USA – Diamond V, an animal nutrition business owned by Cargill, has opened its expanded manufacturing plant in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to complete all production and packaging of its natural immune support products in one facility.

This follows a US$29.1 million investment that added two production lines to the site. According to the company, the expansion is large enough to house up to eight production lines as the business grows to meet rising consumer and customer demand.

The company has added 100,000 square foot in the facility and production is scheduled to begin in February 2020.

As a result of this expansion, Diamond V will close its north plant and transfer all 20 employees to the south facility.

“Diamond V has always been committed to offering products that support healthy animals, more efficient animal production, better pre-harvest food safety, stronger antibiotic stewardship, and improved public health,” said Mike Goble, Cargill’s global managing director for Diamond V.

“The demand for natural animal health products is growing, and this expansion will allow us to support our customers.”

Cargill acquired Diamond V in 2018 creating a leading natural animal health and nutrition business. The company claims that the acquisition has accelerated growth in the US$20 billion global animal feed additives market.

In response to the rising importance of health among both farmers and consumers, Cargill Health Technologies was formed in 2019, growing into a leading digestive and immune health business for both animal and human application.

“Through Cargill Health Technologies, we are pioneering a new path and unlocking the full potential of the bodies we nourish, helping both people and animals live more healthy days,” said Chuck Warta, President, Cargill Health Technologies.

“When we put the full muscle of Cargill behind it, we believe we can address some of the most pressing global problems in how to feed the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way.”