The 2024 International Rendering Symposium, hosted by the North American Renderers Association (NARA) in collaboration with the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY), proved to be a pivotal event in exploring the crucial contributions of rendering to sustainability and the global economy. The symposium, which took place in conjunction with the 2024 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) in Atlanta, kicked off on Thursday, February 1, at 12 p.m. and continued through Friday, February 2, at the Georgia World Congress Center.
Renderers and industry enthusiasts gathered to delve into the often overlooked but indispensable role of rendering in bolstering animal agriculture’s economic and environmental sustainability worldwide. Despite being an “invisible industry” in discussions about animal food production and the circular economy, the symposium aimed to shine a light on rendering’s diverse contributions to international markets and global sustainability.
Day 1 of the symposium centered on the Poultry and Pet Food category. The presentations began with a focus on Lifecycle Data on the Sustainability of Rendered Products for Pet Food, shedding light on the environmental implications of rendering in the pet food industry. The discussion then expanded to The Pet Food Market in Latin America and The Use of Animal Proteins in Chicken and Egg Production, offering a comprehensive view of rendering’s role in diverse markets. A speaker panel followed, providing a platform for in-depth discussions and insights.
The second session of Day 1 delved into Low Carbon Intense (CI) Ingredients, with presentations addressing the Impacts of CI Scoring on the Food, Feed, and Fuel Industries. The Truth About Food vs. Fuel – What the Historical Data Shows was another intriguing presentation, challenging preconceptions about the relationship between food and fuel. The day concluded with a Market Outlook session, providing valuable insights into future trends and opportunities. A speaker panel featuring all category presenters capped off the first day, giving attendees the chance to engage in discussions and pose questions. The day concluded with a networking cocktail reception in room B-406, fostering connections among symposium speakers and participants.
Day 2 of the symposium shifted focus to the Aquaculture industry. Presentations included Lifecycle Data on the Sustainability of Rendered Products for Aquaculture, emphasizing rendering’s role in supporting sustainability in aquaculture. The discussion continued with The Use of Rendered Proteins and Fats in Aquaculture, offering insights into how rendering products contribute to the aquaculture sector. A Latin American Aquaculture Market Review and a speaker panel concluded the aquaculture-focused sessions.
The final session of the symposium centered on International Markets, featuring presentations on Global Anti-Oxidant Supply, China’s initiatives to Reduce Food Loss & Waste, and International Market Intelligence. These presentations highlighted rendering’s global reach and its impact on various international markets.
The 2024 International Rendering Symposium proved to be a platform for valuable discussions, insights, and networking opportunities, reinforcing the significance of rendering in fostering sustainability and contributing to the global economy.
If you attended and would like to view all the presentations as well as video recordings of the sessions, they are available on the NARA website. The 2024 International Rendering Symposium was truly a groundbreaking event, showcasing the vital role of rendering in shaping a sustainable future for animal agriculture.
This year’s symposium also featured a live translation service and a virtual attendance option, marking two exciting firsts for the event.
Attendees who wish to view all the presentations and video recordings of the sessions can do so by clicking here.
