Ag Future: Innovation in Agri-Food

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

Neutral Foods was the first U.S. company to be certified as carbon neutral. In this enlightening episode of Ag Future, we talk with Jake Schmitz, carbon reduction manager at Neutral, about developing a carbon-neutral company. An organic dairy expert and advocate for sustainable farming practices, Jake offers expert insights into the opportunities for dairy farmers to not only meet their sustainability goals but to improve performance and profitability. Jake shares insights on various Neutral projects aimed at reducing greenhouse gases, including interior fermentation, manure management, and transitioning to electric power. He also discusses the use of Agolin®, a Carbon-Trust-certified essential oil blend added to cow feed. Despite the challenges, Jake remains hopeful about the future of farming and the role of companies like Neutral in driving sustainable change.

Dairy producers earned over $3 million through carbon projects initiated with Agolin in 2021 and 2022. Recently, Concord Agriculture Partners selected Agolin® Ruminant to launch a new carbon inset project, ensuring that participating dairy producers will receive an industry-leading 85% of the gross value of the carbon asset. Join us as we delve into this transformative carbon inset project with Kevin Ogorzalek, partner and sustainability supply chain leader at Concord Agriculture Partners. Discover how this initiative is making sustainability profitable for U.S. dairy farmers and assisting businesses in reducing their carbon footprint.

In this episode of Ag Future, we are joined by Dr. Patrick Ward, Europe and Asia-Pacific applications manager at Alltech, to discuss the role of balancing sustainability and profitability on-farm. Dr. Ward discusses Agolin, a revolutionary Swiss company, now part of Alltech. Agolin's essential oil technologies optimize the rumen in beef and dairy animals, improving performance while helping producers meet their sustainability goals.

In this episode of Ag Future, we are joined by Martha Baker, Agolin and Carbon Lead for Alltech's Dairy Business, to explore the intriguing world of carbon markets. Is it truly the Wild West, as some believe? Martha, with her background in dairy nutrition and consulting, provides an insider’s perspective. She explains the complex dynamics of carbon markets, including key terms like offsets, insets, and Verified Emission Reductions. She also highlights the role of innovative technologies like Agolin®, which help producers meet sustainability goals and drive performance, with Agolin carbon projects paying back $3 million to farms in 2023 alone. Martha then offers valuable advice for dairy farmers considering entering the carbon market space.

Explore crucial insights on calf and herd health with Dr. Shelby Roberts, beef technical sales support at Alltech, and Brett Steinocker, sales manager covering the South Dakota region for Alltech, in this episode of the Ag Future podcast. Recorded live at the Alltech booth during the National Cattlemen's Beef Association annual convention, CattleCon 2024, the conversation delves into the issue of calf scours, offering producers valuable information and practical tips for optimizing calving season management.

The US pork industry is undergoing dynamic shifts in response to various challenges and opportunities. In this episode of the Ag Future podcast, Mark Hulsebus, sales and portfolio director of Alltech’s US Pork team, shares valuable insights into the current trends shaping the industry in 2024. 

In 2023, American pet owners are projected to invest a substantial $143.6 billion in the welfare of their beloved furry companions. Joining us in this episode of Ag Future are Kami Grandeen, companion animal sales manager for North America, and Dr. Richard Murphy, research director at the Alltech European Bioscience Center in Ireland. Together, they delve into the current trends in pet food, placing special emphasis on the growing focus on gut health. Discover how Alltech is at the forefront of addressing pets’ microbiomes with the recent launch of Microbuild™ in the U.S. market.

How are climate challenges shaping the future of Saudi Arabia’s dairy industry? Join Andrew Oddy, herds director at Al Safi Danone, as he shares insights on the Ag Future podcast from #AlltechONE Dubai. With over four decades of expertise, Andrew delves into the region’s progress and how feed efficiency, renewable energy and artificial intelligence are playing a major role in the future of dairy sustainability and profitability.

How do you cook the perfect Thanksgiving turkey? Dr. Roy Brister, strategic poultry advisor at Alltech, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss his journey in the poultry industry, upcoming trends for 2024 and his top tip for achieving turkey perfection.

