October 8, 2018

Nor-Feed and SONAS launch joint project, laboratory
 

Nor-Feed announced in mid-September the creation of FeedInTech, a laboratory and a joint project established between the company and SONAS, a research unit of the Angers University which is based in western France.

FeedInTech underscores a decade of collaboration between Nor-Feed and SONAS and aims to develop 'precision' animal nutrition by combining the resources, expertise and research equipment of both partners. The collaboration began in 2018 with a research work on saponin-based plants and their benefits in animal nutrition.

FeedInTech will approach animal nutrition, at three levels:

Characterisation and quantification of molecules inside an additive - Active compounds are extracted from the plant to better characterise it with the use of advanced-technologies such as nuclear magnetic resonance. This first step allows an accurate dosage of unique molecules in the additive, prior to application on feed.

The study of mechanisms of action - This approach will focus on the physiological response of the organism of an animal whose diet has been supplemented. The goal is to have an accurate indication of the additives' mode of action and to ensure the effectiveness of Nor-Feed products.

Biological modeling - FeedInTech also develops biological models with animals that are easier to handle, such as insects. This modeling will make it possible to draw parallels with farm animals, providing advantages in terms of cost.

FeedInTech has already started works on citrus extracts and their benefits on the gut microbiota.

- Nor Feed