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Agribusiness, Company News, Farm Mechanisation, Finance, Investments, Start ups, Sustainability

Investment aims to accelerate their mission to eliminate waste from the process of collecting and storing crops.

CNH, through its investment arm CNH Ventures, is supporting the scientific development of the first viable compostable net wrap for bales in agriculture. Company’s investment in the Canadian start-up Nature’s Net Wrap aims to accelerate their mission to eliminate waste from the process of collecting and storing crops.

Shifting to compostable net wraps has the potential to significantly benefit farmers. It will reduce landfill use, haulage and disposal costs, eliminate soil contamination, improve animal safety, and reduce the risk of water contamination, resulting in a reduction of approximately 2.5 million tons of plastic waste per year.

High growth in this market is propelled by the general demand for chemical- and plastic-free solutions. Initial product launch is expected in 2024.

Baling in brief

When crop is cut, it is baled so that it can be transported and stored. Today, bales are held together with twine, wire, netting, or plastic wrap – all of which eventually end up in landfills or incinerators. Farmers are limited in the reuse or recycling of plastic wraps or nets, negatively impacting their environmental footprint.

The innovation and its benefits

This solution uses biopolymer material made from renewable resources. It holds up structurally and can either naturally break down in the earth’s soil or be composted. Our investment is supporting the testing and validation of the solution. One of the industry-leading balers from our New Holland Agriculture brand is producing all the bales in this testing phase.

This latest investment furthers CNH’s commitment to sustainably advance the work of farmers everywhere.

Investment aims to accelerate their mission to

Acquaculture, Agrotech, Live Stock

Sustell is the leading life cycle assessment (LCA) solution for animal protein, according to the company

dsm-firmenich, the leading innovator in health, nutrition, and beauty, has recently launched a marine fish module for Sustell™, allowing aquaculture producers of sea bass and sea bream to map the full environmental footprint of their operations.

In 2022, dsm-firmenich launched Sustell™ for salmon, with leading salmon producer Bakkafrost as a development cooperation partner.

Backed by robust methodology, ISO certification, and data connectivity, Sustell™ is the leading life cycle assessment (LCA) solution for animal protein, according to the company. dsm-firmenich emphasises that Sustell™ provides the food value chain with a credible, science-based approach to collecting farm data, measuring the environmental footprint, and mapping a course for further development of the animal protein industry.

Louise Buttle, Sustell™ lead for Aqua & Global Key Account Manager at dsm-firmenich, stated, “Now marine fish producers of species such as salmonids, seabass, and sea bream can conduct full life cycle assessment at scale, ensuring a strong return on investment and providing a credible and accurate footprint and a great user experience! Extending the Sustell™ platform to include sea bass and sea bream is a demonstration of dsm-firmenich’s commitment and continued innovations to further develop the sustainable production of seafood through aquaculture.”

Sustell is the leading life cycle assessment

Agro Universities, Agrotech, Drones

‘Drone Didi’ is an Entrepreneurship Development Program tailored for women in Himachal Pradesh and beyond, with a specific focus on Agri Drone Applications.

IIT Mandi iHub, a cutting-edge Technology Innovation Hub specialising in Human-Computer Interaction, has garnered prestigious recognition from the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) of India for its Drone Didi skill development program. On January 24, 2024, representatives from IIT Mandi iHub, including Somjit Amrit, CEO, IIT Mandi iHub, and Shashi Bala, a beneficiary of the Drone Didi program, presented the success of this initiative to the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, at the inauguration ceremony of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India’s ‘Kaushal Bhavan’ in New Delhi.

Highlighting Women’s Empowerment in Agriculture through Drone Automation, President of India, Droupadi Murmu, said, “Empowering women in the crucial realm of agriculture through the implementation of drone automation is a transformative initiative. It not only harnesses the power of technology but also fosters a more inclusive and equitable agricultural landscape. The integration of women into this pivotal sector ensures a diversified and skilled workforce, contributing significantly to the growth and sustainability of our agricultural practices.”

