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Avian flu viruses is raising concerns over poultry health, food security and regional egg supplies.

Poultry

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) continues to spread across East and West Asia, with new outbreaks affecting poultry farms in countries including the Philippines, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Iraq and Israel.

The resurgence of the H5 group of avian flu viruses is raising concerns over poultry health, food security and regional egg supplies.

Among Asian nations, the Philippines has reported the highest number of new poultry outbreaks in recent days. Over the past 10 days, the country’s animal health authorities confirmed 10 outbreaks of HPAI to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). Most involved the H5N1 virus, particularly in Isabela province in northern Luzon, affecting both large commercial farms and smaller backyard flocks. These latest cases bring the total number of outbreaks on Luzon over the past four years to 293, impacting around 2.35 million birds through culling or mortality.

New detections have also been reported in Mindanao, including South Cotabato, Davao del Sur and North Cotabato, involving grazing ducks infected with H5N1 and H5N8 strains. Authorities cite contact with infected birds and contaminated fomites as the likely sources of infection. As of 31 December, only one active outbreak remains under investigation in Central Luzon.

In Japan, five additional H5N1 outbreaks were confirmed between late December and early January, mainly affecting large laying hen farms. These cases raise the country’s total outbreaks since October to 13, with more than 3.87 million poultry directly affected. Further suspected cases are currently under review.

The spread of avian flu has significantly disrupted South Korea’s egg supply, prompting the government to import over 2.2 million eggs from the United States in January. Since October, South Korea has confirmed 34 poultry outbreaks, including a notable case involving the H5N9 virus, detected for the first time in domestic birds.

Elsewhere in East Asia, Taiwan reported a new H5N1 outbreak in early January, affecting nearly 60,000 laying hens in Chiayi county. In western Asia, H5N1 has re-emerged in Israel and Iraq, with infections linked to contact with wild birds.

With outbreaks spanning multiple regions and virus strains, authorities warn that enhanced biosecurity, surveillance and rapid response will be critical to limiting further spread across Asia’s poultry sector.

NUS develops microneedle system for faster plant growth. (Image credit: NUS)

Fertilizers & Pesticides

Researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have unveiled a cutting-edge microneedle biofertiliser system that could redefine sustainable agriculture and precision farming.

The innovative technology uses dissolving microneedle patches to deliver living biofertilisers directly into plant tissue, bypassing soil-related limitations and significantly improving efficiency.

In controlled greenhouse trials, leafy vegetables such as Choy Sum and Kale showed faster and healthier growth, recording higher shoot biomass, increased leaf area and greater height all while using over 15 per cent less biofertiliser compared to conventional soil inoculation. This breakthrough highlights a promising pathway to reduce fertiliser waste and minimise environmental impact.

Traditionally, biofertilisers  beneficial bacteria and fungi that enhance nutrient uptake and stress tolerance are applied to soil, where they face competition from native microbes and adverse conditions. The NUS approach sidesteps these challenges by delivering microbes straight into leaves or stems, enabling faster and more targeted results.

“Inspired by how microbes can migrate within the human body, we hypothesised that by delivering beneficial microbes directly into the plant's tissues, like a leaf or stem, they could travel to the roots and still perform their function, but much more effectively and be less vulnerable to soil conditions,” said Assistant Professor Andy Tay from the Department of Biomedical Engineering at NUS, who led the study.

The plant-friendly microneedles, made from biodegradable polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), dissolve within a minute of application, releasing their microbial payload gently into the plant. Laboratory tests confirmed minimal tissue disruption, stable chlorophyll levels and a rapid return to normal stress markers, underscoring the system’s safety and viability.

The team successfully delivered a plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) cocktail directly into plant tissue, outperforming soil-based treatments. Importantly, growth response correlated with microbial dosage up to an optimal threshold, allowing growers to determine the lowest effective dose and cut costs.

“Our microneedle system successfully delivered biofertiliser into Choy Sum and Kale, enhancing their growth more effectively than traditional methods while using over 15 per cent less biofertiliser,” Asst Prof Tay said. “By faster growth we refer to higher total plant weight, larger leaf area and higher plant height.”

