NIR Development Timeline

1998

Introduction of NIT Technology

  • Near-Infrared Transmittance (NIT) technology installed to evaluate the energy values of corn.
  • Marked the first step toward rapid nutrient analysis using light-based methods.

2006

Full NIR Capability Installed

  • Near-Infrared Reflectance (NIR) technology implemented for internal quality control.
  • Enabled faster, more comprehensive nutrient profiling across multiple feed ingredients.

2006–07

Custom Equations Developed

  • Proprietary NIR equations created from the ground up for:
    • Wheat Midds
    • Bakery Products
    • Complete Swine Feeds
  • These equations were developed specifically for Midwest-grown ingredients, ensuring localized accuracy.

2008

Expanded Equation Coverage

  • NIR capabilities expanded to include:
    • Corn
    • Soybean Meal
    • Dried Distillers Grains (DDGs)
    • Meat & Bone Meal
    • Bakery
    • Wheat Midds
    • Swine & Poultry Feeds

2010

Amino Acid Equation Integration

  • NIR equations extended to include amino acid profiles.
  • Fine-tuned (“tuned in”) for Midwest ingredient sources.