2026 International Rendering Symposium Highlights Critical Role of Rendering

The 2026 International Rendering Symposium convened key stakeholders from various sectors, including rendering, animal agriculture, sustainability, and communications, to address a pressing challenge: effective communication of the value of rendering in a society growing increasingly detached from agricultural practices. This important event, held alongside the 2026 International Production & Processing Expo in Atlanta, was sponsored by the North American Renderers Association (NARA) and the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association.

A Call for Clear Communication

In his opening remarks, Kent Swisher, president and CEO of NARA, underscored the necessity of articulating what rendering entails and its significance. Often dubbed the “original recyclers,” renderers play an essential role by transforming animal by-products and food waste into valuable proteins, fats, and other ingredients. This process not only promotes food safety but also diverts millions of tons of waste from landfills each year, thereby preventing substantial greenhouse gas emissions and alleviating pressures on terrestrial and aquatic resources.

Bridging the Gap between Agriculture and the Public

Joe Proudman, associate director for communications at the Clarity and Leadership for Environmental Awareness and Research Center at the University of California, Davis, discussed the widening disconnect between the agricultural sector and the general public. With merely about 1% of people living on farms today and a lack of dedicated agriculture reporters in mainstream media, Proudman emphasized the importance of utilizing social media and digital platforms for science-based communication. He aptly remarked, “Do good things and talk about them. If you don’t, somebody else will.”

Introducing Rendering University

Dana Johnson Downing, senior vice president of international programs at NARA, unveiled Rendering University, a centralized knowledge hub aimed at making the invisible aspects of rendering more visible. This initiative offers standards, definitions, product usage examples, training materials, and community resources to facilitate education and consistent messaging while recognizing the complexities of conveying intricate processes that may seem daunting to consumers.

Global Engagement Efforts

Expanding on global outreach, Dr. Peng Li, NARA Asia director, discussed the organization’s initiatives in Asia, focusing on China. His presentation shed light on collaborations with U.S. ambassadors and consulates, participation in USDA food waste reduction programs, and involvement in agricultural trade missions. Dr. Li also emphasized targeted trade efforts for aquafeed customers and introduced a dedicated NARA app designed to connect members and streamline resource sharing.

Insights from the Feed Ingredient Consumption Report

Lara Moody, executive director of the Institute for Feed Education and Research, presented key findings from the Feed Ingredient Consumption Report. This comprehensive report examines over 70 feed ingredients utilized across major livestock species and aquaculture, providing critical insights into ingredient usage, circularity, and environmental impact.

As misinformation increasingly influences public perceptions of food systems, the symposium underscored the essential role of transparent communication and advocacy in recognizing and promoting the value of rendering in sustainable agriculture.

Source: US Poultry & Egg Association