Apps and calving seasons.

Farmers have found a much easier and faster way to register calves to help them through the forthcoming busy caving season – they have found the Herdwatch app.They have said that the app is easy to use and it has saved them valuable time and hassle, particularly when registering calves. Farmers are extra strapped for time during the busy calving season that is approaching, so now is the time to do something about it. Herdwatch will have your calves registered in 30 seconds, there and then, straight to the Department of Agriculture’s system. Herdwatch is now used by over 4,000 farmers and Declan Buttle, a suckler farmer in Blackwater, Co. Wexford, said he tags the calves and then registers them on his phone while the cow is in front of him.“There can be no mistakes that way. I would be lost without it.” Farmers are using Herdwatch every day to manage their herds and eliminate farm compliance paperwork. see

The veterinary practice.

A compilation of veterinary news, innovation,pet-care tips and disease update.Here read the current edition

New gene test to save dogs.

Veterinarians have struggled for years to understand why a common heartworm medicine causes some dogs to fall into a coma and die,though they knew it primarily affects herding dogs, such as collies and Australian shepherds – breeds known for their furry white feet. A Washington State University(WSU) professor, Dr. Katrina Mealey, solved that puzzle in 2001 by pinpointing a mutation that makes the drug react differently in some dogs and cats. She also invented a simple genetic test to detect the mutation, likely preventing thousands of pet owners from poisoning their furry friends. Mealey grew up with pet collies and went on to earn doctorates in pharmacology and veterinary medicine. The mutation has been observed in about a dozen dog breeds. A certain gene produces a protein that pumps drugs and other toxins out of the brain. With the mutation, however, the gene doesn’t produce enough of the protein, allowing certain drugs to accumulate in the brain. The results can be devastating. Mealey pointed to one case in 2009 involving a miniature Australian shepherd named Cash. When Cash was a puppy, his owner took him to visit some horse stables in Montana. It’s there, veterinarians suspect, that Cash ate some of the heartworm medicine ivermectin. Soon Cash began staggering and lapsed into a coma. After visiting a veterinary emergency room in Bozeman, he was flown by chartered plane to WSU’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Cash was hospitalized for 26 days, eight of which he was comatose and needed a ventilator to breathe. Nursed back to health, he walked out of the hospital two days before Thanksgiving. Pet owners can submit for testing a vial of a pet’s blood or a swab of its mouth as owners are advised that unless it’s a pedigreed purebred testing is necessary.more

Campylobacter and Guillain-Barré Syndrome.

Campylobacter and Guillain-Barré Syndrome, this seems strange and fictitious but its true and causing havoc. The truth is many people cannot link eating food or drinking milk with possibility of paralysis. Campylobacter jejuni is in a genus of bacteria that is among the most common causes of bacterial infections in humans worldwide and commonly found in animal feces.It is the major cause of gastroenteritis in man and has been linked to Guillain-Barré Syndrome. Guillain-Barre syndrome is a rare condition in which a person immune system attacks the nerves, leading to muscle weakness and even paralysis.This cause of this condition is unknown, but it’s typically triggered by an infectious illness, such as the stomach flu or a lung infection. The signs of C.jejuni infection include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, and malaise and diarrhea can vary in severity from loose to bloody stools. Campylobacter jejuni is commonly associated with poultry as it naturally colonizes the digestive tract of many bird species hence contamination of carcass during processing is a major route of infection in man. C. jejuni has also been identified in cattle gastrointestinal tract,the major form of distribution is drinking contaminated water or unpasteurized milk. Contaminated food is a major source of infections, where poorly prepared meat and poultry are the primary source of the bacteria. Surveys show that 20 to 100% of retail chickens are contaminated, this is not a surprise as many healthy chickens carry these bacteria in their intestinal tracts. Raw milk is also a source of infections, the bacteria are often carried by healthy cattle and by flies on farms. Unchlorinated water may also be another source of infections but properly cooking chicken, pasteurizing milk, and chlorinating drinking water kill the bacteria. This is one of the reason to stop drinking raw milk , stop eating poorly cooked chicken or meat and using contaminated water. This is a story of how a healthy nurse became a quadriplegic because of c. jejuni read

Studies reaffirm international campylobacter concerns

Studies reaffirm international campylobacter concerns: Fears over campylobacter levels in chicken in New Zealand have been reignited, thanks to recent research.

Broiler diseases pose no further threat to food safety

Broiler diseases pose no further threat to food safety: Degenerative breast diseases in broiler chickens have been proven to present no risk to food safety, nor are they associated with infectious or pathogenic agents.

Bangladeshis must boost protein intake to fight stunted growth, says UN expert

Bangladeshis must boost protein intake to fight stunted growth, says UN expert: As Bangladesh grapples with the problem of stunted growth in children, a United Nations expert has called for a boost in animal protein consumption within the south Asian country to tackle the crisis.

What bumps on the road should the meat supply chain watch out for in 2017?

What bumps on the road should the meat supply chain watch out for in 2017?: Power shifts, margin squeezes, the potential of alternative proteins in food and feed, value added meat products, uncertainty around currency movements and trade talks will likely be the dominant themes of the animal protein supply chain in 2017, finds a Rabobank report.

Brazil’s billion-dollar meat industry faces price and health pressures

Brazil’s billion-dollar meat industry faces price and health pressures: Brazil’s giant meat industry could become the world’s top protein exporter next decade, but analysts warn it needs to understand consumer demands are changing.

Egg refrigeration to halt salmonella growth.

Eggs are most nutritious and economical foods, but special care is advised when handling and preparing fresh eggs and egg products to avoid food borne illness, commonly called food poisoning Salmonella prevalence in eggs is a major concern to the egg industry and various strategies are employed to keep eggs safe and healthy as possible. Eggs may appear normal but contain a bacteria referred to as Salmonella that can make people sick, especially if eggs are eaten raw or lightly cooked. Many predisposing and persistence factors have been evaluated include poor housing conditions with chicken houses very close each other e.g less than 15 metres, young hens housed in proximity to old hens (older than 70 weeks of age), and the presence of cattle in the vicinity. A recent study shows that refrigerating eggs reduces salmonella growth irrespective of egg sweating. A study by Janet Gradl (graduate student) and Pat Curtis, Auburn University; Deana Jones, USDA Agricultural Research Service and Ken Anderson, North Carolina State University, USA, indicated that Salmonella enteritidis (SE) prevalence in eggs is a major concern to the egg industry. The objective of the study was to assess the effect of egg sweating on SE penetration into shell eggs over a six-week period stored at 4 °C. A 2x2 factorial of SE inoculation and egg sweating was utilized. Inoculated eggs were exposed to 108 SE. Sweated eggs were sweated for approximately 80 minutes in a 32° C incubator. Shell rinse, shell emulsion, and egg contents were enumerated and assessed for prevalence of SE throughout 6 weeks of 4 °C storage. In week 1, the shell rinse SE inoculated/non-sweated treatment had significantly higher Salmonella counts than the other three treatments, where no SE was detected. After week 1, no SE counts were obtained from the egg shell rinse, shell emulsion rinse, or egg contents. A significant week by treatment interaction was found. During weeks 1, 2, and 3 the shell rinse non-sweated and SE inoculated (SN) treatment had significantly higher SE prevalence than the sweated and inoculated treatment (SS). During weeks 4, 5, and 6, there was no difference in SE prevalence between the SS and SN treatment. Egg sweating did not increase SE penetration into the shell emulsion across treatment or week (P<0.05).( thepoultrysite.com) The decreasing trend of SE prevalence obtained over the six-week period indicate that refrigeration is a very effective method to halt Salmonella growth. These results indicate that the current practice of egg sweating is not harmful to egg safety.

