it due to predation (human and animal), competition for food, climatic changes or a combination of these factors? What is clear is that the horses that managed to escape to other continents via a land bridge that no longer exists, adapted and thrived. Ultimately, they reshaped human history when they became domesticated about 4,000 years ago.

Zorro, a Puerto Rican Paso Fino, Courtesy of Peg Cornell

Fast forward to the late 1400s, when Spanish explorers ventured into the Western Hemisphere, bringing with them hopes, dreamsand horses. Some of their noble steeds escaped or were released and scattered across the vast grasslands of North America, where they soon became integrated into the cultures and lifestyles of the Indigenous peoples. These horses were the ancestors of the Colonial Spanish breeds and the Puerto Rican Paso Fino, each with its own unique story.

As the 16th and 17th centuries unfolded, more explorers arrived, their ships loaded with diverse horse breeds from their homelands. While some of these breeds flourished and continue to thrive today, others have faded into obscurity. As American settlers sought to adapt to their new environments, they began crossbreeding horses to produce new breeds tailored to their agricultural and transportation needs. Some of these early American breeds survived, but others, such as the Conestoga Horse and the Narragansett Pacer, became extinct, victims of a rapidly changing world and insufficient conservation efforts.

Belgian Draft Horses

As the nation’s population grew and expanded westward, horses remained the backbone of American life. They played essential roles in crop production, livestock management and the transport of people and goods across long distances. The rhythmic sound of hooves became the heartbeat of travel, commerce and military endeavors. For generations, horses were indispensable partners guiding America toward its future. During this time, American breeds, like the Canadian, Belgian, Rocky Mountain, Mountain Pleasure, American Cream Draft and others, were developed through intentional crossbreeding to serve various distinct purposes.

The dawn of the 20th century ushered in mechanization, resulting in a decline in the need for horses on farms and in everyday life. This, coupled with the devastating impact the economic depressions of the 1890s and 1920s had on farmers across the nation, resulted in the sale or release of many horses into the wild. Another blow to many horse breeds occurred with the enactment of the 1930 tariff on horse imports. Affecting all but racing breeds, this severely limited the number of horses imported in many other breeds. By the 1950s, the number of equines had declined significantly. Some breeds fared better thanks to dedicated efforts to maintain them, while others found themselves in danger of extinction in the U.S. and beyond.

Click for a Timeline of Horses in America.

Hope remains for endangered breeds, thanks to the dedication of passionate breeders and equine enthusiasts who work tirelessly to maintain biodiversity within the small, unique breeds on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List. Today, most horses have transitioned to recreational roles, although some continue to serve in traditional capacities, supporting horse-powered farms, homesteaders and mounted police units. Recently, horses have stepped into new roles in search and rescue operations and equine-assisted learning and therapy programs, highlighting their unyielding adaptability.

Dartmoor mare

From their historical significance to modern contributions, horses continue to be our partners. Their legacy endures, reminding us of the deep connections we share. Find a place where you can hear the sound of hooves and enjoy a horse’s presence. Close your eyes, envision the incredible journeys horses took with your ancestors, and appreciate the vital roles they play in our culture today.

For more information about all of the equine breeds on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List, check out the info at
https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/conservation-priority-list/

To find a place where you can hear the hoofbeats of heritage breed horses or a lively discussion about the history of heritage horse breeds in the United States, check out the Living History Museums, Farm Parks, and Zoos list and the Heritage Horses In History podcast (to be released July 29th, 2025). Information about locations and the link to the podcast are available at https://livestockconservancy.org/250

Join us each month as we share a new blog in this ongoing series. In August, we’ll explore the history of the heritage duck varieties on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List.

The post Celebrating 250: Heritage Horses in History in America appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

Preserving Diversity Through Conservation

Cayuga ducks (Courtesy Metzer Farms)

When we think of America’s agricultural past, images of cows, chicken, and fields of grain often come to mind. Yet quietly paddling through our rural and cultural history was another essential contributor – ducks. Ducks not only helped shape early American farming but also continue to be used both commercially and in backyards to provide eggs, meat, feathers and pest control. Understanding their history is key to preserving their future.

From Asia and Europe to North America

The domesticated ducks’ journey to North America began long before the Mayflower. Domestication of most varieties of ducks started in Southeast Asia over 4,000 years ago with the wild Mallard. The only ducks that are not related to Mallards are Muscovy ducks. Muscovy ducks, a distinct species, originated and were domesticated in South and Central America by Indigenous peoples who introduced them to the southern regions of North America long before any European explorers arrived. But those varieties that originated as Mallards were brought to North America by European settlers, who valued ducks as a source of meat, eggs, and feathers and for their ability to forage, making them ideal for homesteads with access to ponds or creeks.

Early settlers favored ducks that were hardy, multipurpose, and adaptable to the new environment. Varieties like the Aylesbury, Dutch Hookbill, Runner and Muscovy were already being bred in Europe in the early 1800s and likely were the first varieties introduced into the wetland-rich landscapes of this continent.

Early Imported Ducks in American Life

Click for a Timeline of Ducks in America

In colonial America, ducks were far more than quaint barnyard fixtures. They were practical animals – efficient converters of insects, slugs, snails, grains and plants into rich meat and nutrient-dense eggs. On small farms, ducks were often raised alongside chickens. They were especially valued over chickens for their stronger disease resistance, ability to get nutrients from wet, marshy areas, excellent rendered fat and quality feathers and down.

In coastal and inland wetlands, ducks also helped control mosquito populations and provided a natural method of pest control in vegetable gardens, rice fields and orchards, long before synthetic pesticides existed. Runner ducks, which developed their tall, slender stance for pest control in Southeast Asia, also came via England. Once arriving here, they were maintained by small farmers but were never used for large-scale pest control in commercial rice farms.

Over time, these varieties lost favor to later introduced varieties. The Pekin, for example, was brought directly from China in 1873 to New York. Because of the Pekin’s meat attributes, the Long Island duck industry quickly developed, and the Pekin became the preeminent breed used for meat production, replacing several varieties previously used for this purpose.

American-Born Ducks

The only duck variety that was exclusively developed in the United States prior to 1900 was the Cayuga. It was developed in New York’s Finger Lakes region in the 1800s and is known for its iridescent green-black plumage. Hardy, quiet, and excellent foragers, Cayuga soon became a favorite in the northeastern U.S. for both meat and egg production. Two other domestic varieties of ducks were developed in the United States after 1900, the Australian Spotted and the Ancona. Although the name Australian Spotted suggests Australian origin, it was created in the United States by crossing several varieties, including an unidentified variety from Australia. Initially, the origin of the Ancona duck was disputed, questioning whether it was developed in Britain or the US. Once documents were found mentioning the Ancona in America before they were mentioned in England, it was concluded they were of American origin.

Pressures of Progress

The rise of large-scale agriculture in the early 20th century changed everything. As food systems grew to favor uniformity and efficiency, small-scale, multi-purpose ducks gave way to varieties bred specifically for meat production, especially the Pekin. Heritage ducks that grew slower, laid fewer eggs, or did not fit the standardized mold fell out of favor with commercial growers.

As a result, many heritage ducks saw a steep decline in population. The Australian Spotted, Dutch Hookbill and Aylesbury are now

Aylesbury duck and drake.

ranked as Critical, and the Saxony and Magpie are considered Threatened by The Livestock Conservancy. The Buff, Cayuga, Welsh Harlequin, Blue Swedish, Black Swedish, Silver Appleyard, Ancona, Campbell and Rouen are included in the next category, Watch. In some cases, only a few dedicated breeders keep these lines from disappearing entirely.

Heritage Ducks Today

Heritage duck varieties embody regional histories and food traditions tied to the cultures of those who have cared for them for generations. In recent years, the local food movement and an emphasis on sustainable agriculture  along with dedicated conservation efforts by farmers who recognize the unique traits of heritage ducks, have helped sustain their numbers. These ducks are an invaluable genetic resource that can continue to thrive only through the ongoing efforts of people who appreciate them today.

Organizations like The Livestock Conservancy, along with individual farmers and a growing number of hatcheries, are working to increase awareness and populations, improve breeding programs, and connect consumers with these birds. Maintaining heritage duck varieties is not just about saving old bloodlines; it’s about restoring balance and resilience to modern agriculture. As small farms reclaim sustainable, holistic food production methods, heritage ducks are uniquely positioned to help in several ways:

• Providing natural pest control in gardens and orchards
• Contributing to regenerative agriculture through foraging and manure
• Reducing reliance on chemicals and machinery
• Supplying local food systems with flavorful, high-quality meat and eggs

Preserving heritage duck varieties means preserving the diversity, history, and sustainability of our agricultural heritage. Everyone values choice. Preserving these animals allows people a choice in size, color, foraging ability, meat qualities, egg production, brooding capabilities and temperament.

Get Involved

Whether you are a homesteader, chef, educator, or backyard enthusiast, you can be part of the conservation movement.

• Choose heritage ducks when buying ducklings.
• Support farms that raise endangered ducks.
• Spread awareness through schools, blogs, or local events.
• Encourage local restaurants to try heritage duck meat and egg dishes.
• Partner with conservation groups or donate to their programs.

As a consumer, even if you never own ducks, you can support heritage duck varieties by seeking out and purchasing heritage duck products and spreading awareness of these amazing animals. Our online Breeders and Products Directory can help consumers find farms, markets, and distributors of ducks and duck products.

https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/breeders-directory/

To learn more about heritage duck varieties on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List, check out the info at https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/conservation-priority-list/

If you would like to support the ongoing work of The Livestock Conservancy, you can learn about becoming a member or donating at https://livestockconservancy.org/

Join Us Next Month

We’ll share a new blog each month in the Celebrating 250 ongoing series. You can find past blogs in the series at this link: https://livestockconservancy.org/250

In September, we will explore the history of the heritage donkey breeds on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List.

The post Celebrating 250: Heritage Ducks in American History appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

Heritage Donkeys in American History

The donkey, often misunderstood and sometimes overlooked, is a close cousin of the horse and has played a significant role in the foundation of civilization for approximately 5,000 to 7,000 years. These remarkable animals have gained our affection through their companionship and assistance in overcoming various hardships throughout history.

Historical Significance

Originating in northern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, donkeys of diverse sizes, shapes and colorations have assisted humans for

Click for a Timeline of Donkeys in America

thousands of years. In the tombs of Pharaohs, stone carvings depict donkeys carrying goods and materials along the Nile River. They traversed trade routes across Asia and Europe, inspiring ancient art in China, illustrating players riding donkeys and mules to play polo. French tapestries from the 1500s showcase working mules and Poitou-type donkeys. 

From Europe to the Americas

In the United States, a wide variety of donkey sizes and types serve as both working animals and companions. Most U.S. donkeys have European origins, including the Mexican Burro, introduced by Spanish explorers in the early 1500s. This breed, known for its “gray-dun” color and a cross over the shoulders and spine made its way into the American southwest by the early 1800s.

In the U.S., donkeys are typically categorized by type and height rather than by breed. Standard donkeys, often a mix of Mammoth, burro, and miniature bloodlines, come in various shapes and colors. They have played an essential part in our history and remain a significant part of the long-eared equine population in the U.S., with no immediate threat of extinction. However, three donkey breeds are listed as endangered heritage breeds on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List. They are the American Mammoth Jackstock, developed in the U.S., and two imported breeds, the Miniature and Poitou.

American Mammoth Jackstock

American Mammoth Jackstock Donkey from 1903 studbook

The American Mammoth Jackstock is the largest donkey breed, with jennets (females) at least 54 inches tall and jacks (males) at least 56 inches. In the 1780s, George Washington was given two large jacks from France and Spain. They were selectively bred with local mares to produce large working mules, crucial for agriculture. Developed from large Spanish Andalusian, Maltese, Catalonian, Majorcan and Poitou varieties, the Mammoth produced mules that plowed millions of acres across this country. Our ancestors found that mules could thrive in conditions where horses wouldn’t.

Typically, dark brown or black with light points, the American Mammoth Jackstock comes in a variety of colors, including spotted. They are lean-limbed and well-balanced, with large ears. There are two diverse types: a heavier, dappled Andalusian type, said to date to ancient times, and the taller, leaner Majorcan/Maltese type. Their numbers peaked around 1920 at approximately 5 million but declined sharply with industrialization in the early to mid-1900s. Although their numbers have since increased, this breed remains critically endangered.

Miniature

Originating over 2,000 years ago on the islands of Sicily and Sardinia, the Miniature donkey is now nearly extinct in its native land. First

Miniature Donkey

imported to the U.S. in the early 1900s, a registry was established in 1958. Originally numbering approximately 100 donkeys, there are now over 75,000 Miniatures in the U.S. registry. These animals range from 25 to 36 inches tall at maturity, with both heavy drafty types (more like the original imports) and lighter, fine-boned individuals, in a wide range of colors.

Miniature donkeys are known for their affectionate and friendly nature. Although there is a cyclical interest in smaller animals, larger Miniatures are often preferred for driving, even for adults. They are wonderful for children wanting to show and are capable as small packing and hiking partners. Their continued popularity has kept them at the forefront of donkey ownership, with animals now being returned to European countries. The breed is classified in the Watch category on the Conservation Priority List because of their small global population.

Poitou

The Poitou donkey, an ancient breed originating in southern France, was mostly unknown outside its native region until recently. Historically, Poitou jacks, measuring 54 inches or taller, were used to produce large mules from the also-endangered Mulassier mare. In the early to mid-1900s, the rise of combustion engines and reduced need for horse and mule power nearly led to the extinction of both the Mulassier and the Poitou. 

Poitou Jenney and foal

In the 1980s, a few Poitou donkeys were exported to the U.S. Over the past four decades, breeders, veterinarians and conservationists in the U.S. and France have worked collaboratively to increase this breed’s population, which has grown from four animals to over 150 in the U.S. today. The establishment of a new registry and breed association, alongside newly developed breeding and foaling protocols, has aided in the recovery of the Poitou, which, despite these efforts, remains critically endangered worldwide. 

Poitou donkeys are all dark brown with a light nose and belly. Traditionally, the Poitou is characterized by a long-corded coat, which is believed to signify purity in the breed. Those who meet a Poitou almost instantly fall in love with their thick legs, wide hooves, huge shaggy ears and “stuffed plush animal” appearance.  Gentle in nature, they are quick to steal hearts! 

 How You Can Help Donkeys

If you’re considering donkey ownership, it’s essential to choose the type and size that is right for you.  Do you want to ride?  Are you looking for a donkey suitable for children? Or are you interested in helping to increase a critically endangered population? To learn more about each heritage breed on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List, check out the information at https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/conservation-priority-list/. 

If you decide to purchase a donkey, you can locate heritage donkey owners and breeders in our online Breeders and Products Directory at https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/breeders-directory/

Even if you don’t plan to own a donkey, you can support these breeds by raising awareness of them. Follow our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/livestockconservancy and share our posts to spread the word about these and other valuable endangered heritage breeds.