‘Drone Didi’ is an Entrepreneurship Development Program tailored for women in Himachal Pradesh and beyond, with a specific focus on Agri Drone Applications. The project serves not only as a skill development endeavour but also as a robust platform for women to establish businesses in the burgeoning field of drone technology.

As part of the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0, participants in the Drone Didi program receive comprehensive training and support, including:

  • Theoretical and Practical training on Drone flying leading to securing Remote Pilot Licenses
  • Training on Agricultural Drone Applications like crop pesticide spraying, monitoring field conditions, plant health, seeding, and pollination.
  • Providing capacity building support in entrepreneurship
  • Providing Mentorship support and enabling market/credit linkages

Speaking about the initiative, Somjit Amrit, CEO of IIT Mandi iHub, said, “At iHub, we believe in harnessing technology for societal benefits. ‘Drone Didi’ is more than just a skill development program; it is a catalyst for change, empowering women to become leaders in technology and entrepreneurship. This project is a testament to our commitment to inclusive growth and aligns with our vision of creating a skilled, self-reliant India. We aim to take this project to a national level soon.”

Executed with support from the Agriculture Skill Council of India, the first batch of the Drone Didi program is currently underway, with a total of 20 female students at the IIT Mandi campus in collaboration with the Institute’s Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR). In addition to technical support, CAIR is also providing On-The-Job (OTJ) opportunities to the Drone Didis.

‘Drone Didi’ is an Entrepreneurship Development Program

Horticulture, India, Start ups

Agrostar group and LuLu Group are already working on pomegranates and Guavas to bring Indian fruits to the supermarkets and hypermarkets of the LuLu Group in the Middle East.

In a landmark development for the Indian F&V/horticulture sector, INI Farms, part of the AgroStar group, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with LuLu Group International, to build a direct farm-to-retail partnership for the Indian Cavendish Bananas. This is a further extension to a long-term partnership between the two groups already working on pomegranates and Guavas to bring Indian fruits to the supermarkets and hypermarkets of the LuLu Group in the Middle East.

The MoU signing on 23 January 2024, is a groundbreaking moment for Indian Banana exports as it marks the direct servicing of a reputed large global retailer like LuLu Group International by an Indian F&V Brand. The event kicked off earlier in the day with the Flag-Off of the first container from INI Farms’ packhouse in Baramati to LuLu Group UAE, followed by the MoU signing event at Pune, ushering in a new era of partnership and progress in the Indian F&V export business. The event was graced with the presence of Salim M.A., Director, LuLu Group International along with dignitaries such as Dr Sudhanshu, Secretary, APEDA, Dr Brajesh Mishra, Head, Regional Plant Quarantine Station, Mumbai, along with other senior representatives from NABARD, Aavishkaar Group and Maharashtra Agriculture department.  

Under this strategic partnership, INI Farms working with the AgroStar network of farmers in Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, will adhere to the highest standards of quality required for its products to be in global supermarkets and ensure a year-round supply to meet the demand of the LuLu’s end consumers. The partnership highlights the capabilities of the AgroStar group to serve Indian farmers across the value chain and fulfill the quality expectations of customers across the world. AgroStar’s tech capability, strong farmer relationships, agronomy expertise and wide range of agri input products combined with INI Farms’ strong sourcing, post-harvest & supply chain capabilities and its global network of customers/retailers gives the AgroStar group a unique advantage in India’s AgTech landscape.

Sharing her thoughts on the momentous occasion, Purnima Khandelwal, CEO, INI Farms said, “This MoU is a significant milestone not just in the journey of INI Farms, but also for Banana and Guava farmers across the country. We are excited about the prospect of directly servicing a highly reputed global retailer like LuLu and ensuring the highest quality of Indian bananas and Guavas from our farms to their retail shelves. We are grateful for the faith and trust shown by LuLu Group and excited about the opportunities this collaboration can bring for Indian farmers.”