Common causes of low egg production in hens.

The age and breed of hens are the first factor to consider as some breeds come into layer earlier than others.The average age of coming into lay is between 22/24 weeks but some breeds come into lay as early as 17 /18 weeks. The lighter breeds usually do come in lay earlier than the much heavier breeds. The method of rearing also comes to play,if adequate nutrition and management is lacking then definitely the birds will not grow,and optimal production is hinged on growth rate,physical development and management practices. The health status of the flock is very essential,thus seek healthy starting stock,from proven hatcheries and with proper vaccination regimen.Hens are sensitive to day length, and particularly to the direction in which day length is changing, when it comes to laying eggs. Declining day lengths discourage egg production,thus it is not unusual for a flock owner to have hens go out of production when the day length diminishes.In commercial production,this problem is resolved and egg production is maintained all year round by using artificial lighting to give hens a long day length. Hens need a balanced and adequate diet to maintain egg production. Each egg contains significant amounts of protein and energy, which must first be consumed by the hen as part of its daily food intake. When there is too little dietary energy or an imbalance of amino acids in feed ,it causes decreased egg production. The role of calcium in egg production is very important,as the shell of each egg contains roughly 2 grams of calcium while the skeleton of a typical egg-laying breed of hen only contains about 20 grams of calcium. This means that each egg represents 10% of the hen’s total bodily calcium,this they get from feed . The hen’s skeleton is a calcium store that supply the demands for egg production, this reserve is rapidly depleted in the absence of an abundant calcium source in the feed and in such a situation the hen will stop laying eggs. The task of steady egg production and maintenance of egg production depends on farmer and ability to feed only a prepared layer ration balanced to meet the hen’s nutritional requirements, or at least provide a e source of calcium, such as ground limestone or oyster shell, that the birds can eat selectively. Salt is another factor,when salt level is low in the feed this will depress egg production. Sodium plays a role in egg production as derived from dietary component however, the hen's sensitivity to sodium levels is important as well--water having too much dissolved sodium will also depress egg production,hence water analysis is vital. The production/management technique also plays a role, with cage-free birds broodiness is a major challenge. Brooding is common in some breeds than others where the hen's want to hatch laid eggs. This broodiness can also be a management vice,where eggs are not picked on time,leaving them to accumulate in a clutch. Daily egg gathering is a very important practice to preserve the eggs in terms of quality ,as increase in number of cracks have been linked to late egg picking and careless handling. Hens after producing eggs for several months ,the production steadily decreases as the birds will begin molting phase. Molting and egg production dont occur side by side so when molting occurs, egg production ceases. The break from egg laying allows the hen to restore its plumage condition by shedding old feathers and growing new ones and the eggs laid now are bigger but fewer and not economically viable to recycle after molting.

Kenyan Millionaire Invests $4 Million In Macadamia Plant.

Kenyan Millionaire Naushad Merali Invests $4 Million In Macadamia Plant. Sasini Limited, an agricultural company controlled by Kenyan tycoon Naushad Merali, is investing $4 million to establish a macadamia processing facility in Kiambu, outside Nairobi. According to a report by The Star newspaper, Merali’s new processing plant will be set up on a 20-acre farm next to some coffee mills it owns in Kiambu county. The location is proposed for a Special Economic Zone, a protectionist area where manufacturers benefit from incentives such as tax holidays, and which is close to Sasini’s coffee mill in Kiambu. Merali says that Sasini, which is listed on the Nairobi Stock Exchange, will inter-plant macadamia with its coffee bushes at calculated spacing so that the two can thrive together without needing additional land. “This is being planted at desirable spacing which will not compromise on coffee production. We anticipate to generate a further Sh300,000 ($3,000) per hectare from this venture within the coming six years when we shall be at optimal production of macadamia nuts,” Merali said in a press statement. continue

Irish agri-tech firm generates €13m in UK sales from its manure-to-energy units.

Irish agri-tech firm generates €13m in UK sales from its manure-to-energy units.Irish agri-tech business BHSL has agreed to sell eight of its manure-to-energy units to UK-based poultry farms. In a statement, the company said that the move has generated €13 million in sales. The firm manufactures manure-to-energy technology which is aimed at transforming the environmental impact of the global poultry industry. The eight new BHSL Energy Centre units will all be installed by March 2017. The patented technology will be shipped from BHSL’s plant in Ballagh, County Limerick, and represents the first fruits of an expansion strategy announced by the company’s chairman Denis Brosnan upon his appointment in October. BHSL’s technology converts poultry manure into energy, which is then used to provide heating for future batches of chicks. BHSL’s system is the only one available that meets both US and EU environmental regulations, and allows farmers to use manure for power and heat rather than the traditional practice of transporting and spreading it on land as a fertiliser which is increasingly restricted by law due to pollution concerns. The company said it also celebrated a world industry first, with technology it has installed in Maryland in the US and Norfolk in the UK producing electricity for the first time. The ability to generate electricity in addition to heat allows farmers use the power generated for other purposes on farm when there is less demand for heat in the poultry houses. Combined Heat and Power (CHP) solutions which generate electricity will also help farmers play their part in meeting the EU’s 2020 renewable energy targets The company estimates that farms may be able to meet all their energy needs by using their manure as a fuel, thereby reducing costs and improving the sustainability of intensive poultry production. Poultry farms have big electricity bills and there is enough manure created to provide both heat and electricity. In fact by generating electricity all the manure on a site can be utilised, completely removing the need to land spread manure which is increasingly considered a pollutant and restricted by law.more

Asia digs deep to upgrade its agriculture.

Asia digs deep to upgrade its agriculture as a perfect storm of population growth and climate change spurs farming innovation. Asian crops were devastated by a severe drought this year, highlighting the urgent need to stabilise farm output and brace for the consequences of climate change. And with the region's population projected to continue growing over the long term, this is no easy task. The good news is that answers are starting to emerge. Agribusinesses are harnessing information technology. Organic farms and so-called plant factories are becoming hothouses for innovation. International investors are keen to water the seeds. These are some cutting-edge facilities to show a glimpse into the future of Asian farming.Spread is a company, which is taking a different approach in innovative farming. It wants to win in the mass market such as in supermarkets — and that means competing against veggies grown in the field. The secret of the company is volume,yes more production in a small enclosure. The company packs a lot of lettuce into its 3,000 sq m factory in western Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital. The heads grow on rows upon rows of shelves under fluorescent lights. The factory has the capacity to ship 21,000 of them per day — enough to make the lettuce profitable even if it sells for Y198 ($1.79). The average price in Tokyo as of November was Y251, according to Numbeo, which tracks the cost of living in big cities. Whether by growing crops indoors or other means, Asia needs to boost yields and mitigate extreme weather. Consumption in big markets like China and India is likely to continue growing steadily. “Asia cannot produce enough to support itself,” the Netherlands' Rabobank wrote in its Asia-Pacific: Agricultural Perspectives report. The bank noted that “limited arable land, inadequate water and poor resource management” are constraining production. That is at the best of times. This year, vast swaths of Asia were hit by drought linked to the El Niño weather phenomenon, resulting in massive crop failures. To feed itself, Asia needs solutions, and Singapore's Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory aims to provide some.The non-profit research institute is funded by Temasek Trust — the philanthropic arm of sovereign wealth fund Temasek Holdings. TLL, as the lab is known, spent eight years developing Temasek Rice, a resilient breed capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions and producing higher yields. Temasek Rice was created using a modern technique known as marker-assisted selection. This allows scientists to zero in on desired traits and breed new, improved crops. Yin Zhongchao, TLL's senior principal investigator, said this type of breeding can enhance food security by increasing production “in a more efficient and sustainable manner”.Since land is limited in Singapore, TLL’s rice is being grown in Indonesia, and the lab wants to partner with more companies to boost production. The spread of mobile communications gives farmers quite a lot of knowledge at their fingertips. Even without souped-up seeds, detailed weather data and other information can help them to cope with climate change, and other threats that come their way. The Vietnamese state telecom company VinaPhone started a service called Nong Thon Xanh, or Green Country. Basically, it turns mobile phones into farm assistants. Through a social network, farmers can subscribe to three packages. For 10,000 dong ($0.45) per month, they get access to an agricultural warning package that includes a range of information: weather forecasts, prices, plant disease alerts, guidelines on relevant state policies, advisories on abnormal conditions affecting agriculture and so on. Coffee and rice packages, available for 31 cents and 22 cents a week, respectively, offer tailored guidance to help farmers prevent diseases from wiping out their crops.more