If you would like to support the ongoing work of The Livestock Conservancy, you can learn about becoming a member or making a donation at https://livestockconservancy.org/

Join Us Next Month

We’ll share a new blog each month in the Celebrating 250 ongoing series. You can find past blogs in the series at this link: https://livestockconservancy.org/250

In October, we will explore the history of heritage goat breeds on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List.

The post Celebrating 250: Heritage Donkeys in American History appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

Origin of Domesticated Goats

Click for a Timeline of Goats in America

Archaeological evidence suggests that goats were among the first animals domesticated over 10,000 years ago, originating from the wild bezoar ibex in the mountainous regions of present-day Iran and Turkey. As agriculture spread from the Fertile Crescent, goats accompanied early farming communities across the Mediterranean into Europe, Asia and Africa, leading to the development of various regional breeds with a shared genetic ancestry.

History of Goats in America

In the 16^th century, Spanish explorers introduced goats to the Americas. Some were released on coastal islands to serve as food for future explorers, while others spread across the southern regions with explorers and missionaries. From the 17^th to 19^th centuries, other European settlers brought goats to the East Coast.  Goats provided a supply of milk, meat and fiber and were easy for homesteaders to manage. As settlers moved westward, goats spread across the U.S. and helped shape American agriculture. In the early 20^th century, as U.S. agriculture shifted toward large-scale production, goat numbers declined, but their presence on small farms remained important. By the mid-1900s, breed registries were established by enthusiasts and serious producers focusing on maintaining breed-specific characteristics.

Spanish Goat

Spanish goats, with varying body types and coat colors, and some lines producing heavier cashmere coats, descended from landrace animals brought to the Americas by Spanish explorers in the 1500s. Natural selection and geographic isolation shaped them into hardy animals valued for their meat, milk and hides. By the 1900s, crossbreeding with other meat goats led to a decline in pure populations and the use of the term “Spanish goat” to describe any mixed-breed goat obscured the pure breed’s lineage. The ancestral stock is now extinct in Spain, making U.S. Spanish goats a unique genetic resource. Research at Tennessee State University highlights the excellent maternal traits and notable resistance to parasites of these goats, crucial for low-input meat goat production. Conservation of this breed is vital to maintaining genetic diversity and honoring a key part of American agricultural history.

San Clemente Island goats, typically red or tan with black markings, are mid-sized and valued for meat, milk and cashmere fiber. Believed to have descended from animals left on Santa Catalina Island by Spanish explorers and brought to San Clemente Island in 1875, their population faced pressures from sanctioned hunting after the U.S. Navy took control of the island in 1934. A 1972 survey recorded approximately 15,000 goats, classified as an invasive species due to their impact on native plants and wildlife. A removal program reduced their population to around 4,000 by 1980, with all removed from the island by 1991. A 2007 DNA study, conducted by The Livestock Conservancy in partnership with the University of Córdoba, confirmed their genetic distinctiveness from other goat breeds, including Spanish breeds. Their unique genetics and history make them a critically endangered heritage breed worth conserving.

Myotonic Goats

Myotonic goats, or Tennessee Fainting Goats, originated in central Tennessee in the 1880s when Dr. H. H. Mayberry purchased four goats from a traveling laborer. These goats were unique for their tendency to stiffen and fall over when startled. This trait, due to a genetic condition called myotonia congenita, can lead to increased muscle mass, improving meat production. In the 1950s, Myotonics in central Texas were selectively bred for larger size, resulting in the Texas Wooden Legs strain, more commonly used in meat production. Research from Virginia State University highlights their superior meat-to-bone ratio of 4:1, compared to 3:1 in other meat goat breeds. With varying coat colors and types, they are often marketed as pets. They are also valued for their excellent maternal traits, ease of containment and strong parasite resistance. The Livestock Conservancy is working to preserve the purebred population, which has declined due to crossbreeding. They have surged in popularity and are nearing graduation from The Livestock Conservancy’s CPL.

Oberhasli doe

Oberhasli goats descend from the Chamois Colored goat developed in Switzerland. After importations in the early 1900s were lost to crossbreeding, four does and one buck were imported to the U.S. in 1936 by H. O. Pence to establish the purebred American population. Initially called the Swiss Alpine, they were registered with other Alpine types before being recognized as a distinct breed in the late 1970s. The name “Oberhasli” was adopted, and a breed association was formed. A larger breed, Oberhaslis’ typical chamoisée coloring ranges from light tan to reddish-bay with black markings. Oberhasli does are excellent, prolific mothers and are known for their high milk yield, averaging 1,650 pounds over a 265-day lactation. Males are valued as pack animals due to their strength and agility, making them well-suited for rugged terrain.

Arapawa buck

Arapawa goats, often long-coated with badger-like facial stripes, are one of the rarest goat breeds worldwide. Their origins are debated. Some believe they descended from goats brought to Arapawa Island, New Zealand, by Captain James Cook. A 2007 DNA study by The Livestock Conservancy revealed a unique genetic profile, possibly linked to South African breeds, supported by records of African livestock transported via the Cape of Good Hope to Australia and New Zealand. Their population remained stable until the 1970s, when they were declared a threat to New Zealand’s native ecosystem. In response, residents created a sanctuary for the breed. Imported first to the U.S. in 1994, they remain critically endangered, but American breeders are partnering with New Zealand to rebuild their numbers. Arapawa goats are mid-sized goats used for milk and meat, known for strong maternal instincts and frequent twinning.

Heritage Goats Today

Goats are raised across the U.S., driven by growing demands for goat milk, artisan cheeses, meat and fiber. They’re also used for clearing brush on farms and public lands to regenerate unusable acreage and reduce fire risks. Active by nature, goats can pose some unique challenges. With proper containment and management measures, their adaptability to various environments and ability to graze land unsuitable for other livestock while producing quality products make them important to regenerative, sustainable and small-scale agriculture.

How You Can Help

If you’re considering goat ownership, you can learn more about each heritage breed on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List at https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/conservation-priority-list/.

If you’re ready to purchase a goat or want to talk with a breeder, you can most likely find what you’re looking for in our online Breeders and Products Directory at https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/breeders-directory/

If you would like to support the ongoing work of The Livestock Conservancy, you can become a member or make a donation at https://livestockconservancy.org/

Raising awareness of heritage breeds is the first step to preventing their extinction. You can help by following our Facebook or Instagram page and sharing our posts to spread the word. https://www.facebook.com/livestockconservancy

Join Us Next Month

We’ll share a new blog each month in the Celebrating 250 ongoing series. In November, we’ll explore the history of heritage turkey varieties on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List.

You can find past blogs in the series at this link: https://livestockconservancy.org/250

The post Celebrating 250: Heritage Goats in American History appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

The history of turkeys has been a cyclical process, involving the spread of domesticated turkeys from this hemisphere to different areas of the world before they eventually made their way back to North America. Here is a summary of how that cycle occurred:

Click for a Timeline of Turkeys in America

1. Native Domestication: The domestication of wild turkeys began over 2,000 years ago among the Indigenous peoples of present-day Mexico and New Mexico.
2. Spanish Influence: Spanish explorers brought domesticated turkeys back to Europe after making contact with the Indigenous peoples in 1519. 
3. European Spread: Upon their arrival in Europe, turkeys became very popular, and several varieties were subsequently developed. The first was the Spanish Black, directly descended from the turkeys transported from North America. 
4. North American Introduction: While the original native wild turkey remained in North America, domesticated varieties were not introduced here until approximately 1608 with the arrival of English settlers. 
5. North American Integration: As other European countries sent explorers and settlers to North America, the population of domesticated turkeys grew, and domesticated varieties often were crossed back to native wild turkeys.

Early Importance

When Spanish explorers brought the first domesticated turkeys back to Europe, they quickly became wildly popular. By the 1600s, turkey recipes began to appear in cookbooks across Europe, and the turkey became a Christmas dinner staple in England.

European settlers in North America relied on wild turkeys as a source of meat until their population declined. The introduction of domestic Black Turkeys from Europe allowed colonists to cross these birds with wild turkeys, resulting in the American Black Turkey in the 1600s. This was a pivotal moment, as the American Black Turkey was a larger domesticated meat bird that could be managed on family farms.

Development of Heritage Turkey Varieties

All domesticated Heritage turkey varieties descend from the wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), which is native to North America. Over decades, regional varieties of turkeys were developed here based on desired qualities such as size, color and hardiness. This resulted in the development of several modern turkey varieties and led to the differentiation between Heritage and production varieties, as well. 

Here are some examples of the turkey varieties that were developed in North America:

• Narragansett: The Narragansett was developed in New England in the 1600s by crossing native wild turkeys with domesticated lines introduced by early European settlers. This breed is valued for its calm disposition and delicious meat, and was prized on farms throughout America during the 19th century. 
• Broad Breasted Bronze: The Broad Breasted Bronze, a production variety, was created by intentionally crossing domesticated turkeys with wild turkeys, and was further developed through selective breeding that began in the 1700s. This turkey variety is widely recognized for its excellent feed conversion ratio and generous amounts of breast meat. 
• Black: This variety was directly descended from domesticated imported European black turkeys, but was improved and standardized in America during the 1800s. Settlers raised Black turkeys as a sustainable family table bird, notable for their improved size and hardiness. 
• Bourbon Red: This Heritage variety was developed in Kentucky starting in the late 1800s by crossing several existing domesticated varieties. They are known for their gorgeous feathering, delicious meat, and extreme hardiness. 
• White Holland: Contrary to what the name may suggest, the Heritage White Holland was developed in America during the 1800s due to demand for white plumage. This variety served as the foundation for the development of the production Broad Breasted White during the 20th century. 

 Population Decline

Following World War II, a significant cultural shift took place in America’s food system. Rather than turning to backyard gardens and farms for food, people began looking to larger producers and suppliers. Turkeys were no exception; meat production became concentrated among larger commercial producers, pushing smaller family farms out of the market. As a result, Heritage turkey populations across North America significantly declined. 

Additionally, commercial poultry processors sought out birds with white feathers for ease of processing and cleaner appearing carcasses. This led to the creation of the Broad Breasted White, which took over the commercial turkey market by the 1960s. The Broad Breasted White was selectively bred for increased breast meat, which ultimately resulted in this variety’s inability to mate naturally and produce fertile eggs without human intervention. Artificial insemination became a necessary practice for commercial breeders.

Eventually, raising Heritage turkeys fell out of favor, and many varieties were near the brink of extinction by 1997, when The Livestock Conservancy conducted its first census.

Heritage Turkeys Today

Unlike commercial production varieties, Heritage turkeys can reproduce naturally and raise their young. They are hardy in various weather conditions across the country. As omnivores, Heritage turkeys forage extremely well, managing both weed and pest populations. These distinct qualities are of particular importance to small breeders and farmers managing their flocks in a free-range or pasture-based system.

In addition to the crucial roles that Heritage turkeys play on many farms across America, they also hold the key to the endurance and resilience of turkeys as a whole. Therefore, it is vital that we, as a society, maintain a robust and diverse Heritage turkey gene pool for the survival of domestic turkeys. If there is ever a future collapse in the commercial industry, production turkeys cannot reproduce on their own.

_______________

The Livestock Conservancy has played a vital role in supporting endangered Heritage turkey populations across America by raising awareness of these important breeds through the Conservation Priority List and developing grant-supported educational programs to encourage breeders. The Livestock Conservancy thanks Murray McMurray Hatchery for their support, funding, and involvement in both the Poultry Census and the newest publication of How to Raise Heritage Turkeys on Pasture.

How You Can Help

If you’re considering turkey ownership, learn more about heritage breeds on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List: https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/conservation-priority-list/.

Ready to buy or connect with a breeder? Check our online Breeders and Products Directory: https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/breeders-directory/.

Support the ongoing work of The Livestock Conservancy by becoming a member or donating: https://livestockconservancy.org/

Raising awareness is key to saving heritage breeds! Follow us on Facebook or Instagram page and share our posts: https://www.facebook.com/livestockconservancy

Join Us Next Month

In December, we will delve into the history of endangered heritage geese in our Celebrating 250 series. You can catch up on past blogs here: https://livestockconservancy.org/250.

The post Celebrating 250: Heritage Turkeys in American History appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

Heritage geese occupy an important but often overlooked place in the agricultural history, cultural development and food traditions of the United States. These old, genetically stable varieties represent living links to earlier eras of American farming. As interest in sustainable agriculture grows, so does recognition of the value these birds bring in preserving genetic diversity, ecological resilience, and historical understanding. To appreciate today’s preservation efforts, it is essential to understand how domesticated geese came to America, their historical roles and the pressures that shaped their survival.

Arrival in America

The first domesticated geese arrived in North America with European settlers in the early 1600s, primarily of European origin. English, Dutch, French and German settlers brought hardy farmyard geese, well-established in Old World agricultural systems. Their reasons were practical: geese were easy keepers, requiring little grain while thriving on pasture and kitchen scraps. They provided meat, eggs, fat, feathers for bedding and writing instruments and down for winter clothing, making them essential to self-sufficient homesteads. They could also defend themselves from many smaller predators that preyed on ducks and chickens.

Goosekeeping and American Cultural Development

Click for a Timeline of Geese in America

Geese contributed significantly to early American culture. Their feathers were vital for bedding, particularly the pillows and quilts found in many 18th- and 19th-century homes. Goose quills from the flight feathers were essential for writing instruments until the mid-19th century, linking goosekeeping to literacy and recordkeeping.

On farms, geese served as natural weeders, with many early accounts describing the use of small flocks to keep crops free of grass-type weeds, which otherwise required laborious hand-hoeing. They were especially valued in areas where labor was scarce.

Geese held cultural meaning for many immigrants, especially Germans and Scandinavians. Roast goose remained a traditional holiday dish and maintaining types common to their heritage preserved their culinary traditions in America. The presence of geese on their homesteads symbolized thrift, self-reliance and continuity with Old World customs.

Breeds and Varieties That Evolved in America

Although many heritage goose varieties in the United States originated in Europe, a few have developed in America. The Cotton Patch goose began as a landrace in the southeastern states in the early 1500s. Families often relied on geese to weed cotton and tobacco fields before the widespread availability of mechanized equipment and chemical herbicides. Cotton Patch geese have been bred for climate tolerance, foraging ability, sex-linked coloration (which makes it easy to identify males and females) and brooding instincts.

Pilgrim Geese

Other varieties evolved and developed distinctive American lines standardized in the early 1900s. Both the American Buff and the Pilgrim are valued for roasting. They are known for their gentle dispositions, moderate size and good foraging ability; the Buffs, with distinctive lighter-colored under-feathers for a cleaner carcass appearance and the Pilgrims, with sex-linked coloration from an early age.

