Flemish Institute constructs cutting-edge feed pilot

ILVO, the Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, has long been at the forefront of research in testing the efficiency, sustainability, and health of newly-formulated feeds for cattle, pigs, and small animals. Their unique line of research has garnered attention for its focus on the impact of feeds on climate, environment, and animal welfare. With the demand for this expertise on the rise, ILVO is taking a significant step forward by building a new Feed Pilot facility in Melle near Ghent, Belgium.

The new Feed Pilot will replace existing feed production lines that no longer meet the latest standards in terms of energy efficiency, ergonomics, and technology. This state-of-the-art facility will include both large and small production units, as well as a warehouse for storage. Equipped with advanced techniques for measuring various parameters and conducting sustainability analyses, the Feed Pilot will enable precise test feeds to be made according to scientific requirements for nutritional research on farm animals.

One of the key features of the new facility is its ability to produce smaller batches for more experimental cases, such as specific digestion studies in poultry. While initially focused on internal ILVO research, the institute plans to seek legal permission to produce experimental feed for third parties, opening up opportunities for collaboration with other research institutions and private firms in Flanders.

The ILVO Feed Pilot will not only facilitate technical experiments on the production process itself but also provide valuable insights into incorporating innovative additives, new co-products, and novel proteins into feeds. By working closely with the agro-food and animal feed sector, ILVO aims to drive innovation and economic valorization in the industry.

Funded by various organizations including Flanders, Europe, the Province of East Flanders, and The Victam Foundation, the Feed Pilot project has already garnered support from key stakeholders in the feed sector and research community. With a focus on increasing circularity, reducing environmental impact, and improving animal welfare, the project aligns with the growing need for research into the use of new protein and residue streams.

The collaboration between ILVO and the Feed Design Lab in Wanssum, the Netherlands, highlights the importance of sharing knowledge and expertise in the field of feed research. By reinforcing each other’s strengths, these facilities aim to advance research and innovation in the production of precision test feeds for the agricultural industry.

In conclusion, the establishment of the ILVO Feed Pilot marks a significant milestone in the institute’s commitment to advancing research in feed efficiency, sustainability, and animal health. With its cutting-edge facilities and collaborative approach, ILVO is poised to make a lasting impact on the agricultural sector and contribute to the development of more sustainable and nutritious animal feeds.