Global feed production reaches record 873m tonnes, survey finds

Global feed production has reached an estimated 873 million tonnes, according to a global survey commissioned by animal nutrition and health group, Alltech.

The research was conducted through Alltech’s regional managers, and assessed the tonnage of 132 countries and all species.

Though headquartered in Kentucky, US, Alltech has a significant operation in Co Meath and is widely regarded as an Irish company thanks to the group’s Irish-born founder, Pearse Lyons.

“As we look to feed seven billion people in 2012, it is clear that the efficient production of meat, milk and eggs has never been more important,” said Dr Lyons.

The record level of global feed production is significant in helping food producers move towards food output targets.

Alltech’s vice-president of corporate accounts, Aidan Connolly, said: “Feed production is an increasingly global phenomenon and this survey is the broadest in its reach and also complete in terms of its review of the world feed industry.”

Asia has secured a role as the number one feed producing region with a tonnage of 305m, and China is the leading country with a total tonnage of 175.4m.

Europe follows Asia with 200m. North America, Latin America and the Middle East/Africa round out the listing with 185m, 125m and 47m respectively.

In terms of species, poultry feed represents 44% of world feed, which may reflect the cost, health and religious preferences for this white meat.

Ruminant feed is calculated at over 220m tonnes, but this does not include a similar quantity of dry matter fed as silage or forage on farm.

Pig, equine and pet feeds have not changed significantly, but aquaculture is the fastest growing sector, totalling nearly 30m tonnes.