Environmental and Societal Pressures Shaping Survival

With American agriculture advances in the late 19th and 20th centuries, geese faced increasing pressures. Mechanized farming and chemical herbicides reduced the need for weeder geese. The rise of commercial poultry production prioritized faster-growing chickens and turkeys, which required less space and were more efficient on concentrated feeds. Many heritage geese, valued for broodiness, predator defense and natural grazing, were seen as economically outdated.

Urbanization also played a role, reducing access to open grazing areas needed to raise geese. Predator pressure increased as habitat changes brought larger predators into agricultural regions. As a result, many goose populations dwindled, maintained only on small family farms or in isolated regional communities.

When and Why These Geese Became Endangered

Sebastopol geese

Heritage goose populations were not formally recognized as endangered until the late 20th century, largely because organized livestock

conservation did not fully emerge until groups such as The Livestock Conservancy began genetic monitoring programs. By then, some varieties, like the Cotton Patch, Pilgrim, Sebastopol, Pomeranian, Roman, Dewlap-Toulouse and American Buff, had reached critically low numbers.

In most cases, their decline had been gradual, the result of a lack of interest from commercial producers. Some had always been relatively small in number, existing mainly as local farmyard flocks. Without the intervention of conservation groups and committed small-scale breeders, several would have disappeared entirely.

Roles in Agriculture and Culture Today

Today, heritage geese are undergoing a modest revival among homesteaders, regenerative farmers, heritage-breed enthusiasts, and chefs who value their culinary qualities. These birds excel in low-input systems: they forage efficiently, require minimal grain, and offer natural grass-type weed control. Many small farms use geese as part of integrated livestock systems, where their grazing patterns complement those of sheep and cattle.

Culturally, heritage geese help preserve the foodways of earlier American communities. Restaurants interested in traditional cuisine increasingly seek heritage goose for seasonal menus, particularly around winter holidays. Educational farms and historical museums also maintain flocks that help connect visitors with past agricultural practices.

Importance in Sustainable Agriculture

Buff geese

In the movement toward sustainable farming, heritage geese embody several important principles: ecological balance, resource efficiency, and genetic conservation. They thrive on pasture, requiring minimal supplemental grain. Their natural foraging and weeding behaviors cut down on herbicides and mechanical cultivation. Most importantly, maintaining heritage geese preserves valuable genetic diversity within domestic goose genetics, helping to ensure resilience against emerging diseases, climate change, and evolving farming needs and carrying traits of hardiness, fertility, good mothering instincts and adaptability that may have immense value in future breeding. By conserving these geese, farmers support a more robust and flexible agricultural future.

A Living Link Worth Preserving

The story of heritage geese in America is one of quiet endurance, spanning from early homesteads to modern regenerative farms. They have continuously supported human communities through their labor, products and cultural significance. Recognizing their historical role is an essential step to ensuring their future. Through intentional breeding, public awareness and continued interest in sustainable practices, heritage geese can remain a vibrant part of America’s agricultural landscape for generations to come.

Special thanks to Metzer Farms Hatchery for sponsoring Celebrating 250 outreach and content about Geese. Visit them at www.metzerfarms.com.

The Livestock Conservancy plays a vital role in supporting endangered heritage goose populations across America. They raise awareness of these important breeds through initiatives such as the Conservation Priority List, the Poultry Census and the development of grant-supported educational materials and programs to encourage breeders and inspire donors.

How You Can Help

If you’re interested in goose ownership, learn more about heritage breeds by visiting The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List: https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/conservation-priority-list/.

Are you ready to buy a goose or connect with a breeder? Check out our online Breeders and Products Directory: https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/breeders-directory/.

Support the ongoing work of The Livestock Conservancy, including projects like the Poultry Census, by becoming a member or making a donation: https://livestockconservancy.org/

Raising awareness is key to saving heritage breeds! Follow us on Facebook or Instagram and share our posts: https://www.facebook.com/livestockconservancy

Join Us Next Month

In January, we’ll explore the history of endangered heritage hogs in our Celebrating 250 series. You can catch up on previous blogs here: https://livestockconservancy.org/250.

The post Heritage Geese in American History: A Legacy Worth Preserving appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

Interest in The Livestock Conservancy’s 2025–26 Microgrants remained strong, with more than 150 farmers, ranchers, shepherds, homesteaders, breed groups, and youth submitting applications. Now in its eighth year, the program has provided more than $150,000 in funding to support over 100 rare breed projects nationwide, reaching 35 states and benefiting 97 of the Conservancy’s 182 Conservation Priority Listed breeds. This year’s program includes 11 grant recipients.

YOUTH GRANTS

Benjamin Hartig of Kentucky, hopes to grow all of heritage breed goose numbers on his family’s farm, including Dewlap Toulouse, Sebastopol, American Buff and especially the critically endangered Pomeranian goose. The 16-year-old high school junior plans to build four new breeding pens for each breed. Additionally, he will use the funding to purchase a Pomeranian gander to introduce new genetics into his breeding flock.

Indiana’s Elizabeth Hatcher aims to expand her flock of Horned Dorset sheep and its genetics. She hopes to breed all five of her eligible ewes this year, with resulting lambs raised as show sheep and potential breeders, for sale or lease by other participants in sheep shows. The funds will help her access higher-quality genetics to breed with and improve the next generation of sheep. It will also enable her family to sell the resulting lambs to interested farmers and showmen at a lower price, making the breed more accessible to others.

Jacob Keller, 13, of Missouri, raises and shows large fowl Cochin chickens in several varieties, with the white and buff varieties ranking as his favorites. His funds will be used to purchase a small backyard barn to contain breeding pens. He wants to produce high-quality birds that represent the best of the breed.They’re pretty big birds and they need lots of space,” he explains.

BREED ASSOCIATION GRANT: The Hotot Rabbit Breeders International group will be using grant funding to publish and distribute a new physical guidebook to active American Rabbit Breeders Association judges via ARBA’s continuing education programs. The secondary project will be to create an improved advertising system for breeders with a real-time website. This will enable people to find individual Hotots and breeding stock that are immediately available.

PREMIER 1 GRANT: Corrie Cooper will be incorporating an acre or more of land into her year-round rotational grazing system for her flock of Florida Cracker sheep. The grant will provide electric netting fences on the Florida property, creating flexible paddocks, supporting regenerative land management and increasing lamb production to meet growing demand. The improvements will  irrigate the pasture and enable rotational grazing.

NATIONAL WINNERS

Wilbur Hanley plans to use the grant money to purchase upgrades for his Langshan and Aseel chicken breeding program, including an incubator, a hatcher and brooders to ultimately improve hatching success rates. He will also be building larger grow-out pens and outdoor chicken tractors. Additionally, he will introduce new genetics to improve diversity in both breeding flocks.

The Genesee Country Village & Museum in New York will modernize and streamline its livestock recordkeeping by purchasing an electronic handheld data-collection device and accompanying software. This integrated system will allow facility staff to record accurate and essential livestock information in real time, including breeding data, births, weights, treatments, movements and other key health and production metrics.

Dara Gribi of California intends to upgrade her aging cage system. Her current cages are more than 20 years old and pose a risk to the safety of her Blanc de Hotot rabbits. Replacing the cages will enable her to safely house the rabbits and continue pursuing her breeding goals. The efforts will improve the breed by allowing for more space to accommodate multiple lines of Hotots

Andrea and Loran Mulnix of Montana are focusing on preserving Belsky Line Colonial Spanish horse on their ranch. They will purchase a portable heavy-duty round pen, which will allow them to work with young stock more safely and train older stock under saddle. The portable round pen would also allow for better doctoring, as well as serving as an adequate area for bringing in and breeding outside mares to their stallions.

A sincere thank you to our judges for their time and expertise in evaluating applications, and to the donors whose generosity makes this important program possible. Their support has had a lasting and meaningful impact on both the grant recipients and the rare breeds they steward.

The post 2025-2026 Microgrant Winners appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

Domestic farm animals descend from wild animals. Pigs were the third animal to be domesticated, following sheep and goats. This occurred in two locations, beginning with hunting pigs for food, transitioning to management and selective breeding for gentler animals adapted to local needs and resources, ultimately leading to distinct breeds.

Neither of the domestication events happened in the Americas.  Columbus brought pigs on his voyages in the late 1400s at the Queen’s insistence. It is unlikely these pigs reached the mainland. By the early 1500s, subsequent explorers brought pigs to various coastal islands and the southeastern mainland, sometimes leaving breeding stock behind to ensure future food resources.

Click for a timeline of pigs in America.

As the United States formed and through the early 1800s, the importation of breeding stock became more systematic. Farmers began “breeding up” local animals, selecting types suited to their specific environments. These became the breeds developed in the U.S. As farming techniques advanced, farmers had excess grain. Feeding it to pigs became a significant source of income. Fertile lands for growing feed grains were distant from population centers, so farmers drove their fattened pigs to growing cities where stockyards and packing plants profoundly impacted urban development, paving the way for efficient distribution networks via rail and river, further enhancing pork distribution.

The introduction of refrigerated rail cars in the late 1800s solidified the production model of corn, pigs and packing houses in the Midwest, allowing large farms to grow and ship pork to the rest of the country more economically than local farmers could. This shift led to the decline or extinction of several once-popular local breeds.

Today, most pigs raised in the U.S. are housed indoors in uniform environments, with similar feed, decreasing the need for historic genetic traits and diversity. The majority of U.S. pork is now produced from just four breeds. However, less common breeds still hold value for farms aiming for traditional production practices. They provide animals better suited for foraging and more resilient to environmental changes. Consumers also notice that meat quality differs, affecting flavor, juiciness, texture, and tenderness, offering producers ways to differentiate their heritage products from mainstream commodity pork.

Less common breeds not only serve immediate production needs but are also vital for preserving genetic diversity. Pigs are highly adaptable animals, crucial for past and future agricultural innovations. The diverse genetic makeup found in heritage breeds will be essential for meeting future demands as society continues to evolve and change its relationship with farming practices.

Let me introduce you to the history of America’s endangered heritage hog breeds.

Choctaw

Choctaw hogs are believed to have descended from pigs brought to North America in the 1500s. These small, dark pigs with neck wattles and mule-type feet were loosely managed by the Choctaw and other tribes in the southeastern United States until the 1830s. They walked the Trail of Tears alongside the Choctaw during their forced migration west and are now critically endangered.

Mulefoot hogs also exhibit uncloven hooves. Dark gray or black, they originated from Spanish pigs in the 1500s. By 1900, they became the only standardized mule-footed pig breed. Farmers raised them semi-ferally on islands in the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, earning them the nickname “Ozark pigs.” By the mid-1900s, only one registered herd existed. Conservation efforts by Mark Fields helped revitalize this rare breed.

Ossabaw

Ossabaw Island hogs come from a population that was left on an island off Georgia’s coast in the 1500s, adapting to their environment over four centuries. They developed rapid fat-storing capacity and can thrive on high-salt diets. From the late 1980s until 2002, breeding animals were removed for meat production and research purposes. Now, removal is prohibited, but these pigs can be seen at Colonial Williamsburg and Mount Vernon because they resemble early American hogs.

Guinea hogs, known as “yard pigs,” are small lard-type pigs that were popular in the Southeast due to their size and ability to thrive on household scraps. Cultural shifts led to their numbers dwindling to fewer than 100 by the 1990s. The American Guinea Hog Association was formed in 2006 to support the breed’s pedigree initiatives. Although numbers have increased, they remain vulnerable.

Red Wattle

Red Wattle hogs were known in the South Pacific over 3,500 years ago. Their descendants were likely brought to New Orleans by French settlers in the early-mid 1800s. Known for their high-quality meat, they became popular among Creole and Cajun chefs, spreading across the South and into East Texas. Numbers dropped to 272 purebreds in 1990 and 42 in 1999, but with dedicated breeders, the breed is rebounding while still on the threatened list.

Tamworth hogs descend from now extinct Irish Grazers imported into England and crossbred with dark red Midland pigs. Thomas Bennett brought them to the U.S. in 1882. Known as a bacon breed, they are athletic, foraging well in woodlands with long snouts, strong legs and wiry red hair. They do not like confinement.

Large Black Pigs originated in two regions in England. By 1899, their populations were unified under the Large Black Pig Society. They became one of England’s most popular breeds by the 1920s, but post-WWII farming practices led to their near extinction by the 1960s. This pasture-efficient breed is slowly recovering thanks to its appeal in niche markets.

Meishan

Meishan hogs are among the oldest breeds, originating in China over 5,000 years ago. Renowned for their docile nature and ability to digest forage, they were imported to the U.S. for research in 1989. After dispersal of research herds in 2016, the American Meishan Breeders Association now promotes the breed and tracks pedigrees.

Gloucestershire Old Spots (GOS), one of the oldest documented breeds, were historically referred to as Orchard pigs due to their diet of whey, scrap, and windfall fruit. They became dominant bacon pigs in Britain but faced decline post-WWII. Conservation efforts have helped restore their numbers, and the reintroduction of purebreds to the U.S. in 1995 has led to the formation of the Gloucestershire Old Spots of America.

These heritage hog breeds have played significant roles in U.S. history over the last 250 years. Through the efforts of diligent breeders and the Livestock Conservancy, they will also play essential roles in our future.

The post Heritage Pigs in American History appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

Highlighting this, the long-awaited Wrap Food Pact Network report, Transforming the Food System Together, has been released. As it states, “Every year, 1.05 billion tonnes of food is lost or wasted, the equivalent of dumping 90 truckloads of food every single minute. This is more than double what’s needed to feed the 783 million people who go hungry around the world. It has led to the food system becoming one of the world’s top polluters, with food waste emitting 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, nearly five times more than aviation, and it costs the global economy over US$1 trillion every year.” Sobering statistics. “The WRAP-convened Food Pact Network, launched in 2024 with support from the Rainier Climate Group, brings together 10 national and regional food waste Pacts across 9 countries, representing 14% of the global population, around 20% of global food waste, and 38% of global GDP to share knowledge, pool resources, and take action together.”

The results so far are already heartening. The report notes, there has been 220,000 tonnes of food waste reduction between 2019 and 2024, the equivalent to weight of around 600 fully loaded jumbo jets or 10,000 heavy good trucks of food. Around 2.7 million tonnes of surplus food has also been redistributed.

It makes for interesting reading, because dairy is such a key factor in food waste reduction all along the supply chain.

Meanwhile, we will be out and about in the European lactosphère this week: I’m off to Bern, Switzerland for the World Cheese Awards, while Liz Newmark is headed to Utrecht in the Netherlands to hear from the European Dairy Association at its annual convention. It promises to examine both the Dutch dairy sector and the larger European one. Sustainability is again a keyword for this convention, as it is every day for dairy and the rest of us global consumers.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
  Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

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It was a pleasure to take part in this event. I am always impressed by the variety of cheeses, along with the many different judges, the Guild of Fine Food manages to get onto the tables to taste cheese. Australia, Colombia, Spain, Switzerland, US… these were just a few of the many people there from all the cheese global community that were examining the 45 cheeses placed in front of them.

