The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) hosted an educational session on Jan. 29 during the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE), addressing key concerns affecting the feed industry. The session, "What’s Keeping the Feed Industry Up at Night?", provided expert insights on pressing topics, including African swine fever (ASF), quantitative risk assessments for feed safety and challenges facing animal nutritionists.
"The feed industry operates in a constantly evolving landscape, facing challenges ranging from disease threats to ingredient quality and regulatory pressures," said Paul Davis, Ph.D., AFIA’s director of quality, animal food safety, and education. "This session provided an opportunity for industry leaders to gain insights and proactive strategies to address these pressing concerns."
Key Topics and Expert Insights
African Swine Fever and Feed Industry Preparedness
Jordan Gebhart, DVM, Ph.D., associate professor of swine production at Kansas State University, examined the economic and biosecurity risks posed by ASF should it be detected in the U.S. He emphasized the feed industry’s role in ASF preparedness, as research shows the virus can survive in certain feed ingredients and spread within feed mills. Gebhart outlined efforts by the U.S. Swine Health Improvement Plan (US SHIP) to develop feed biosecurity standards, including a pilot program evaluating ingredient sourcing from ASF-affected regions.
Quantitative Risk Assessments for Feed Safety
Fernando Sampedro, Ph.D., assistant professor of veterinary population medicine at the University of Minnesota, discussed how quantitative risk assessments and predictive modeling techniques can enhance feed safety. By analyzing virus concentrations in feed ingredients through factors such as initial contamination levels, processing methods and storage conditions, these tools help the industry proactively mitigate viral threats.
Challenges in Animal Nutrition
John Halley, Ph.D., of J Halley Poultry Consulting, shared insights from his experience as a poultry nutritionist, addressing key concerns in poultry feed formulation. He emphasized accurate nutrient predictions, optimizing feed efficiency, maintaining ingredient quality and preventing feed delivery errors. Halley underscored the importance of proper training, preparation and communication within feed mills to navigate these challenges effectively.
A Proactive Approach for the Future
By bringing together industry experts, AFIA’s session provided valuable strategies for mitigating risks and improving feed industry resilience. As challenges evolve, AFIA continues to support the industry with research, education and best practices to safeguard animal nutrition and feed safety.
For more information, visit www.afia.org.