The Feed Science Podcast Show

The feed industry is currently experiencing significant changes, which demand the workforce to adapt. While automation can address some labor shortages, feed mills now require a different type of skilled workforce. In this episode, Cesar Menendez discusses the evolution of feed mill equipment and the pivotal role of AI and data in automation. He also explores strategies for employee retention, including opportunities for continuous education. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of listening to and understanding the real challenges and opportunities within the mill. "I always say that we need to challenge and reevaluate established standards and practices within the feed milling industry because when this standard was initially set up, it was about 25 years ago.."What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(02:03) Introduction and professional background(05:55) Changing feed mill employee expectations(09:00) Employee retention strategies(12:21) Continuing education(16:50) Feed mill equipment evolution(20:50) AI and data in automation feed mills(33:42) Balancing value and data(39:02) Final questionsMeet the guest: Cesar MenendezExperience:Director, Feed Manufacturing Tech Support at Smithfield FoodsBackground:B.Sc. in Ag Industry Engineering (EAP Zamorano)MBA in Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services (Northcentral University)Connect with the guest!The Feed Science Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Eastman- Evonik𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Feed Science Podcast Show LinkedIn: The Feed Science Podcast Show

In today's episode, I am joined by Olivia Harrison to discuss a crucial topic in the livestock industry: feed safety and contamination mitigation. We talk about the challenges of decontaminating facilities and the potential risks of introducing foreign animal diseases. Olivia covers it all, sharing her experiences and research at the Feed Safety Research Center, shedding light on effectiveness and the importance of controlling environmental contamination. Stay tuned as we delve into the world of feed safety and the measures being taken to ensure the health and well-being of our animal population against diseases like PRRS, ASF, PEDv, and more."We often focus on the farms themselves, striving for maximum isolation. However, feed mills serve as crucial epicenters, impacting various aspects, including ingredient suppliers in addition to the farms."What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(02:00) Introduction and professional background(05:42) Feed Safety Research Center (09:20) Decontaminating facilities (14:02) Most concerning pathogens and routes for their entry into feed (20:14) Controlling potential presence of pathogen in the feed(32:27) Final questionsMeet the guest: Olivia HarrisonExperience:Graduate Student at Kansas State UniversityBackground:B.Sc., Animal Sciences (Kansas State University)Connect with the guest!The Feed Science Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Evonik- Eastman𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Feed Science Podcast Show LinkedIn: The Feed Science Podcast Show

Today on the Feed Science Podcast Show, I had the pleasure of interviewing William Ashley Biscamp. We delved deep into the realm of the feed industry, unraveling its complexity and intricacies through Ashley's 23-year journey spanning across five states and eleven different feed mills. We highlighted the importance of company culture, employee companionability, and preventive maintenance in fostering a successful and efficient feed industry. The discussion also explored strategies for improvement, such as actively listening to the ground-level workforce and valuing their hands-on insights to avoid larger issues down the line. We also talked about the evolution of the feed industry, recognizing the challenges and providing a fresh perspective on overcoming them. "We must realize that the batch operator is the heart of the control system in a feel mill."What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(02:00) Introduction and professional background(03:30) Main problems in feed mills(06:37) Team dynamics and people retention in feed mills(25:06) Equipments’ maintenance challenges(30:47) Challenges and common mistakes in new mills(33:40) The disconnect between upper management and mill operations(42:40) Finding the right employees(49:03) Closing conversationMeet the guest: William Ashley BiscampExperience:Consultant in the feed mill industryBackground:B.Sc. in Animal Sciences (Texas A&M University)Connect with the guest!The Feed Science Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Evonik- Eastman𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Feed Science Podcast Show LinkedIn: The Feed Science Podcast Show

Exogenous enzymes have increased in popularity over the past two decades, becoming an important feature in the diets of monogastric animals in the United States and Europe. In this episode, I interviewed Tanner Wise, a PhD candidate at Purdue University's Animal Sciences Department. We talked about some categories of enzymes, like phytase, cellulase, xylanases, and beta glucanases, and their roles in animal performance, as well as in return on investment. Also, we discussed how conditioning temperature is a critical consideration for feed mills in maintaining the stability of enzymes under commercial conditions, and how there are more heat-stable versions of enzymes emerging, supporting the viability of their application."Using higher conditioning temperatures can negatively impact bird performance and nutrient digestibility. However, research suggests we can increase the temperature slightly past 70-76°C up to 80°C, where we really see that jump in pellet quality, while still maintaining adequate performance." What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(02:20) Introduction and professional background(03:45) Potential of exogenous enzymes (06:17) Benefits of phytase on phosphorus release, energy and amino acids(08:44) Phytase and feed conversion ratio: return on investment(10:33) Phytase and amino acid digestibility (11:52) The role of exogenous enzymes and effects of the birds' age(18:19) How to analyze the stability of enzymes under commercial conditions(22:04) Final questionsMeet the guest: Tanner Wise, M.Sc. Experience:PhD candidate at Purdue UniversityBackground:B.Sc. in Animal Sciences (Purdue University)M.Sc. in Poultry Science (Auburn University)PhD candidate in Animal Sciences applied Monogastric Nutrition (Purdue University)Connect with the guest!The Feed Science Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Evonik- Eastman𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Feed Science Podcast Show LinkedIn: The Feed Science Podcast Show