Squid delicacy more common in UK as seas are warmer.

Climate changes and actions changing food preferences in the UK. The seas are getting warmer so more of squids are are now being caught at 60% of survey stations in the North Sea, compared with 20% in the 1980s. Squid and fish that thrive in warmer waters, such as sardines and anchovies, are flourishing around the North Sea, according to fisheries data while the likes of cod are heading north, away from British waters. Dr John Pinnegar, of the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), which has been monitoring North Sea fish populations for more than 100 years, said models for 2025 and beyond suggested that seawater temperatures off the UK may continue to rise. Fishing boats are now catching species that have not been caught in the area before. Dr Pinnegar, programme director for marine climate change at Cefas, said summer squid fisheries had expanded around the Moray Firth in north-east Scotland, as part of efforts to reduce over-fishing of more traditional species such as haddock and cod. "A lot of the things we see increasing in abundance around the UK are marine animals that would probably originally [be] thought of as being Mediterranean or characteristic of the Bay of Biscay, or around Portugal or Spain," he added. "They're now increasing in UK waters because the waters are getting more conducive for those sorts of species, whereas other species are shifting the center of their distribution towards the north of the UK." A recent research found that squid appeared to be benefiting from climate change, at the expense of finned fish, and they have been identified as a valuable alternative fishing target particularly in the North Sea. Worldwide catches of squid, octopus and cuttlefish (cephalopods) have increased considerably over the last two decades.more

Arctic reindeer shrinking in size.

A new research has shown that arctic reindeer's are shrinking in size due to climate action on food supplies.Scientists say Arctic reindeer are shrinking in size due to the impact of climate change on food supplies. Scottish researchers, working with colleagues from Norway, have been studying the animals in a group of islands near the North Pole.The weight of the reindeer over a 16-year period has gone down by around 12%, from 55 kilogrammes to just over 48. Professor Steve Albon, from the James Hutton Institute in Aberdeen, told the BBC the difference climate change makes to the animals.watch

Terminally ill boy dies in Santa's arms.

A US man who dresses up as Santa Claus fulfilled a dying boy's Christmas wish by visiting him at his bedside, before the youngster passed away in his arms. Eric Schmitt-Matzen rushed to a local in Tennessee hospital after receiving a call about a terminally ill five-year-old boy who wanted to see Santa Claus. The 60-year-old impersonator said he gave the child a present and a big hug before holding him as he died.The boy's family watched on from the hallway as they cried, he told the BBC."When I felt the life go from him, I looked up, tears running down my face, and looked over at the window and that's when mom started screaming," he said.continue

Methane surge needs urgent attention.

Methane surge needs urgent attention. Scientists say they are concerned at the rate at which methane in the atmosphere is now rising. After a period of relative stagnation in the 2000s, the concentration of the gas has surged. Methane (CH4) is a smaller component than carbon dioxide (CO2) but drives a more potent greenhouse effect. Researchers warn that efforts to tackle climate change will be undermined unless CH4 is also brought under tighter control. "CO2 is still the dominant target for mitigation, for good reason. But we run the risk if we lose sight of methane of offsetting the gains we might make in bringing down levels of carbon dioxide," said Robert Jackson from Stanford University, US. Prof Jackson was speaking ahead of this week's American Geophysical Union (AGU) meeting in San Francisco where methane trends will be a major point of discussion. "Methane has many sources, but the culprit behind the steep rise is probably agriculture," Prof Jackson told BBC News."We do see some increased fossil fuel emissions over the last decade, but we think biological sources, and tropical sources, are the most likely." Agricultural sources would include cattle and other ruminants, as well as rice paddies. Emissions from wetlands are almost certainly a significant part of this story as well. But so too could be the role played by the chemical reactions that normally remove methane from the atmosphere. One of the most important of these is the destruction process involving the so-called hydroxyl radical.The concentration of this chemical species in the atmosphere might also be changing in some way.Continue

Burger King breaks into Bangladesh market

Burger King breaks into Bangladesh market: US fast food chain Burger King has opened its first outlet in Bangladesh’s capital Dhaka, predicting expansion amidst the country’s fast-growing economy and promising to target local meat procurement.

United Nations wants Mozambique goat meat recognition

United Nations wants Mozambique goat meat recognition: Mozambique goat meat is one of 13 products from the world’s poorest countries that have been backed by the United Nations to secure coveted Geographical Indication (GI) status.

Novel Diagnostics for Lung Diseases.

Dr. Jan De Backer gave an illuminating presentation about diagnosing lung diseases with Functional Respiratory Imaging, or FRI at the Mimics Innovation Conference. It’s is a proprietary technology that combines high-resolution CT scans with computer-based flow simulations. He explained that currently, doctors assess lung function by asking patients to forcefully exhale into a tube. The amount of air that can be exhaled is the main parameter that is used to determine how healthy or ill a patient is if they suffer from lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (smoker’s lungs), cystic fibrosis etc. With this conventional test however, it is very difficult to know exactly where the exhaled air comes from inside the lungs, where the disease is present in the lungs and, if the patient uses an inhaler, whether the drugs reach the right areas. FRI provides a detailed look inside the lungs and can very accurately determine which areas in the lungs are more affected by the disease and whether the inhaled drug particles reach the right areas. These enhanced capabilities result in smaller, shorter and hence cheaper clinical trials so better drugs can come to market faster. In addition, FRI allows the doctor to select the optimal treatment for individual patients in clinical practice, thereby avoiding the costly trial-and-error approach. FRI is increasingly used in clinical trials and practices worldwide and facilitates the transition to personalized medicine. Thanks

Medical 3D Printing; Corrective Osteotomy Restores an Oslo Teen’s Mobility.

Medical 3Dprinting has been used for Corrective Osteotomy to restores an Oslo Teen’s Mobility.Dr. Ola Wiig, an experienced pediatric orthopaedic surgeon, was confronted with a very challenging deformity in a young teenager. Dr Wiig’s patient was suffering from severely reduced mobility as a result of an epiphysiolysis in her proximal femur, which caused her leg to be severely rotated outwards. This wasn’t just causing the patient pain, it was stopping her from being a normal teenager. Dr. Wiig’s colleague, Dr. John Slåstad, orthopaedic surgeon at Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet has successfully treated several patients with severe bone loss using 3D-printed aMace custom implants from Materialise. Knowing this, Dr. Wiig contacted Materialise to investigate whether it was possible to use this technology to better understand and to secure full correction of this severe deformity in 3D. Together with the surgeon, our clinical engineer worked to come up with a feasible treatment plan to create better leg function for the patient. The plan included a corrective osteotomy in the left femur. To execute it, a 3D-printed anatomical model and outcome model were provided, together with patient-specific guides to make sure the cut was made at exactly the right location and angle.more

AGRIBUSINESS: Creating wealth with feathers .