If left unchecked, the potential global impact of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) could result in a tenfold increase in AMR-associated human deaths by 2050. On this episode of the Ag Future podcast, Dr. Jules Taylor-Pickard, director of gut health at Alltech, discusses the primary contributors to AMR — including factors such as antimicrobial misuse in humans and animals, as well as the influence of climate change on animal health. Dr. Taylor-Pickard also explores optimal gut-health strategies that producers can adopt to enhance the resilience of animals to infectious and non-infectious stresses, ultimately reducing their reliance on antibiotics.

Gain insights into the crucial role of transparency, compliance, and sustainability in the food supply chain — as Ruud Overbeek, senior vice president for corporate development and strategic relationships at FoodChain ID, shares strategies for fostering sustainable growth in the Ag Future podcast.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the biggest threats to the global health of humans, animals and the environment. By 2050, more humans globally will die from issues related to antibiotic resistance than from cancer. Within the same timeframe, there will be an 11% loss in livestock production just from antimicrobial resistance. Dr. Fiona Walsh, professor of microbiology at Maynooth University and head of the Antimicrobial Resistance One Health Research Centre, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss ideas on reducing animal disease without increasing antibiotic resistance.

Globally, approximately 970 million tons of milk were produced in 2022, with 55% of it processed for further dairy commodity production. The remaining 45% is considered part of the "informal market," either consumed by households or sold to traders. As milk consumption continues to increase, it is crucial for dairy farmers to understand what they need to remain profitable. Muzaffar Yunusov, the lead of key account management at the IFCN Dairy Research Network, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss the six current trends that dairy producers should monitor. These trends encompass various aspects, ranging from the economics of dairy farming to the labeling challenges associated with alternatives to cow milk.

Can egg production be both sustainable and profitable? Graham Atkinson, agricultural sustainability manager at Noble Foods, joins the Ag Future podcast to explore this fascinating question. Discover how Noble Foods is leading the way in sustainable practices by reducing food loss, transitioning to cage-free production and enhancing water quality — all while maintaining profitability. Explore the pivotal role of Noble Foods' partnership with Alltech's Planet of Plenty™ program in driving these innovative practices and the transformative power of collaboration.

Does diversity foster innovation? Tanya Torp, executive director of Step by Step, a nonprofit organization based in Lexington, Kentucky, joined Ag Future to discuss the benefits of diverse teams, the empowerment individuals gain from inclusion, the positive impact of inclusive policies on the bottom line, and the necessity for sustained commitment and clear plans to create lasting change in organizations.

Consumers are increasingly demanding proof of sustainability, but many producers are struggling to meet these expectations. Failure to demonstrate efforts could lead to a loss of consumer trust and, ultimately, reduced revenue. Erica Lain, sustainability manager at Iowa Select Farms, joins the Ag Future podcast to share insights on the measures producers need to take to meet the growing demand for sustainability.

How is precision dairy farming revolutionizing the dairy industry? Dr. Marcia Endres, professor and the director of graduate studies in the department of animal science at the University of Minnesota, joins Ag Future to discuss the various ways precision dairy farming can help dairy farmers save time and money while improving cow health and welfare.

What insights can we gain about enzymes and their role in animal nutrition? Dr. Amy Petry, assistant professor in the department of animal and food sciences at Texas Tech University, discusses how these enzymes can enhance gut health and fiber fermentability in pigs and improve the energy contribution of fiber in pig diets. Additionally, Dr. Petry shares her experience as a graduate student and provides advice for those interested in pursuing research careers.

In this episode of the Ag Future podcast, we're joined by Dr. Yael Joffe, founder and chief science officer at 3X4 Genetics, to discuss the emerging field of nutrigenetics. Dr. Joffe explains how understanding the relationship between food, genetics and health can be used to personalize diets and lifestyles for optimal health. They also discuss the importance of personalized nutrition and the challenges of building trust in the field of genetics.

What happens when technology and the swine industry collide? Dr. David Rosero, a technical officer at the Hanor Company, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss the latest game-changing technologies in the field, such as cameras for estimating pig weights and sensors for measuring feed consumption. Listen to learn how these technologies are creating opportunities for innovation and increasing efficiency in the industry.