Speaking during the event, Shardul Sheth, Co-founder and CEO, AgroStar said: “INI Farms has gone from strength to strength over the past few years. Last year, we witnessed landmark developments like the first Indian consignment of our ‘Kimaye’ branded bananas being shipped to the Netherlands and becoming a pioneer in the industry to successfully ship great quality pomegranates to the USA among other achievements. Our collaboration with LuLu Group International is yet another important milestone and a testament to our capability to be able to supply F&V products of global quality standards to marquee retailers and end customers around the globe and our passion to continue to build deep and meaningful relationships servicing the seed to market linkage needs of our farmers.

Sharing his thoughts during the event, Salim M.A., Director, LuLu Group International said, “This MoU is not just a trade deal, it is about celebrating the rich agricultural diversity of our nation and supporting our hardworking farmers. LuLu Group International aims to be the pioneer in sustainable agriculture and set new standards in quality and innovation. We have been working with INI Farms for close to a decade and this MoU further strengthens our collaboration. Together, in collaboration with our farmers and partners we will explore new markets and contribute to the growth of the agriculture sector. This MoU is a milestone and I’m confident that our partnership will be marked by success.”

Dr. Sudhashu, Secretary, APEDA, Ministry of Commerce & Industries shared his thoughts at the event, “The MoU signing, and Flag-Off event marks a historic moment for the Indian AgTech industry, representing a leap toward making banana exports the first billion-dollar fruit out of India in the next couple of years.”

Agrostar group and LuLu Group are already

India, Nature, Sustainability, Sustainable Energy

The plant is anticipated to produce an average of 953 gigawatt-hours of clean energy annually, helping to avoid approximately 783,855 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and SAEL Industries Limited, through its subsidiary SAEL Solar P4 Private Limited, have signed a loan of up to 12.23 billion Indian rupees (about $147 million equivalent) for the development of a 400-megawatt (MW) greenfield solar power plant in Gujarat, India, to support the country’s ongoing transition toward clean energy and low-carbon growth.

The financing package comprises 12.23 billion Indian rupees from ADB and a parallel loan of up to 6.11 billion Indian rupees underwritten by Tata Capital. ADB led the structuring of the financing package as well as the mobilisation of domestic private capital.

“The private sector must play a pivotal role in the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy generation, particularly in Asia and the Pacific region, which contributes over half of global greenhouse gas emissions. As the region’s climate bank, ADB provides long-term local currency financing to stimulate private sector investment in clean energy,” said Suzanne Gaboury, ADB Director General for Private Sector Operations. “ADB’s partnership with SAEL supports the Government of India’s objective of achieving 500 gigawatts of renewable energy generation capacity by 2030.”

SAEL Solar P4 Private Limited will build and operate the solar powerplant, situated within the Khavda Ultra Mega Solar Park in Gujarat, India. The electricity generated by the solar plant will be supplied to Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited, the state-owned power distribution company, through a 25-year purchase agreement. The plant is anticipated to produce an average of 953 gigawatt-hours of clean energy annually, helping to avoid approximately 783,855 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually. SAEL and ADB have previously partnered in a biomass power generation project that uses agricultural residue.

The plant is anticipated to produce an

Allied Industry, Company News, Plant-Based Meat

Shrimp analogue is the latest in a growing range of proprietary printer capabilities; has the potential to reshape the $68 billion shrimp industry

Steakholder Foods Ltd., a leader in cultivated meat and 3D bioprinting technology, announced that it has further expanded its 3D-printing capabilities with the world’s first plant-based, 3D-printed shrimps, expertly designed to mimic the authentic texture and flavour of conventional shrimps. The shrimps were precision-printed on Steakholder Foods’ proprietary DropJet printer, designed for fish and seafood printing, using shrimp-flavoured ink developed by Steakholder Foods’ food technology team. It is the latest addition to the Company’s portfolio of printed seafood products to be offered to potential customers, on a plant (analogue) or potentially hybrid (combination plant and cultivated) basis, as economies of scale develop to enable price-competitive cell development.