The waste to wealth initiative is expanding by the day,with various by-products finding usefulness in numerous sectors of the economy. Feathers have found usefulness in fashion,art, creative industry as well as feed production for animals.read 

   Today the feathers have found another use in construction of buildings. Feathers may already be used in feed in some parts of the world, and work has also been carried out in turning them into fuel and more surprisingly, computer chips, but for an industry that is already held up as being the most sustainable meat producer, finding a good new use for a waste material simply raises the sector’s environmental credential further. 

see Feathers though waste from poultry has found creative uses in fashion,feed,construction and plastic industry. Feathers are gaining ground in the hair and beauty industry,because of the keratin content.

The extraction of keratin protein from chicken feathers poses an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to utilize this poultry industry waste and convert it to cash. 

 The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in South Africa, along with the University of KwaZulu-Natal, is researching cost-effective ways to extract keratin protein from chicken feathers for the manufacture of high-value products. International studies and patents on extraction of keratin and other products from feathers are available. The aim of the CSIR study is to develop new extraction procedures – by using a combination of unique solvents and microwave extraction techniques – to significantly reduce extraction costs. 

 Keratin is in high demand in a variety of high-value industries, resulting in it selling for more than 2,400 South African rand per kilogram (about 140 GBP per kilogram). By extracting keratin from feathers you might, in effect, be able to make this by-product just as valuable as poultry meat. 

 The extraction of keratin protein might create a whole new market opportunity for feathers. Chicken feathers contain about 91 per cent keratin, 1 per cent lipids and 8 per cent water. Keratin is in high demand in a variety of high-value industries, resulting in it selling for more than 2,400 South African rand per kilogram (about 140 GBP per kilogram). By extracting keratin from feathers you might, be able to make this by-product just as valuable as poultry meat. 

 The chicken feathers are pre-treated to remove debris and decontaminated to remove any bacteria and viruses, before the keratin is extracted. Once extracted the keratin proteins are characterised according to their physical and chemical properties. The extracted keratin protein could be incorporated into all kinds of hair products, due to its moisturizing properties. 

 The harvested proteins are useful in the form of keratin bio-fibres or keratin protein based products. Electrospinning could, be used to regenerate keratin bio-fibers that will be used to replace synthetic petroleum-based fibers in the textile industry. Feathers from waste to food ,to fashion accessories to building material ,to textile fiber,to hair care product,to arts and crafts,to interior design....the possibilities are endless.

New developments in layer hen feeding.

A new method has been proposed that adapts the normal behavior of the hen to the requirements of modern farming. A single diet offered during the early hours of the light period with some source of calcium top-dresses during the afternoon is the standard feeding program for layers worldwide. A new method has been proposed that adapts the normal behavior of the hen to the requirements of modern farming. This method, called split feeding, is based on the principle that two feeds can be offered, one in the morning and another in the afternoon, at different quantities and with different nutrient composition. The morning feed focuses on the protein and energy requirements of the hen, whereas the afternoon feed focuses on the calcium requirement that coincides with eggshell formation. In preliminary studies, hens in split-feeding regimens consumed slightly less nutrients and eggshell quality remained strong or improved. Thus, not only was normal feeding behavior allowed, but profitability increased if we discount the extra cost of logistics for the second feed. This reduction in nutrient intake can have further positive consequences in terms of reduced nitrogen and phosphorus excretion and less stress on the hen coming from the excessive consumption of calcium needed to sustain eggshell quality, especially during the late laying period. This feeding programme results in a more profitable egg production through reduced cost of production, improved eggshell quality, increased number of marketable eggs and improved performance under sustainability criteria. Laying hens lay the majority of their eggs during the morning (Etches, 1986; Larbier and Leclercq, 1992). The interval between two successive ovipositions is about 24 hours or slightly greater (Keshavarz, 1998). After oviposition, the subsequent ovulation occurs about 30 minutes later. During the first four hours, the egg white is formed. Thereafter, the egg moves through the shell gland and the shell is deposited around the albumen during approximately the next 20 hours (Larbier and Leclercq, 1992). This shell formation mainly takes place during the evening and night. The requirements of laying hens for amino acids, energy, calcium and phosphorus do not remain constant but vary during the day. This depends on the hen's physiological needs for formation of the various components of the egg. Current methods of feeding laying hens with one diet with constant levels of nutrients may not result in optimal utilization of the nutrients (Chah, 1972; Leeson and Summers, 1997).When birds are offered diets that allow self-selection of nutrients, there is an increased intake of protein and energy observed in the morning around time when the egg is produced. The intake of calcium is higher during the later part of the day. In a study by Chah (1972) in which hens were offered diets that allow self-selection of nutrients, the total daily intake of protein was 11 per cent lower, while intakes of energy and calcium were eight per cent and 26 per cent, respectively, lower than hens fed a single, normal diet. This suggests that the hen is using the energy, amino acids, calcium and phosphorus more efficiently by consuming these nutrients at moments of the day when the requirements are high. Therefore, the current practice of providing hens with only one diet might not be an ideal approach for optimal utilization of nutrients. Nutreco R&D developed a new feeding programme which shows that Split Feeding offers the following benefits:1)More profitable egg production by reduction of production cost. 2)Improved eggshell quality and increased number of marketed eggs. 3)improved nutrient efficiency and sustainability. see

Litter composting can improve broiler performance.

Litter composting can improve broiler performance.Reusing poultry bedding, referred to as built-up litter, is a common practice in U.S. broiler houses and turkey finishing barns. Windrow composting techniques have been developed which, if properly implemented, can achieve several positive benefits. There are three primary reasons for windrow composting litter: 1)Conserve bedding/extend litter life. 2)Reduce on-farm waste storage capacity. 3)Reduce disease challenge and improve performance.Bud Malone, consultant, Malone Poultry Consulting said its unknown how many years broiler producers can go without a total house cleanout if windrow composting is properly done. Composting litter inside the poultry house between flocks reduces total litter volume and this, coupled with decreasing the frequency of total house cleanouts, reduces the amount of space required on the farm for litter storage. The potential big payback from windrow composting comes from improved bird health and performance. Malone cited research that shows windrow composting of poultry litter between flocks can reduce or eliminate E.coli, Staphylococcus, Salmonella, Aspergilla, respiratory viruses, Clostridium perfringens and coccidia. Properly implemented windrow composting programs have been successful intervention strategies for dermatitis, necrotic enteritis, and runting and stunting syndrome. Windrow composting, when combined with timely insecticide treatment, has even been successful at reducing darkling beetle populations in poultry houses to near zero, he reported. Windrow composting, if done properly, can reduce disease challenge for the next flock, and it is proving to be a useful disease suppression strategy for reduced antibiotic growing programs, Malone said. But, windrow composting is not without cost. It requires a significant investment of time, and equipment is needed to make the windrows and turn them. When windrow composting is not done properly, Malone warned that the investment of time and equipment can be with minimal benefit. Also, he said before growers embark on a composting program, they need to have a strategy in place for controlling ammonia, like a litter amendment, before the next flock is brought into the house. In a windrow composting situations, poultry litter utilized as a soil amendment for growing fruits and vegetables will need to be composted reaching a temperature of at least 131F for at least 15 days and be turned a minimum of five times. Under normal circumstances, the downtime between flocks would not be long enough to allow for this process to be done inside the poultry house, so it would have to be done after the litter was removed from the house. watch

The risk of infection from heater-cooler systems in hospitals.

