BREEDING cereals specifically for pig production will be the focus of a meeting at Newcastle University'sCocklepark Farm in November.
The aim is to generate new ideas and get a better understanding of how plant breeders and producers can work together to feed pigs in the future.
Chris Tapsell, research director, KWS UK Ltd, believes there are huge opportunities to move away from classifying feed crops as commodities, and instead develop crops that add value and additional benefits for feed producers and farmers alike.
Outlining his vision at the BPEX Innovation Conference, he said: “If relationships can be developed between producers, feed companies and breeders, we can then develop plant breeding targets together and establish an added value supply chain.”
He said the main opportunities for plant breeders and animal feeds appears to lie within maize, wheat and hybrid rye.
“Thoughts and ideas from those who cannot attend are also sought,” said Mr Tapsell, "I strongly believe the future of feeding pigs relies on innovation and our investment and proactivity to find new feed solutions, that are not only cost effective but also sustainable. In order to find the right solution it’s imperative that we work togther across industries and that’s why we’re calling on pig producers to form part of this committee.”
The meeting is on the afternoon of November 24 and all day on November 25. For details and to book contact jean.phillips@ktn-uk.org
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