Wrapping up October 2026: What’s new in the world of pigs?
October brought a wide range of developments across the global pig industry, from advances in piglet health and breeding genetics to new feed innovations and sustainability initiatives. Companies also announced changes to their business structures, expanded into new markets and introduced technologies aimed at improving farm management and production efficiency. Here is a round-up of the latest industry news from October 2026.
Steri-Solfen reaches approval milestone in 10 European markets
Australian company Medical Ethics has completed the European Decentralised Procedure for Steri-Solfen, a topical anaesthetic and antiseptic solution for piglet castration. The procedure was led by the Netherlands, with 9 other European countries participating. The product combines 2 local anaesthetics with adrenaline and an antiseptic to help manage pain during and after castration.
Agrifirm unites animal nutrition expertise under Nuscience
Royal Agrifirm Group is bringing its specialist animal nutrition businesses together under one global brand, Nuscience. The rollout starts in EMEA, incorporating Agrimprove and Earlyfeed into the portfolio and linking Hamlet Protein's specialist expertise more closely to the broader offering.
Denkavit first to achieve GMP+ Feed LCA certification
Denkavit has become the first company to achieve GMP+ MI5.7 Feed Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) certification, awarded by Kiwa. Building on its existing GMP+ MI5.5 Carbon Footprint of Feed certification, the achievement provides independently verified insight into the environmental impact of its products and processes.
Dr. Eckel highlights AntaSync recognition and leadership transition
Dr. Eckel's AntaSync has been recognised as a novelty for the EuroTier Innovation Award 2026. The company also announced that founders Antje and Bernhard Eckel will step back from day-to-day operations at the end of 2026, with Viktor and Klara Eckel taking over in 2027.
MS Schippers expands HyCare app into Vietnam
MS Schippers has introduced its HyCare app to the Asian market, with the first poultry farms in Vietnam now connected to the digital platform. The system uses sensors, automated water monitoring and digital protocols to help farmers remotely monitor barn hygiene and identify problems early. Its expansion into Vietnam marks the start of further growth in Asia.
Nucléus enters Ukrainian market through genetics partnership
French swine genetics specialist Nucléus has signed a strategic partnership with Ukraine-based Agrifood Consulting to introduce and distribute its PN3 terminal boar genetics in Ukraine. The first boars are expected to be exported from France before the end of 2026, followed by local production to ensure a continuous supply. The PN3 is selected for feed efficiency, growth performance, carcass yield and meat quality.
Hendrix Genetics takes full ownership of swine business
Hendrix Genetics has acquired full ownership of Hendrix Genetics Swine, marking the next step in integrating its Hypor and Danish Genetics breeding activities. The swine business will now operate as a dedicated business unit within the group's global multi-species organisation. Dennis Jørgensen, who took over as Managing Director on 1 September 2026, will lead the integrated operation.
European Protein’s EP199 recognised as EuroTier 2026 innovation
European Protein's EP199, a fermented rapeseed meal and seaweed protein for piglets, has been named a DLG Recognised Novelty ahead of EuroTier 2026. The product can replace soy protein and fish meal in pre- and post-weaning diets. Field trials in Denmark have reported improved daily weight gain, while producers in several European countries are already using it to support piglet gut health and robustness.
DSM-Firmenich names 2 new companies and expands Sustell platform
DSM-Firmenich has named Noviwest and Panavora as the 2 standalone companies that will emerge from the sale of its Animal Nutrition & Health business to CVC Capital Partners. Noviwest will focus on vitamins, carotenoids and aroma ingredients, while Panavora will provide premixes, feed additives and animal nutrition services. Meanwhile, DSM-Firmenich Animal Nutrition & Health has expanded its Sustell environmental footprinting platform, allowing users to incorporate their own farm-level crop production data into sustainability assessments. The new capability aims to improve the accuracy and transparency of environmental footprint calculations across the animal protein value chain and support FLAG and Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) reporting requirements. For more details on the company split, click here.
Rotem continues under Speria with established product range
Agricultural technology brand Rotem is entering a new phase as part of Speria, while retaining its distinct identity and existing product range. Its climate control and farm management solutions serve pig farms, poultry houses, and greenhouses. Rotem confirms there will be no changes to its products.
Livestock Malaysia 2027 to take place in Kuala Lumpur
The 12th edition of Livestock Malaysia, an international trade show for the feed, livestock and meat industries, will take place from 10-12 August 2027 in Kuala Lumpur. Organised by Informa Markets, the event will showcase innovations in animal feed, livestock production and meat processing, while providing opportunities for industry stakeholders to network.
NUQO holds first international summit in Poland
Feed additive company NUQO held its first international technical and business summit in Poland in October 2026, bringing together teams from 8 countries. Discussions covered product developments, R&D projects, commercial strategies and future growth plans. Delegates also visited the company's Polish production site to see recent investments and expanded capacity.
Vostermans introduces new Multifan Venturon tunnel ventilation fan
Vostermans Ventilation has introduced the Multifan Venturon, a new 57-inch exhaust fan designed for tunnel ventilation in poultry and pig housing. Tested at BESS Labs, the fan combines high airflow, energy efficiency and durability. It is available in different versions, including a Vplus model that offers additional energy savings when used with a variable frequency drive.
Betagro sets target to cut Scope 3 emissions by 25% by 2035
Thai food company Betagro has announced a roadmap to reduce value chain greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 3) by 25% by 2035, as part of its goal to reach net zero by 2050. The company also reported progress in reducing livestock antimicrobial use by 60.8% and operational emissions by 14%, alongside increased use of sustainable packaging.
World Nutrition Forum 2026 brings together over 600 delegates
More than 600 delegates gathered in Kuala Lumpur for DSM-Firmenich Animal Nutrition & Health's World Nutrition Forum 2026. Under the theme 'NextGEN', discussions focused on science, innovation, digital technologies and sustainability in animal production. The event also awarded Ghent University's Professor Gunther Antonissen the NextGEN Award for his contributions to poultry health research.
Novus appoints new executive sales manager in Vietnam
Novus has appointed Huy Tran Cong as executive sales manager for Vietnam to strengthen its commercial presence in the country. Based in Vietnam, he will lead business development and customer relationships across the livestock and aquaculture sectors. He brings experience from Biochem and Alltech, where he held sales and business development roles in Vietnam and Cambodia. He holds a master's degree in animal nutrition and an MBA focused on agricultural business.