With strong potential for urban farming, vertical farms and high-value crops, the researchers are now exploring scalability, automation and wider crop trials. This pioneering “microneedle biofertiliser” concept positions smart agri-tech at the forefront of eco-friendly, future-ready farming.

Limex unveils Modular 8 washing system for crates. (Image credit: Limex)

Equipment

Limex has unveiled its latest innovation in industrial washing technology with the introduction of the Modular 8, a highly flexible and configurable washing machine platform designed for crates, seed trays, flower buckets and floats.

The new line marks a significant shift towards modular engineering, allowing customers to build exactly the washing solution they need using standardised components rather than costly custom-built systems.

Unlike traditional crate and tray washers that often require extensive engineering work to meet specific customer requirements, the Modular 8 is built from individual modules that connect seamlessly into a single washing line. These include pre-wash units, one or more main wash modules, rinse sections and blow-off units. This modular approach enables users to tailor the system precisely to their operational layout, hygiene standards and processing capacity.

By installing multiple main wash modules in sequence, the system increases soaking time and washing power, delivering higher throughput without compromising cleaning performance. Each standard module also offers multiple configuration options, such as higher-pressure pumps or advanced filtration technologies. The platform supports both left-hand and right-hand configurations, ensuring maximum flexibility for different production environments.

"With the Modular 8, we make it easier to choose exactly the configuration that matches the customer's capacity, hygiene requirements, and budget," says Joep Janssen, owner of Limex. "Our engineers have designed the machines in such a way that they follow each other seamlessly."

With a tunnel width of 800 millimetres, the Modular 8 is suitable for a broad range of applications, including harvest crates, seed trays, flower buckets and DWC floats. The system has also been designed with maintenance efficiency in mind. Improved accessibility of components simplifies cleaning, inspection and servicing, helping to reduce downtime and improve overall operational efficiency.

The Modular 8 builds on Limex’s reputation for proven, high-quality engineering. Constructed from robust stainless steel, the platform delivers durability, reliability and long service life. Twelve Modular 8 lines are already in operation across multiple countries, demonstrating strong market acceptance.

This launch sets the foundation for future developments, with the Modular 10, Modular 14 and Modular 18 planned to follow. These larger, configurable models will eventually replace Limex’s existing cart washers and big box washers, reinforcing the company’s commitment to modular, future-ready industrial washing solutions.

African Farming

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These discussions provided valuable perspectives on the future of regenerative agriculture, advanced horticulture techniques, and technological innovations shaping the industry. (Image source: Horti Agri Next)

The first edition of Horti Agri Next Asia 2025 has successfully concluded last week, marking a significant milestone in bridging agriculture, horticulture, feed technology, and crop technology within the industry

The event welcomed 5,663 trade visitors from 36 countries, who explored cutting-edge solutions from 70 leading companies representing 14 countries across Asia. It highlighted the strong synergy between Horti Agri Next Asia (HAN Asia) and VIV Asia 2025, fostering collaboration across key sectors. 

Beyond the product showcase, the event served as a dynamic networking hub, bringing together industry professionals, thought leaders, and innovators to exchange insights on market trends, emerging business opportunities and the latest advancements. A key highlight of the event was the comprehensive conference programme, featuring 18 sessions and 77 expert speakers from across Asia. These discussions provided valuable perspectives on the future of regenerative agriculture, advanced horticulture techniques, and technological innovations shaping the industry.

Co-located with VIV Health & Nutrition Asia 2026, the next edition of Horti Agri Next Asia will take place from 11-13 March 2026, at BITEC in Bangkok, Thailand. 

VIV Asia 2025 offers more than just exhibits as it delivers a dynamic and immersive experience with special zones and exclusive networking opportunities. (Image source: VNU)

VIV Asia 2025, the leading international trade exhibition for the animal protein production industry is set to return with its biggest edition yet from 12-14 March 2025 at IMPACT, Muang Thong Thani in Bangkok, Thailand

This flagship event is co-located with Meat Pro Asia dedicated for meat processing and packaging, and Horti Agri Next Asia, dedicated for advancements in horticulture and agriculture. Together, these three dynamic exhibitions create an unparalleled business and networking experience, covering the entire agrifood supply chain from seed to feed to food.