I was one of those judges this year, along with Peter Kurmann of Bertsch Foodtec in Germany on our table. It’s good when you get a judge you agree with, and we seemed to be of one mind for the cheeses on the table. A large portion of judges are very knowledgeable about different cheese types, and Peter definitely knew about Swiss cheeses. It was very handy, as over 900 Swiss cheeses were in the room.

I also note that Marcus Brigstocke, a British comedian and one of the authors of “We are History,” a series of spoof British history documentaries (we can’t go by Naseby now and not bellow, Naaaaseby! It’s on YouTube if you’d like to examine them) was at the show, also judging.

It is not the first time we’ve had someone from another sphere in the cheese world (Alex James of Blur springs to mind) and it does go to show how universal and interesting cheese is. There is a joy in examining, judging and eating cheese, and you learn new things from your fellow judges and meet such interesting people at the show. It feels like a greatest gathering of international cheese knowledge, every year. Thanks again.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
  Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

World Cheese Awards

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The real question is, how healthy am I? Well, I’m on blood pressure medication, like many of my peers. For me it’s hereditary – runs in my mother’s family like Blackpool through a stick of rock, as they say. I’m also slugging down the dairy-based cholesterol lowering drinks regularly, as that’s another hereditary issue for me.

My husband has taken the bull by the horns and gone to the “Weight Loss with Better” programme, which he was assigned to via the regular NHS checkup for middle-aged types. Every meal is now accompanied by a, “What would Marcus say about this?” Marcus is the leader of this particular class, which includes regular exercise and nutrition information.

I too have gone back on the calorie counting NHS app, and while he has lost 8kg in as many weeks, I have lost 2kg. Not for lack of trying on my part, but I’m not always as honest as he is. I snack for lots of people, including myself.

So, here we are. I thank the NHS for being proactive about preventing worse outcomes before they progress. Now, we could skip the sessions, or just ignore the practitioner’s advice, but this information is free at point of delivery (plus they give you a big discount on the gym membership). We are now working at a point where we’re trying to stay healthy and in decent shape for our older age, which is rapidly approaching. Like a lot of other people on the planet, I suspect.

In the meantime, I went kayaking on the Thames over the weekend. In the photo, Patricia, my friend in front, has just asked if we can stop here at the pub. The answer was no, not for another dozen kilometres.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
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It is just in time for the holidays, it seems. The British Agricultural and Horticultural Development Board (AHDB) has released the result of its recent survey, which shows that eight out of ten British consumers will eat more cheese over the festive season this year.

People are hosting more folks at their houses, and also eating more cheese. It’s that time of year. I myself find that the cheese board is very much well picked over during this time of year. And who doesn’t like cheesecake? A quality dessert.

Speaking of socialising, I have plans to bring cheese-based canapés to the allotment winter get-together in a few weeks’ time. It is outdoors and usually offers a lot of mulled wine, hot snacks and a lot of garden-type discussions (my over-wintering onions and broad beans are planted, thanks). I plan on buying frozen goods and then cooking them up for the event. Like most of the AHDB respondents, I’m all about convenience cooking for the holidays. That’s part of the fun of this industry. We are all consumers.

This week, the Dairy Industries International team is travelling again. We are heading to Paris for this year’s Food Ingredients Europe, and I’m sure we’ll see a few readers in person at the trade show. Looking forward to it all and seeing you.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
  Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

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Not to say that this was not a formal affair, mind you. Much of the attendees were dressed not just formally, but fit for ceremony, and after a while that is what we were privy to. A vibrant brass band sounded the arrival of the Chelsea Pensioners, as the rest of the press and I were seated and treated to a speech from Dairy UK chairman Paul Vernon, who asserted the value of camaraderie and togetherness before commencing the cheese cutting ceremony.

The cheese cutting ceremony is a traditional part of this event, and not something I was particularly familiar with beforehand. Every year, one of the pensioners will cut into a Ceremonial Montgomery Cheddar, and this year it was Andy Kay, an ex-soldier for the British Army and The Royal Scots aged 75. It was altogether a rather swift moment, but nevertheless powerful – especially for someone as new to the scene as myself.

The ceremony was rounded off by a spectacular surprise performance by Strictly Come Dancing stars Flavia Cacace and Vincent Simone, two professional dancers who my mum was very jealous that I got to meet when she heard about it later that evening. After their dances, which included an Argentine tango (something I’ve been told is a speciality of theirs), I decided that I had to get a picture with the two of them as they started mingling a bit with some of the crowd.

Pictured from left to right: Flavia Cacace, Matthew Camp, Vincent Simone. Image Credit: Matthew Camp

Once everyone had filtered out, we were all treated to lunch in an equally opulent dining area in which I got to meet many new, friendly faces in the industry. Overall, I truly felt a part of the community which Paul Vernon had been speaking about earlier. I was warmly welcomed by many who were much more experienced than myself and eager to chat with me about the history of the event as well as answer any other questions I had. I definitely left the venue that day feeling like I had been a part a group that has made a positive impact on a lot of different people.

(Ed note: Matthew Camp is the editorial assistant for Dairy Industries International)

The post DII at the Ceremony of the Christmas Cheeses appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

We attended both the UK-based International Cheese & Dairy Awards in June, and the World Cheese Awards (WCA), held in Switzerland in November. It was a lot of cheese to judge, but well worth the events.

It seems I have been eating a lot of cheese, no matter where I have gone. I have travelled from the midlands for a Society of Dairy Technology meeting with added Cropwell Bishop tastings in March, to Switzerland and the land of Gruyère AOP with the WCA.

Not to mention deep underground at Charing Cross, where one day I saw both fashions inspired by French cheeses, and the cheeses themselves, courtesy of Cniel and the French cheese industry.

On the equipment side, there was PPMA in Birmingham, UK, and on the ingredients side, the perennial Food Ingredients Europe, held this year in Paris. More raclette was consumed, not to mention a rather delicious Bûche de Noël and some galettes in the first week of December.

There was a Dairy UK dinner in September, and of course the Nordic Dairy Congress in May in Iceland. That was an experience that included axe-throwing, as well as a lot of skyr consumed during the stay.

So, as we look towards 2026, may your holidays be joyous, and may we see you on our future travels. Many thanks for helping us report on this dynamic, exciting industry that continues to feed the world.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
  Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

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Meanwhile, producer prices for conventional milk are in decline once again. The European Milk Board and its member organisations produced an open letter to the European Commissioner for Agriculture Christophe Hansen, calling on the European Commission to activate the voluntary production volume reduction scheme. As it noted, “European dairy farms already operate at the limits of economic viability. Another price collapse would endanger a producer base that is already close to breaking point. The voluntary milk volume reduction scheme was created precisely for this situation. It is a market-stabilising crisis instrument designed to reduce market pressure early and stop price crashes before they become uncontrollable. This tool exists because the EU recognised it needed such a mechanism to prevent severe market crises. Now is the time to activate it.”

So there is a lot to deal with as we head into 2026, but together I think is the way forward. As a sector, we must remember that all links in the chain are as important as the other. Sometimes legislators and the public forget the very small percentage of people who produce all the food consumed, and the animals who work even on Christmas Day.

Meanwhile, in the UK, “Dairy farmers across the UK are being urged to seize a unique opportunity to shape the future of their industry as The Dairy Roadmap launches a nationwide survey on the biggest issues facing the sector – including economics, environment and long-term sustainability. The survey is now open and runs until 14 January, inviting dairy farmers to speak directly about what is working on farm, what isn’t and what is needed to keep UK dairy competitive and resilient.” Stakeholders in the industry outside of farmers are also invited to contribute. Your voice matters, no matter where you are on these isles.

It is available here: https://dairyroadmap.co.uk/have-your-say-on-the-future-of-uk-dairy/

And have a happy Christmas. See you all in 2026.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
  Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

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Very sadly, Society of Dairy Technology stalwart and industry expert Andrew Wilbey passed away just before Christmas. For 12 years he summarised the content of the International Journal of Dairy Technology editions for Dairy Industries International (DII) before Liz Whitley took over a couple of years ago.

He had been poorly fighting cancer for some time. Even still, he remained upbeat over the past three years, changing his daily walk to taking one in his electric wheelchair accompanied by Christine, his wife.

In 2025, Andrew was awarded the SDT’s prestigious gold medal at a small event in Berkshire near his home, as he didn’t think he would be able to manage to attend the annual dinner.

Andrew worked for 55 years in dairy technology. He was a member of the SDT for 45 years, and had 141 publications published, including 38 for the Journal and 52 for Dairy Industries International. He ran 54 ice cream courses over 41 years, and three years ago he summarised his knowledge of ice cream technology in a manual that he kindly supplied to the Society for its members benefit, leaving behind a very supportive legacy for the industry. An account of Andrew’s publications for the Society, written by Andrew, were summarised in DII in April 2025.

It is sad to see a giant of the British dairy industry pass. We give our condolences to his family and friends.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
  Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

The post New Year, and news appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

Anyway, it is a delightful thing to open a drawer and put my hand on the correct tool and in the right place. I have many more drawers to sort out, but the kitchen is nearly done. We also have all up to date food items in those cabinets and drawers now, and any ones of historical interest are now goner.

Nestlé made the news for the wrong reasons last week as it voluntarily recalled batches of SMA infant and follow-on formula on a global scale, due to the possible occurrence of cereulide toxin in some batches. As you may know, the toxin may cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps. In a way, the gravity of the situation is being pre-empted by Nestlé’s quick move to sort the issue out. Infant nutrition can be a lightning rod for bad news, for very obvious reasons.

Speaking of food and nutrition, the new US dietary guidelines are out, and it’s good news for dairy in America. As Michael Dykes, president and CEO of the US International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) says, “The new dietary guidelines send a clear and powerful message to Americans: dairy foods belong at the centre of a healthy diet. IDFA applauds the Department of Health and Human Services and the US Department of Agriculture for grounding the 2025-2030 DGA in today’s nutrition science, including the evidence showing that dairy products at all fat levels support healthy eating patterns. Recommending the consumption of whole and full-fat dairy products such as whole milk, yogurt, cheese, and other dairy products is an important victory for consumer choice and public health.”

The US food system has some issues but the inclusion of dairy is not one of them. Safe, nutritious and affordable – that’s our global motto.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
  Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

The post Total recall with Nestlé and food safety appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

It also shows the issue of logistics continues to be the key in all supply chains, especially in dairy. For example, the Gulfood exhibition and trade show, has added Gulfood Logistics to its January offering in Dubai this year.

The move comes as the global logistics and transportation market is projected to grow from US$9.4 (€8.09) trillion in 2024 to $23 (€19.79) trillion by 2035, underlining the strategic economic weight of logistics in global trade and food supply systems. As global food systems become more interconnected, the logistics networks, cold-chain systems and freight innovations that underpin the world’s food supply and the cross-border cooperation that enables them become more important. At a time when an estimated 70-90% of global trade value moves by sea, logistics efficiency has become a strategic economic lever, directly shaping global GDP, supply reliability and consumer access.

Keeping track of where the food is, and when it lands, is crucial for ensuring a safe and reliable supply chain. Without it, we lose the safety and security of the dairy products.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
  Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

The post Supply and logistics go digital appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

Believe it or not, there is much to look forward to in these long winter evenings. I’ve gone through my seed box and have compiled a list of items to plant for 2026. This is an exercise in optimism over experience, but the photos look so nice and I may get at least one or two of the magical cucumbers or stripey tomatoes in my basket by the summer’s end. I had a lovely pumpkin sitting on my kitchen table for months, until I finally made it into a vast batch of soup.

Gardening is an optimists’ game, as is farming. If dairy farmers didn’t believe in the product and the cows, we’d all be out of business. It also means the processors are buying into the supply chain, with Arla Foods in the UK expanding its central distribution centre, Milky Mist investing heavily in India, and the European Commission approving an investment package for the South Tyrol region of Italy to expand its output, to name three deals that have occurred as of last week.

At the end of the day, people want dairy and the need to provide it is greater than trends might suggest. Dairy is a cheap source of nutritious food for many people, no matter where they are on the planet. Long may it continue.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
  Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

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We often don’t think about the work that goes into developing machinery for the production lines. The computer aided design (CAD), the ironing out of bottlenecks, the detailing of using people versus a robot or an automated system and how to find and fix the issues that come up in a high-speed system are behind the scenes for most people. Fortunately for most of us, the machinery manufacturers do this work. Even spare parts and upgrades are thought of, and with the new online systems that show customers their machines and the parts available in 3D, it is a key part of Alpma’s operations.

The full interview will be set for the March issue of Dairy Industries International. In the meantime, Alpma will be at 10 exhibitions and trade shows globally this year, so it is a chance to see them and look at their offerings in person.

What we also found fascinating was the company history, which began about at the beginning of the 20th century. The company started out as cheese makers, Alpenhain, but when it had to build a machine to wrap a camembert, it became a machinery company as well. However, the firm still holds an interest in its production side and it offers a helpful test site for cheese making, along with cutting, inspection and packaging. It also offers a significant apprenticeship programme, and will be celebrating 80 years in business in 2027. A grand day out and it was so lovely to put the faces to the names.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
  Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

The post Machines matter appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

Which makes for interesting reading is how many companies have had to recall infant formulas, due to the contamination issues from one supplier. All the majors have seen batch recalls due to the one supplier, Cabio Biotech, which provided the arachidonic acid (ARA) oil to the majority of the infant formula producers, including suppliers ranging from Nestlé to Lactalis to Danone. The possible contamination by cereulide – a toxin produced by Bacillus cereus – seems to have affected some infants in the UK with illness, but this recall is global. Perhaps having more than one supplier would be a solution, or reformulating the products yet again to exclude ARA.

The issue of traceability, although not as common as in other food products (like fast foods and chocolate), will no doubt be more prevalent in the infant formula sector. Where are all the ingredients for the product coming from and why are they in those products in the first place? What working conditions are surrounding the people who make these products?

Consumers are asking more about the actual process of processing. As is usual with a set of foods that most people have in their refrigerators, dairy is going to be the first up for more examination, I suspect. So we all need to be able to provide the consumer with clear, simple answers. I think we can manage that.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
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I have an active imagination, as it’s usually grubby clothes, while I dig up weeds and inspect the remains of whatever I did plant. Collect the tiny carrots and muddy potatoes, as well as the slug and bug gnawed veggies and eat them.

Reality and the imagination are two different things in gardening. That being said, the bulbs are starting to come up through the water-logged soil, which is good to see.

