Hamlet Protein was founded in 1989 in Denmark to improve the inherent nutritional quality of soybean meal, specifically for immature livestock. The company has continuously emphasized scientific research as a basis for marketing to young animal nutrition solutions for calves, piglets, chicks and poults. Hamlet Protein has developed unique, patented mild temperature enzymatic treatment that results in a feed ingredient with enhanced nutritional quality.
Hamlet Protein partners with feed mills, integrators and farmers, initially in the E.U. but since globally with a production facility located in Findlay, OH and a sales office in China. Hamlet Protein is guided by the principle that healthy profits are derived from healthy animals.
Hamlet Protein scientists collaborate with reputable universities and research centers around the world, and technical representatives cooperate with customers in conducting trials and sharing knowledge.
Recently CHICK-NEWS had the opportunity to discuss world trends in livestock production with CEO Erik Visser who has occupied the position since 2019 and has contributed to expansion of the Company footprint from the EU to include U.S. production and distribution
CHICK-NEWS: Erik, please provide an overview of the current state of World livestock production.
EV: Expansion and profitability will depend strongly on global geopolitical events. There is obvious a disruption resulting from the volatile tariff situation and a clear concern on a further destabilization of global trade. GDP growth in the E.U. is slowing and China – traditionally an import-export market for animal protein and feed ingredient producers - will face head-winds if exports are disrupted.
This said, poultry and aquaculture will be the clear winners in 2026. There will be limited growth in swine production and there are evident problems with beef including restoration of the North American herd and the emergence of New World Screwworm infestation north of the Panama Canal.
CHICK-NEWS: Livestock profitability will be dependent on consumer demand that in turn is influenced by prevailing economic conditions. Your views?
EV: Global real GDP growth is forecast at 3.2 percent over 2025 similar to 2024 but still below the pre-COVID years. Inflation is abating but tariffs are likely to impact this trend. Political developments in main European economies Germany and France will dominate the direction of progress for the EU.
Real GDP growth is expected to recover in Latin America. In contrast Asia remains a bright spot with growth projected at over 5.1 percent.
CHICK-NEWS: Feed is the principal cost in livestock production. What do you envisage for the coming year?
EV: Ukraine as a major exporter continues to supply commodities despite ongoing hostilitiesHamlet Protein expects feed costs to remain relatively stable given this year’s bountiful crops in all producing areas including the Americas.
CHICK-NEWS: Hamlet Protein uses soybean meal as its major input. Do you envisage any shortages?
EV: Brazil is the world's top producer with more than 50 percent of total production emanating from that country and its neighbors, followed by North America with 30 percent of global production.
With record crops in most production areas and reduced demand from China, prices will remain at a moderate level consistent with a plentiful supply.
In the event of a trade war between the U.S. and China, exports from the U.S. will be curtailed although alternative markets may develop. This is good news for the livestock sector.
CHICK-NEWS: Do you envisage other factors influencing production and profitability in the coming year?
EV: Sustainability is a crucial focus especially in the E.U. but is now less prominent in the U.S. policy making. The same could be said of welfare and worker rights. Agriculture is restrained in Europe as a result of ESG regulations despite a further delay in implementing proposed deforestation regulations.
Artificial intelligence has yet to make an impression on livestock production although technologies are under evaluation albeit with limited implementation. The restraint comprises a lack of reliable data to train AI algorithms.
CHICK-NEWS: Do you have any final messages for your constituency?
EV: We believe that attracting the younger generation to livestock production and processing will be critical to the future of all livestock segments of the industry.
With increasing regulations, especially relating to antibiotics, and ongoing financial pressures, efficiency in production must match genetic potential. Accordingly providing young livestock with appropriate diets that are readily digestible to improve feed conversion efficiency will be necessary to maintain profitability.
Hamlet Protein has strong market shares in North America, Europe and Asia and the company footprint will be extended to Latin America, the Middle East and Africa in the coming year. Research on protein kinetics will continue driving the growth and profitability of our diverse client base.