IFEEDER focuses on new digital platform and sustainability

In the evolving landscape of the animal feed industry, the Institute for Feed Education and Research (IFEEDER) has been a key player, continually working towards fostering sustainability and advancing the industry. The organization's recent initiatives, including the launch of a new website and its upcoming participation in various industry events, underline its commitment towards equipping the industry with the tools, knowledge, and resources needed to thrive in today's challenging times.

Founded in 2009, IFEEDER has become a trusted source for industry stakeholders, providing valuable insights about the animal food industry's role in U.S. agriculture. The organization collaborates with diverse partners from the animal food sector, academia, and public institutions to conduct unbiased research, education, and sustainability projects. The aim is to enlighten business leaders and decision-makers about the potential of the rapidly growing feed and pet food industry.

The launch of a new digital platform

In its latest effort to enhance accessibility and engagement, IFEEDER has launched a new website ifeeder.org. This digital platform has been designed as an expansive resource for stakeholders across the animal food value chain, offering a wealth of information about the industry's ongoing sustainability efforts.

Lara Moody, IFEEDER's executive director, elaborated on the purpose behind the new website, stating that it was built to provide potential collaborators and donors with a deeper understanding of IFEEDER's education and research work. This could potentially encourage more stakeholders to support the organization's ongoing initiatives.

IFEEDER's new website is more than just an online presence; it serves as a comprehensive informational hub. Some of the standout features include:

• Background information: A section dedicated to explaining IFEEDER's mission and its impact on the industry.
• Ongoing research projects: Detailed insights into the ongoing research projects that aim to fill knowledge gaps in the animal food industry.
• Educational and sustainability resources: A robust collection of educational materials and sustainability resources that industry members can use to stay abreast of the latest trends and developments.
• News and events: Regular updates on the latest happenings within the Institute, including a newsletter that donors and members of the public can sign up for.

Spotlight on sustainability at IPPE

At International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE), IFEEDER showcased new resources from the Animal Feed Industry Sustainability Toolkit. These resources are part of IFEEDER's strategic focus on sustainability within the animal feed industry.

One of the resources developed in partnership with Iowa State University provides insights into a range of issue areas that are relevant to sustainability for the feed industry. These include aspects like human capital, worker safety, feed safety, water use and energy use.

In addition, IFEEDER is also developing a resource aimed at quantifying the impact of feed-driven performance improvements on reducing the environmental footprint of animal and dairy production.

Engaging with IFEEDER's projects and initiatives

Industry members and stakeholders interested in engaging with IFEEDER's projects and initiatives can visit the new website to learn more about the organization's work. They can sign up for the monthly newsletter, explore ongoing research projects, and even contribute to IFEEDER's initiatives.

With IFEEDER leading the charge, the future of the feed industry looks brighter than ever. By fostering sustainability, advancing research, and facilitating industry-wide collaboration, the organization is helping to ensure that the industry continues to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Importance of sustainability in the feed industry

The feed industry plays a critical role in the global food supply chain. Therefore, it's vital that sustainability measures are implemented to ensure the industry's long-term viability. IFEEDER's focus on sustainability not only benefits the feed industry but also contributes to broader environmental and social goals.

The organization's sustainability roadmap outlines areas of work that need to be pursued to support the industry. These include feedstuff production, ration innovation, responsible sourcing, and circularity. Each of these areas provides opportunities for the feed industry to reduce its environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Through its various initiatives, IFEEDER is helping the feed industry to recognize its role as a sustainability solution. By quantifying the benefits of feed and ration innovations, the organization is showing how the feed industry can contribute to the sustainability goals of its customers and stakeholders.