Drawing closer to the event, here’s a preview of what to expect at this year’s VIV Asia:

A strategic species-specific approach

With key themes such as disease management, biosecurity, and regenerative agriculture, VIV Asia 2025 will showcase the latest innovations and breakthroughs across four key animal protein sources: poultry, swine, aquaculture, and dairy. Attendees will gain first-hand insights into the most advanced developments in breeding, health, nutrition, and smart farming technologies, ensuring they stay ahead in this fast-evolving industry. Whether you're a producer, supplier, or investor, this is your chance to explore cutting-edge solutions tailored to your sector.

Agrifood digitalisation with AgriBITs

As another milestone for VIV Asia 2025, AgriBITs will be launching for the first time its two-day programme which features key sessions highlighting the latest breakthroughs in automation, biotechnology and AI solutions for the agrifood industry. From precision farming and smart feed technologies to data-driven production systems, AgriBITs is a solid platform for knowledge-sharing and network-building and a valuable opportunity for industry leaders to stay ahead of emerging technological trends.

Meat Pro Asia: The ultimate meat processing and packaging showcase

As a co-located event, Meat Pro Asia will bring together the latest solutions in meat processing, food safety, cold chain logistics, and automation. This specialised trade show is a must-attend for businesses seeking to optimise processing efficiency, meet global standards, and explore next-generation packaging technologies as it addresses consumer demand for quality, safety, and sustainability in the meat supply chain.

Panadda Kongma, vice president - Business at VNU Asia Pacific and Kerstin Horaczek, vice president - Technology Shows at Messe Frankfurt jointly express, “With the global reach of VIV worldwide and Messe Frankfurt’s network of food technology events, Meat Pro Asia 2025 is your gateway to innovation and success.”

Horti Agri Next Asia: Advancing sustainable agriculture and horticulture

In parallel with VIV Asia, Horti Agri Next Asia will focus on sustainable farming solutions, bringing forward key developments in controlled-environment agriculture, crop protection, vertical farming, and agri-tech. As global food security and climate resilience gain increasing importance, this event will spotlight breakthroughs that enhance productivity while reducing environmental impact. Whether you are looking for the latest in horticultural food production or drone technologies for smart agriculture, this exh ibition is your go-to destination. 

Exclusive features and special areas to elevate your experience

VIV Asia 2025 offers more than just exhibits as it delivers a dynamic and immersive experience with special zones and exclusive networking opportunities. At the heart of the event, VIV Square serves as the central hub for industry connections and knowledge. For more expert-led seminars, there’s the Food Tech Transition Square. Meanwhile, there are also networking events planned such as the VIV Asia Golf Connect 2025, Grand Networking Reception, the Networking Shrimp Cocktail, and Country of Honor Night, with some being exclusive, invitation-only gatherings for high-level business interactions. Additionally, the VIV Worldwide Booth in Hall 6 offers direct access to the global VIV network and team. Other noteworthy areas to visit are the Dutch Pavilion and the expanded CropTech - FeedTech hall areas.

Seamless experience with complimentary shuttle services and guided tours

To enhance visitor convenience, free shuttle services will be available to registered attendees, ensuring easy access from MRT Sirat to IMPACT Muang Thong Thani. Additionally, guided tours will provide curated insights, helping visitors navigate key innovations and maximise their time at the show. These tours cover five core areas: swine, poultry, aquaculture, food processing, and agriculture, with real-time translation services.

Looking forward to VIV Asia 2025, Birgit Horn, managing director at VNU Europe says, “This year’s edition of VIV Asia is fast becoming our biggest and most impactful event yet. This is where innovation, collaboration, and opportunity come together. We are truly excited to see the meaningful partnerships and connections that will emerge, reflecting the dedication and efforts of all participants.”

Join thousands of industry professionals, leaders, innovators, and decision-makers at VIV Asia 2025 from 12–14 March at IMPACT in Bangkok, Thailand and experience the future of agrifood unfold firsthand. Visitors can register at www.vivasia.nl or via this link before 11 March 2025 for free admission.

 

 

This landmark event will spotlight key discussions on animal health, sustainable food production, and alternative proteins, with industry leaders sharing insights on the latest advancements in poultry, swine, aquaculture, dairy, and agriculture. (Image source: VNU)

VIV Asia 2025, co-located with Meat Pro Asia and Horti Agri Next (HAN) Asia, will serve as a pivotal gathering for the global animal protein industry

This landmark event will spotlight key discussions on animal health, sustainable food production, and alternative proteins, with industry leaders sharing insights on the latest advancements in poultry, swine, aquaculture, dairy, and agriculture. From disease prevention to next-gen smart farming, VIV Asia 2025 will drive conversations that aim to positively impact the future of food production. To offer a glimpse of what’s ahead, VIV Asia has connected with a number of their association partners to highlight some of the most pressing industry topics.

Strengthening Disease Prevention and Biosecurity

Animal health remains a top priority across all sectors. With African Swine Fever (ASF) and Avian Influenza (AI) posing ongoing threats, experts emphasise the need for robust biosecurity measures and alternative health solutions.

Dr Metta Makhanon, president of the Thai Swine Veterinary Association (TSVA), highlights the importance of biosecurity protocols and alternatives to antibiotics to combat antimicrobial resistance. “This is dependent on how the veterinarian and producer can improve their biosecurity and find a way to use antimicrobialas well as alternatives to antimicrobial effectively. Each country do not have the same resolve and result. In Thailand, many farms succeed in this practice but still there are some farms that do not, so that remains a challenge in the industry,” she says.

Similarly, Dr Surapat Chandaeng, vice president of the Animal Health Business Development, adds, “Pig farmers still face ASF due to the lack of effective vaccines and at the same time, shrimps face complicated diseases.” He also underscores AI risks in poultry farming due to migratory birds and therefore calls for enhanced monitoring and vaccination strategies.

Smart Farming and AI-Driven Efficiency

Technology is revolutionising farm management, with artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and precision agriculture becoming key tools for optimising productivity. AI-powered monitoring systems in poultry and swine farming are improving disease detection, feed efficiency, and environmental control.

For aquaculture, Fabrizio Caruso, Aquaculture technical specialist at Vetagro highlights the role of advanced feed additives and molecular research in improving fish and shrimp health. He also hopes to share more at the Aquatic Conference slated for 11 March, one day before the official opening of VIV Asia 2025, and says, “During my talk, I’ll be exploring new ways to support the aquaculture farmers in their daily challenges by the use of new molecules to incorporate in the everyday feed, therefore attendees can expect innovation and hands-on data from our worldwide experiences.”

Continuing the conversation on the aquatic sector, Clara Trullàs, product manager - Aquaculture at Tanin Sevnica and also a resource speaker at the Aquatic Conference, shares, “It is always a pleasure for us to attend VIV Asia and be present in the Aquatic Conference. I think it is an optimal way to be updated regarding the issues the aquaculture industry is facing, the challenges that are coming, and all the innovations that are currently available. I feel like the aquaculture industry always has an open door for new solutions and allows us to be creative and to always go further.”

Sustainable Food Production and Alternative Proteins

The shift towards sustainability is reshaping consumer preferences and production strategies. As the demand for alternative proteins grows, plant-based meat and other protein substitutes are gaining traction.

Francine Sayoc, executive director of The Asia and Pacific Seed Association (APSA), notes that new breeding technologies, including genome editing, are enhancing crop resilience, improving nutrition, and reducing environmental impact. Sustainable feed ingredients and innovative protein sources are also crucial in reducing the carbon footprint of animal agriculture.

Stating how partnership and effective policies are crucial to responding to industry challenges, Sayoc remarks, “Our challenge as an industry is to demonstrate to policymakers and regulators why we need their collaboration and support in creating a policy environment that is consistent, predictable, and science-based. We also need to partner up with the value chain in order to put seed more centrally in food security and sustainability efforts.”

To discover more about this key topic, “Attendees at HAN Asia 2025 can expect a lively conversation between the seed sector, farmers, food processing, retail, and other actors in the food value chain. We will show the interconnectedness from seed to food, and find synergies towards achieving more resilient food systems,” Sayoc adds.

Meeting Global Trade and Compliance Standards

With increasing emphasis on international trade, the livestock industry must align with global safety and quality standards. Thailand’s swine sector is pushing for compliance with GMP, GAP, GDP, and HACCP to enhance export potential.

As per Dr Makhanon, “A key trend to watch out for in the swine sector is how to process the compartment of swine production and processing for the international trade. Because we produce more than we use, more than our demand. So we have oversupply. Then we would like to be the export country. So the international standards as GMP, GAP, GDP, HACCP have to be in practice from farm to the processing and we hope that it will be successful soon.”

She also stresses that farmers and producers must adapt to these standards to remain competitive in the global market. Standardization efforts across all sectors will be crucial in ensuring product safety, sustainability, and profitability.

As the livestock, aquaculture, dairy, and agriculture industries evolve, VIV Asia 2025 stands as a beacon of innovation and progress. This is where pioneering ideas meet practical solutions, where global experts converge to exchange knowledge, and where businesses gain the insights they need to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

From groundbreaking research to hands-on applications, attendees will learn directly from industry leaders, discover new technologies, and network with peers who together are driving the agrifood sector forward. Whether you’re a farmer, researcher, policymaker, or an agribusiness professional, VIV Asia 2025 is the most comprehensive platform to be equipped and empowered, enabling all to build agility and efficiently respond to the industry challenges.

Don’t miss VIV Asia, Meat Pro Asia, and Horti Agri Next Asia 2025 from 12–14 March 2025, at IMPACT, Bangkok, Thailand! Visitors can register at www.vivasia.nl or via this linkbefore 11 March 2025 for free admission.

 

 

Aboitiz Foods’ presence at VIV Asia 2025 underscores its continued commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions that nourish the future. (Image source: Aboitiz Foods)

This year, Aboitiz Foods, a leading player in animal nutrition and food production has decided to debut at the upcoming VIV Asia 2025, scheduled to take place from 12-14 March in the vibrant city of Bangkok, Thailand

Popularly known as the largest and most comprehensive feed-to-food event in the Asia, VIV Asia 2025 will bring together global market leaders, regional key players, and industry experts from sectors such as animal husbandry, feed, animal health, and food processing.

Dedicated to innovating and integrating solutions that enhance efficiency, quality, and sustainability throughout the livestock and food value chain, Aboitiz Foods’ presence at VIV Asia 2025 underscores its continued commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions that nourish the future. Through its participation, the company aims to showcase its expertise, connect with industry leaders, and explore opportunities that drive the future of food production in Asia.

Page 8 of 152

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Crops

Ottevanger Services provides comprehensive support to feed producers. (Image credit: Ottevanger)

Agriculture

Triott Group has announced a major strategic step by bringing all its feed-related businesses together under a single, globally recognised name: Ottevanger.

With immediate effect, Ottevanger, Almex, Inteqnion, IVS Dosing Technology and Pelleting Technology Netherlands (PTN) will operate as one unified brand, reinforcing Ottevanger’s position as a leading global partner to the feed industry.

Based in Moerkapelle, the Netherlands, this consolidation represents a new chapter in Ottevanger’s long-term vision to provide complete, future-ready solutions for feed mills worldwide. By integrating these specialist companies under one name, customers benefit from a single point of contact, enhanced transparency and a more streamlined approach to project delivery and long-term collaboration.

The move also strengthens internal cooperation across disciplines, enabling Ottevanger to design and deliver tailored solutions that respond to the rapidly evolving demands of the global feed sector, including automation, digitalisation and sustainability.

Following the consolidation, Ottevanger now operates through four fully integrated business units, each designed to address both current operational challenges and future industry needs. Ottevanger Milling Engineers focuses on the design and construction of fully automated, turnkey feed mills, including both conventional and modular concepts. Ottevanger Process Solutions delivers high-quality equipment and advanced processes, supporting data-driven, fully automated milling from raw material intake through to packaging.