The shrimp market is worth more than $60 billion and is projected to continue growing substantially over the coming decade. With 7.6 million tons of shrimp harvested in 2023, Steakholder Foods’ heavy-duty production printing solution aims to provide partners and customers with the means to meet growing demand through high-volume, efficient, and sustainable production, offering a practical and environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional shrimp farming.

Arik Kaufman, CEO of Steakholder Foods, said: “By unveiling a second new species of plant-based, 3D-printed seafood this month, we expect to position Steakholder Foods to sell and deliver its first DropJet printer in 2024, offering partners and customers a unique opportunity to benefit from the expanding global seafood market, while making the right kind of impact on the environment.”

Shrimp analogue is the latest in a

Acquaculture, Collaborations, Company News, World

The collaboration on the Norwegian Marine Restoration (NoMaRe) project aims to restore 5,000 square kilometres of seaweed forest by managing invasive sea urchin predation

IFF a global leader in food and beverage, home and personal care and health, announced its partnership with environmental non-governmental organisation (NGO) Bellona in a long-term project to restore seaweed forests in northern Norway. The collaboration on the Norwegian Marine Restoration (NoMaRe) project aims to restore 5,000 square kilometres of seaweed forest by managing invasive sea urchin predation. The regrowth of the forests could increase biological carbon sequestration by 12 million tonnes – the equivalent of Norway’s total oil and gas industry emissions in 2021. The launch event held in Norway was attended by Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, Norway’s Minister of Climate and Environment, as well as senior members of the research community.

“As one of the largest global users of seaweed for alginates and carrageenan, we are proud to be an initiator of this major project,” said Renee Henze, chief sustainability officer, of IFF. “Alginate from Norwegian seaweed is used in pharmaceutical applications, dietary supplements, and food, including new plant-based meat alternatives. Increasing advocacy for the often-forgotten seaweed forest is key to mitigating the effects of climate change while creating sustainable jobs and products globally.”

Seaweed forests are among the most important natural environments on Earth but are facing challenges on a global scale. Norwegian seaweed forests are the main food source and home to over 300 species of invasive sea urchins. During the 1970s, human activity disrupted and removed many of the urchin larvae’s natural predators, allowing urchins to increase in high numbers and convert the northern Norway seaweed forests into desert-like “urchin barrens.” This has caused ecological ripple effects on the biomass of native animals and plants, including limiting opportunities for seaweed harvesting.

The collaboration on the Norwegian Marine Restoration

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Company News, Europe, Seeds

All new 18 varieties feature Axant™ Flex herbicide tolerance technology, cotton’s first quad-stacked herbicide trait.

BASF is further expanding its FiberMax® and Stoneville® cotton seed industry-leading portfolio with the addition of four new varieties for the 2024 growing season. With these strong additions, the FiberMax and Stoneville cotton seed portfolio includes a total of 18 varieties. All new varieties feature Axant™ Flex herbicide tolerance technology, cotton’s first quad-stacked herbicide trait.

“The addition of these new FiberMax and Stoneville varieties provides growers numerous versatile options to support high-yield potential, excellent fiber quality and strong insect and weed control,” said Bryan Perry, Head of Seeds and Traits for BASF. “We understand a successful season starts with a high-performing seed, and we are excited to share these new varieties with growers to help provide a strong foundation for their cotton acres.”

Powered by a proprietary new germplasm from BASF, Axant Flex Technology includes outstanding weed control and is bred to include native traits that help control yield-robbing pests, like root-knot nematodes and reniform nematodes as well as tolerance to other diseases such as verticillium wilt and bacterial blight.

BASF is committed to ongoing investments in the cotton industry to best meet the needs of its growers doing the Biggest Job on Earth. FiberMax and Stoneville cotton are regularly enhanced with trait development to ensure cotton growers can effectively manage their crops and get the most out of every acre.