Welcome to a new episode of the Feed Science Podcast Show, where we have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Cara Cargo-Froom as our esteemed guest. In her prior research endeavors, Dr. Cargo-Froom has conducted extensive investigations about pulses and their potential as feed ingredients in animal diets. Pulses, such as common legumes like broad beans, navy beans, chickpeas, and lentils, are renowned for their nutritional richness. She shares with us the advantages of incorporating pulses into animal nutrition and how doing this can influence the operations of feed mills. Dr. Cargo-Froom also imparts valuable insights on the analysis of ingredient quality, the interdisciplinary nature of feed science and processing, and her research on equine nutrition and feed processing."We know a lot of uses of pulses for humans, but there's still a lot to know about its usage in ag diets and even companion animal diets." - Dr. Cara Cargo-FroomWhat you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:49) Introduction and professional background(05:19) Introduction to pulses (07:40) Benefits of using pulses in animal nutrition(16:05) Processing of pulses in feed mill(19:40) Ingredients’ quality analysis and its importance(28:05) Research on equine feed manufacturing(34:09) Understanding limitations due to species differences(35:07) Final insightsMeet the guest: Dr. Cara Cargo-Froom Experience:Postdoctoral Research Fellow at University of GuelphBackground:B.Sc., Zoology/Animal Biology (University of Guelph)M.Sc., Animal Nutrition (University of Guelph)PhD., Animal Nutrition (University of Guelph)Connect with the guest!The Feed Science Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Evonik- Eastman𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Feed Science Podcast Show LinkedIn: The Feed Science Podcast Show

Feed milling plays a critical role in our industry, contributing to enhanced animal nutrition, robust business operations, and the overall safety of processing plants. In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Aaron Gaines and Dr. Omarh Mendoza to discuss one of the core elements in the feed milling process: safety. We delve into the concepts of preventive and corrective maintenance, the importance of maintenance from an efficiency standpoint, and how it entails focusing on key performance objectives and audits. We also explore potential process improvements and core metrics, including sustainability, quality, delivery, and cost. "Having good preventive maintenance will not only help with the safety aspect first and foremost, but will also ensure that the mill and all the mechanical parts are going to be running." - Dr. Omarh MendozaWhat you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(02:13) Introduction and professional background(04:16) Management strategy involving safety and personnel training(08:13) Preventive and corrective maintenance approaches(11:36) Internal and external maintenance: advantages and disadvantages(13:06) Comparison of roller mills and hammer mills: particle size and flow agents(16:17) Evaluation of mash diets and pellet diets: digestibility and flow characteristics(17:47) Hammer mills and roller mills on the oracle size variation(22:48) Safety, product quality and process improvement audits(30:54) Balancing the farm needs and feed mill capabilities(37:33) Advice to the graduatesMeet the guest: Dr. Omarh Mendoza Experience:Director of Nutrition at The MaschhoffsBackground:B.Sc., Animal Sciences (Universidad de Sonora)PhD., Animal Sciences (University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign)Connect with the guest!Meet the guest: Dr. Aaron GainesExperience:Managing Director at Ani-TekBackground:B.Sc., Agriculture (University of Missouri-Columbia)M.Sc., Animal Science (University of Missouri-Columbia)PhD., Animal Science (University of Missouri-Columbia)The Feed Science Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Evonik- Eastman𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Feed Science Podcast Show LinkedIn: The Feed Science Podcast Show