Can animals harness their intrinsic abilities to adapt and heal after an injury? Dr. Mark Revenaugh, veterinarian and owner of Northwest Equine Performance in Mulino, Oregon, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss the science behind regenerative therapy and what it means for equestrians. 

Can you reduce your pet's carbon pawprint? Megan Wade, senior manager of research and development at Canidae Pet Food, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss how Canidae is pioneering sustainability efforts in the thriving pet food industry, including innovative initiatives like their kibble refill stations, which aim to reduce single-use plastics. Tune in to learn more about efforts in the pet food industry to create a more sustainable future for our furry friends.

In this episode of the Ag Future podcast, David Montgomery, a MacArthur Fellow and professor of geomorphology at the University of Washington, discusses how soil health can affect human health and the environment. David, the co-author of the books "The Hidden Half of Nature: The Microbial Roots of Life and Health" and "What Your Food Ate," examines how regenerative farming practices can rebuild and maintain healthy soils. Join us as we dig into the world of soil and explore its vital role in agriculture and human health.

The beef industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and practices emerging to help producers improve their efficiency and profitability. Mike De Groot, a founding partner and director of TD Beef, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss the growing trend of dairy composites and how TD Beef is bridging the gap between the dairy and beef industries through its beef-on-dairy supply chain, which tracks cattle and data from conception to consumption.

What role does nutrition play in poultry production? Dr. Fernando Rutz, technical manager for Alltech Latin America, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss the importance of a well-designed nutritional program for improving immunity and maximizing performance in poultry. 

Aquaculture is the fastest-growing sector of animal protein production, but ensuring optimal health and performance in aquatic species can be challenging. John Sweetman, international project manager for aquaculture at Alltech, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss sustainability, innovation and helpful information found in a reference guide he co-authored with fellow aquaculture specialist Gijs Rutjes, "Inside/Out: The Essential Guide to the Skin, Gills and Guts of Fish," which promotes the development of mitigation strategies to achieve optimal productivity.

Today's food system was scaled to prevent hunger and is now facing new demands and expectations, particularly in the healthcare space. However, with innovative advancements in agriculture and nutrition, we can wage battle against diet-related chronic diseases, which are a major driver of healthcare costs. Dr. Patrick J. Stover, director of the Institute for Advancing Health Through Agriculture (IHA) at Texas A&M AgriLife Research, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss how shifting focus from producing food, fiber and fuel to promoting human, environmental and economic health can create a more efficient and resilient system.

In 2021, HELM Agro and Alltech Crop Science announced an exciting partnership that aims to bridge the gap between traditional and biological crop input solutions in the U.S. Dave Schumacher, president of HELM Agro, joins the Ag Future podcast to give an update and share his tips on cultivating a successful partnership.

How can pet owners optimize their pets' brain health from a young age? Dr. Joli Jarboe, a veterinary neurologist and neurosurgeon, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss the importance of building and maintaining cognitive health at all stages of your pet's life.

Is it true that training horses too early can hurt their chances on race day? Brian Nielsen, professor of equine exercise physiology in the department of animal science at Michigan State University, joins the Ag Future podcast to dispel the myth that waiting to train horses improves their odds of winning. 

As a result of the pandemic, the homemade meal is seeing a long-overdue resurgence. Kiersten Hafer, vice president of strategy and domestic market development for the National Pork Board, joins Ag Future to discuss how consumer demand for pork has expanded beyond bacon as people seek to refine their culinary skills.

What role does diet play in the performance of highly active sporting, military and other working canines? Ian Donovan, former Green Beret and national channel manager for Kinetic Performance Dog Food, joins Ag Future to discuss the importance of supporting both the physical and mental readiness of these high-energy dogs.

Peter & Paula Hynes are dairy farmers from County Cork, Ireland. In 2020, the couple founded #AgMentalHealthWeek to raise awareness of mental health issues prevalent in agriculture. Peter and Paula join the Ag Future podcast to discuss this year's theme of intentionally disconnecting from our devices and the farm.

Is work-life balance obtainable? Cheya Thousand, founder and CEO of CT. Wellness Co., joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss how burnout impacts leaders, employees and parents and to share her strategies for hitting the reset button to mitigate stress, feel better and move on productively.

