First peat-based animal feed pellets are manufactured in Ilomantsi to Hankkija

In April 2024, Neova and Hankkija signed an agreement according to which Neova will start manufacturing animal feed pellets to Hankkija. The product is used in piglets’ feeds and as an environmental enrichment material. The use will also be extended to broiler and other animal feeds. The peat-based feed pellets are manufactured at the Ilomantsi pellet plant, which has been registered as a feed business operator in May. The manufacture of feed peat pellets is subject to specific quality and hygiene requirements. During the summer, Ilomantsi’s production plant has been prepared for the production of feed pellets, ensuring, among other things, an adequate level of hygiene in the production and loading phases.

Between the years 2024-2025, the production of peat-based feed pellets is in a pilot phase, during which the development of the product’s market volumes will be ensured. In the pilot phase, the target market is Finland, and as the production expands, the market area is expected to grow to the other Nordic countries and Central Europe.

The positive effects of peat on animal welfare have been known for decades, but Neova has managed to find a special peat that is especially suitable for feed use, the composition of which supports animal welfare. In addition to carefully selected raw material, the manufacture of feed products requires a hygienization method that guarantees the safety of the product for animals by destroying any harmful microbes in raw material.

The feed legislation of the European Union and Finland emphasises animal welfare. More than ever, producers are looking for new, safe and natural feeds to support animal health and enhance nutrient absorption for optimal growth and production results. Peat is a natural material with unique properties that support the intestinal well-being of animals.

Hankkija has tested the peat pellet product on piglets and broilers in the tests organized in research centres, as well as piglet enrichment material on pig farms in Southwest Finland and Ostrobothnia. The results of the trials have been very encouraging.

Peat-based feed pellet is one of the Neova’s new high value-added innovations to enable clean food production close to consumers. According to Business Director Mia Suominen, promoting food security is part of Neova’s strategy. “Other new openings in this strategic area are the activated carbon business for water and food purification, and the biostimulant business to promote plant growth.”

Further information:

• Mia Suominen, Business Director, Neova Terra, BA Innovation and New Business Accelerator, tel. +358 40 848 3148
• Kaisa Hytönen, Business Manager, Neova Oy, tel. +358 40 566 9628
• Juhani Vuorenmaa, Director of Research and Development, Hankkija Oy, tel. +358 400 606 611
• Hannele Kettunen, Development Manager, Hankkija Oy, tel. +358 50 562 8294.