Date: 20/08/2025

The circular economy represents a paradigm shift in the animal feed production sector and industry. Companies are actively seeking to reuse ingredients, optimizing processes and resources.

This approach drives innovation, particularly the development and use of hydrolyzed protein and other sustainable ingredients. Integrating these concepts into feed formulations enhances efficiency and promotes environmental responsibility throughout the production chain.

Considering the importance of this topic, let's understand how the circular economy has gained traction and the role this practice plays in the development of sustainable feed.

Topics in this content:

What is the circular economy and how does it work?

The circular economy refers to the production model that encompasses the reuse, renewal, and recycling of materials. This extends the life cycle of products and reduces waste. This occurs precisely because raw materials are reusable, enabling the creation of more value in the production chain (European Parliament, 2024).

As the name suggests, the circular economy is cyclical. It begins with the selection of sustainable raw materials. These materials then enter the production process and are distributed to the market. The products then reach the consumer, and after consumption, the material can be recycled, reused, or repaired.

In some cases, waste may be generated, and residual management may be necessary to reuse this material to be used as a raw material for a new product.

Thus, it can be said that the application of the circular economy makes it possible to reduce waste and scrap and provides alternative solutions to reduce the demand for the extraction of natural resources for raw materials (Fernando Antônio Abdalla and Antônio Carlos Freire Sampaio, 2018).

What are the principles of the circular economy?

The circular economy has several principles, many of that are related to environmental issues. First, the practice aims to preserve, mitigate environmental impacts, and increase natural resources, balancing the use of renewable materials.

Furthermore, the circular economy also seeks to optimize resources in the production process, seeking the circulation of materials with maximum utilization and ensuring production efficiency (Patrícia Berardi; Joana Maia Dias, 2018).

In addition to environmental issues, this economic concept also seeks to provide stability to the local economy and job creation. This makes this economic system viable (Fernando Antônio Abdalla and Antônio Carlos Freire Sampaio, 2018).

What is the role of the circular economy in sustainable feed production?

The circular economy favors the integration of processes and promotes the reuse of materials and products. This reduces environmental impacts and promotes an environmentally friendly approach, favoring the production of sustainable feed.

This relationship applies throughout the entire production chain. Therefore, it can be said that the circular economy is an important ally in environmental preservation.

What are the challenges in implementing the circular economy?

According to the National Confederation of Industry (CNI), one of the paths to transitioning to a circular economy begins with changing business models with a long-term focus, innovating business models, and value chains. To facilitate this journey, the development of public policies, infrastructure, education, and technologies are essential.

Furthermore, many companies lose value by improperly disposing of waste. This can be due to infrastructure limitations or even a lack of incentives for the use of secondary resources.

Therefore, to accelerate the transition to a circular economy, Brazil must provide favorable conditions for the development of circular businesses. The country has potential, as it boasts a broad biodiversity, an innovative culture, and sociocultural diversity.

What are the opportunities?

The circular economy helps businesses become more competitive, resilient, and sustainable. Furthermore, this economic practice favors the development of a stable economy.

Among the benefits provided are:

● reduced material costs;
● job and income generation;
● reduced resource use through raw material recovery;
● creation of safe and non-toxic raw materials or those that cause less environmental impact;
● environmental preservation;
● market differentiation and diversification, as well as various strategies for businesses to create and generate value.

Therefore, it can be said that the circular economy provides a systemic and long-term vision, helping businesses seek efficiency and effectiveness, thus generating positive impacts (CNI, 2018).

How does BRF Ingredients operate in the circular economy?

BRF is committed to reducing waste and mitigating environmental impacts. By combining innovation, efficiency, and sustainability, we add value to raw materials in the agricultural supply chain, aiming to generate high-performance ingredients for the Animal Nutrition, Food Ingredients, Human Health, and Plant Nutrition markets.

Through a 100% integrated production chain, we generate value for our customers' businesses and optimize the circular economy. Furthermore, we provide traceability (knowing the origin of raw materials) in the production process, improve ingredient quality, and ensure raw material freshness.

Sustainability is another pillar taken seriously at BRF. The sustainability plan covers the production process, including relationships with tours, the development of sustainable initiatives, social inclusion, and animal welfare.

All of these issues, taken together, demonstrate BRF Ingredients' focus on the circular economy, which is promoted through the creation of value for products throughout the production chain.

What are the benefits of the BioActio line?

The ingredients in the BioActio line contribute to a more efficient and regenerative production chain. This is because they are produced by adding value to animal products in the BRF chain, fostering sustainable economic development.

Furthermore, the hydrolyzed proteins and other components present in the BioActio line help promote animal health and well-being.

Final Considerations

As you can see, the circular economy sets a new standard for the animal feed industry. Companies that adopt ingredient reuse demonstrate a commitment to resource optimization.

In this context, the development and incorporation of hydrolyzed protein and other sustainable ingredients into feed formulations validates the viability and benefits of this approach.

Therefore, it can be said that the continued use of these advances reinforces the position of the circular economy as an essential pillar for sustainability and efficiency in feed production.

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