I think that can be a metaphor for a lot of what’s going on in the dairy industry. Despite uncertainty, added-value investments are increasing for everyone from Agropur of Canada to Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses in the UK. The Middle East is seeing further investment from big players such as Arla Foods, to support the growth in that market, and Sidel is showcasing its equipment in India, as that country sees exponential growth in dairy packaging, with Britannia’s Winkin’ Cow brand the latest to be filled aseptically.

So, while there is still a lot of rain and mud around, things are changing. Of course, there are tariffs. China has implemented these for EU dairy products, but at a lower level than was originally expected (see our article in the March issue of Dairy Industries International for further examination of this) and the US is going to continue to be a guessing game for manufacturers, exporters and processors of every stripe on that point. Still, the underlying principles work and the bulbs have not rotted away. Growth will occur. Get those seeds planted.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
  Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

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In her lecture, Professor Jebb will be reflecting on the past quarter-century, setting out the realities of diet-related ill health, including the rise in obesity, before looking forward to the next 25 years and posing the question of how we can make the next 25 years healthier, the organisers say.

It should be good talk, and will be followed by an interactive panel discussion chaired by Charlotte Smith, presenter of BBC One’s Countryfile and BBC Radio 4’s Farming Today. The panel will include: Christine Tacon, director of the Co-op Group, along with Ash Amirahmadi OBE, former managing director of Arla Foods UK. Ian Wright CBE will also join them. Together, the panel will debate whether incremental change is enough or whether transformation has become an existential imperative for parts of the industry.

As Professor Jebb notes, “Over the last 25 years, we have seen a huge increase in the prevalence of obesity and diet-related ill-health, driven not by a collapse in personal willpower, but a change in our food system. Small changes and good intentions on the part of businesses are not enough to turn the tide.”

The discussion is very timely as consumers, industry and government look at ways to improve the diet while still providing safe, nutritious and affordable food. Feeding the nation wisely has never been more important in these times.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
  Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

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For my part, I was up in Preston last week, exploring the local sights and buying cheese. The move to grab the local territorials from Dewlay and Butlers is too much to resist at the market. We did not have a butter pie this time but did enjoy a steak one at the local pub. We didn’t go to the local football team sponsor, SpudBros (@therealspudbros) for a jacket potato, as I do like the coffee and brunch at Rise nearby (risebrunch.co.uk) instead, but this was no reflection on the potato boys.

It was then off to the reopened Harris Museum, (theharris.org.uk) where we inspected the 13,500-year old Poulton elk and its fellow exhibits, including a Lowry. I love the smaller museums in this country. They have spent time and energy renovating it and it is a sight to behold. And while we were at it, we took photos with Wallace, Gromit and Feathers McGraw at the market.

So a rather jolly weekend all in (despite PNE losing), and as we were weaving our way back from the coast to the M6, we braked for coffee. Fairy Glen Coffee in Parbold (@fairy.glen.coffee) was perched on the layby and I was told the beans were roasted locally. It was a superb cuppa and just the item to be getting on with for a long drive south.

I hope wherever you are, your drink of choice is superb and your choice of cheese is bountiful. Happy Monday.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International.
  Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com
  Twitter: @dairyindustries

The post When the world goes mad appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

Pizza’s dominance as the food of choice among Gen Z (and us Xers) means that mozzarella is also set to continue its growth. The overall global market is set to grow by 6.6% compound annual growth rate through 2032, according to ResearchandMarkets.com, amounting to US$59.8 billion (€51.8bn) by that year. (www.researchandmarkets.com/report/mozzarella)

That being said, in addition to fior di latte mozzarella throughout, there was also Pecorino Romano on the crust, and scarmorza on my side of the pizza. A very nice use of some Italian cheeses, in my humble opinion. Interestingly, they did a green goddess dip, but not a ranch one. I suspect ranch has had its day and was never as popular outside the US as inside it. Fair enough.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International. Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

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Let’s face it, it’s hard to replicate the delights of dairy using so few ingredients as what is found in cow’s milk. Plus, when drinking it, you get the nutrition that is inherent in dairy, versus other products available. Of course, we all knew this but it’s nice to see the good news in the media.

The influencers are also highlighting and promoting Jersey cow gold top milk, which should be handy for those who are producing such items, including Graham’s, whose proprietor Robert Graham notes in the article, Jersey milk is “18 per cent higher in protein and 20 per cent higher in calcium than regular milk.” (www.grahamsfamilydairy.com/our-products/gold-top)

Not to mention Jersey cows are so pretty. I always think truth will out, although oftentimes it feels like it will never be brought to light, because there is so much noise out there. We often have to watch until people get tired of the nonsense that is the non-dairy folks, with their over-processed, expensive products, which don’t deliver the same nutritional benefits as milk does.

Still, we continue. An industry that is thousands of years old does not give up at the first sign of discord. For example, last month, Dairy UK brought together leading international experts to examine the science behind healthy ageing and the challenge of growing consumer confusion around diet and misinformation. Held at the Royal Society of Medicine in London, “Strong Foundations, Resilient Futures: Nutrition at Every Stage,” convened academics, dietitians and health professionals to explore how nutrition and physical activity support healthspan (the years of life spent in good health) and the role dairy can play across the life course. (www.dairyuk.org/blog/dairy-uk-leads-expert-debate-to-address-nutritions-role-in-healthy-ageing)

Plus, as we all age, that issue of healthspan will become ever more important., no matter where you are in your lifespan right now. And the influencers will lead them.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International. Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

The post Full fat is back on the menu appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

Cyprus mouflon (Ovis gmelini ophion), 2019 hchavez, Creative Commons

Sheep were domesticated between 11,000 and 9000 BCE in Western Asia (Iraq, Iran, Turkey).  The Asiatic wild mouflon is widely believed to be the primary ancestor to all modern domestic sheep. Wild mouflons have a short-haired, reddish-brown coat with a bristly outer layer that does not shed. Domestic sheep began spreading to Europe about 6000 BCE and reached Scandinavia by 4000 BCE.

From earliest times, sheep were a major source of meat, pelts, leather, lanolin and milk. Early domesticated sheep had hairy coats that needed to shed.  Today’s Soay breed resembles these early domestic sheep.  Selective breeding specifically for wool began around 6000 BCE.  Early woven wool textiles date to between 4000 and 3000 BCE.  Medium and finer-wooled breeds emerged around 500 BCE.  Highly specialized fine-wool breeds such as the Spanish Merino were developed in the 12th-13^th centuries. Domestic hair sheep breeds originated in Africa and have a coat of hair, not wool, and are used primarily for meat and leather.  Worldwide, there are an estimated 1,000 sheep breeds that thrive in every environment from alpine peaks to deserts.  Each breed has evolved through various degrees of natural selection and human selection for traits.

Florida Cracker sheep

Domestic sheep were first introduced to North America by the Spanish, who brought with them several hardy Iberian Churra breeds capable of thriving in rough conditions and able to produce milk, meat and wool for settlers.  The first introduction was in Florida in 1493, then in Mexico in 1519, and again in 1540 in what is now the Southwestern U.S. These breeds are the foundation from which the Florida Cracker, Gulf Coast Native and Navajo-Churro breeds were developed. Likewise, hair sheep from Africa were brought to the Caribbean by Spanish traders, from which the Barbados Black Belly and St. Croix hair sheep were developed.  Later, in 1607, the English introduced several hardy, unimproved small types of sheep, designed for survival and local wool production, to their colonies.  Today, there are approximately 50 sheep breeds in the United States, of which 23 are listed on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List.  

In the western United States, regional cultures, economies and lifeways developed around the shepherding of sheep and weaving of textiles and fiber art.  Flocks, often numbering in the tens of thousands, were moved seasonally (transhumance) from winter to summer rangelands, often over hundreds of miles. Traditional pastoralism adapts to climate, provides ecological benefits like wildfire resilience and preserves cultural heritage. This system relies on the labor of sheepherders and dogs to protect sheep from predators. Hardiness, intelligence and ability to raise their offspring with little assistance were essential. In the fall, flocks were driven along stock ways to be loaded onto trains bound for markets.

Click for a Timeline of Heritage Breed Sheep in America.

In the eastern U.S., Sheep were raised at a smaller scale on pasture, often with shade, and could be easily supplemented with hay and grain.  Most sheep were raised for home-spun wool, but they also provided meat and helped to clear land. In the Appalachians, bald mountain tops were used as summer pastures. In New England, the “Great Sheep Boom” of the 19th century, where demand for wool increased dramatically due to economic policies, led to the clearing of land and the construction of extensive stone walls and split-rail fences to contain flocks. At the same time, large mills were built to process wool and create woolen products.

The U.S. sheep and wool industries remained robust through the mid-20th century.  Sheep production shifted towards finer-wooled breeds and those that produced quality meat more efficiently. At the peak, there were 50 million sheep in the United States, according to the United States Department of Agriculture census of 1940.  After World War II, the demand for lamb and mutton declined, and competition from New Zealand and Australia drove wool prices down.  By the late 1970s, many sheep producers had shifted to raising beef cattle.  Today, there are about 5 million sheep and few woolen mills left in the United States. The industry is focused primarily on about 10 standardized industrial breeds; however, recognition of the value of genetic diversity offered by heritage sheep is growing.

Heritage sheep offer opportunities for family-based farms and ranches to find viable niches for the products they create.  Heritage sheep, especially the smaller breeds, are ideal for children, helping them learn the nuances of breeding livestock.  Each breed offers a variety of distinguishing characteristics and traits, such as

• heavy milk production for soaps, specialty cheese and fudge
• wool types and colors suitable for many products and prized by fiber artists.
• excellent meat both in flavor and quantity
• strong mothering and flocking instincts
• the ability to flourish on grass pasture or rangeland with minimal supplementation.
• exceptional in regenerating soil health and managing vegetation

The processing and spinning of wool into yarn for wearable clothing and fiber art is deeply embedded in American history and culture. Some people say that the sheep’s superpower is converting grass to wool because it aligns well with sustainable consumption choices. Unlike synthetics, wool does not release microplastics into the environment and it breaks down naturally.  For this reason, wool is celebrated as an eco-friendly material in fashion, home décor and construction. In addition, it is ideal as a soil amendment and protective mulch.

Special thanks to The Sheepwalk Ranch for sponsoring Celebrating 250 outreach and content about sheep. Visit them at www.thesheepwalkranch.com.

If you’re considering sheep ownership, you can learn more about each heritage breed on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List at https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/conservation-priority-list/.

If you’re ready to purchase sheep or want to talk with a breeder, you can most likely find what you’re looking for in our online Breeders and Products Directory at https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/breeders-directory/

If you would like to support the ongoing work of The Livestock Conservancy, you can become a member or make a donation at https://livestockconservancy.org/

Raising awareness of heritage breeds is the first step to preventing their extinction. You can help by following our Facebook or Instagram page and sharing our posts to spread the word. https://www.facebook.com/livestockconservancy

The post Heritage Sheep in American History appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

Original Homestead Flocks

Dominique chickens

In the 17th and 18th centuries, European settlers brought hardy chickens to North America. These birds thrived in their new environment, foraging for food and providing families with a steady supply of eggs and meat. During this time, eggs served as a consistent source of protein, while raising chickens for meat was a slower, more resource-intensive endeavor. Women and children often managed these flocks, integrating them into their self-sufficient lifestyles. The genetic diversity of these homestead flocks ensured their resilience against disease and scarcity, paving the way for the emergence of America’s first homegrown breed, the Dominique, renowned for its hardiness and productivity.

The Chicken Craze

The mid-1800s saw the birth of “the Chicken Craze”, a phenomenon fueled by the importation of Asian breeds like Cochins. This excitement ignited nationwide interest in chicken breeding and sparked interest in poultry exhibitions, leading to increased imports. As people admired prized birds, several iconic American breeds were developed, including Rhode Island Whites, celebrated for their prolific year-round egg production; Jersey Giants, recognized for their hardiness as dual-purpose birds; and Buckeyes, another exceptional dual-purpose breed.

Economic Backbone

New Hampshire chickens

As the 20^th century dawned, chickens became the backbone of many local rural economies. Small-scale operations thrived, with women playing a central role in tending flocks and generating vital income through the sale of eggs and chicks. Vintage images from the early 1900s often portray charming mixed flocks, showcasing a rich diversity of breeds, from elegant Campines to sturdy New Hampshires. Innovations, such as petroleum-fueled incubators and improved feed, improved production rates, but the importance of diversity within these flocks remained essential for meeting family needs and ensuring resilience.

Abundance at a Cost

The 1940s marked a turning point in poultry production. Iconic photographers like Ansel Adams captured idyllic scenes of free-ranging flocks on family farms, but the post-WWII food landscape shifted dramatically. As food demand surged, industrial farming took center stage. Controlled breeding shifted its focus to uniform hybrids, leading to faster-growing broilers designed to minimize production costs and boost supply. By the late 20^th century, chicken consumption had exploded, surpassing pork and rivaling beef as America’s most-consumed meat. Increased demand and attempts to meet it led to the widespread loss of diverse chicken breeds as traditional coops gave way to vast broiler houses. While chicken became an everyday staple, the species nearly lost many of the important traits of heritage breeds.

A Call for Conservation

Delaware rooster

Conserving heritage chickens isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s a pragmatic approach to securing our future. In the late 20^th century, the importance of maintaining heritage livestock and poultry was recognized, and coordinated efforts began to have an impact on many chicken breeds. The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List, now in its 39th year, tracks nearly 50 at-risk poultry breeds, from the critically endangered Araucana to the recovering non-industrialized Leghorn. Each rescue effort, supported by established and new chicken breeders, breed organizations and hatcheries, has been a beacon of hope for biodiversity and food security.

Your Role and the Future

Raising heritage chickens and sourcing their meat and eggs promotes biodiversity, supports small-scale farming, and honors the centuries-long contributions these breeds have made to America’s sustainable food systems. Each bird raised represents a step away from monoculture and contributes to the conservation of their breed and our agricultural legacy. From pre-revolutionary chicken yards to modern-day backyards and homesteads, heritage chickens embody America’s agricultural evolution. By committing to their conservation today, we can ensure they remain a part of our future. Imagine a future where these breeds thrive in diverse environments, providing food security across the nation. When progress respects and honors history, it benefits everyone.

Special thanks to Murray McMurray Hatchery for sponsoring Celebrating 250 outreach and content about chickens. Visit them at www.mcmurrayhatchery.com

If you’re considering chicken ownership, you can learn more about each heritage breed on The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List at https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/conservation-priority-list/.

If you’d like to talk with a breeder or find local sources for chicks or eggs, you can most likely find what you’re looking for in our online Breeders and Products Directory at https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/breeders-directory/

If you want to support the ongoing work of The Livestock Conservancy, you can become a member or make a donation at https://livestockconservancy.org/

Raising awareness of heritage breeds is the first step to preventing their extinction. You can help by following our Facebook or Instagram page and sharing our posts to spread the word. https://www.facebook.com/livestockconservancy

The post Heritage Chickens in American History appeared first on The Livestock Conservancy.