Individual results may vary. Information provided is based on experience with tests, trials, or practices as well as general observations. BASF does not guarantee the results noted above and grower is solely responsible for farming management practices and decisions, including, without limitation, selecting seed best suitable for the intended growth and use under grower’s local conditions.

Availability of cotton seed containing the Axant Flex Technology for the 2024 growing season and beyond is subject to many factors, and such seed may not be available in all cotton-growing areas. Commercial sales of cotton seed containing the Axant Flex Technology will be subject to contractual terms and conditions and stewardship obligations, which may include among other requirements restrictions on where the crop resulting from such seed may be sold, transferred and/or exported.

All new 18 varieties feature Axant™ Flex

AgroPolicy, India, Seeds

The seed industry aims to position India as a global seed production and export hub, proposing the creation of a “Seed Valley.

Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII) has communicated the expectations through a pre-budget memorandum to the Ministry of Finance. FSII hopeful that this year’s budget will address the industry’s needs for technological advancement and innovation in the seed sector.

 Dr M Ramasami, Former Chairman, FSII & Chairman, Rasi Seeds Pvt Ltd mentioned, “India’s seed industry, currently valued at US$6.3 billion, anticipates substantial growth, aiming to reach US$12.7 billion by 2028 and US$20 billion by 2040 with a projected CAGR of 10 per cent. As India aspires to become the “Seed Valley of the World,” capturing 10 per cent of the global seed trade, challenges arise due to the lack of differentiation between technology-focused and basic-level companies. The proposed system seeks to address this by tracking seed research, incentivizing high-priority areas, and accrediting research-based seed companies through a National Register.

This accreditation system integrates various aspects of the industry and proposes a 5-year accreditation period based on independent assessments, renewable subject to audits. Data generated by the accredited research-based companies may be considered for regulatory approvals. The industry’s expectations and recommendations for National Accreditation have been submitted in a pre-budget memorandum to the Ministry of Finance, anticipating consideration in the upcoming budget.

Ajai Rana, Chairman, FSII & CEO, Savannah Seeds Pvt Ltd said, “Anticipating Budget 2024, the industry looks forward to addressing critical challenges in agriculture. The government’s focus on research in crop varieties and sustainable practices is acknowledged. Allocating funds through income tax deductions, as proven effective in the past, is crucial. Notably, the 200 per cent income tax deduction for R&D in biotechnology introduced in 2010-2011 was reduced to 150 per cent in 2016 and further to 100 per cent in 2020. Urgency to boost seed R&D, essential for farmers, is emphasised.

A key expectation from Budget 2024 is restoring the 200 per cent income tax deduction for seed industry R&D under Section 35(2AB). Eligibility, based on a national register, requires a rigorous process, including inspection and a 5-year renewal period. Transparency is ensured through annual reports evaluated by a government committee, covering labour and testing expenses.

Similarly, the industry faces a challenge concerning customs duty changes in scientific equipment and research essentials. Previously exempted under Section 56 / 1996, these items played a crucial role in seed research and development (R&D). The industry expects Budget 2024 to restore customs duty on essential items to the earlier 5 per cent rate for nationally accredited companies. This measure aims to support seed research by ensuring access to critical equipment. FSII has communicated these expectations through a pre-budget memorandum, hopeful that this year’s budget will address the industry’s needs for technological advancement and innovation in the seed sector.

Ram Kaundinya, Advisor, FSII said, “With optimism for Budget 2024, cutting-edge technology is vital for global competitiveness, demanding international-standard laboratories with advanced equipment. In addition to infrastructure, incorporating ISTA/NABL accredited seed health testing facilities is essential. The industry aims to position India as a global seed production and export hub, proposing the creation of a “Seed Valley.” To support this vision, a Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme tailored to the unique needs of the Seed Industry is advocated, with a feasibility study requested from the Ministry of Agriculture.