How can dairy producers overcome labor shortages? Dr. Luke Miller, dairy technical support specialist at Alltech, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss how dairy farms can attract, train and retain labor, as well as his thoughts on the future of hiring as dairies adopt more automation in their operations.

Beta Bugs Ltd. is an insect genetics company developing and distributing black soldier fly breeds to the insect farming sector. Dr. Thomas Farrugia, CEO of Beta Bugs Ltd., joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss how this ag-tech startup is using genetics to increase the size and survivability of black soldier flies in order to meet the growing demand for insect protein in aqua, pig and poultry feed.

Why should beef and dairy producers consider organic trace minerals? Laurentia Van Rensburg, technical mineral manager at Alltech, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss how including organic trace minerals in maternal diets affects female cattle and their progeny.

Are human health trends carrying over to the pet food industry? Nicole Hill, executive director of strategy at MarketPlace, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss how trends in human nutrition related to issues like gut health, immunity, fiber and cognitive health are making their way to pet store shelves as the line between pet and family member blurs. 

Traditionally, fishmeal and fish oil made from wild-caught fish have been the primary sources of protein and fat in fish feed for aquaculture. However, these raw materials will not be enough for production to meet the demand in 2050 if the current feed formulation stays the same. Maud Valkenaars, nutritional researcher at Alltech Coppens, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss new initiatives in the aquaculture industry that aim to replace traditional protein sources in aquafeeds with sustainable sources of raw materials.

The World Health Organization has identified antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as a global public health threat — but what does that mean for consumers and producers? Dr. Richard Murphy, research director of the Alltech European Bioscience Center, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss antibiotic-free production and the link between pathogen control and controlling AMR.

Five generations comprise today’s workforce — how can they all get along? Colene Elridge, a.k.a. "Coach Colene," CEO of Be More Consulting, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss why leaders need to exercise empathy, inclusion and listening to grow their businesses and foster future leaders.

Leading a purpose-driven workforce requires a new way of thinking. Hamza Khan, future of work expert and author of "Leadership, Reinvented", joins the Ag Future Podcast to discuss what it means to be a "new" leader and why leaders need to practice a healthy sense of empathy.

Connecterra is using artificial intelligence (AI) to help dairy farmers increase productivity on-farm while reducing their impact on the planet. Yasir Khokhar, CEO and founder of Connecterra, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss the importance of turning data into actionable insights and how programs like the Pearse Lyons Cultivator are helping ag-tech startups navigate the global food supply chain through commercial pilot projects.

In this uncertain economic climate, investors are seeking solace in the growing pet food industry. Carol Frank, author of “Do As I Say, Not As I Did: Gaining Wisdom in Business Through the Mistakes of Highly Successful People” and managing director of BirdsEye Advisory Group, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss pet food industry trends and how to learn from mistakes.

The International Society of Neurogastronomy (ISN) brings together chefs, agriculture experts and scientists to better understand the brain's influence on what we eat, why we like what we eat and how we eat. Bob Perry, ISN co-founder and chef in residence at the University of Kentucky, joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss the science of taste, community-supported agriculture and his research work aimed at supporting Kentucky farms through Ubatuba peppers, wheat varieties and rose veal.

Taste isn't the only sense we rely on to interpret flavor. Dr. Rachel Herz, neuroscientist, faculty at Brown University and Boston College and author of "The Scent of Desire," "That's Disgusting" and "Why You Eat What You Eat," joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss how neurogastronomy can help us better understand the role that smell, sight and even sound play in influencing what we eat.

The science of how we perceive and taste food is an emerging field of study with powerful implications. Dr. Dan Han, Psy.D., CELM, FANA, chief of the division of neuropsychology at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, is among the healthcare professionals uniting with agriculture experts, chefs and scientists to explore fascinating brain-behavior relationships through neurogastronomy. Dr. Han joins the Ag Future podcast to share how this groundbreaking science could influence quality of life and support global food security.

How can beef genetics improve sustainability on dairies? Philip Halhead, a third-generation dairy farmer and the founder, owner and CEO of Norbreck Genetics, Ltd., joins the Ag Future podcast to discuss how dairies can utilize beef genetics to protect the planet, create jobs and increase profitability.

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