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Unlocking value from the fifth quarter

Improved utilisation of animal by-products can significantly boost the profitability of UK meat production and processing, according to organisers of this autumn’s Fifth Quarter conference.

The conference, organised by BPEX and EBLEX and co-sponsored by the Foodchain & Biomass Renewables Association (Fabra), will examine ways in which the meat chain can unlock hidden value from animal by-products, often referred to as the ‘fifth quarter’.

Speakers drawn from the UK and wider European meat industries will explore practical ways in which education and regulatory change could help harness the green credentials of fuels, fats and feeds derived from the meat production chain.

According to Fabra Chief Executive Stephen Woodgate, the benefits of improved animal by-product utilisation extend beyond the raw material value of protein and fats derived through rendering.

“New research data has determined the carbon cost of processing animal by-products at the same time as Government is attributing favourable carbon offset values to the renewable fuels and energy we’re producing,” Mr Woodgate explains.

“Education is now needed throughout the meat chain to ensure that we maximise the financial and environmental benefits.  By ensuring, for example, that we channel raw material efficiently, we have the potential to open up new high-value markets for the premium grade by-products.”

‘Fifth Quarter – Go green for greater profits’ will focus on the practical steps food processors, abattoir operators, meat producers, and by-product processors can take to embrace green technology and renewable energy to increase profitability. The conference will be held on the 8th September 2010 in Warwickshire.

For more information contact Helen Strider at helen.strider@ahdbms.org.uk