10. Reducing reliance on imported protein feed within a ruminant supply chain
Dr Christina Marley

Livestock provide one third of the protein consumed by humans. Alternatives to imported soya, a key protein component of ruminant diets, are needed to provide food security.

Participatory and scientific research led by Dr Christina Marley in IBERS enabled Waitrose and their producers to understand and overcome barriers to adopting home-grown protein forages as protein feed for ruminant livestock.

The resulting removal of imported soya from beef, dairy and lamb production systems by a major UK food retailer has impacted on production and commerce, provided environmental benefits for the sector, and contributed to a 16.9% decrease in UK soya imports.    

Home grown forages as sustainable protein feed

News: Aberystwyth University celebrates exceptional impact of its research