Even though there has been no increase in the sale of feed protein, the goal of delivering 10,000 tons of potato protein to Danish agriculture by 2024/25 remains intact.
Potato protein is a key ingredient in increasing the use of domestically produced feed protein over imported ones. In 2022/23, KMC delivered 4,000 tons of potato protein to Danish agriculture, and although this marks a decrease for the second consecutive year, there is optimism about reaching the 10,000-ton goal by 2024/25.
The decline is partly due to an imbalance between supply and demand and a reduction in pig production, which has led to a decreased need for pig feed. Consequently, a higher market share is now required. Fortunately, we have ongoing projects that already show potential for increasing sales.
Development in feed protein sales
Using potato protein in animal feed is not new. It has been extensively used for piglets, despite strict requirements for protein values and dosage. New studies show that we can actually use an even larger portion of protein production in this segment, while keeping the well-being of piglets in mind.
It has been proven that the substances concentrated in the protein are harmless to the animals’ health. Therefore, we can replace even more imported protein – mainly soy – with local potato protein without compromising feed quality.
Development in feed protein sales
(in 1,000 tons)
4,000+
In 2022/23, we implemented 4,000 tons of potato protein in Danish animal feed. The decrease is attributed to a decline in Danish pig production.
Although this marks a decrease for the second consecutive year, there is optimism about reaching the 10,000-ton goal by 2024/25.
Did you know that...
PotaPro 1500 is carefully dried potato protein extracted from potato juice. With its completely unique composition of essential amino acids, PotaPro 1500 is ideal for piglet feed.
Zinc is out, enter PotaPro 1500
In 2022, the use of medicinal zinc in piglet feed was banned. As a result, several manufacturers have been looking for alternatives to this banned mineral – here, PotaPro 1500 can be an option. It’s not a 1:1 replacement for zinc but it can play a part in the solution when pigs have to do without the high level of medicinal zinc. Data from KMC shows that PotaPro 1500 has a positive effect on piglets. With its low pH value, it helps pigs better absorb and utilize the protein in the feed, leading to more sustainable feed usage and thus more sustainable pig production.
Continued development
The latest data and projects paint a brighter picture of how we will increase our market shares in the coming year. Although these projects are well underway, we are still far from our goal, and therefore we continue our relentless development work. We are exploring alternative uses for potato-based ingredients and are keenly following the work at several universities where potato-based ingredients are being studied. It’s not just about achieving our goals but ensuring the sustainable development of agriculture.