Invasive infections likely caused by the aerosolization of Mycobacterium chimaera from contaminated heater-cooler devices during cardiac surgery have been reported around the world and the outbreaks have prompted responses from major public health agencies. The Isolation and removal of heater-cooler devices from OR and other critical care areas could limit M. chimaera infections and keep patients from being infected by contaminated exhaust air. There is evidence that the coolers implicated in outbreaks were already contaminated from source when they arrived to the hospitals. Water outside the German plant where the heater-cooler device (HCDs) are manufactured was found to harbor M. chimaera. There was pretty good evidence that most of the devices were colonized at the factory site. HCDs are used with heart-lung machines to regulate body temperature during cardiothoracic surgeries and other medical procedures. The CDC says the devices are used in more than 250,000 procedures in the U.S. every year. The agency estimated that in hospitals where at least one HCD–related infection has been identified, the risk of a patient being infected with M. chimaera was between approximately one in 100 to one in 1,000. M. chimaera is a slow-growing species of nontuberculosis mycobacteria commonly found in soil and water, according to the CDC. Although it rarely makes people sick, symptoms of infection can be general and nonspecific and are often delayed. When the FDA linked the devices to infections in 2015, the CDC alerted health departments and providers around the United States and issued interim practical guidance advising facilities to remove contaminated units, maintain those in service and track reports about potential infections and the CDC also offers guidance on how to notify patients and health care providers about potential infection. There is no reliable disinfection procedures exist to eradicate the bacteria from HCDs, separating the devices from the air of critical medical areas is necessary to keep patients safe.more

Farmcrowdy; farming for you.

Farmcrowdy; farming for you. Agriculture is the next goldmine with every country looking at how to feed the ever increasing population without disrupting the ecosystem while looking for innovative ways to farm,feed and ensure food security. Farming like many have suggested as plan out of the ditch of depression,everybody is moving to the farm directly or indirectly. Farming can be simple or complex depending on how your mode of action and approach,but the basic requirement is determine the type of farming you want to dabble in ,acquire knowledge and skill of how-to-then start. The learning curve is shorter now as you can actually get experts to farm for you,simply by investing and after stipulated time get paid. This is the summary of farmcrowdy,Nigeria's 1st Digital Agriculture Platform focused on connecting farm sponsors with real farmers in order to increase food production while promoting youth participation in Agriculture. Farmcrowdy is an agric-tech platform that gives Nigerians the opportunity to invest in Agriculture by selecting the kind of farms they want to sponsor. We use the investors funds secure the land, engage the farmer, plant the seeds, insure the farmers and farm produce, complete the full farming cycle, sell the harvest and then pay the investor a return for their investment. While this farm process is on-going, the farm sponsors are able to keep track of the full-cycle by getting updates in text, pictures and videos. Agriculture just got so simple, you can actually be in Lagos and have a tomato farm in the north or poultry in Oyo and you will not break any sweat as your investments are safe and secured.All farms are insured and there is an off takers arrangement, this is so cool. Continue

E-learning; clinical updates.

A 2 year old male springer spaniel presents with a history of episodic sneezing and mucoid bilateral nasal discharge since importation from Romania 2 weeks ago. Chest auscultation is unremarkable but there is an increased gag reflex and resentment of nasal palpation. Rigid endoscopy reveals several segmented worm like organisms (below) ranging from 1 to 8cm long What is the organism in question? Is there a zoonotic risk and what treatment options are available? This parasite is Linguatula serrata, an arthropod that lives in the nasal passages and naso-pharynx of carnivores. Infections can be subclinical but rhinitis and pharyngitis are common outcomes of infection so is the likely cause of the signs in this case. Adult infection is obtained via the consumption of raw or undercooked viscera but humans may also act as intermediate hosts if eggs from mucoid discharge or faeces are accidentally ingested. This can lead to hepatic granulomas and rarely, aberrant migration to the lungs or anterior chamber of the eye. Therefore, good hand hygiene should be advised and facial licking by the dog should be avoided. Treatment is primarily through surgical removal of the adult parasites. At least one case in the literature has been treated by weekly oral administration of milbemycin oxime leading to expulsion of the parasites. This would be a valid option to try first in this case but it would be important to stress that no product containing milbemycin oxime is licensed for this purpose and no large scale studies have been performed to assess its efficacy against this parasite. Ivermectin is another option as this is not a Collie breed but there is only one case of treatment with this drug in the literature and that was to treat a closely related parasite, Linguatula artica in a reindeer. continue

Agriculture sector will be transformed with better credit facility for farmers.

Demonetisation: Agriculture sector will be transformed with better credit facility for farmers. Cash is the primary mode of transaction in agriculture sector, demonetisation is bound to cause temporary stress in the system. This historic move has the potential of bringing about transformational changes in the sector like better access to credit for farmers, elimination of middlemen, direct transfer of subsidies to farmers and ultimately linking the Indian farmer to the global agricultural market. However, in the short term, the sector has to brave several storms before it realizes the true fruits of demonetization. In the transitional phase, farm produces with limited shelf-life like fruits and vegetables, which significantly contribute to overall farm output, will be hit due to cash crunch. Similarly, payment of wages to farm laborers and rentals for farm implements will too become difficult considering the limited access of service providers to the banking system. The steep decline in transactions at various states APMC’s (up to 70 percent as per reports) in the aftermath of the decision is a testimony to this fact. Demonetization can potentially address the perennial problem of credit in farm sector. With banking system glowing with liquidity, there can be increase in investments in farm sector, which is the only way to get out of the vicious circle of subsistence farming. Despite being declared as a ‘priority sector’ credit availability to typical farmers for investment in their own lands are far from adequate. This has forced farmers to rely on non-institutional credit, which further aggravates the problem. continue

ECHBEE FOODS :Accelerating the sustainable development goals with the cassava value chain.

Malnutrition is found in a large population of people around the world,with 795 million people not having enough food to live a healthy and active life. Sub Sahara Africa accounts for a large population of under nourished and malnourished people. 

 Malnutrition which stems from inadequate food both in quality and quantity resulting in stunted growth and development is the bane of many developing and underdeveloped countries.

 The goal to end poverty and hunger has the root at preventing malnutrition in children especially as well as adults. The growth rate and intellectual capacity in areas where there is malnutrition is very low with high prevalence of diseases and subsequently death 

.One out of six children which is roughly about 100 million in developing countries is underweight and one in four of the world's children are stunted. In developing countries the rate is one in three with 66 million primary school-age children attending classes hungry across the developing world, with 23 million in Africa alone.  

 Women that are malnourished are at high risk during pregnancy as adequate nutrients for growth and nurturing of fetus is not available leading to physical strains,emotional imbalance and exposure to various diseases and infection as body immune system is compromised. 

Poor nutrition causes nearly 45% of deaths in children under five ,which is about 3.1 million children each year. Empowerment,education and encouragement of farmers especially women will go a long way to curb malnutrition and prevent deaths in women and children. 

