Jan–Mar, 2011

Barley isn’t just for beer and breakfast anymore. Research confirms that a natural enzyme in barley straw inhibits odor. “We’ve seen barley straw used successfully to control odor emitted from…

Minnetonka, Minn. — Theresa Oslund began baking as a child, learning from her grandmother’s expertise. As a grown-up, she developed her own specialties, including a cranberry-macadamia snack mix for gifts…

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, so says an ancient Chinese proverb. But should a second step be taken? That’s the question AURI asks of…

Minneapolis, Minn. — Nearly every morning, a barely-noticed battalion of trucks crisscross the streets and alleys of Minneapolis gobbling up glass, plastic, aluminum and other recyclables from residents’ curbs. The…

Benson, Minn. — The phosphate, potash and sulfur in NAFmicro fertilizer aren’t mined overseas — they’re Minnesota grown. North American Fertilizer LLC sells 110,000 tons a year of ash fertilizer…

Ashes from two types of incinerated biomass are a good alternative to conventional fertilizer, according to recent University of Minnesota research. The nutrient content of ashes varies by the feedstock…

Corn Plus — a 40-million-gallon corn ethanol plant that runs on biomass power — sells out of its renewable ash fertilizer a year or more in advance. “The product is…

Willmar, Minn. — Enquiring eyes watched with curious anticipation as the towering Micronex Kinetic Disintegration System growled into gear. The dryer system, recently installed at the Minnesota Valley Alfalfa Producers…

While agricultural commodities have nearly endless uses, including fuel and industrial products, their primary use is still food. Our food choices can be a reflection of heritage, local availability, income…

Berry good for the heart If you eat blueberries, your heart may thank you. A recent USDA study shows that the little berry may put up a big fight against…

Marshall, Minn. — Omega-3 fatty acids are popular with health-savvy consumers. Research shows they help reduce inflammation and may lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer and…

Anyone who has been part of an athletic team, debate club or theater performance realizes that it takes more than one person to achieve success. While there may be individual…

Marshall, Minn. — Consumer tastes that constantly change are a challenge for most retailers, marketers and product developers. But those who understand their customers gain more of the retail dollar.…