NEWS 18 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE August 2025 A collaboration between Aarhus University and the company Neeo Aps will be investigating whether laser therapy can replace antibiotics in treating mastitis in cows, which is a common cause of reduced milk production. It also results in lower milk quality and increased antibiotic use. Milk from cows treated with antibiotics is discarded, not reaching supermarket shelves, causing significant food waste and economic loss for farmers. High antibiotics use also contributes to the development of resistance, which is detrimental to both animal and human health. Laser therapy could be an alternative to antibiotics. Smaller studies have shown potential, but solid scientific evidence of its effectiveness in larger, more controlled studies on cows is lacking. A new project supported by the Green Development and Demonstration Program (GUDP) aims to address this gap. The idea originated with a woman who couldn’t overcome her painful breast infection despite repeated antibiotic treatments, according to the announcement. After a few laser treatments, she was cured. Her husband, a farmer, said, "If only it were as easy to cure mastitis in my cows." Thus, the concept was born, and the foundation for a new method and business was created at the company Neeo Aps. Part of the project involves Neeo Aps further developing the laser equipment for treating cows with mastitis. This is because the original laser was developed for humans and is not suitable for a cow’s udder, nor is it practical or ready for mass production. There’s also a need to document whether laser treatment works on cows with mastitis. This is where researchers at Aarhus University will play a crucial role. Read more>> In a move to advance its growth strategy in the Brazilian market, Cargill announced its binding offer to acquire 100% of the operations of Mig-Plus, a family-owned company specializing in animal nutrition solutions for multiple species, primarily swine and ruminants. Mig-Plus’ product portfolio includes premixes, feed concentrates, and complete feeds. The agreement between the parties has been formalized, and the completion of the transaction is subject to regulatory approval by the Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE), as well as the fulfillment of customary closing conditions. Founded in 1991, Mig-Plus is headquartered in Casca, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, and currently operates two facilities with approximately 450 employees. Tadeu Migliavacca, CEO of Mig-Plus, emphasized the value this transaction will bring to customers, who will benefit from enhanced expertise, technology, and innovative solutions. He also highlighted the cultural alignment between the two companies as a key factor. “Both companies share a common purpose and values. The care Cargill demonstrates for people gives us confidence throughout this process. Caring for people has always been part of Mig’s legacy,” said Migliavacca. “We are confident in the results we will deliver directly to our customers, food producers, who stand to gain the most from this partnership,” added Flauri Migliavacca, Co-founder of Mig-Plus. Read more>> New mastitis project aims to reduce antibiotic use and milk waste Cargill to expand Brazilian feed market presence Photo: Vivi Mørkøre Thorup Photo: Courtesy of Cargill
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