TECHNOLOGY 68 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE January 2026 and raw material data, feed processing parameters, animal health and performance indicators, climate and environmental conditions, economic indicators, and sustainability metrics are all parts of this ecosystem. Ian Mealey summarizes this multi-layered data structure and its interrelationships: “Across the value chain—from raw material sourcing and additive selection, to ration formulation, feed processing, and on-farm performance—each stage generates data that influences decisions and outcomes. Ingredient variability affects nutrient availability and ingredient value; processing conditions impact pellet quality and nutrient integrity; feeding strategies influence gut health, efficiency, and emissions. When these data streams remain disconnected, opportunities are missed and risks increase.” However, in an environment with such vast amounts of data, one of the most important issues is ensuring data integration between different processes and evaluating the existing data flow holistically. Luis Valenzuela explains: “Livestock production today operates under increasing complexity. Feed ingredient quality is more variable, disease pressure continues to evolve, climate related stressors such as heat stress are intensifying, and producers face constant pressure to improve feed efficiency while meeting stricter sustainability and regulatory expectations. Data collected at isolated points in the system provides limited value. The real opportunity lies in integrating data across processes.” Why is it important to integrate data from different processes and interpret it as a whole? What are the gains? Mealey elaborates on these benefits: “By collecting and connecting data across these processes, the industry gains visibility into how formulation decisions translate into real-world performance. For example, understanding historical ingredient quality trends allows nutritionists to adjust formulations proactively rather than reactively. Linking formulation data with production and animal performance data enables more accurate assessments of feed efficiency, health outcomes, and cost control. Big data also supports consistency and trust. When data is centrally managed and validated, organizations reduce dependency on spreadsheets and informally held knowledge. This creates a shared foundation for collaboration between nutritionists, operations, procurement, and management. Ultimately, comprehensive data management and analysis based on proven principles enables the industry to move from static formulation toward adaptive, insight-driven nutrition strategies that improve profitability, animal welfare, and sustainability.” Valenzuela also highlights the holistic perspective: “By connecting information from crop production, feed ingredient sourcing, formulation, feed processing, animal health, farm performance, and Luis Valenzuela dsm-firmenich Ian Mealey Datacor
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUxNjkxNQ==