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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

  • HSW ECO MATIC® 6ml _ 10ml (for injection, oral and pour-on application)

Numerous representatives from business, associations and politics took part in the opening ceremony. (Image source: Messe Essen GmbH)

The 41st International Plant Fair (IPM) officially opened on 28 January and welcomed trade visitors from all over the world to Messe Essen

Until 31 January, more than 1,400 exhibitors from around 50 countries will be showcasing their products from the fields of plants, technology, floristry and garden features. Numerous representatives from business, associations and politics took part in the opening ceremony.

With 1,400 exhibitors from around 50 countries showcasing their products from the fields of plants, technology, floristry and garden features, the trade show demonstrated the achievements of the green sector. Numerous representatives from business, associations and politics took part in the opening ceremony. Eva Kähler-Theuerkauf, president of the Central Horticultural Association (ZVG) and the NRW State Horticultural Association, emphasised the importance of the world's leading horticultural trade fair in her speech. At the same time, she appealed to politicians to optimise the framework conditions: “Horticulture is facing up to climate change and the associated challenges. Now is the time for horticulture to receive the political support it needs.” 

“North Rhine-Westphalia is Germany's number one horticultural state, both in terms of plant production and the wide range of high quality horticultural services on offer. Here in NRW, the industry also comes together at the most important international horticultural trade fair to present new innovations and to network. We are proud of our strong, vibrant and innovative horticultural industry," Minister Gorißen assured. "The sector will continue to need good framework conditions and planning security in the future. As Minister of Agriculture, I will continue to stand up for our businesses, for example when it comes to reducing bureaucracy. We need more practicable and practical solutions, which is why I hope that the new federal government will show greater commitment to horticultural businesses.”

These are the IPM novelties 2025 The ‘IPM Novelty Showcase’ competition initiated by the ZVG once again proved that the green sector is innovative and powerful with a lively participation: 33 exhibitors from eleven countries submitted a total of 55 plant innovations in the run-up to the trade fair. One of the highlights of the opening was therefore the ceremonial announcement of this year's winners. A total of seven new varieties were honoured in different categories and one additional plant was awarded a special prize by the jury.

The certificates were presented by Andreas Kröger, ZVG Vice President (Hamburg) and the German Flower Fairy 2024/25, Anne-Marie Bals.

Categories

In the ‘Spring Flowering Plants' category, the expert committee chose Primula acaulis Flamenco Mix F1 from Rudy Raes Bloemzaden n.v. in Belgium. This flamenco dancer has uniquely fringed flowers and pays homage to Spanish tradition. For the jury, the ruffled flowers, which are unique to F1 hybrids, were the deciding factor for the award. This is completely new for generatively propagated primroses and offers a cultivation advantage for growers.

In the ‘Bedding and Balcony Plants’ category, Sundaville Blue from Suntory Flowers Europe in the Netherlands was honoured as the ‘IPM Novelty 2025’. The attractive growth with less vigorous tendrils makes this Sundaville so special. The extraordinary colour of the flowers varies from pink to shades of blue-violet. It flowers throughout the summer and also likes a spot in full sun.

In the ‘Flowering Indoor Pot Plants’ category, Cyclamen persicum ‘Illusia’ from Schoneveld breeding in the Netherlands was awarded the title ‘IPM Novelty 2025’. The new flower shape means it is not immediately recognisable as a typical cyclamen. In full bloom, it resembles a corolla with countless buds underneath. It is best suited for autumn cultivation. The consumer can enjoy an excellent shelf life of up to four weeks without the flowers ageing.

In the ‘Tree Nursery Products’ category, the jury chose Cornus kousa Flower Tower from Diderk Heinje Pflanzenhandelsg.mbH & Co. KG from Germany. The particularly slender shape can be a highlight for small gardens in urban areas and thus expands the range of the attractive Cornus kousa for another important use. The abundant flowering and exciting autumn colours complete the picture.

Asplenium antiquum ‘Yuaspgio’ Gioia from Vitro Plus B.V. in the Netherlands was honoured in the ‘Foliage Indoor Pot Plants’ category. This fern expands the extensive range of green houseplants with unique, serrated leaves and a stunning, fresh green colour that brightens up any interior. An excellent new trend fern and a variation on the existing bird's nest ferns.

