Neova is developing a new peat-based feed product as a solution to the problems caused by antibiotic resistance in animal farming
Neova has launched a two-year InnoFeed research and development project at the beginning of this year, aiming to create a research foundation for developing a new peat-based feed product for international markets. Business Finland has granted Neova EUR 628,000 in research and development funding for the new feed product. The total budget for the project is EUR 1.6 million.
The project investigates peat-based extracts and their effects on the growth and well-being of production animals in collaboration with a broad domestic and European research network. The goal is to develop a new InnoFeed product for the animal feed market to expand Neova’s feed product portfolio. Peat-based extracts are new to the feed market.
The target markets for the product are Europe and Asia, with initial studies focusing on the use of the product in piglet and poultry feeds.
The project focuses on researching the product’s mode of action, optimal dosage, product form, and manufacturing method to find customer value through scientific experiments. The multifunctional product aims to replace synthetic chemicals in livestock farming, such as antibiotics, and support the health and well-being of farm animals. Improved animal growth brings economic benefits to the end customer. Food safety also improves through reduced antibiotic resistance.
The InnoFeed project is part of Neova’s broader strategy to enhance product value, degree of processing, and achieve higher revenue with a smaller amount of raw material. Neova Agro, Neova’s new business area focusing on animal feeds and plant biostimulants, aims to achieve significant new revenue by 2030.
Neova Agro’s first feed product was launched in 2024 in collaboration with Hankkija under the ProHumi brand name. The product is a feed pellet made from special peat, containing prebiotic fibers and humic acids beneficial to the animal’s gut and its microbiota. The product is suitable both as enrichment material and feed material for piglets. The product has been proven to increase the well-being and growth of piglets.
Peat is a natural material containing unique compounds formed during the slow decomposition of plant biomass in a bog. Fresh bog plants even have medicinal properties. In product development, the functionalities of peat are brought into commercial application. Neova has unique expertise in peat raw material and its processing for various purposes.
Business Finland is a Finnish public organization tasked with providing innovation funding and accelerating business growth by granting funding for research, product development, and various business development needs. Business Finland helps companies aiming for new export markets and encourages large companies to collaborate with research institutions and SMEs through funding.
For more information:
- Mia Suominen, Business Area Director, Neova Agro, tel. +358 20 790 5653