AFMA Explores Role in Food Loss and Waste Initiative
AFMA has been invited to participate in the South African Food Loss and Waste Initiative’s new Animal Feed Working Group, aimed at developing science-based, regulation-aligned guidelines for using surplus food in animal feed. The first meeting is scheduled for July 2025. As AFMA considers its role, the organisation is exploring the formation of an internal team of technical experts to provide input on risk assessment, compliance, and safe-use protocols. While challenges like food waste quality and traceability remain, the initiative offers an opportunity to help shape practical solutions for the feed sector. FacebookTwitterLinkedInWhatsAppEmailPrint
Welcome to Our New Technical Intern
AFMA is pleased to welcome Cilé-Mari Schultz, who joined in June 2025 as a technical intern. She is pursuing her master’s degree in Ruminant Nutrition at the University of Pretoria and was awarded the 2024 SASAS Northern Branch Prize for the top undergraduate student in Animal Science. Passionate about dairy cows, and even rumen microbes, Cilé-Mari is also an avid weightlifter and runner. She brings enthusiasm, curiosity, and a strong work ethic to AFMA’s technical and regulatory projects. FacebookTwitterLinkedInWhatsAppEmailPrint
Save the Date: AFMA Forum 2026
The AFMA Forum 2026 will take place at Sun City from 8–10 September 2026. This flagship event brings together leaders, experts, and stakeholders for discussions, networking, and forward-looking insights into the animal feed industry. FacebookTwitterLinkedInWhatsAppEmailPrint
Feed Mill Operator (FMO) Blended Learning Program
AFMA’s Blended Learning Program combines e-learning modules with practical workplace training for feed mill operators. Recently, AFMA celebrated a milestone: the first learner from the United Arab Emirates, representing Grand Mills, successfully completed the program. This highlights the growing international relevance of AFMA’s training offerings. To keep the program current, AFMA is working with Learning Pathways to develop new modules and improve existing content, ensuring operators gain skills that meet evolving industry needs. FacebookTwitterLinkedInWhatsAppEmailPrint
AFMA Student Outreach
On 24 April 2025, AFMA and Meadow Feeds hosted a Student Outreach event at Meadow Feeds’ Pietermaritzburg facility. The event welcomed 65 third-, fourth-year, and postgraduate Animal Science students from the University of Zululand. Students explored the full scope of the feed industry, from formulation and manufacturing to regulations and career opportunities in logistics, production, and quality assurance. The event bridged the gap between classroom learning and industry practice, inspiring the next generation of feed professionals. FacebookTwitterLinkedInWhatsAppEmailPrint
Soybean Oilcake Futures Contracts on SAFEX
Progress continues on listing soybean oilcake futures contracts on SAFEX. Crushers have committed a total storage capacity of 22,500 tons, exceeding the 20,000-ton requirement set by the JSE. A draft of the detailed contract specifications is with the JSE legal team, while a technical subcommittee is being formed to review the specifications and ensure all industry stakeholders are aligned. This will pave the way for a smooth launch of the new contracts. FacebookTwitterLinkedInWhatsAppEmailPrint
Leaf Services Revocation under APS Act 119 of 1990
The Honourable Minister of Agriculture has revoked Leaf Services’ designation as an assignee under the Agricultural Product Standards Act 119 of 1990. Leaf Services, appointed in 2006 to inspect grain and grain products, came under review over consultation processes, fee-setting transparency, and delays in applying the Act. Concerns included a lack of a clear methodology for determining inspection fees, as noted in the 2021 Appeal Board outcomes. The Minister stressed the importance of protecting the quality of staple foods such as maize meal and bread, while avoiding fee increases that could raise costs in the grain and oilseed value chains. FacebookTwitterLinkedInWhatsAppEmailPrint
Nutrient Guidelines Update
The Nutrient Guideline Revision Project (NGRP) remains one of AFMA’s flagship technical initiatives, aimed at modernising South Africa’s nutrient standards for farm feeds. After years of scientific review, the amended regulations under Act 36 of 1947 are now awaiting ministerial approval. The updated nutrient guidelines, aligned with these regulatory amendments, will be published once the regulations are officially gazetted. In the meantime, AFMA is preparing a practical, user-friendly version to help members comply with the new standards. This milestone will bring South Africa in line with international best practices, enhancing feed quality, animal health, and export readiness. FacebookTwitterLinkedInWhatsAppEmailPrint