Cobb emphasized the Cobb800 builds upon its existing product portfolio. The Cobb500 continues to deliver exceptional results for customers focused on small bird markets, offering the performance, efficiency, and competitive edge producers rely on. Cobb leadership underscored that the Cobb500 remains a proven, high performing solution for small bird operations worldwide.

Shelby Watkins, President of Cobb, said, “The Cobb800 reflects years of research, innovation, and disciplined focus on advancing meaningful genetic progress. And while our Cobb500 continues to demonstrate outstanding strength for customers in small bird markets, the Cobb800 represents new, organic growth for Cobb in a market segment where we previously did not offer a specialized high‑yield solution.”

Designed for Modern Production Demands

Developed specifically for markets where yield, scale, and performance are essential, the Cobb800 is selected to perform under real world commercial pressure. It has been evaluated across diverse regions, management systems, and nutrition programs to help validate performance outcomes across a range of production environments.

Proven Through Rigorous Testing

“The Cobb800 represents a breakthrough in how we design, test, and deliver genetic progress,” said Dr. William Herring, Vice President of Research & Development at Cobb. “It is the most thoroughly tested product in Cobb’s history—evaluated at commercial scale across multiple geographies and production systems.”

The Cobb800 is also the first product to fully complete development through Cobb’s Proving Grounds, demonstrating the scale, precision, and commercial relevance the platform was created to achieve.

“Throughout this intensive development cycle, we continued improving our existing product lines—including the Cobb500—while advancing the continuous innovation our customers rely on,” said Herring. “I’m incredibly proud of our team and the value this product is positioned to bring to producers worldwide.”

A New Standard for Measurable Progress

The Cobb800 strengthens Cobb’s commitment to delivering solutions producers can confidently integrate into their operations.

“This achievement is the result of remarkable collaboration and dedication across our global organization,” said Watkins. “It demonstrates our commitment to moving the industry forward and supporting customers around the world with trusted, data driven solutions.”

Learn More About the Cobb800

To learn more about the Cobb800 and how it may support your production goals, visit https://www.cobbgenetics.com/products or contact your Cobb sales representative for more information and next steps.

Now, this is set to change in England tomorrow, 31 March. The Simpler Recycling legislation being implemented by the UK government is a policy designed to standardise recycling collections across England.

For households, different local authorities collected different materials in different ways. Under these new rules, local authorities are still able to operate using differing configurations of collection model, such as kerbside sortation, or co-mingled recycling in larger dustcarts, but they must all collect the same materials from any household in England.

Under the framework:

• Businesses with 10 or more full-time-equivalent (FTE) employees must separate key recyclable materials (micro-businesses will be obligated from 2027).
• Waste collectors must ensure recyclable materials are collected and processed separately from residual waste.
• Local authorities must collect the same core materials.

Reconomy notes that the recycling rate for the country has stagnated, so between this and the introduction of a deposit return scheme across the UK (again devolved) in the coming years, the hope is that more of this material will be reprocessed for re-use. At the end of the day, it’s better to have these cans, plastic and glass bottles and other materials in the recycling loop, rather discarded in the streets and streams.

The post Plastic pots and recycling appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

Meanwhile, I wonder how this particular paragraph from the US Dairy Export Council report on US dairy, cheese and butter exports will age as the year 2026 progresses: “US butter sales posted their ninth straight month of triple-digit YOY increases. Volume rose 187% to 9,194 metric tonnes (MT). The Middle East/North Africa was responsible for nearly half that gain, with January volume to the region rising by 2,511 MT, an exponential increase over the previous year.”

I doubt it will be the same for the next nine months, starting about three weeks ago. I just hope that everyone can hang on and somehow make it through this most recent series of events, frankly. But as we’ve seen, politics often impinges on dairy, as dairy is in so very many people’s lives, no matter where they live. Sometimes that is a dubious honour as it takes the flak for tariffs and other restrictions (and places get bombed – I still shudder at the photos taken in Ukraine of the impact on their dairy sector), when all it is really about is sitting down with a nice piece of cheese for a minute. Stay safe, everyone.

• Suzanne Christiansen, editor, Dairy Industries International. Keep in touch via email: suzanne@bellpublishing.com Twitter: @dairyindustries Linkedin: @dairyindustriesinternational

The post The cheese selection appeared first on Dairy Industries International.

To address this challenge, dairy producers increasingly rely on calf milk replacers—nutritionally balanced feeds designed to replace whole milk in calf diets. These products supply essential nutrients required for growth while allowing farmers to market more of their milk. When used correctly, milk replacers provide a practical and efficient solution for raising strong and healthy calves.

The Importance of Proper Nutrition in Early Calf Life

The period immediately after birth represents one of the most critical stages in the life of a calf. During the first few weeks, the animal experiences rapid physiological development, but its immune defenses and digestive capacity are still immature. Because of this vulnerability, calves require carefully managed feeding to ensure optimal growth and health.

Providing balanced nutrition during the early growth phase contributes to several important benefits:

• Accelerated body growth and improved weight gain
• Development of strong bones and well-formed muscles
• Enhanced resistance to infectious diseases
• Proper maturation of the digestive system
• Earlier onset of productive maturity in adulthood

If calves do not receive adequate nutrition during this stage, their growth rate slows down and their resistance to disease may be compromised. Such animals may require more time to reach maturity and often perform poorly as dairy cows later in life. Therefore, investing in proper calf nutrition is not simply a short-term management practice—it is a long-term investment in herd productivity.

What is Calf Milk Replacer?

Calf milk replacer is a carefully formulated powdered feed that is mixed with warm water and provided to calves as an alternative to whole milk. The product is designed to deliver all essential nutrients needed during the milk-feeding stage of a calf’s life.

High-quality milk replacers typically contain a balanced mixture of:

• Highly digestible protein sources
• Energy-rich carbohydrates
• Fat for concentrated energy supply
• Essential vitamins and minerals
• Functional additives that support digestion and health

These ingredients are combined in proportions that meet the nutritional requirements of growing calves while ensuring good digestibility.

Milk replacers are generally marketed in powder form. This format makes them easy to store, transport, and handle on farms. Before feeding, the powder is dissolved in warm water to create a liquid mixture that resembles natural milk in consistency and nutrient availability.

Nutritional Components of Calf Milk Replacer

A well-designed milk replacer contains several categories of ingredients that work together to support growth and health.

Protein Sources

Proteins are fundamental building blocks for the development of muscles, tissues, and organs in young animals. In milk replacers, proteins are obtained from both dairy and plant sources. Common ingredients include:

• Skim milk powder
• Whey powder
• Soy protein isolate
• Soy protein concentrate
• Wheat gluten

Among these, milk-derived proteins are considered highly digestible for young calves and are therefore widely used in premium milk replacer formulations.

Carbohydrate and Energy Sources

Energy is required for body maintenance, growth, and maintaining body temperature. The principal carbohydrate used in milk replacers is lactose, which is the natural sugar found in milk.

Some formulations may also include additional carbohydrate sources such as processed cereal derivatives or glucose-based ingredients to ensure adequate energy supply for growing calves.

Fat Sources

Fats serve as an important source of concentrated energy in calf diets. They help support efficient weight gain and provide essential fatty acids that contribute to overall health.

Common fat ingredients used in milk replacers include:

• Coconut oil
• Palm oil
• Soybean oil
• Blended vegetable fats

Fats also facilitate the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, and E.

Vitamins and Mineral Supplements

Micronutrients are essential for maintaining metabolic functions, bone growth, and immune responses. To ensure balanced nutrition, milk replacers are fortified with several vitamins and minerals, including:

• Vitamin A for vision and immune development
• Vitamin D for bone development
• Vitamin E for antioxidant protection
• B-complex vitamins for metabolism
• Vitamin C for immune development
• Calcium and phosphorus for skeletal growth
• Trace minerals such as zinc, copper, iodine, and selenium

These nutrients collectively support the overall development and disease resistance of calves.

Functional Additives for Calf Health

Modern milk replacers often include specialized additives that promote digestive efficiency and intestinal health. Examples of such additives include:

• Probiotics, which introduce beneficial microorganisms into the gut
• Prebiotics, which support the growth of helpful bacteria
• Digestive enzymes, which improve nutrient utilization
• Essential amino acids, which enhance protein synthesis
• Emulsifiers, which improve fat digestion

These functional components help maintain gut health and reduce digestive disorders commonly observed in young calves.

Advantages of Using Milk Replacers in Dairy Farms

Increased Economic Returns

One of the most important advantages of milk replacer feeding is its contribution to farm profitability. Instead of feeding valuable whole milk to calves, farmers can market the milk and use milk replacers as a cost-effective alternative.

This practice allows dairy producers to increase income without compromising calf nutrition.

Consistency in Nutrient Supply

Natural milk composition can vary depending on factors such as the cow’s breed, stage of lactation, and health status. In contrast, milk replacers are manufactured under controlled conditions, ensuring that each batch contains consistent levels of nutrients.

As a result, calves receive a uniform and balanced diet throughout the feeding period.

Reduced Risk of Disease Transmission

Raw milk may sometimes carry harmful pathogens, particularly when cows suffer from conditions such as mastitis. Feeding contaminated milk can expose calves to infections.

Milk replacers are produced through controlled manufacturing processes and therefore reduce the likelihood of transmitting diseases through feeding.

Convenience in Storage and Handling

Another practical advantage of milk replacers is their ease of storage. Unlike fresh milk, powdered replacers have a longer shelf life and do not require refrigeration. This makes them convenient for farms managing multiple calves.

Improved Feeding Management

Milk replacers allow farmers to measure feed quantities accurately and maintain a consistent feeding schedule. Such control helps ensure that each calf receives the required amount of nutrients every day.

Feeding Management for Milk Replacers

Importance of Colostrum

The first feed given to a newborn calf is colostrum, the thick milk produced by the mother immediately after calving. Colostrum contains antibodies that protect the calf against diseases during the early stages of life.

Ideally, calves should receive sufficient colostrum within the first few hours after birth and continue receiving it during the first three days.

Starting Milk Replacer Feeding

After the colostrum-feeding period, milk replacer can be introduced gradually, usually beginning on the eighth day of life.

The powder is mixed with warm water, typically at a temperature of 40–45°C, to prepare the liquid feed. A commonly recommended mixing proportion is:

• 1 part milk replacer powder to 7 parts warm water
• Proper mixing ensures a uniform solution without lumps

Feeding Program for Dairy Calves

Although feeding schedules may vary slightly depending on farm management, a typical program may include the following schedule:

Introducing Calf Starter Feed

While milk replacer supplies liquid nutrition, calves must gradually transition to solid feeds to develop a functional digestive system. Calf starter feed should be introduced at around two weeks of age.

Starter feeds stimulate the development of the rumen, the primary digestive chamber in adult cattle. Access to clean drinking water and small quantities of quality forage further supports rumen development.

Weaning the Calf

Weaning generally takes place between eight and ten weeks of age, once the calf begins consuming adequate quantities of starter feed. A gradual reduction in milk replacer feeding helps calves adapt smoothly to a solid diet.

Practical Feeding Tips for Farmers

Maintaining proper feeding hygiene and management practices is essential for raising healthy calves. Farmers should follow these guidelines:

• Use clean and safe water for preparing milk replacer
• Follow recommended mixing ratios carefully
• Feed the mixture at approximately body temperature
• Clean feeding equipment thoroughly after each use
• Prepare fresh feed before every feeding
• Observe calves regularly for changes in appetite or health

Simple management practices such as these can prevent many common health problems in young calves.

Conclusion

The future productivity of a dairy herd depends largely on the quality of calf management practiced on the farm. Proper nutrition during the early stages of life plays a vital role in raising strong and productive animals. Calf milk replacers provide a convenient and economically viable alternative to feeding whole milk. By allowing farmers to sell more marketable milk while still meeting the nutritional needs of calves, milk replacers contribute to improved farm profitability. When combined with good hygiene, balanced feeding programs, and careful management, milk replacers can help dairy farmers raise healthier calves and build more productive herds for the future.

Initially, phytogenics were valued primarily for their ability to replace AGPs by suppressing harmful bacteria in the gut. However, as research deepened, their broader benefits became evident: they modulate gut microbiota, enhance nutrient absorption, strengthen gut integrity, and support immune function. Despite these advantages, early phytogenic products faced challenges, including inconsistent efficacy, poor stability during feed processing, and variable palatability. Many first-generation additives were volatile, dusty, or irritating, limiting their practical application in commercial farming. Today, the industry stands at the threshold of a new era. Advanced technologies, such as micro-encapsulation, have addressed these limitations, enabling the development of highly concentrated, stable, and targeted-release feed additives. These innovations not only improve animal performance but also align with the growing demand for sustainable, natural, and economically viable solutions in poultry production.

While phytogenics have dominated the market for decades now, a new frontier is emerging: phycogenics, or algae-derived feed additives. Unlike traditional plant-based solutions, phycogenics leverage the unique bioactive compounds found in marine algae, such as seaweeds. These compounds offer distinct advantages, including novel antimicrobial properties, enhanced gut health modulation, and improved nutrient utilization.

Research into phycogenics is still in its early stages, but preliminary findings are promising. Rather than treating algae as a simple nutrient source, scientists are now focusing on identifying and isolating specific metabolites that can optimize animal physiology. For example, certain seaweed extracts have been shown to:

• Stimulate beneficial gut bacteria while inhibiting pathogens.
• Enhance mucus production and epithelial cell growth, strengthening gut integrity.
• Modulate immune responses, reducing inflammation and improving disease resistance.

The potential of phycogenics is further amplified when combined with advanced processing techniques, such as micro-encapsulation. This synergy allows for the creation of highly stable, low-dose additives that deliver consistent results even in complex diets containing enzymes, emulsifiers, and probiotics.

Setting a New Standard: Phytogenics, phycogenics, and Micro-Encapsulation

The evolution of phytogenic and phycogenic feed additives highlights the importance of manufacturing expertise. Early products, while innovative, often struggled with stability issues, poor handling characteristics, and inconsistent efficacy. For instance, volatile essential oils could degrade during feed processing, while dusty or irritating formulations posed risks to both animals and workers. Modern advancements have overcome these challenges through precision encapsulation technologies (cf XPR^©). Today’s leading feed additives are:

• Highly concentrated, allowing for lower inclusion rates without sacrificing efficacy.
• Stable under harsh processing conditions, such as extrusion and pelletization.
• Dust-free and non-irritating, ensuring safety and ease of handling.
• Designed for targeted release, delivering active compounds precisely where they are needed in the digestive tract.

