The VanDrie Group is starting a project for the cultivation of field beans in the Netherlands. The aim is to grow and use more protein-rich feed for calves nearby. The family business from Mijdrecht is seeking interest from veal farmers and arable farmers. With the cultivation of field beans, the VanDrie Group also wants to contribute to greater nitrogen utilization and CO2 reduction in the Netherlands.
The VanDrieGroup has previously looked at the cultivation of soy and lupine, but field beans seem to be the best choice for Dutch conditions. Field beans are expected to yield 7 to 8 tons of protein-rich product per hectare per year and, like leguminous plants, they also fix nitrogen themselves, says head of R&D Wiebe Mulder. VanDrie now also uses field beans in the ration composition of calf transport, but growing these beans yourself is new.
The initial target is an area of 150 hectares by 2024. Depending on the experience gained, a decision will then be made as to how quickly further expansion will take place. The starting material comes from Limagrain, which also provides cultivation support.
Continuously making its chain more sustainable and strengthening is central to the VanDrie Group, the company says. The optimal deployment and use of the right raw materials are an important part of this. In addition, raw materials that are grown or available in Europe can count on the interest of the VanDrie Group.
Field beans have several advantages for both use in animal feed and for the grower. Field beans have a favorable protein composition and are suitable for use in calf feed with minimal processing. As a crop, the field bean has a favorable time for sowing, where as a dormant crop it binds nitrogen from the air and fixes it in the soil. Due to the relatively early time of harvesting, space remains available for successful subsequent cultivation.