The Canadian International Grains Institute, in conjunction with the Animal Nutrition Association of Canada, will host a Canadian Feed Technology Course in Winnipeg next week.

CIGI director of research and business development Dr Rex Newkirk says the course will update those involved in feed manufacturing on changes in feed manufacturing technologies and provide training on such as aspects as least-cost formulation and changes related to food safety regulations.

Dr Rex Newkirk-Canadian International Grains Institute

We're going to hold the course in Winnipeg at the Canadian International Grains Institute from 17 to 19 April.

We will have presenters from various parts of the industry as well as from the Universities of Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

At the University of Manitoba we will tour their feed manufacturing facility so we have a hands-on component.

We will have scientists and operators from the new research mill in North Battleford come and present practical information so that people can apply it to their feed manufacturing operations.

In livestock production, particularly in hog production, feed manufacturing is your largest expense and so being able to ensure that your production is not affected by changes in your manufacturing practices or formulation and having a consistent product is essential.

Being able to do it in a cost effective and efficient manner is essential because I believe it's something like 65 to 70 per cent of your cost of producing hogs is feed if not more.

By going through this training you get a much better understanding of how it all fits together and where you can make efficiencies and make sure you're making a consistent product.

For more information on the Canadian Feed Technology Course or to register, visit the Canadian International Grains Institute web site at cigi.ca.