The seed industry aims to position India

Agro chems – Fertilizers, India, Interaction

The event aims to set new benchmarks for the industry, influencing future agricultural practices & policies in India.

The Indian Micro Fertilizers Manufacturers Association (IMMA), India’s premier manufacturers association is thrilled to announce the hosting of the 4th National Crop Nutrition Summit at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai, on 2nd February 2024. This summit, themed “Enabling Innovation through Agri-Tech & Policy Dialogues” promises to be a landmark event featuring distinguished guests and speakers from different disciplines of the agriculture industry.

The 4th National Crop Nutrition Summit will convene thought/through leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and innovators to discuss the future of agriculture, focusing on sustainable nutrient management solutions, technological advancements, and policy support. The summit’s agenda includes keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive workshops, offering insights into the latest trends and best practices in the sector.

Dr. Rahul Mirchandani, President, IMMA said, “The 4th National Crop Nutrition Summit is not just an event; it’s a beacon for the future of agriculture in India. We are gathering the best minds to create a sustainable and technologically advanced roadmap for Indian agriculture. This summit will be a turning point in how we approach crop nutrition and farming sustainability.”

Key topics at the summit will cover the critical role of micronutrients in soil health, the integration of cutting-edge ag-tech in farming, and strategies for eco-friendly crop production. The event aims to set new benchmarks for the industry, influencing future agricultural practices and policies in India.

In addition to the informative sessions, the summit will offer numerous networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with industry peers and explore potential collaborations. It is an ideal platform for anyone involved in the agricultural sector to gain knowledge, share experiences, and contribute to the shaping of India’s agricultural future.

For detailed information on the summit’s agenda, speakers, and registration details, please visit https://imma.co.in/

The event aims to set new benchmarks

Company News, Dairy, India

Going ahead, the company has a whole new product and service line-up that will not only address the new-age consumer needs but will embody innovation in the Indian dairy industry.

Mother Dairy announced the launch of its Pure Buffalo Milk variant for consumers in the NCR region. The new variant has been developed based on deep consumer insights, aiming to tap into the latent demand for need-specific milk variants across the country. The newly introduced variant will be available in the NCR market within a week.

Mother Dairy Buffalo Milk has 6.5 per cent fat content and 9 per cent SNF (Solid Not Fat), making it creamier and richer in taste, thus providing a superior mouthfeel in every sip. It is not only a great choice for regular consumption, but also an ideal companion for culinary enthusiasts. Its creaminess makes it perfect for creating delectable desserts, enhancing the overall culinary experience for those who love to experiment in the kitchen. Furthermore, the new variant will comprise of A2 protein. Mother Dairy Pure Buffalo Milk is available in 500 ml and 1-litre packs, priced at Rs. 70 per litre, with a composition of 6.5 per cent FAT and 9 per cent SNF. It is the first product to be launched in Mother Dairy’s golden jubilee year. Going ahead, the company has a whole new product and service line-up that will not only address the new-age consumer needs but will embody innovation in the Indian dairy industry.

Going ahead, the company has a

AgroPolicy, Biofertilizers, India

FSSAI is extending financial assistance to Assam for the upgrading of laboratories dedicated to pesticide testing

In a significant move towards ensuring the safety and quality of tea production, G Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), addressed a gathering of Tea Growers and Tea Planters during an interactive session in Kellyden, Assam. The event saw active participation from key stakeholders including officials from FSSAI, the Tea Board, the Tea Research Institute, tea planters, tea processors, industry associations and the Food and Drug Department of the State.

The focal point of the discussion was enhancing traceability and testing measures for raw materials, emphasising the need for screening every batch for pesticide residues and adherence to Maximum Residue Limits (MRL) of pesticide usage as prescribed in the Food Safety and Standards Regulations of 2011 (FSSR). Rao emphasised the importance of adopting bio-pesticides and encouraged collaboration with the Tea Board for joint inspection, sampling and testing processes.