However, the term “encapsulated” has become widely used—and sometimes overused—in marketing. It is essential for producers to verify suppliers’ claims and ensure that products are backed by rigorous scientific validation rather than mere promotional language. True innovation lies in additives that combine proven stability, transparent formulations, and demonstrated efficacy in real-world farming conditions.The future of feed additives lies in the integration of phytogenic and phycogenic compounds with advanced delivery systems. Recent breakthroughs have led to the development of next-generation products that outperform traditional solutions in several key areas:

1. Precision Release: Micro-encapsulation ensures that active ingredients are released at the optimal site in the gut, maximizing their impact on digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function.
2. Enhanced Stability: These additives remain effective throughout feed processing and storage, even under challenging conditions.
3. Low-Dose Efficacy: High concentrations of active compounds allow for lower inclusion rates, reducing costs while maintaining performance benefits.
4. Sustainability: By improving feed efficiency and reducing the need for synthetic additives, these technologies support environmentally responsible farming practices.

Extensive research has demonstrated that these advanced feed additives optimize animal performance by:

• Stimulating digestive enzymes, enhancing nutrient utilization.
• Strengthening gut barrier function, reducing the risk of infections and inflammation.
• Modulating immune responses, improving overall health and resilience.
• Delivering a strong return on investment (ROI), even at minimal dosages.

Case Study: Validating Efficacy in Complex Diets

A recent trial conducted at Sri Ramadhootha Poultry Research in Hyderabad, India, provides a real-world example of how low-dose feed technologies can enhance performance in complex diets. The study evaluated the effects of a phytogenic-phycogenic encapsulation (NUQO^©) in broiler diets already supplemented with emulsifiers and probiotics.Trial Design:

• 870 day-old Cobb 430 Y chicks were divided into two groups:
  • Control Group: Standard diet with emulsifiers (500g/ton) and probiotics (50g/ton).
  • Test Group: Same diet plus 75g/ton of the advanced additive.
• Both groups received a corn- and soybean-based diet enriched with phytase, NSP enzymes, toxin binders, and a coccidiostat.
• Performance metrics, including body weight, feed intake, feed efficiency, and slaughter traits, were recorded at 21 days and slaughter.

Key Results:

• Superior feed efficiency (P < 0.05) in the test group at both 21 days and slaughter, indicating better nutrient utilization.
• 2% higher body weight at slaughter, demonstrating enhanced growth performance.
• Remarkable ROI of 7:1, based on current feed prices in India.
• Lower liver weight in the test group, suggesting improved liver metabolism and reduced fat accumulation, while remaining within healthy ranges.

This trial underscores the added value of low-dose feed technologies in complex diets. By integrating seamlessly with existing additives—such as enzymes, emulsifiers, and probiotics—these innovations enhance overall performance without disrupting dietary balance. The result is a win-win for producers: improved animal health, higher efficiency, and greater profitability.

 Conclusion: The Future of Feed Additives in Poultry Nutrition

The transition from first-generation phytogenics to advanced phytogenic-phycogenic encapsulated technologies represents a paradigm shift in animal nutrition. By combining plant and algae-derived metabolites with cutting-edge encapsulation, these innovations address the limitations of earlier products while delivering unmatched efficacy, stability, and economic value.As the poultry industry continues to evolve, the demand for natural, sustainable, and high-performance feed solutions will only grow. Low-dose feed technologies are poised to play a central role in meeting these demands, offering producers a way to:

• Enhance animal performance through improved digestion, gut health, and immune function.
• Reduce costs by maximizing feed efficiency and minimizing waste.
• Support sustainability by decreasing reliance on synthetic additives and promoting responsible farming practices.

Ultimately, the integration of phytogenics, phycogenics, and advanced delivery systems sets a new standard for feed additives – one that prioritizes science, transparency, and real-world results. For producers seeking to optimize their operations, these technologies represent not just an alternative to traditional solutions, but a pathway to the future of poultry nutrition. For more information: https://nuqo.eu/

Since the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the U.S. and Morocco was signed in 2006, Morocco has gained increased access to U.S. imports, making it the second-largest market for U.S. agricultural products in Africa. Its strategic geographic position also makes it an ideal hub for transshipment, connecting U.S. Soy to a wider regional market.

U.S. soybean meal is Morocco’s highest-value imported commodity, making Morocco the ninth-largest market for soybean meal globally. In the 2024/2025 marketing year, Morocco imported 512,000 MT of soybean meal, reflecting strong demand for U.S. Soy.

Powering Morocco’s Poultry

Poultry is Morocco’s most preferred source of animal protein, making it a key pillar of national food and nutrition security. With an expected annual growth rate of 5-7%, reliable, consistent, superior feed ingredients remain essential for sustained growth.

In 2024, Morocco produced 4.4 million tons of compound feed, 734,000 tons of poultry meat and 5.6 billion table eggs. The data is clear: poultry leads the nation’s protein demand.

Poultry producers in Morocco recognize that feed ingredients such as U.S. Soy play an essential role in accelerating this growth. By choosing solar-dried U.S. Soy, customers benefit from the 4D’s, namely:

• Lower damage 
• Drier soybeans
• Higher digestibility
• Zero deforestation compared to soy from other origins

These translate to improved animal performance, improved efficiency, and, in turn, higher profit potential.

Evolving consumer trends are also fueling demand. Higher-protein diets, a preference for processed poultry products, urbanization, e-commerce accessibility, and home delivery are reshaping Morocco’s consumption patterns, with protein playing a central role.

Sustainability: A Shared Vision

As Morocco progresses with its Generation Green 2020-2030 strategy, U.S. Soy’s lowest-carbon footprint and sustainable growing practices, such as no-till, cover crops, and reforestation, show shared values. By investing in sustainably verified U.S. Soybean meal, Morocco’s industry benefits from supply chain transparency and its commitment to sustainable agriculture. In marketing year 2025, Morocco imported 317,910 MT of SSAP-verified soy, including 137 MT of soybeans, 11,067 MT of soybean hulls, and 306,706 MT of soybean meal. Investing in SSAP-verified, sustainable U.S. Soy helps businesses achieve their sustainability targets and streamline ESG reporting.

U.S. Soy customers worldwide are leveraging U.S. Soy’s ‘Sustainable U.S. Soy’ and ‘Fed with Sustainable U.S. Soy’ labels to differentiate themselves in a global market increasingly prioritizing sustainability. To qualify for the label, customers must import 60% SSAP-verified U.S.-origin soybean meal or 90% for soy food products.

Beyond Poultry

With no domestic crushing currently in operation, Morocco relies on imports to advance its animal industry, driven by nutrition, sustainability, and a consistently reliable supply. While Morocco’s poultry industry is a dominant user of U.S. soybean meal, the dairy and aquaculture industries remain key users.

Aquaculture is expected to double production by 2030, increasing the need for sustainable aquafeed ingredients. The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC)’s efforts have supported this growth through the introduction of the country’s first In-Pond Raceway System (IPRS), which boosts yield with minimal environmental impact.

“Our customers here in Morocco trust U.S. Soy with its nutrient-rich bundle,” added Khalid Benabdeljelil, USSEC Morocco Market Lead. “U.S. Soy’s consistently superior nutritional bundle assures our customers that they’re receiving the gold standard in market.”

Morocco’s dairy industry, one of the most prosperous in North Africa, also prefers U.S. soybean meal for its high quality, digestibility, and cost-efficiency. Beyond feed, Morocco is the largest importer of U.S. soybean oil in the Maghreb, highlighting the breadth of U.S. Soy’s value in the country.

Paving a Food-Secure Future Together

The growth of Morocco’s protein industry is built on three decades of partnership between U.S. Soy and Morocco. A Memorandum of Understanding signed between USSEC and The Poultry Federation of Morocco in 2024 further strengthened this collaboration.

“Morocco is a great case study in the convergence of favorable trade policy, quality preference and the alignment of relationships to a vision,” added Kevin Roepke, USSEC’s Executive Director. As Morocco’s protein industry continues to expand, U.S. Soy is the perfect partner to support long-term growth.

Commenting on the strategic vision behind the rebrand, Ahmed Khalil, Portfolio Director, said: “The evolution to GROWTECH. MIDDLE EAST represents the natural next step in our journey to serve the agricultural community. We’re not changing who we are, we’re amplifying our impact by connecting our region’s producers with the best innovations from around the world. Our 17-year legacy of trust and results remains the foundation, but now we’re building something even more powerful: a truly global platform for agricultural advancement that serves the unique needs of the Middle East while opening doors to international markets and partnerships.This growth is fully aligned with our One Informa commitment: one unified vision, one global standard, and one integrated ecosystem that strengthens every event across our portfolio.

With GROWTECH. MIDDLE EAST, we’re scaling not just agriculture, but all three core pillars of the food production ecosystem: Agriculture, Animal Health, and Aquaculture, ensuring each sector gains the visibility, expertise, and global collaboration it deserves.”

The formal partnership was celebrated through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony at the GROWTECH. ANTALYA 2025, that took place on 19 November 2025 at the ANFAŞ Expo Center in Türkiye.

The integration capitalizes on GROWTECH. MIDDLE EAST (Formerly AgraME’s) deep understanding of GCC market dynamics and established relationships with regional governments and agricultural authorities, combined with GROWTECH. ANTALYA’s expertise in greenhouse technologies, plant breeding, and sustainable farming innovations. These exhibitions together have attracted over 40,000 agricultural professionals annually and facilitated millions of dollars in trade agreements.

GROWTECH. ANTALYA has established itself as the world’s largest greenhouse technologies trade fair, consistently breaking attendance and participation records. The 2024 edition brought together 684 exhibitors from 31 countries with 39,575 agricultural professionals, with international visitors making 42% of the total attendance. The 2025 edition is expected to host over 725 exhibitors from 36 countries and welcome more than 40,000 visitors.While GROWTECH. MIDDLE EAST (Formerly AgraME) has built exceptional expertise in agriculture, horticulture, animal and aquaculture sectors, addressing the unique livestock and aquatic farming needs of the GCC region, the integration with GROWTECH. dramatically expands the product portfolio. The unified platform will now offer a complete 360-degree view of agricultural technology, incorporating greenhouse systems, irrigation innovations, seed development, plant nutrition, and precision agriculture solutions that have made GROWTECH. ANTALYA famous worldwide.

The inaugural edition of GROWTECH. MIDDLE EAST under its new brand identity will take place on September 8-10, 2026, in Dubai, UAE. The three-day format offers ample opportunity for meaningful business discussions, product demonstrations, and knowledge exchange.”We are pleased to introduce the GROWTECH. brand to the Middle East, a region with tremendous potential for agricultural innovation and growth. The integration allows us to extend our mission of connecting agricultural professionals to new markets. We look forward to contributing our expertise in greenhouse technologies, sustainable practices, and startup innovation to create exciting opportunities for the GCC agricultural community and beyond,” said Engin Er, Exhibition Director, GROWTECH. EVENTS.

The transformation of AgraME into GROWTECH. MIDDLE EAST marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of agricultural technology exchange in the GCC region. By uniting proven regional expertise with established global exhibition leadership, this partnership creates unprecedented opportunities for agricultural professionals, technology providers, investors, and policymakers to collaborate on solutions that address food security, sustainability, and economic development challenges facing the Middle East and the world.

For more information, visit the GROWTECH. MIDDLE EAST website for exhibitor opportunities, visitor registration, and updates on conference programming.

About GROWTECH. MIDDLE EAST:

GROWTECH. MIDDLE EAST (Formerly Agra Middle East) is the Middle East’s longest-running AgraTech exhibition and conference, attracting companies in the Crop Farming, Animal Farming and Health, Aquaculture, and AgraTech industries from the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region and globally. The event provides an excellent opportunity to connect with key players, market the latest innovations, and inspire industry peers. GROWTECH. MIDDLE EAST is under the parent company Informa Connect and includes zones dedicated to AquaME, and HortiME. For more information, please visit the website.

Next step in in­ter­na­tion­al VIV leadership

According to Jeroen van Hooff, President & CEO of Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs, Hall’s appointment aligns seamlessly with VIV’s international ambitions. “From the very start of her time at Jaarbeurs in 2025, Natasha has made a clear mark on the development of VIV Asia, where her international work experience and strategic vision contributed to growth, positioning and market connection. Her new role sets her up for the next step within the organisation and for further developing VIV as a globally leading B2B platform for the poultry and livestock sector.”

Responsible for the global VIV portfolio

In her role as Vice President VIV Worldwide, Hall is responsible for the complete VIV portfolio worldwide, spanning Asia, Africa, Europe and the MEA region. This encompasses the international VIV trade shows, VIV Connect and the VIV Trade Forums. In this capacity, she will focus on expanding the global network of exhibitors, visitors and strategic partners, as well as further strengthening the international visibility and cohesion of the VIV brand.

Extensive international experience as a foundation Natasha Hall brings broad international experience from the international exhibition and events industry, including more than ten years working in Dubai. “I see VIV as a unique global platform that brings together the entire feed-to-food chain, and I consider that integrated approach to be an important differentiating strength,” said Hall. In her new role, she aims to work together with teams and partners to build a strong, connected and future-oriented VIV portfolio in which collaboration, knowledge sharing and sustainable market development are central.

VIV Europe as an in­ter­na­tion­al anchor point

Hall’s appointment underscores the international character of VIV in a year that is historic for the brand. VIV Europe 2026 not only marks the 25th edition of the trade show, but also the announcement that the event will move to a biennial cycle from 2028 onwards. This allows VIV to respond to the sector’s need for greater continuity, predictability and international coherence within the agrifood chain.

Van Hooff: “VIV Europe has grown into a reliable and forward-looking platform where strategy, technology and business come together. The anniversary edition in June will once again bring hundreds of international exhibitors and thousands of professionals from the global feed-to-food chain to Utrecht — a recognised hub for agrifood innovation, science and sustainable chain development.”

Looking ahead: VIV Worldwide charts course toward new milestones

Koninklijke Jaarbeurs and VIV Worldwide continue to serve as the global stage for collaboration and transformation. In November 2025, VIV MEA took place in Abu Dhabi, with a focus on the fast-growing markets of the Middle East. In March 2026, VIV Health & Nutrition Asia follows in Bangkok, with a special emphasis on animal health and nutrition. In April 2026, VIV Select India makes its debut — a major step towards one of the world’s most dynamic markets. In June 2026, the VIV series returns to its roots with VIV Europe in Utrecht — the flagship of the VIV trade shows, where the global livestock sector convenes to share knowledge, showcase innovations and set the agenda for sustainable transformation.