Today, I invite you to join me and Dr. Marissa Cohen, an area specialized agent in animal food safety at North Carolina State Prestage Department of Poultry Science. Her work has been proven to be highly valuable, as she assists stakeholders with questions and concerns related to food safety. During our discussion, we explore Dr. Cohen's daily routine, the challenges of simultaneously being a student and an employee, her pivotal role in ensuring industry compliance with food safety regulations, and the significant impact this work carries."Some of the questions I receive are: What should I expect when an investigator comes in to audit my facility? What will they be looking at? I think that the main areas of concern are mycotoxins and maintaining proper housekeeping for pest control" - Dr. Marissa CohenWhat you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(02:28) Introduction(07:20) Day to day in a FSMA position(10:32) Animal food safety challenges (13:10) Regulator interactions: confrontation vs. learning experience(15:13) Common questions (17:02) Assisting state regulators with pet food matters(20:33) Comparing small vs. large scale facility interactions(23:52) Balancing work, PhD studies, and personal journey(26:04) Advantages of being a student-employee at the university(30:36) Engaging extension events: personal favorites and interactions(34:25) Student-employee at the university: rewards and challenges(38:10) Final questionsMeet the guest: Dr. Marissa Herchler CohenExperience:Area Specialized Agent at Prestage Department of Poultry ScienceBackground:Ph.D., Animal and Poultry Nutrition (North Carolina State University)M.Sc., Animal Sciences (North Carolina State University)B.Sc., Zoology/Animal Biology (North Carolina State University)Connect with the guest!The Feed Science Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Evonik- Eastman𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Feed Science Podcast Show LinkedIn: The Feed Science Podcast Show

Global agriculture heavily relies on feed manufacturing. Various practices are followed worldwide, reflecting regional agricultural commodities, labor practices, and socioeconomic conditions. These practices offer insights into how different regions approach feed production and how U.S. facilities compare with those abroad. In this episode, Dr. Carlos shares his experience working with the International Grains Program (IGP) at Kansas State University. The program provides technical training and assistance to promote and expand the global export of U.S. grains and oilseeds."Our goal is to primarily provide technical assistance and education to international buyers of US commodities." - Dr. Carlos CampabadalWhat you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:20) Introduction (08:25) The International Grains Program at Kansas State University (14:45) Cultural differences in feed manufacturing (21:18) Organization and automation of feed manufacturing in the US(24:54) Interaction with individuals from the international feed mill field (30:07) Courses at IGP: Grain Storage and Feed Manufacturing(36:17) Final three questionsMeet the guest: Dr. Carlos CampabadalExperience:Current: Program Specialist in Grain Quality & Feed Manufacturing at International Grains ProgramBackground:Ph.D., Agricultural and Biological Engineering (Purdue University)M.Sc., Agricultural and Biological Engineering (University of Illinois)Connect with the guest!The Feed Science Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Evonik- Eastman𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Feed Science Podcast Show LinkedIn: The Feed Science Podcast Show

In this episode, we take a fascinating journey into the world of food safety and delve into the intricacies of food safety, pathogens, and interventions with Dr. Keith Warriner, a Professor of Food Microbiology at the University of Guelph. Join us as we uncover the complexities of ensuring safe food production; discuss mitigation strategies and explore alternatives to harmful substances; scrutinize the barriers hindering the adoption of new technologies in the industry; and talk about intervention strategies, pushing the boundaries of food contamination control, the delicate balance between quality and safety, and cutting-edge technologies. Also, we address the pressing issue of antibiotics and advocate for a more balanced stewardship approach. "Even though we like to trust people, the reality is that in a modern food production facility, you can't trust anyone. Even if you know the person, always check the load before you go in, because it can be devastating." - Dr. Keith WarrinerWhat you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:09) Introduction(04:46) Food safety perspective(09:08) Mitigation strategies for food safety(13:06) Alternatives to harmful substances(17:28) New technologies in the feed industry: safety concerns and economic factors(24:10) The use of antibiotics at feed mills(34:03) Interesting cases of microbiological concerns in animal feed(41:45) Final questionsMeet the guest: Dr. Keith Warriner Experience:Professor at the University of GuelphBackground:B.Sc., Food Science (the University of Nottingham)Ph.D., Microbial Physiology (the University of Wales)Connect with the guest!The Feed Science Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Evonik- Eastman𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Feed Science Podcast Show LinkedIn: The Feed Science Podcast Show

There are very few professionals in the world of feed science who have crossed the divide between the feed and food industries. In this episode, I talk with Grace Hagenmaier, about her transition from working with animal feed to working with human food. Drawing from her experience, she discusses several similarities and differences between both manufacturing industries, particularly in the areas of quality assurance and regulatory compliance.“If we're doing something right in the human food side, we need to follow that through with the animal feed side as well." - Grace HagenmaierWhat you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:20) Introduction (03:47) Transitioning from animal feed to human food(07:20) Similarities and differences between the animal feed and human food productions(14:23) Education and real-world experience in food production(17:55) The quality assurance field: general aspects and challenges(20:27) Differences between small operations and large operations(26:29) Simple changes for high impacts(29:12) Final QuestionsMeet the guest: Grace Hagenmaier, M.Sc.Experience:Current: Quality Assurance Manager at Continental MillsPast: Account Manager at NutriQuestBackground:M.Sc., Grain Science (Kansas State University)B.Sc., Feed Science (Kansas State University)Connect with the guest!The Feed Science Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Evonik- Eastman𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Feed Science Podcast Show LinkedIn: The Feed Science Podcast Show