Meanwhile, Ottevanger Services provides comprehensive support to feed producers, including reliable on-site and remote maintenance, troubleshooting and spare parts supply. Completing the structure, the Ottevanger Development Centre looks to the future by optimising feed mill performance through practical research and development, testing and the creation of sustainable, next-generation solutions.

Commenting on the milestone, Director Ernst Jan Ottevanger said: “For more than a century, Ottevanger has been a family business, built on the finest Dutch quality and craftsmanship. Now we are formally extending our family to welcome these four trusted partners that have already contributed so much to our collective success based on the same shared values.” He added: “This is a significant moment for our company, but more importantly, for our customers worldwide. We are now far better placed to deliver the innovation and lifetime value they need to compete more effectively.”

Ottevanger will continue its close collaboration with Top Silo Constructions (TSC) to deliver advanced feed storage solutions, while TSC remains independent due to its diverse customer portfolio.

A new geography of agricultural production is emerging, driven by mechanisation.

NUS develops microneedle system for faster plant growth. (Image credit: NUS)

Livestock

Crayfish provide a nutrient-dense, low-impact protein source that requires minimal feed.

Aquaculture

The Philippines has taken a decisive step toward strengthening its position in global aquaculture with the launch of its largest crayfish nursery—a flagship development designed to scale production of the high-value Australian Redclaw crayfish.

The project, built through the partnership of Farm Fresh Early Catch Inc., Taiwan’s Da Shin Biotech Ltd., and the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR), marks a defining moment for the country’s fast-growing aquaculture sector.

The new nursery will focus on mass-producing Cherax quadricarinatus, a resilient and fast-growing species prized by both domestic and international markets. Government officials say the initiative supports national efforts to strengthen food security while boosting long-term livelihood opportunities in rural areas.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., in remarks delivered by Assistant Secretary and spokesman Arnel de Mesa, highlighted the power of collaboration behind the facility. “Built through the partnership of Farm Fresh Early Catch Inc., Da Shin Biotech, and the DA-BFAR, this nursery shows that when government, private innovators, and fisherfolk come together, progress stops being a dream—it becomes our shared reality,” he said.

Tiu Laurel added that crayfish aquaculture “opens new doors for our fisherfolk—bringing in more income, more livelihood, and more food on our tables,” while underscoring the need for responsible production and adherence to BFAR’s ecological protection guidelines. Every pond, he said, must “nurture care, discipline, and respect for the balance of our ecosystems.”

Situated in Candaba - a wetlands area renowned for its freshwater abundance—the 1,280-square-metre facility features 16 tanks capable of producing up to 48,000 fry every two weeks. It also introduces advanced water-recycling systems that help reduce waste and conserve freshwater, addressing one of the most common environmental criticisms of aquaculture operations.

The nursery will supply Farm Fresh’s existing 3-hectare grow-out ponds, which already produce around 30 tonnes of market-ready crayfish each year. It will also support a broad network of partner growers as production expands nationwide.

From 2026, Farm Fresh plans to roll out large-scale grow-out operations covering 1,500 hectares in Luzon and 750 hectares each in the Visayas and Mindanao. When these sites reach full capacity, they are projected to deliver more than 1,200 tonnes of crayfish every six months—volumes that could position the Philippines as a competitive player in the regional and global aquaculture market.

Crayfish provide a nutrient-dense, low-impact protein source that requires minimal feed. The project is expected to generate over 3,000 direct jobs and stimulate additional enterprise in farming communities.

The launch marks the beginning of a world-class crayfish industry designed to place the Philippines firmly on the global aquaculture map.

SecureDX and Panacea Korea enhance animal health. (Image credit: EIN PRESSWIRE)

Avian flu viruses is raising concerns over poultry health, food security and regional egg supplies.

Equipment

Hydroponic Systems recommends the Agrifresh aluminium thermodiffuser mesh as a proven solution. (Image credit:Hydroponic Systems)

Equipment

Hydroponic Systems is helping greenhouse growers tackle the challenge of optimising microclimates without compromising light or productivity.

In warm regions, particularly for heat-sensitive crops like strawberries, tomatoes, and peppers, managing radiation, temperature, and heat stress is critical. Heat-diffusing mesh has become an essential tool in balancing light levels and reducing heat buildup inside greenhouses, proving to be one of the most effective solutions for these challenges.

