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.