For more information:- https://www.eurotier.com/en/

“Ventilation is a cornerstone of both animal welfare and a farm’s profitability. Chickens are sensitive animals that require stable temperatures and high quality air to lay and grow at the performance levels farmers expect,” said Lei Gommers, Global Business Development Manager – Agriculture Drives, ABB. “This whitepaper combines field data and engineering insight to address the currenthesitancy around adopting VSDs. Our research shows that when airflow is managed digitally and dynamically, farmers can achieve healthier flocks, stronger financial outcomes, and greater peace of mind.”The whitepaper also presents how ABB’s ACS280 and ACS380 drives integrate seamlessly with programmable logic controllers and solar PV systems to cut grid dependency by up to 50–55 percent, reducing energy costs and emissions without compromising control. Based on projects such as MPS Egg Farms’ multi‑site installations, it further validates the reliability and economic justification of modern drive‑based ventilation.

ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By connecting its engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive and sustainable so they outperform. At ABB, we call this ‘Engineered to Outrun’. The company has over 140 years of history and around 110,000 employees worldwide. ABB’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB). www.abb.com

ABB Motion, a global leader in motors and drives, is at the core of accelerating a more productive and sustainable future. We innovate and push the boundaries of technology to contribute to energy efficient, decarbonizing and circular solutions for customers, industries and societies. With our digitally enabled drives, motors and services we support our customers and partners to achieve better performance, safety and reliability. To help the world’s industries outrun – leaner and cleaner, we deliver motor-driven solutions for a wide range of applications in all industrial segments. Building on over 140 years of domain expertise in electric powertrains, our more than 23,000 employees across 100 countries learn and improve every day. go.abb/motion

Since the late 1970s, Hubbard has played a significant role in Pakistan’s broiler industry, consistently supporting its growth through both challenging and successful periods. In October 2025, Hubbard appointed Noor Poultry Pvt. Ltd. as the official distributor of the Hubbard Efficiency Plus in Pakistan. This collaboration aims to strengthen the Pakistani broiler sector by supplying high-quality, high-performing breeding stock with good welfare and feed efficiency.

During the seminars Dr. Naeem Tariq, Hubbard’s Country Manager for Pakistan, reflected on Hubbard’s legacy in the Pakistani broiler industry and the prospects of the important collaboration between Hubbard and Noor Poultry for local production of Hubbard Efficiency Plus Parent Stock in Noor Poultry’s state-of-the-art facilities, emphasizing the importance of high-quality breeding stock production in Pakistan. Hubbard’s Global Sales Director, Bruno Briand, gave an overview of the Hubbard company and its significant investments in the R&D facilities in the USA and France to ensure continuous and efficient genetic gain and performance. He also elaborated on the global presence and growing popularity of the Hubbard Efficiency Plus since its introduction in 2019.

Dr. Roberto Yamawaki, Hubbard Global Technical Director, presented performance data of the Hubbard Efficiency Plus breeders and broilers across various regions in the world. He shared results from 46 million Parent Stock in 40 countries, demonstrating strong results under diverse conditions.Ehsanul Kabir Mosru, Hubbard Senior Technical Manager for Asia, presented the strong performance of Hubbard Efficiency Plus breeders and broilers under South Asia’s challenging conditions.During the keynote address, Mr. Sohail Ahmad, COO of Noor Poultry, highlighted Noor Poultry’s success story and the dynamic future planning of Grandparent projects. Mr. Mohammad Shoaib, Head of GP Operations Noor poultry, gave an outline of the Grandparent Farms and Grandparent Hatchery, discussed structural biosecurity, shared the layouts, and emphasized Noor Poultry’s commitment to producing high-quality Parent Stock.At the conclusion of the seminars, Mr. Arsalan Sarwar, the Director of Noor Poultry, reiterated the commitment to supporting the Pakistan poultry industry by proving high quality Hubbard Efficiency Plus Parent Stock. He also thanked the numerous participants for making these seminars successful through their active participation.

Newly built state-of-the-art Grand Parent Facilities
Noor Poultry is currently building advanced facilities for the Grand Parent project. Hubbard and Noor Poultry are committed to setting a new standard of excellence in the Pakistani poultry industry. Noor Poultry is expecting to deliver the first Hubbard Efficiency Plus Parent Stock by the first half of 2027.

For information : Hubbard – Homepage

This strategic step marks a significant milestone in De Heus’ long-term growth strategy and underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting farmers across Asia. The acquisition strengthens De Heus’ presence in Vietnam, Indonesia, and Cambodia, key markets within its existing portfolio, while also providing entry into two new strategically important markets: Korea and the Philippines. In total, the transaction comprises 17 feed mills and numerous livestock operations across the region.

Stronger Together – On the Farm, We Make the Difference

Real progress starts where it matters most: on the farm. By combining De Heus and CJ Feed & Care’s deep local expertise, our teams are better equipped than ever to help local farmers professionalize their operations, improve performance, and increase profitability. We strongly value our longstanding relationships with every farmer, distributor, and investment partner, and are fully committed to share our best products, services, knowledge, and practices with them. Moreover, we are particularly grateful for the ongoing support of the national governments of our host countries in our efforts to grow and develop the animal husbandry sector in these markets.

Connecting the Value Chain to achieve Sustainable, Collaborative Growth

To further empower farmers, De Heus plays an active role in connecting partners across the animal protein value chain. In close collaboration with our strategic partners, we will continue to help our customers obtain access to the best quality genetics inputs by increasing investments in swine and poultry great-grandparent, grandparent, and parent stock farms across Asia. By doing so, we aim to improve productivity and efficiency levels for our customers while also increasing the overall competitiveness of the livestock industries in the markets where we are active. World-class genetics quality, combined with our high-quality feed products and nutritional, husbandry, and veterinary support services, will help farmers, our customers, achieve sustainable and economic success.

Helping our customers sell their animals, eggs, fish, and milk to reliable slaughterhouses, processing companies, and traders will remain a priority as well. Together with the new financial products that we have been able to develop in collaboration with our strategic partner banks, we will continue supporting our customers where needed. De Heus will continue to put our customers’ needs first to develop ecosystems that facilitate their sustainable growth.

“This acquisition marks an important milestone in our long-term strategy to strengthen our footprint in Asia,” said Gabor Fluit, CEO of De Heus Animal Nutrition. “By combining CJ Feed & Care’s strong technical expertise and customer relationships with our century-long experience in animal nutrition and farm management, we can accelerate growth and deliver even more value to farmers across the region. Together, we are building a future in which farmers and their communities can thrive and contribute to a sustainable, resilient animal protein sector.”

The surge in attendance was reflected in an equally impressive exhibition presence with 300 exhibitors filling over 17,000 gross square meters of dedicated exhibition space at the heart of Southeast Asia’s most accessible trade city.A testament to the show’s draw among senior decision-makers, VIV Health & Nutrition Asia alone drew 125 industry leaders, underscoring the event’s reputation as a premier gathering for those shaping the future of the animal health and nutrition industry.

Four Shows, One Vision: The Power of Strategic Co-Location
The scale of the 2026 edition was defined by the strength of its co-locations. Each event brought a distinct but complementary audience, and together they created an environment where conversations moved easily across disciplines, sectors, and supply chain roles.VIV Health & Nutrition Asia served as the dedicated hub for animal nutrition and health professionals — a niche, specialist event purpose-built for feed formulators, veterinarians, producers, and buyers driving the sector forward across poultry, swine, aquaculture, cattle, and dairy.

VICTAM Asia brought together the world’s leading feed technology, pelleting, and grain processing innovators, providing manufacturers and equipment suppliers with a targeted platform for technology transfer and commercial dialogue.GRAPAS Asia covered the full spectrum of grain processing and post-harvest solutions, connecting regional stakeholders with the processing technologies shaping the efficiency and quality of Asia’s cereal and crop supply chains.
Horti & Agri Asia completed the picture by addressing horticulture and broader agri-tech, enabling cross-pollination of ideas between the plant-based and animal production communities — a convergence increasingly relevant to the future of sustainable food systems.Visitors moved freely through interconnected exhibition halls, each finding targeted solutions for their own sector while benefiting from the energy and cross-industry connections that only a combined platform of this scale can provide.

A Global Platform with Regional Roots
International representation was a defining feature of the 2026 edition. National pavilions and delegations from Japan and South Korea reinforced the event’s growing standing as the region’s foremost specialist trade platform for the animal nutrition and health sector.Natasha Hall, Vice President of VIV Worldwide, reflected on the milestone: “This edition marks a defining moment — one that reflects not only the growth of this platform, but the momentum of an entire industry. The dedicated national pavilions from Japan and South Korea, two of Asia’s most dynamic and innovative markets, speak volumes about the rising international confidence in what this event represents. Their presence underscores a shared belief that collaboration across borders is essential to shaping the future of the sector, and we look forward to the ideas, connections, and opportunities their participation brings.”

World-class institutions contributed to the intellectual depth of the show. The World Organisation for Animal Health, BIOTEC, Chulalongkorn University, the Asian Federation of Biotechnology, and many others shared expertise on some of the sector’s most pressing issues — from African Swine Fever innovations and alternative proteins to digital farm systems and antimicrobial resistance strategies. Their presence elevated the quality of dialogue across every corner of the exhibition floor.

A Conference Program Built for Impact
The conference program was among the most compelling draws of the 2026 edition, with sessions spanning the event’s four core species — poultry, aquaculture, cattle, and swine — and tackling the challenges most relevant to professionals working across the feed and health value chain.Held under the theme “Shaping the Future of Animal Feed and Health through Sustainability & Innovation,” the program featured 73 expert speakers across more than 34 sessions. Topics ranged from antimicrobial resistance and precision nutrition to supply chain resilience and next-generation feed additives, with dedicated sessions for each species group.

Among the highlights of this year’s rich conference program, several sessions drew exceptional attendance, a clear reflection of where the Thai animal feed and aquaculture industries are focusing their energy. Topics ranged from practical laboratory technology for feed mills and farmers (ThaiSAN) and sustainable shrimp production through circular practices (BIOTEC), to the integration of nutrition and biosecurity in aquatic farming (TAVA), signaling a community that is actively seeking holistic, science-backed solutions.Equally well-attended were the Department of Livestock Development’s forward-looking session on reducing antimicrobial use through alternative feed substances, and Innovabiotics’ introduction of its Lignofeed innovation. Together, these sessions captured the pulse of an industry in transformation, one that is hungry for practical tools, sustainability pathways, and responsible approaches to animal health.

Overall, the depth and breadth of this program reflected VIV Health & Nutrition Asia’s commitment to delivering knowledge that delegates can act on — not just inspiration, but practical, science-backed insight tailored to the realities of operating in Asia’s animal protein sector.

VIV Health & Nutrition Asia 2028 is set to take place March 14-16 in BITEC, Bangkok, Thailand. For more information, please visit: www.healthandnutrition.viv.net
 

“The Alltech 2026 Asia Import Risk Analysis translates harvest data from Europe and the Americas into critical insights for Asia’s import-dependent markets,” said Nick Adams, commercial director of Alltech’s Technology Group. “With climate pressures and rising mycotoxin levels in corn and forages, imported ingredients carry compounded risks. This report equips producers with the knowledge to navigate this complex landscape, enabling proactive management to protect animal health and performance.”

Key themes identified in the 2025 harvest, by region:

Europe:   2025 mycotoxin risk was driven by prolonged spring-summer drought followed by late rainfall, which increased fungal pressure, delayed harvests and created strong regional variability. Overall, livestock impact depended strongly on species sensitivity and combined exposure to multiple mycotoxins. This highlights the importance of assessing both toxin levels and co-occurrence, rather than single contaminants alone.

United States:  The 2025 mycotoxin profile in corn was shaped by contrasting weather stresses, with excessive rainfall in western regions and drought in the east. Overall risk shifted westward compared with 2024. With stressed crops entering storage, post-harvest management and storage conditions are expected to play an increasingly important role in determining mycotoxin exposure.

Canada:   Samples collected in 2025 revealed widespread multitoxin contamination, especially in corn silage. Deoxynivalenol (DON), zearalenone and T2-HT2 toxins remained prevalent. Peak levels doubled compared with 2024, increasing overall risk across most provinces.

Brazil:  The 2025 corn mycotoxin profile was driven mainly by high levels of fumonisins and deoxynivalenol (DON), with zearalenone and T2- HT2 toxins also present, confirming widespread multi-mycotoxin exposure. Overall risk was generally lower for broilers and dairy cows but moderate for grow-finish pigs, highlighting species sensitivity.

The report also contains risk assessments for individual species, such as broilers, grow/finish pigs and dairy cows. These assessments underscore the need for proactive management strategies, with effective mitigation tools more important than ever.For more in-depth discussion about the 2026 Alltech Asia Import Risk Analysis results, Alltech will host a free webinar, “Mycotoxin Insights to Empower Your Nutritional Strategy,” on March 26, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Singapore time. Register here.

On the day of the webinar, Alltech will officially release the 2026 Alltech Asia Import Risk Analysis. To access more details or download the report, visit go.alltech.com/asia-import-risk-analysis. The website also features expert videos interpreting the report and providing further insights.

Kanarek says NOVUS is right by increasing its focus on enzymes. With feed costs as one of the highest budget lines for pig and poultry producers, ongoing economic shifts, and constraints when it comes to raw material options, strategic decisions must be made. Kanarek said one well-known applied strategy to get more from feed ingredients is enzyme technology.“What I find exciting is that enzymes have not shown us their full potential yet. The world of anti-nutritional factors also hasn’t been fully defined and explored,” he says. “NOVUS has been studying these aspects for over a decade but in the last year we’re seeing an acceleration in interest from the academic community. So, we have 10 years of enzymes and trypsin inhibitor research that helped us to build a solid database of soybean profiles from around the world. Now we will also look at leveraging what researchers who have taken an interest in this subject are finding and add that knowledge to our own understanding.”Kanarek says NOVUS is committed to putting all the pieces together to create services and solutions that support the customer.

“There is no one single enzyme that can solve every problem,” he says. “It has to be the right cocktail of biotechnologies with an adapted application. For that, we need to understand our customers’ context and challenges so we can build robust, reliable and sustainable solutions for them.”Laura Munoz, senior director of Global Strategic Marketing at NOVUS, says Kanarek’s leadership will be key as NOVUS continues to strengthen its enzyme business.

“Through acquisitions and innovation projects, NOVUS has taken big steps to demonstrate our commitment to the feed enzymes sector. Julien’s global perspectives on the current market and strategic concepts on how the animal agriculture industry will use enzymes in the future will help us build a portfolio of solutions and services for today and tomorrow.”Prior to joining NOVUS, Kanarek served as Marketing Manager – Poultry and Regional Category Manager for Europe at Adisseo; Global Business Segment Leader – Poultry at Danisco Animal Nutrition and Health, part of International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF); and Global Category Manager at Avril. He has master’s degrees in animal nutrition and health from UniLaSalle in France with a specialization in comparative animal nutrition from University of California-Davis in the United States.

Learn more about the enzymes solutions that are helping poultry and swine producers around the world get more from feed at novusint.com.