“This new Volac division will provide a platform for NPD, which will focus on improving rumen microbial fermentation, efficient livestock production and reducing emissions – allowing for greater alignment with future industry challenges.
"Our priority remains firmly focused on providing technical advice, innovative products and added value services that enable the feed industry to improve livestock farming efficiency and sustainability,” said Sarah Banks, head of animal nutrition marketing and sustainability, Volac.
Rebecca O’Sullivan has been appointed product manager for feed additives, moving to the division from a technical business management role with Volac in Ireland. She will take on responsibility for the marketing and development of Volac’s growing range of feed additives.
Volac is already well established in terms of young animal nutrition, feed fats and forage preservation products.
As well as products targeting mycotoxin risk management, pre and probiotic yeasts, the division will develop new products such as phytogenics. “These products will support good animal health, resilience and productivity in the ruminant and monogastric sectors, ultimately bringing improved profitability and sustainability to the feed industry,” said O’Sullivan.
Acquisition
In August 2021, Volac acquired Micron Bio-Systems, a UK based bio-science solutions company manufacturing and sell silage additives, mycotoxin remediation, nutraceuticals, and environmental products. Micron also has a state of the art, UKAS certified, testing facility for mycotoxin determination in feedstuffs.
Outlining then how the deal was part of its ambitious growth plans, Volac said the addition of the Micron products would strengthen its ability to serve and develop feed additive applications for a rapidly changing industry.
Last year the company teamed up with AB Vista on an app to identify and assess potential risks from mycotoxins.
Mycocheck is designed for use in the UK market, specifically for the analysis of mycotoxins in animal feed and bedding material such as straw. The app identifies 12 mycotoxins in forage, grains, straw, and livestock feeds, said the partners.
While the dangers of mycotoxins are well established, the partners said identifying them early enough to be able to act has been an issue.