The mesh works by partially blocking infrared radiation while allowing useful diffuse light to pass through. This reduces internal temperatures, alleviates heat stress, and sustains photosynthetic activity. According to Hydroponic Systems, this approach helps "improve fruit quality, reduce plant stress, and stabilise growing conditions," especially during periods of high radiation.

The mesh achieves this through a combination of light diffusion and thermal reflection. The diffusion process disperses light, preventing hot spots and ensuring even distribution of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) across the plant canopy. This enables middle and lower leaves to contribute more effectively to photosynthesis. Aluminium particles embedded in the polymer structure reflect infrared radiation, which helps control heat accumulation. The result is a more stable greenhouse environment with fewer temperature spikes.

Hydroponic Systems recommends the Agrifresh aluminium thermodiffuser mesh as a proven solution. This patented fabric creates an effective thermal barrier without compromising light quality. According to the company, it works best in professional greenhouses of around half a hectare or more, where managing temperature and radiation is crucial for maintaining high yield and quality.

In practice, reduced infrared radiation leads to lower heat accumulation and fewer temperature fluctuations, especially during critical growth stages. Increased diffuse light improves PAR distribution, supports stable photosynthesis, and reduces the risk of heat stress. As a result, growers experience "more uniform fruit, fewer deformities, and better colour and firmness."

Strawberries, in particular, show significant benefits, with improved uniformity, firmness, colour, and crop stability. Similar positive trends have been observed in tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and other crops.

For optimal performance, proper installation is key. Correct height, tension, and orientation affect the mesh's effectiveness. Hydroponic Systems advises careful integration with ventilation systems for best results.

Limex unveils Modular 8 washing system for crates. (Image credit: Limex)

The initiative is part of the PDTS call.(Image credit: INTA)

Technology

The latest generation of Braud harvesters demonstrates impressive versatility across a wide range of vineyard structures. (Image credit: New Holland)

Machinery & Equipment

New Holland Agriculture continues to set new standards in modern viticulture with its acclaimed Braud grape harvester range - a series celebrated globally for precision, productivity and long-lasting reliability.

Built on decades of specialist expertise, the Braud brand has become synonymous with exceptional grape-harvesting performance, and under the New Holland umbrella it remains a trusted partner for winemakers seeking both efficiency and gentle crop handling.

Each Braud harvester reflects a signature blend of engineering excellence and vineyard-friendly design. The machines are created to treat vines with care while delivering powerful harvesting capability, ensuring that grapes are collected cleanly and with minimal damage. This focus on protecting fruit integrity directly enhances vineyard productivity and supports the production of higher-quality wines.

The latest generation of Braud harvesters demonstrates impressive versatility across a wide range of vineyard structures. With both high-capacity and extra-high-capacity models, including the popular 9000 L and 9000 X series, the range adapts effortlessly to narrow boutique vineyards, expansive commercial estates, and even sloped terrain. Their advanced systems  such as the industry-proven Noria basket conveying system, optional destemmer technology, and innovative side-conveyor configurations  ensure consistently clean, gentle and efficient fruit handling.
This adaptability makes Braud harvesters an ideal choice for growers looking to streamline operations while maintaining strict quality standards. Backed by a global legacy and trusted by thousands of vineyard operators, these machines are built to deliver season after season, reducing labour needs, improving harvest speed, and preserving overall vine health.

Engineered for durability and operator comfort, the Braud range combines robust construction with intuitive controls, offering ease of use without compromising on precision. The result is a harvester that not only boosts productivity but also supports sustainable agricultural practices, helping vineyards reduce waste and optimise long-term output.

Choosing a Braud grape harvester means investing in a heritage of innovation, reliability and world-leading vineyard technology  giving growers confidence in every harvest and reinforcing New Holland’s reputation as a champion of next-generation viticulture solutions.

COMPASS accurately detects and removes a wide range of foreign materials, including dirt clods, rocks, sticks, insects and animal parts.(Image credit: Key Technology)

ROK aims to position itself at the forefront of green bio innovation.

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