 

Jefferson Tools’ extensive range of professional tools and equipment were presented to visitors at Stand 18.436. (Image source: Jefferson Tools)

Leading supplier of tools and equipments, Jefferson Tools has participated in LAMMA 2025 from 15-16 January 2025 which took place at the NEC in Birmingham

Jefferson Tools will showcase its largest-ever stand, spanning 11 m by 10.5 m, reflecting the company’s focus on delivering tailored solutions for the agricultural industry. With over 20 years of experience, Jefferson Tools has built a reputation for providing quality, reliable, and cost-effective tools tailored to the needs of farmers and agricultural professionals.  

Renowned for durability and value, Jefferson Tools’ extensive range of professional tools and equipment were presented to visitors at Stand 18.436. These tools were designed to meet the demands of the agricultural industry, from fieldwork to workshop maintenance and featured live demonstrations, exclusive show offers, and opportunities to engage with product experts. 

“LAMMA 2025 is a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with the agricultural community and demonstrate the quality and reliability of our products,” said Darren Binns, national sales manager at Jefferson Tools. “This year, with our biggest-ever stand, we’re raising the bar to ensure our customers and partners can experience the full breadth of what Jefferson Tools has to offer."

Visitors can attend live demonstrations and engage with BAADER's local network, global product managers, and processing experts. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

BAADER is taking part in VIV Asia 2025 that is taking place from 12-14 March in Bangkok this year

Under the motto 'Value Every Gram,' BAADER will showcase its latest solutions at VIV Asia 2025, emphasising the protection and maximisation of meat value throughout the processing cycle. Additionally, advanced software tools assist processors in planning production for each bird and ensuring every gram of meat is safeguarded and efficiently harvested. During the show, visitors can attend live demonstrations and engage with BAADER's local network, global product managers, and processing experts.

"The future of poultry processing lies in intelligent tools, seamlessly integrated into equipment and performance monitoring systems," said Marcel Franz, managing director of BAADER Asia. "With advanced software solutions that not only capture data but also identify root causes, decision-making becomes faster and more precise. We're excited to showcase BAADER's latest innovations at VIV Asia this year."

Some of the featured equipment include:  

- ProFlex Cut-Up System: Real value-adding begins after distribution where product differentiation takes shape through specialised cuts, lean portions, and convenient food options tailored to diverse customer preferences. 

- Breast Cap Deboner 660A: The breast caps produced on the exhibited cut-up system will be processed on the Breast Cap Deboner 660A capable of producing a variety of products. The intelligent cap measuring tool allows for precise tool adjustments. 

- AI-Based Rest Meat Detection: Every gram of meat not recovered from the fillet represents a missed profit opportunity. To address this, BAADER has developed a vision camera solution that monitors the meat left on the carcass after deboning and alerts the processor about excess waste production. 

- Refiner Technology: After minimising the meat left on the carcass, processors can further utilise any remaining meat by processing the carcasses with a BAADER Refiner. This gentle method of separating usable meat from hard components allows processors to repurpose the leftover meat into high-value products such as nuggets or sausages. 

The carrot algorithm is the latest addition to Ecorobotix’s expanding AI suite. (Image source: Ecorobotix)

Ecorobotix showcased its new ARA ultra-high precision sprayer at the LAMMA 2025 event that took place from 15-16 January at the NEC in Birmingham, UK

Celebrating its transformative impact on agriculture, Ecorobotix's new carrot algorithm earned the Silver Award for Arable Crop Care Innovation of the Year. This advanced solution which is currently available as a paid feature for the ARA sprayer helps reduce plant protection products in carrot fields by up to 95%.

It is part of Ecorobotix’s Plant-by-Plant AI Software, which uses crop-specific algorithms to deliver unparalleled precision and efficiency in treatments for various crops. With its ultra-high precision 6x6 cm spraying capability, the ARA sprayer revolutionises crop care by dramatically reducing chemical inputs and enhancing productivity.

 

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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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