ST. LOUIS, April 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Solutia Inc. is introducing Agrado
feed ingredient to feedlot operators in the beef industry.  Agrado aids in
maintaining the integrity of feed by helping prevent the feed from becoming
rancid.
    "We are excited about introducing Agrado to the beef industry," says
Charlie Lyon, manager, Agrado business, Solutia.  "The beef industry is large,
and we've found the players in the industry to be aggressive.  Agrado has the
potential to meet their needs by making a positive impact on quality.  We look
forward to building on the relationship between the industry and Solutia."
    Agrado will be offered to feedlot operators through Novus International,
Solutia's distributor for Agrado.  "Extensive research done over the years by
Novus shows that the stabilization of feed ingredients leads to better animal
performance," says Rob Mead, manager, products, Novus.  "The use of Agrado in
cattle feeds will help prevent the rancidity of the feed ingredients and help
maintain the available energy of the feed for the animal.  The benefit to the
feedlot operators should be seen in their feed gain and feed efficiency
numbers."
    Its use as a cattle feed ingredient not only can impact the feedlot
operators but also the surrounding communities because Agrado can help
minimize odor.  Studies at Oklahoma State University indicate that feces from
cattle fed Agrado have a less offensive smell.  "Odor is a big issue for the
feedlots and their communities, and Agrado can help solve this problem," says
Dr. Winston Samuels, Agrado project team lead.  "Because Agrado reduces smell,
it can bring about greater harmony between feedlot operators and surrounding
urban communities."
    Fecal studies are just one among the many studies done at Oklahoma State
University.  As part of Solutia's continuing research efforts, collaborative
studies on animal health are ongoing at the University of Arkansas.  "We are
very pleased with the results of our research efforts and the additional
benefits Solutia could bring to the cattle industry," adds Dr. Samuels.  "We
are committed to continuing our scientific research efforts to identify
potential solutions to animal health issues for the cattle industry."
    At the Plains Nutrition Council Conference held in San Antonio, Texas,
April 16 and 17, Dr. Fred Owens, professor of Animal Science at Oklahoma State
University, reported from his research on the additional benefits to animals
fed Agrado.  At the same meeting, Drs. Beth Kegley and Dianne Hellwig,
professors of Animal Science at the University of Arkansas, reported on the
their studies on the impact of Agrado on animal health.
    Agrado, meaning likable or agreeable in Spanish, is true to its name, for
it has the potential to touch the entire value chain in the beef industry.
"Solutia is offering to the beef industry a product that we believe adds value
both up and down the chain," Dr. Samuels said.  "Agrado can benefit everyone
from the feedlot operator all the way to the consumer."
    More information on Agrado feed ingredient for cattle can be obtained by
contacting Novus at 800-568-0088.
    Additional information about the Oklahoma State University and University
of Arkansas studies can be obtained by contacting Dr. Fred Owens at Oklahoma
State University at 405-744-6621 and Dr. Beth Kegley at the University of
Arkansas at 501-575-3050.

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