[Lexington, KENTUCKY] – Alltech, a global leader in animal health and nutrition, has announced that Mike Johanns, former secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), will be a speaker at its 24th International Animal Health and Nutrition Symposium. The event will be held April 20-23, 2008 in Lexington, Kentucky, USA and will focus on the role agriculture can play in cultivating the ‘Greenest Generation’.

Secretary Johanns will be speaking alongside David Byrne, former European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection, and Osler Desouzart, Brazilian economist, contributing his expertise and ideas for green solutions to feed, food and fuel quandaries. The speakers will each share their views on these issues from their perspective and experience in their corner of the world.

"It’s a testament to the scope and magnitude of Alltech’s Symposium that we are able to attract someone like Secretary Johanns to speak and share his knowledge with delegates from various aspects of our industry," said Dr. Pearse Lyons, president and founder of Alltech. "Having world-renowned experts like Mike Johanns, David Byrne and Osler Desouzart sharing the stage to address the industry is a unique opportunity and it’s one that we’re proud to offer."

Secretary Johanns’ strong ties to agriculture date back to his childhood, spent on a dairy farm. Prior to his tenure with the USDA, he served as governor of Nebraska. He also gained first hand experience in international trade through his participation in World Trade Organization negotiations and promotion of the U.S.-Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement.

Alltech’s Symposium will be inciting delegates – including experts from around the globe – to redefine the industry as a leader of the ‘Greenest Generation’ by rethinking technology and business practices. The Symposium will also urge delegates to find constructive ways in which we, the agriculture industry, can respond to the green revolution.

Alltech’s mission is to improve animal health and performance by adding nutritional value to animal feed and, through this, enhance the performance of the animal and increase animal production. Since it was founded 28 years ago, the company has developed a strong regional presence throughout the world with 1,900 employees and a presence in 113 countries. For more information, visit www.alltech.com.

Alltech will host its 24th International Animal Health and Nutrition Symposium, focusing on the ‘Greenest Generation’, April 20-23, 2008 in Lexington, Kentucky, USA.