The International Feed Expo/International Poultry Expo is the annual event organized by the American Feed Industry Association in conjunction with the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association was held in Atlanta, Ga., Jan. 24-26. AFIA hosted the International Feed Education Forum during the second day of the event.

The Forum addressed issues unique to feed manufacturers in three knowledgeable sessions. Tim Lease, WL Port-Land Systems, Inc., opened the program with “Selecting the Proper Equipment to Maximize Efficiency.” Lease offered helpful tips for manufacturing plants.

“Poor water quality results in detrimental consequences to our facilities,” Lease explained. The consequences include corrosion, scaling, poor efficiency and water carryover.

Lease also recommended decreasing system operating pressure. A decrease of two pounds per square inch (psi) on a 50 horsepower (hp) air compressor could net $950 in annual savings.

Richard Sellers, AFIA’s vice president of feed regulation and nutrition, spoke next, updating the audience on the Food Safety Modernization Act. “Facility registration is a license to operate. It’s an important distinction in this new law,” Sellers stated.

Sellers also indicated his pride in AFIA’s contributions to educating Capitol Hill about the difference between food and feed. “Neither Congress or FDA wish to make a reckless feed law.” Sellers continued, “If they do, it’s my fault; I did not provide enough education.”

Keith Epperson, AFIA’s vice president of manufacturing and training, concluded the program with an overview of Environmental Protection Agency and Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations. According to Epperson, of the $584 million requested for 2012, OSHA received a budget increase of $6.4 million, as well as receiving 45 new inspectors. Epperson also reminded attendees about the law banning truck drivers from using cell phones that went into effect Jan. 1.

For more information on the International Feed Expo/International Poultry Expo, visit www.ife12.org.