Michigan farmer showcases soy at global food expo

By Andi Anderson

Sara Trattles, a dedicated soybean farmer from Colon, Michigan, and a board member of the Michigan Soybean Committee (MSC), made her way to Dubai, UAE, to participate in Gulfood 2024.

Recognized as the largest annual food, beverage, and hospitality exhibition, Gulfood attracted participants from over 190 countries, featuring more than 5,500 exhibitors globally.

This significant event was accessible to Trattles through MSC's collaboration with the USA Poultry & Egg Export Council (USAPEEC).

The USAPEEC pavilion at Gulfood was bustling with activity, hosting a record number of 18 exhibitors focused on promoting U.S. poultry exports.

Key meetings took place within this pavilion, including discussions with Mark Slupek, Deputy Administrator of the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), the FAS team in UAE, Clay Hamilton, the Minister-Counselor for Agricultural Affairs for India, and other prominent industry figures.

These meetings offered MSC a platform to engage with important stakeholders about the poultry industry's current challenges and growth prospects, highlighting the role of U.S. producers in meeting global demands for high-quality poultry products.

Trattles observed the natural partnership between MSC and USAPEEC, emphasizing their mutual interest in promoting soybean meal as a superior protein source for poultry nutrition.

She appreciated the chance to collaborate at Gulfood 2024, noting the widespread enjoyment of U.S. poultry products, evidenced by the popularity of the on-site shawarma stand.

USAPEEC's mission is to enhance the global export of U.S. poultry and eggs, thereby benefiting soybean farmers by increasing the demand for soybean meal used in poultry diets. With over 60% of the soybean meal consumed by U.S. livestock fed to poultry, boosting international demand for U.S. poultry significantly impacts soybean meal demand.

MSC values its partnership with USAPEEC and is thankful for the opportunity to attend the 2024 Gulfood show, promoting U.S. poultry and eggs while driving demand and value for soybean farmers worldwide.

Photo Credit -istock-oticki