During the session, the Tea Board stressed the significance of awareness campaigns among planters to educate them about the maintenance of a harvesting gap to ensure safe agricultural practices. Planters raised concerns about the use of unauthorised pesticides in tea cultivation and urged the State Government to impose a ban on such substances. Processors advocated for the provision of rapid testing kits at the farm gate level to streamline pesticide testing. Scientific Panel members engaged in detailed deliberations on specific pesticides, monitoring procedures and the prevention of off-label use.

Notably, FSSAI is extending financial assistance to Assam for the upgrading of laboratories dedicated to pesticide testing. The need for regular interaction with all stakeholders and the formulation of a time-bound action plan to guarantee the availability of safe tea to consumers was also stressed during the meeting.

FSSAI is extending financial assistance to Assam

Agrotech, Company News, Digital Technologies, World

Through this partnership, AgVision will seamlessly integrate its grain accounting software solutions into Barchart’s elevator-branded Marketplace mobile apps and online grower portals

Barchart, a commodity data and technology leader trusted by over 600 agribusinesses representing over 2,000-grain facilities, and AgVision, a leader in agribusiness software for grain, feed, fertilizer, inventory and retail accounting, have together announced a new partnership that will enable agribusinesses to make stronger relationships with their growers.

Through this partnership, AgVision will seamlessly integrate its grain accounting software solutions into Barchart’s elevator-branded Marketplace mobile apps and online grower portals.  This integration will facilitate secure real-time access to critical producer data, including scale tickets and contracts, delivered directly to growers’ mobile phones.  This provides growers with the information they need to enhance their decision-making capabilities, ultimately leading to improved operational efficiency and profitability.

In addition to empowering growers with streamlined data access, Marketplace apps and online grower portals help streamline agribusiness workflows by connecting seamlessly with cmdtyView – the leading merchandiser desktop solution – through market analysis and intelligence, offer and hedge management, communication tools, and grower data.

Through this partnership, AgVision will seamlessly integrate

Agro Universities, Climate, Live Stock

The study will aim to prove oil-based seaweed product has the potential to be more effective than existing solutions

Symbrosia, a Hawaii-based cleantech startup that uses seaweed to drastically reduce livestock methane emissions announced a study with Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (Cornell CALS), supported by Danone North America, a leading food and beverage company. Designed by Associate Professor Joe McFadden, the study aims to prove the effectiveness of an Asparagopsis-based seaweed oil extract for reducing livestock methane emissions compared to Symbrosia’s existing freeze-dried seaweed products.

Dr. Mallory Honan, Symbrosia’s product and animal science lead, spoke about the thoroughness of the study. “The study is more in-depth than any previous, accounting for animal and human food safety, energetics, manure composition, and gas emissions. Additionally, it will observe unique milk characteristics beyond lactose, protein, and fat, assessing changes in the complete milk fatty acid profile,” explained Honan.

The Asparagopsis species has been proven to reduce methane emissions in ruminant species by interfering with the methanogenesis process. Symbrosia currently produces a freeze-dried product, SeaGraze™, made of Asparagopsis taxiformis. The product reduces methane emissions by 70 per cent – 80 per cent.

A reduction in methane emissions will have immediate benefits for the climate, superior to that of carbon dioxide reduction alone, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Dairy production from cattle makes up an estimated 8 per cent of total human-caused methane emissions worldwide, as part of agriculture and livestock activities which represent approximately 40% of global methane emissions.

Oil absorbs the compounds found in seaweed at an effective rate, circumventing the need for high inputs of energy required for drying. The product in this form is also anticipated to increase the level of bioactive transference and solubility. Using fresh seaweed in oil instead of freeze-dried material also maintains more of the important compounds and nutrients, as well as possibly making it more stable over time. Should the study prove successful, the oil will be added to Symbrosia’s expanding portfolio of products designed to be incorporated into a variety of systems.

The study will aim to prove oil-based