May 17, 2023

 

NUQO: Taking a problem-solving initiative for livestock and feed businesses

 

Despite its relatively short history in the field of feed additives, NUQO has achieved impressive growth and established itself as a leading brand for phytogenics and other feed additives.

 

Through innovative concepts and exclusive technologies, the company has expanded its presence globally, even amidst recent market turbulence.

 

NUQO chief executive officer Ewenn Helary and commercial director Guillaume Etave give their insights on the future of the feed market.

 

 
  NUQO chief executive officer Ewenn Helary

 

 
  NUQO commercial director Guillaume Etave

 

 

What are the top three concerns that stakeholders in the animal feed industry will need to keep in mind or anticipate in the upcoming future?

 

Guillaume Etave: Firstly, economic fluctuations — the initial area of concern is the economic climate, as costs are under intense pressure with substantial variations. While feed costs and effectiveness have always been key focuses, they will become even more crucial due to recent events that have affected our industry.

 

Secondly, when it comes to sustainability — and to meet the demand for new practices —our industry must adjust to changing regulations and meet the expectations of consumers. While this has been a topic of discussion for some time, it is becoming increasingly urgent in various regions to invest in and implement sustainable solutions.

 

Thirdly, it is essential for all stakeholders to prioritise innovation. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to the challenges we face, innovation will undoubtedly play a crucial role in addressing emerging issues. The exploration of new technologies presents exciting opportunities for our industry to tackle emerging health challenges and mitigate adverse economic conditions.

  

What will be the biggest challenges facing feed manufacturers and nutritionists in the coming year, and how can they prepare for and address them?

 

Ewenn Helary: The most pressing concern for feed manufacturers currently is the rising cost of ingredients, which can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, there is robust and sustained economic growth, coupled with a post-COVID recovery. Secondly, the cost of energy and fertilisers has increased, and thirdly, there is a global shortage of grain stocks, which drives prices up even further. This not only creates pricing pressure but also challenges related to the scarcity and availability of goods. As a result, feed manufacturers and nutritionists may have to adjust their diets by using varying ingredients or nutrients.

 

Guillaume Etave: In many cases, formulators may be required to modify their formulations, potentially using products with non-optimal profiles. To address this situation, complementary strategies are being employed. These strategies include building resilient sourcing and supply chain strategies, placing greater emphasis on raw material analysis to ensure optimal nutritional values and increasing interest in feed additives. Feed additives can enhance digestibility and can be used with matrix values to reduce feed costs. While there are many other factors that could be discussed, this topic will undoubtedly keep nutritionists occupied in the near future.

 

Looking at the next decade, what is the most significant issue that will affect the animal feed industry? What solutions are currently being developed to mitigate its impact?

 

Guillaume Etave: The animal feed industry's model is evolving and we can expect further consolidation after the acquisitions in recent years. The push for greater sustainability and transparency driven by consumer demand is also prompting a regulatory shift in the industry. Although innovation has always been a part of the industry, there is an opportunity for radical thinking and new technologies in the coming decade.

 

Ewenn Helary: These new technologies include sustainable growth factors such as postbiotics and phytogenics, which can improve animal health and performance while mitigating rising feed costs.

 

Biotechnologies can address emerging health challenges, including pandemics and specific pathogens, while digital technologies can improve profitability by monitoring farms better.

 

Finally, new sources of nutrients produced through fermentation, insects, or algae may emerge as alternatives.

 

Our colleagues at NUQO operate at the forefront of these topics, developing highly innovative solutions. Our team is proud to offer the most cutting-edge solutions in the phytogenics category. Our products combine state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies with innovative active molecules and are supported by rigorous scientific evidence.

 

Moreover, we are committed to full transparency in all aspects of our work.

  

How will the increasing focus on feed supply sustainability affect and shape the feed industry in the upcoming months?

 

Guillaume Etave: The sustainability landscape is complex and customer expectations across different areas could have a significant impact on the animal feed industry.

 

The rate of change for each issue will depend on its relevance to downstream customers, regulatory and policy shifts, and the technical feasibility of implementation within the industry. For example, the issue of antibiotic stewardship has gained significant attention, resulting in more regulations to reduce antibiotic use in animal feed and the development of various solutions and approaches.

 

The industry must also improve sustainability by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and optimising resource usage. More innovation is needed to measure progress and reduce emissions from livestock, especially in meat and milk production.

  

Ewenn Helary: To tackle sustainability topics, the industry needs to take incremental steps. In the short term, we can expect ongoing efforts to regulate feed ingredients and improve animal welfare.

 

However, it is also essential to invest in developing technologies to address significant challenges, like climate change, as soon as possible. The industry must take advantage of this period of unprecedented change to develop new technologies that will enable it to thrive.

  

What are the immediate short-term priorities of your organisation?

 

Guillaume Etave: Our R&D team has been highly successful and we are fortunate to have a wide range of advanced technologies at our disposal.

 

We have developed micro-encapsulation-based technologies to enhance the stability of active ingredients and improve their delivery in the digestive tract of animals. We have also identified new compounds of interest and have extensive expertise in the field of phytogenics (plant metabolites) and phycogenics (algae metabolites).

 

Additionally, one of our objectives is to prioritise our innovation pipeline.

 

Meanwhile, our business has been growing rapidly, with a significant presence in Western Europe and Southeast Asia, specifically, in Thailand, where we established our own affiliate. We have also expanded our operations in Latin America by setting up a new subsidiary.

 

While we are active in North America and the Middle East, there is still ample room for growth and improvement. In the short term, our goal is to strengthen our foundations and create a strong platform for future growth.

  

What is your outlook for the long term for NUQO?

 

Ewenn Helary: Our focus is on building a strong and sustainable foundation for the future. We strive to continuously develop solutions that align with the evolving market demands and meet the expectations of our customers.

 

Our strength lies in our expertise in manufacturing technologies and animal physiology, which we leverage to create innovative solutions. Our core values of independence, transparency and sustainability remain unwavering.

 

Rather than seeking just short-term success, we are committed to establishing a long-lasting presence in the industry, with a team dedicated to providing advanced and effective solutions that continue to meet the needs of our customers over time.

 

- NUQO