6 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE July 2025 In the complex world of animal nutrition, minerals play a vital, yet often underappreciated, role. From sustaining animal health to supporting productivity, macro-minerals and trace elements are indispensable in livestock diets. At the heart of advocating for these essential ingredients in Europe is EMFEMA — the European Manufacturers of Feed Minerals Association. Founded in 1996, EMFEMA occupies a unique position as the only EU-wide organization focusing specifically on mineral products within the feed sector. Minerals are ever-present in animal feed, whether in trace amounts or as major dietary components. Despite their ubiquity, they are often overlooked in both policy discussions and public perception. EMFEMA seeks to remedy this oversight by advocating for a regulatory environment that supports safe, sustainable, and economically viable mineral use. Acting as the “feed home” for EU mineral producers, EMFEMA is not only an interface between industry and institutions but also a key partner in safeguarding food chain resilience. NAVIGATING A COMPLEX LANDSCAPE The feed sector is notoriously intricate, governed by layers of scientific, legislative, and trade considerations. For many mineral producers — whose activities often span various industries such as construction, electronics, and pharmaceuticals — feed represents only a segment of their business. Within this niche, EMFEMA ensures that the voice of feed-focused mineral producers is heard, understood, and supported at EU and international levels. Minerals occupy a peculiar and sometimes ambiguous position in regulatory frameworks. They exist at the crossroads of feed materials and additives, straddling various chemical legislations. The classification, handling, and authorization of mineral substances for feed use often involve complex safety, environmental, and technical evaluations. EMFEMA’s role is to navigate this maze and advocate for proportionate, science-based regulation that secures both safety and access. STRATEGIC ENGAGEMENT FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE To be effective in its mission, EMFEMA prioritizes agile and targeted engagement with policymakers, scientists, and partner organizations. It is a member of FEFAC (the European Feed Manufacturers’ Federation) and maintains close ties with regulatory bodies at the European Commission, EFSA, and national authorities. This proactive, collaborative approach is essential in addressing the pressing challenges facing the mineral feed sector. Two overarching issues define the current landscape: Preparedness in the face of geopolitical instability and securing access to the EU market. Together, these challenges shape EMFEMA’s strategic focus. PREPAREDNESS AND STRATEGIC AUTONOMY In recent years, the geopolitical context has grown increasingly unstable, with global supply chains experiencing frequent and severe disruptions. The COVID-19 pandemic, energy crises, and geopolitical tensions have exposed Europe’s vulnerability in securing key raw materials. For feed ingredients that rely on imports, often as SAFEGUARDING EUROPE'S ACCESS TO ESSENTIAL MINERALS FOR ANIMAL NUTRITION Didier Jans Secretary General EMFEMA LEAD ARTICLE
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUxNjkxNQ==