Intensive farming has a bad rap for being a major contributor to climate change, water pollution, and biodiversity loss.
Whilst some argue that intensive farming is the only viable approach to feed a growing global population, others recognise the harmful consequences that come with it.
Instead of relying solely on intensive farming, many are advocating for exploring sustainable and regenerative agriculture practices. Fortunately, there are a number of organisations, governments, and other stakeholders working to make this industry more sustainable.
Let’s catch up on the latest news in agritech!
Food Tech and Ethical Farming Initiatives
The RSPCA's campaign, "The Better Chicken," has gained significant support, with nearly 20,000 people signing up in just five weeks. The initiative urges UK supermarkets to enhance broiler chicken health and welfare by offering more space, light, and enrichment and by exclusively using slower-growing, higher-welfare breeds. Moreover, the campaign seeks to raise awareness among the public about how their purchasing choices can positively impact animal welfare.
- A team led by the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) is currently conducting a six-month study to explore the potential impact of lab-grown meat on the farming industry. The research aims to predict how new forms of meat production, such as lab-grown or cultured meat, could shape the future of food.
- On a related note, Shiru, an innovative AI-Powered FoodTech company, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone with the successful commercialisation of its first food ingredient, OleoPro™. Using its patented AI discovery system, Shiru developed this ingredient, signalling a significant leap forward in sustainable and health-conscious alternatives. OleoPro™ offers a remarkable 90% reduction in saturated fat in alternative protein foods. Notably, it maintains its form at room temperature and even browns when cooked, replicating the characteristics of traditional fat.
- In Abu Dhabi, Silal, a part of ADQ, one of the largest holding companies, is launching the Innovation Oasis—an Innovation, Research, and Development (R&D) Centre located in Al Ain. The facility aims to cultivate an ecosystem using advanced technologies to accelerate the growth of the Agri-Food sector.
- UK-based Grow Up Farms is making fresh salads available at Tesco through their brand, Unbeleafableuk. The locally grown and pesticide-free salads promise to stay fresher and offer a sustainable and healthy option for shoppers.
Sustainable Initiatives and Government Support
- The Biden-Harris Administration, through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), has announced several investments to strengthen the food system, increase market access for producers, and enhance consumers' access to locally grown foods. Initiatives include establishing Urban Service Centres, expanding the Healthy Food Financing Initiative, and investing in the Patrick Leahy Farm to School Program.
- The UK's livestock sector aims to deliver net zero goals by 2050 but is currently facing challenges. A report by CIEL highlighted the need for accelerated innovation in technology, services, and management approaches to achieve the emission reduction targets.
Vertical Farming
- CubicAcres, a New York-based vertical farming company, recently closed a successful funding round of $3.7 million in collaboration with Scotland's Intelligent Growth Solutions. This investment is set to significantly scale up CubicAcres' lettuce production capacity to one million heads of lettuce annually.
Challenges and Layoffs in the Agritech Space
- Several vertical farming startups are facing challenging times, as layoffs and closures continue to hit the industry. Square Roots, known for its innovative use of shipping containers to enable localised, year-round farming, announced it is stopping many of its operations in Ohio, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. AppHarvest, a public benefit corporation, revealed plans to undergo a financial and operational transition to address outstanding liabilities. Similarly, Planted Detroit, a community-supported agriculture company, is facing budget constraints and is preparing to shut down operations. Despite the difficulties, Planted Detroit remains committed to fulfilling its obligations to customers, ensuring all subscriptions and customer deliveries are honoured until August 4th.
- Earlier this month, the Welsh government shared updates on its Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) proposals, aiming to achieve significant tree planting targets by 2030 and 2050. However, the National Farmers' Union Cymru (NFU Cymru), representing farmers and growers in Wales, has announced that they won’t be able to participate in the scheme due to strict tree and habitat cover requirements.
Expansion and Collaboration
- Bowery, a sustainable indoor farming pioneer, is expanding across the eastern U.S., thanks to a collaboration with Amazon Fresh. This partnership will make Bowery's pesticide-free greens and salad kits more accessible to consumers from Massachusetts to Georgia.
- Last but not least, Sprout AI's parent company, TheraCann International, has announced a formal partnership with Terrapin Geothermics Inc. Terrapin is a well-known waste heat company specialising in converting waste energy from industrial processes into emission-free power. This collaboration marks a major advancement for TheraCann International, as it enables the expansion of its turn-key urban indoor farming solution, "BenchmarkSOLUTION," to incorporate renewable energy sources. This move reinforces the company's dedication to sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
Final thoughts
Agritech continues to drive innovations in the agriculture industry, offering sustainable solutions to meet the growing global demand for food. From vertical farming's funding success to lab-grown meat's potential impact and government support for a resilient food system, the news in agritech reflects a sector striving to shape a greener and more efficient future for agriculture.
As we witness these advancements and tackle challenges, it's clear that the agritech industry plays a pivotal role in ensuring food security and sustainability for generations to come.
At Gibson Watts, we are confident in our ability to secure the best candidates whilst keeping up with the demands of this ever-evolving market. We have the credentials and expertise to advise and support your business and empower a future generation of agricultural workers.
If you would like to find out more, reach out to us today.