The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry
Speciality chemical company Evonik has resumed operations at its Mepron plant in Mobile, Alabama, in order to supply US milk and dairy markets. Mepron is a methionine formulation that prevents degradation in the rumen and fosters a balanced nutrient supply for dairy cows. To support US dairy customers, Evonik started local production of Mepron back in 2015. The company's methionine formulation is based on the essential amino acid, DL-methionine. Dairy cows require a high amount of methionine and the use of Mepron enables amino acid balancing of dairy rations to subsequently reduce CO2 emissions and nitrogen excretion. Farmers benefit from the increase in production economics and milk quality, proven by higher milk output, enhanced herd health, immunity and fertility. Bonnie Tully, president of the North American region for Evonik, said: "We are convinced that, especially in times of global supply chain disruptions, our North American customers in the milk and dairy industry need the supply security of a strong, reliable and regional methionine producer. Now is the right time to ramp up the plant in the US again, showing our regional customers that they can rely on Evonik." The company has already invested $175 million into the production facility and the reopening will create ten high-skilled jobs.