When women farmers are given the same access to resources as men, they will reduce the number of hungry people in the world by up to 150 million. Malnutrition in found all over the country but its more prevalent in certain areas than others.41% of children under 5 years of age are stunted and 23% underweight with a prevalence of vitamin A deficiency reaching 29.5%. 

The prevalence of vitamin A deficiency is a public health concern that WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION has listed Nigeria amongst countries with high risk of Vitamin A deficiency(VAD) The VAD increases the risk of disease, death in children ,visual impairment,night-blindness in pregnant and lactating women 

.The introduction of food rich in vitamin A will go a long way to ensure healthy lifestyle for the people.Educating people about food combinations,additives and meal preparations will expose people to food exploration for health and well-being. 

Cassava called Manihot esculenta, is extensively cultivated as an annual crop in tropical and subtropical regions for its edible starchy tuberous root, a major source of carbohydrates.

Cassava is the third-largest source of food carbohydrates in the tropics, after rice and maize. Cassava is a major staple food in the developing world, providing a basic diet for over half a billion people. CASSAVA VALUE CHAIN AND FOOD SECURITY.

  Echbee Food has found a new niche where garri a cassava by-product can be turned into nutritious wholesome foods and snacks.

  Echbee foods uses the vitamin A cassava for all her product in line with the vision of the company to end malnutrition. The first product is cassava flakes, a highly nutritious cereal fortified with vitamins and enriched with nuts fashioned after the corn flakes to provide wholesome,nutritious cereal.

 

   

  .  

 Read how  cassava can help with sustainable goals. #end hunger #no poverty

AGRIBUSINESS: Moringa a super-food additive.

Moringa a super-food additive is fast gaining recognition all over the world because of its outstanding properties that translate to our benefits. Moringa affects many of the systems of the body from respiratory ,reproductive,musculoskeletal,digestive and the skin to ensure perfect working conditions and healthy life for the individual. Moringa is a source of protein,vitamin A, C,potassium,calcium and iron. Moringa contains essential amino acids and micro nutrients essential for growth and development. Moringa has seven times the amount of vitamin C in oranges,making it an option in cases of cold and nasal congestion. A cup of tea laced with moringa or better still mug of warm water with a dab of moringa will give fast relief. This high vitamin C content also makes it a soothing tonic in cases of stress,making it a natural energy booster. Moringa has four times the amount of calcium found in cows milk. This is a 2-prong advantage as the pregnant animal has enough calcium and also the young ones,the second aspect is that moringa can be used to fortify milk collected from cows making extra calcium available for consumers. Moringa with 4 times the amount of vitamin A found in carrots makes it a ready source of vitamin A supplement essential for eye health . The high protein content of moringa makes it an important component of end hunger programme which is aimed at feeding children highly nutritious foods to curb malnutrition.Children in rural areas without adequate food can actually be served balanced diets by adding moringa to the food provided by food missions e.t.c. Striking a balance between potassium and sodium in the body is essential for fluid management in the body, moringa helps with electrolyte balance in the body thus regulating osmo-regulatory functions, and ensure kidney health. Moringa is a natural herb that can easily be used as an additive for food,milk and even juices.The inclusion of moringa to food preparation and processing will not only add colour,flavor but nutritional values for health and healthy life style. How about some combos? #milk+ moringa= morimilk#classic. or veggies+moringa =awesome mix 0r fry eggs with a dash of moringa= fabulous mix. Powdered eggs with moringa= superfood!!! how about spicing up your pasta,indomine with moringa= supercool. Lets go #green with #moringa.

Cortisol insufficiency in dogs.

The adrenal glands cause problems for a lot of dogs. The very overactive adrenal gland is very commonly misdiagnosed because the stressed body needs more cortisol to cope with stress. But the underactive adrenal gland is very commonly under diagnosed. The majority of veterinary internists today recognize just cortisol insufficiency, when the disease commonly called Addison's disease that's a difficult name, Addison's or hypo (lack of) adrenal cortical. It's difficult because there are three parts of the adrenal cortex and the classic Addison's includes the electrolyte imbalance. This is the classic slow heartbeat, so forth. But now, the papers being published are talking about 60 or 70 percent of hypo — lack of — adrenal gland function — is just cortisol insufficiency. continue

Moringa uses in veterinary practice.

Moringa oleifera is a small to medium-sized tropical tree native to the Indian subcontinent, its drought tolerant and easily adapts to tropical and subtropical climate, enjoying very wide distribution in Asia, Africa and parts of North America. It has been promoted as the Miracle Tree of Africa,because of the myriad of problems it solves. Moringa is rich in antioxidants,protein, calcium and iron.The incorporation of this herb in food has numerous benefits in man and animals. Our pets have similar disease conditions to man,so much so that they are used as models for clinical studies and trials. The similarities in body systems makes incorporation of proven herbs to their food to get similar results as obtained in man. The advent of fast foods,overly processed foods and food additives has triggered the surge of diabetes,obesity ,cancer and arthritis in man,these conditions are also encountered in pets many of which has been traced to diet,pet food and processed pet food/treats. The inclusion of moringa in pet food supply many of the important macro nutrients and essential amino acids absent in commercial food,moringa also laden with antioxidants help to mop up free radicals from the body thus reducing the risk of cancer. Moringa for pets. Moringa has anti inflammatory property,thus adding moringa to pets food will prevent arthritis making it a number one food additive for the old and aging dogs. The calcium in the moringa is also another added advantage for bone health. The calcium component in moringa makes it a suitable additive for pregnant and lactating pets and farm animals,as the problem of postpartum metabolic disorder experienced at this period is prevented. A pregnant animal needs calcium supplements to prevent rapid depleting from bones which normally progresses to recumbency and death if not treated,but the mixing of moringa with feed will prevent onset of disorder and also ensure good quality and quantity of milk.M Moringa is an energy booster and also primes the immune system ,a regulated dosing of pets will keep them energetic and alert.The protein content of moringa helps tissue repair and muscle building resulting in rapid wound healing and faster growth rate. Essential amino acids and trace elements present in moringa ensure all body system function properly for health. The use of moringa in your pet food will not only color,but also flavor the food without any side effects.Pet owners craving for a full, smooth and luscious coat definitely will love moringa because of the abundance of Zinc, Vitamins A, and E, as well as the amino acids required for the production of keratin which makes it an excellent hair tonic.

Food additives and colon cancer.

Food additives or enhancers are tied to the rise in health problems in man, basically changes in our diet from farm fresh to overly processed foods are not only liked to cancer,but obesity,diabetes ,hypertension and heart diseases. The pathways of many of these conditions have been linked to food,the additives,food processing and preparation. A lot of food consumed are processed or prepared with carcinogenic substances,others are loaded with sugars while so many others have antibiotics in their muscles from the farms. The food vendors and processors contribute to majority of these conditions based on the way they handle ,prepare and package food.A recent interview and visit to food huts showed that majority of the vendors are using unconventional methods to prepare food; some vendors boil the cow skin/legs with SUGAR to soften it so as to shorten cooking time.Another group use the very popular painkiller to boil the beef also to soften it ,while another group use monosodium glutamate (msg) as seasoning which has been shown to have carcinogenic properties. The issue of surge in health problems not only stems from raising animals,but processing and preparation of products and by-products. New research suggests that the emulsifiers added to foods such as ice cream and other processed foods contribute to the development of cancer. The study, which was conducted at Georgia State University in Atlanta, found that two very common food additives may be associated with a higher risk of colon cancer. Rather than using human subjects, the experiment was performed on laboratory mice. The mice were assigned to one of three groups who received varying diets. One group was fed an emulsifier called sodium carboxymethycellulose; the second group was fed an emulsifier called polysorbate 80; and the third group served as a control and was fed neither emulsifier. Both groups of rats consuming the additives had changes in their intestinal bacteria that lead to inflammation and colon cancer, whereas the rats who were not exposed to these additives had no such changes occur. Sodium carboxymethycellulose and polysorbate 80 appears in a number of processed foods, both of these emulsifiers are used to improve the texture of foods as well as to lengthen their shelf life and prevent the separation of oils or fats from the water-based ingredients in the food. Sodium carboxymethycellulose is added to many ice creams, processed cheeses, breakfast cereals, soups, and more. Polysorbate 80 is added to ketchup, mustard, ice creams, whipped toppings, creamy salad dressing, and gelatin. When next you go to the store,do read labels or better still go natural. Buy farm fresh,and cook fresh produce.see

