Carefully formulated animal feed and health-promotion products obtained from starch help farmers meet today’s very high consumer standards. The starch co-products are a natural source of very digestible protein. Other starch derivatives are used to help the digestibility of the animal feed, while some contribute to the protection of the animal’s liver functions. Due to their nutritive value, starch products also make an ideal milk substitute for calves.
In late 2023, the European Commission is due to publish its proposal for a legislative framework on sustainable food systems (FSFS). This proposal, once adopted, will likely provide the framework for a multitude of specific actions to help promote a sustainable food system going forward for years to come. It is of paramount importance to get that right.
This paper aims to demonstrate the substantial contribution so far of the EU starch industry to a sustainable food system, as well as what core needs our sector has for that contribution to continue, and even increase.