How to reverse type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes where the body does not utilize insulin properly referred to as insulin resistance. At the initial stage the pancreas makes excess insulin to make up for this but, over time the pancreas cannot keep up and make enough insulin to keep your blood glucose levels normal. Type 2 is usually treated with lifestyle changes, oral medications (pills), and insulin. When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cellsreferred to as hyperglycemia it causes two problems:the cells may be starved for energy initially and over time,the high blood glucose levels will affect eyes, kidneys, nerves or heart. Some people with type 2 can control their blood glucose with healthy eating and being active and drugs to stabilize the glucose level. A new study ,a Groundbreaking research published by the University of Kentucky, University of California and Newscastle University proves that type 2 diabetes CAN be reversed.Doctors at the International Council for Truth in Medicine are revealing the truth about diabetes that has been suppressed for over 21 years. Last year they helped over 17,542 type 2 diabetics end the need for prescription drugs, insulin injections and blood sugar monitoring.This year they're on track to help over 30,000. In just a few weeks, 96% of their patients are able to stop ALL diabetes medication and insulin injections,No more neuropathy pain, pricking your finger, or the need for expensive medication. This is a groundbreaking procedure,the miracle cure ; read

Beans and cancer-fighting properties..

Beans and cancer-fighting properties,this link was established years ago from a research using data from 41 countries, researchers found that eating beans reduced incidence of death from breast, prostate, and colon cancer. As the years have gone by, more and more studies have linked bean eating with reduced risk for many other types of cancer. This compound inositol hexaphosphate, or IP6 for short, it’s powerful cancer fighting and found in abundance in beans,also beans contains inositol pentakisphosphate (IP10) which is so powerful that it inhibit the growth of tumors in mice. Beans and all the legumes have anti-aging properties because of their high antioxidant levels. Beans such as Pinto, kidney, and red fill three of the four top slots for overall best antioxidant protection, beating out other fruits and vegetables, according to studies. The study showed that color is key and the darker and more intense the color, the greater the antioxidant protection it confers on consumers. Recent data from the Nurses Health Study II, among the largest and longest running investigations of factors influencing women’s health, was evaluated to see which flavonol-rich foods were protective of breast tissue in pre-menopausal women age 26 to 46. Researchers found that among the major food groups tested, beans and lentils were most protective, while tea, onions, apples, string beans, broccoli, green pepper and blueberries showed no ability to provide protection. Beans and other legumes are a food staple in many regions of the world, where they are consumed quite frequently and in large quantities to provide low glycemic energy, protein and fiber. Almost across the board, incidence of breast cancer is significantly lower in these regions. Plant-based fiber-rich foods such as beans and legumes have a positive effect on renal (kidney) carcinoma and the chronic conditions associated with it, according to recent research. Significantly lowered risk of renal cell carcinoma was observed in those eating beans and other high fiber foods. People eating dried beans, other legumes, and bean soup show a significantly reduced risk of colon cancer. Data from the Polyp Prevention Trial indicated that eating more beans provides strong protection against recurrence of colon polyps. A study found that people who once had colon cancer were able to reduce their risk of recurrence by 45 percent by frequent bean eating.

Egg powder in Nigeria.

Egg powder,how it all began. Powdered eggs are fully dehydrated and are made using spray drying in the same way that powdered milk is made. The major advantages of powdered eggs over fresh eggs are the price, reduced weight per volume of whole egg equivalent, and the shelf life. The other advantages include smaller usage of storage space, and lack of need for refrigeration. Powdered eggs can be used without rehydration when baking, and can be rehydrated to make dishes such as scrambled eggs and omelettes.Powdered eggs are also known as dried eggs, and colloquially during the period of rationing in the UK, as Ersatz eggs. Egg powder is available in Nigeria,the powder is made from farm fresh eggs and processed and packaged for sale. The products available are whole egg powder, egg white powder and egg yolk powder.see Order now @

Egg powder.

Introducing the wonder of egg powder, or better known as egg magic. The egg powder has the same nutritious value of eggs,the advantage is that its handy and has a prolonged shelf-life.Read

New Tuberculosis Testing Guidelines Put Forth by Professional Societies, CDC.

New Tuberculosis Testing Guidelines Put Forth by Professional Societies, CDC. Individuals at risk for latent or active tuberculosis infection should be assessed with newer tests such as interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) and molecular diagnostics, according to new evidence-based guidelines put forth by a cadre of expert organizations. In the first new guidelines to be published in 17 years, a task force supported by the American Thoracic Society, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America gathered current relevant evidence and made 23 recommendations about diagnostic testing for latent, pulmonary, and extrapulmonary TB. The task force published its recommendations yesterday in Clinical Infectious Diseases. Of the 23 recommendations, the task force deemed six as "strong," meaning that most individuals should receive the intervention, and the recommendation can be adopted as policy in most situations. The remaining 17 recommendations were deemed as "conditional" by the task force, meaning that the majority of affected individuals would want the suggested course of action, but some would not; that physicians should take other factors into consideration before following the course of action; and that "policymaking will require substantial debate and involvement of various stakeholders." continue

Agribusiness: How the Internet of things is solving the issue of food waste.

According to UN FAO data, approximately $1 trillion in produced crops is annually lost post-harvest. This includes the various stages — from farm, to shelf, to fork. Even in technologically advanced regions such as the EU, post-harvest losses for grains and cereals are often more than 10%, with higher percentages seen in developing countries in Africa or in industrialized Asia. 

These losses are incurred during raw material storage, processing — milling, for example — and distribution in the logistics chain. One company that is responding to the challenge of food waste with IoT technology is Centaur Analytics, the first full stack IoT company that provides real-time stored agri-products monitoring and protection solutions. 

They develop and market end-to-end solutions for the Internet of Things, focused on the quality and safety of stored goods. Their mission is to dramatically increase post-harvest yields and eliminate waste from farm to shelf. Storing crops is a tricky process. 

Most farmed crops are stored in massive quantities in big metal containers like silos, an environment that is susceptible to a range of challenges like moisture, temperature and insect infestation. Traditionally methods of managing these challenges have involved farmers physically visiting their silo or storage container in person by testing each one individually — not an exact science — and provide treatments. Insect infestation is particularly problematic. 

 As well as eating crops, insects increase the moisture levels within the storage containers, which can further spoil the crops. Bantas explained that treatment typically involved a fumigants such as phosphine which is administered over a set number of days, typically up to a week. 

 Fumigation is used for all kinds of crops: tobacco leaves, flowers, grain, rice , feeds, fruit fresh, died and so on, people have been fighting this product with fumigating gases but it has been without monitoring,which is where the problem lies. 

 The problem is that while fumigation can eradicate the problem, if the temperature of the container is too low, the dosage is incorrect or the duration of treatment too short, it can harden they insects and they mutate and grow into something stronger, making treatment ineffective. continue

Iraq has ‘chronic’ bird flu problem

Iraq has ‘chronic’ bird flu problem: Iraq’s inability to tackle the cause of bird flu means the deadly virus  is likely to spread across neighbouring countries, according to an expert on animal diseases.

Ukraine facing revenue loss after EU poultry ban

Ukraine facing revenue loss after EU poultry ban: Ukraine’s poultry industry is set to lose up to UAH150 million ($5.7m) per month due to the EU ban on poultry imports, according to the Ukraine Agribusiness Club (UAB).

Mycotoxin levels in animal feed on the rise

Mycotoxin levels in animal feed on the rise: The level of mycotoxins found in UK and Irish wheat has increased over the past two years, according to a new survey.

Harmful levels of arsenic found in chicken

Harmful levels of arsenic found in chicken: Studies have shown that several samples of chicken from Pakistan contain concerning levels of arsenic.

UN: Bangladesh must boost protein intake to fight stunted growth

UN: Bangladesh must boost protein intake to fight stunted growth: As Bangladesh grapples with the problem of stunted growth in children, a United Nations expert has called for a boost in animal protein consumption to tackle the crisis.

Crickets,food security and climate action.

The need to provide food for the ever increasing population has put severe strain on the land and consequently the environment. The various theories fingering agricultural practices as responsible for various emissions and hence climate changes has paved the way for alternatives to food and farming practices. Insect farming is not new as many scientists have explored the possibilities of inclusion in animal feed and as food in man because of its high protein nature and because it posses no threat to the environment. This company is the latest entrant to the cricket farming scene and they have a question for you 2 billion people eat insects in 162 nations around the world. Why don't you? The United Nations and other organizations are promoting entomophagy (eating insects) as a sustainable alternative to meat. Insects are much more efficient at converting food into protein than traditional livestock. They can be grown in a smaller space, eat less food and drink less water too. So instead of using these precious resources to grow food, we can use them to feed people. And crickets create a fraction of the greenhouse gases released by cattle.continue more also this

Eggs in a sachet.

call for yours today. Great gift for #christmas.

How to make powdered eggs.

Eggs are a very nutritious source of food that is one of the fundamentals of baking. Eggs provide low-cost but high-quality source of protein, and the only snag about the egg is its short shelf life and fragility. Eggs can easily be turned to powder to increase the shelf-life,to make it easy to store, transport and most especially make it readily available. 

 Eggs can be powdered as whole eggs or the albumen or yolk can be separated and powdered for ease of use in bakeries and pharmaceuticals. The chicken egg powder is used for ice cream and cakes as its a good whipping agent and essential in the cosmetics industry. The egg white is loaded with proteins, iron and its low in fat and cholesterol. 

Weight-watcher,diet enthusiasts and all those on a slimming mission,get your feel of eggs by eating egg white powder. The chicken egg white powder gives the same nutritious egg taste without the mess of separating the egg white from the yolk. 

 Egg yolk powder,prepared from fresh eggs without any additives or preservatives used in food processes that require emulsification properties of egg yolk. The powdered egg yolk is useful in confectioneries, such as doughnuts,bread and biscuits. The yolk is also used for making body creams and conditioners,salad cream and mayonnaise. .

 The making of egg powder; things required are 1) eggs 2) blender 3) dehydrator 4) storage jars.There are 2 popular methods of making the powdered eggs these are cook-dry method and the wet-dry method. 

 

 The cook-dry method basically involves:

1) Break eggs and whip in a bowl.

 2) pour the mix in a clean pan ,and fry as scrambled eggs.

3) pour the scrambled eggs in a dehydrator/dryer and let it dry completely for about 4-5 hours.

 4) put the dried egg in a blender and pulverize 5) bag and store.

 

 

 The wet-dry method as the name suggests requires no cooking of any sort,this is how its done. 1) Get fresh eggs and beat in a bowl. 2) pour the properly whipped mixture in a dehydrator. 3) leave and let it dry completely for 5 hours. 4) place the dried mix in a blender and pulverize. 5) bag and store. 

 The procedure outlined is for small scale production,when commercialization of product is the objective then bigger machines are utilized.

 The machines are a combination of all the parts outlined above,see Powdered eggs at your fingertips,order yours today. #bakery #cosmetics #pharmaceuticals #salon. call now!!!

Soil health, food security and climate change.

The way we farm not only affects soil,the quality of produce and climate changes it also impacts on our health and the productive ability of the land. The aggressive cultivation of land,combined with indiscriminate use of chemicals ,not only pollutes the environment,but has been identified as a source of poisoning. Deteriorating soil causes problems with our food supply and, surprisingly, leads to more carbon in the atmosphere. See what farmers and nonprofit organizations are doing to improve our farmland and our environment. There is a need to do something about this according to the recommendation of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Its 2015 report states that “33 percent of land is moderately to highly degraded.” In fact, the report reads, “the majority of the world’s soil resources are in only fair, poor or very poor condition.” The effort is really just about changing the focus from the crop to the soil and what does the soil need so we don’t have to add a ton of fertility every year.” Reducing added fertilizers—natural or otherwise—meant giving scheduling priority to soil-building crops above revenue-producing ones. more

How to make paper from elephant dung.

This is an interesting write-up on waste to wealth,how to turn elephant dung into high quality paper.Kenyan entrepreneur John Matano it is all about what comes out of the other end of the world’s largest land mammal. The 58-year-old collects elephant dung that he turns into high quality paper, and for a continuing supply of dung, he very much wants Kenya’s elephants to remain alive and well. People might be a bit sniffy about the thought of elephant droppings being turned into paper,but the fact is its a small but growing industry in the East African country. There are 17 firms now involved, according to official government figures. “If you ask me ‘is paper from elephant dung of reasonable quality?’, the answer is a big yes,” says Mr Matano, whose business Nampath Paper employs 42 people, and makes an annual profit of 2.3m Kenyan shillings ($23,000; £15,700). Kenya’s elephant dung paper industry is centred on the Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary, a community-owned 36 sq km (14 sq mile) conservation area for elephants, 28 miles (45km) south west of the coastal city of Mombasa. Making the paper started as a pilot project in 1994, before commercialisation began a decade later when local farmers such as Mr Matano set up their own paper-making businesses. The sanctuary itself was established in 1993 both to help elephants, but also to assist 200 or so local farmers. The farmers had for generations had to put up with elephants from the nearby government-owned Shimba Hills National Reserve walking into their farmlands and eating or destroying crops. This resulted in serious and sometimes deadly conflicts between humans and elephants. Mr Matano says that making paper from elephant dung “is not complicated at all, it is an easy affair”. The faeces, which are full of grass and other plant fibre that has been broken down by the elephant’s digestive system, is first thoroughly washed. “After washing, clean fibres remain,” says Mr Matano. “Then the fibre is boiled for four hours in a vat to thoroughly ensure it is clean. “Then after that, much of the process is similar to that of making regular paper [from wood pulp].” Mr Matano adds: “An average elephant eats 250kg of food each day. Out of that amount about 50kg of dung is produced, and 125 sheets of [A4] paper can be produced from each 50kg.” He says that both the price and quality is similar to standard paper, but with the added benefit of reducing deforestation. The business is very rewarding,according