About Us

Through the Rendering University, we are transforming the industry, educating, innovating, and building a sustainable future together!

What is Rendering University?

In North America, consumers only eat about 50% of animals raised for human consumption. What happens to the other half?

Rendering University teaches the science and practice of animal rendering — the industry that turns used cooking oil and parts of animals not used for food into valuable fats, proteins, and other products through recycling and upcycling. We offer structured courses, expert insights, and support for all levels — whether you’re just getting started or want to master advanced techniques. Join us to deepen your knowledge, build skills, and contribute to a more sustainable, innovative rendering industry that turns waste into resources.

The educational methodology of the Rendering University is built upon the content of the book Mastering Rendering, The Buyer’s Guide, a reference work conceived to illustrate every key element of the rendering industry. This book serves as the foundation for two essential objectives:

1. For producers: to provide a structured framework that enables rendering companies to train and strengthen their teams with in-depth industry knowledge.

2. For buyers and formulators: to ensure a clear understanding of each critical factor required to make informed, successful purchasing decisions in the rendering market

Building on this foundation, our program is delivered through a virtual educational system, hosted on a Learning Management System (LMS) platform. This allows participants worldwide to access interactive learning modules, structured courses, and evaluation tools that measure their knowledge and progress.

Thanks to this methodology, participants not only acquire high-level technical skills, but also demonstrate their competence through a process of continuous assessment. This training serves as a driving force for the transformation and professionalization of the rendering industry. Upon completing the program, participants receive a recognized certification that validates their expertise and their contribution to defining the standards of quality and excellence within the sector.

Our mission is to be the leading educational platform for the world of rendering, empowering professionals, enthusiasts, and newcomers to expand their skills and knowledge.

We aim to facilitate learning and innovation through structured courses, expert-led resources, and a community-driven approach to teaching.

By providing a centralized space for education, collaboration, and knowledge sharing, we aim to advance the rendering sector and inspire individuals to reach new heights of creativity and technical excellence.

Together, we are building a community that drives progress and sets the standard for expertise in rendering technology.

Our vision is to create a dynamic digital ecosystem that connects people from around the world who are passionate about rendering, fostering knowledge exchange, innovation, and global collaboration.

We envision a community where professionals, enthusiasts, and newcomers come together to inspire, educate, and collaborate, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.

We strive to break down barriers and connect people across five continents to share ideas, learn from one another, and push the boundaries of rendering technology. We envision a future without creative limits, where every individual has the opportunity to contribute, innovate, and make a positive impact on the industry and the planet.

Together, we strive to build a vibrant community that drives progress, fuels creativity, and shapes the future of rendering.

What is our purpose?

Our purpose is to transform the status quo by creating a bold new vision and perspective for the rendering industry. We aim to redefine how rendering is understood, taught, and applied by building an inclusive platform that unites education, innovation, and collaboration.

Background banner for Rendering Buyer's Guide

Mastering Rendering: The Buyer’s Guide

Learn why rendered ingredients remain the cornerstone of feed, biofuels, and diverse industrial applications!

This book begins by providing a global perspective, covering international markets, the industry's impact on sustainability, and its vital role in the circular bio-economy. From a 360-degree vision, it will guide you step by step through the specific details of the value chain, highlighting market dynamics, key stakeholders, and the regulations that support this essential industry.

Chapters Overview

1.
About Rendering
2.
Rendering Products
3.
Quality Control
4.
Raw Materials
5.
Destination Industries
6.
Rendering Worldwide
7.
Other Products
8.
Substitute Products
9.
Regulatory Updates
10.
Rendering Definitions

Special Contributions

Committee Members

Visit NARA

North American Renderers Association

Development of guidelines and structure

The North American Rendering Association (NARA) represents and supports the rendering industry, ensuring its sustainability and responsible practices. NARA advocates for industry interests through policy development, regulatory compliance, and public outreach. It provides resources, education, and networking opportunities to its members, promoting best practices and technological advancements. NARA fosters collaboration among stakeholders to address environmental concerns, food safety, and waste reduction. Additionally, it promotes the value of rendered products in various sectors, including agriculture, biofuels, and pet food. By championing the interests of its members and advancing industry standards, NARA plays a vital role in shaping the rendering industry's future.

Visit AAFCO

Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)

Development of definitions

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is an independent organization that has been guiding state, federal and international feed regulators with ingredient definitions, label standards and laboratory standards for more than 110 years, while supporting the health and safety of people and animals. Our members are charged by their local, state or federal laws to regulate the sale and distribution of animal feeds and animal drug remedies.

Visit AGM

Agriglobal Market (AGM)

Technological development and conceptualization

AgriGlobal Market is a leading technology entity committed to transforming the agri-food and rendering industries through high-impact digital solutions that drive innovation, efficiency, and sustainability across the sector. It has played a pioneering role in the design and implementation of the Rendering University platform, a project developed under the guidelines of the North American Renderers Association (NARA) and the conceptual framework of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

With an unwavering commitment to transforming the sector, AgriGlobal Market’s mission is to position rendering as a global benchmark for agriculture. This mission underscores its essential role in modernizing the sector worldwide through technology, enabling better decision-making, greater integration, and the global positioning of the industry. It also aims to connect rendering from a broader perspective, strengthening its relationship with destination industries and markets.

NARA

Dana Johnson Downing

SVP, International Programs

With over 20 years of experience in business development, strategic communications, and global outreach, she has led strategic initiatives across 44 countries. Recognized for her ability to simplify complex issues, she advises leaders and drives results in branding, policy, and sustainability.

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Kent Swisher

President and CEO

Expert in export marketing, trade policy, and international development, with success in expanding markets and revenue. He works with agribusinesses, trade groups, and governments. Kent holds a degree in Agricultural Economics from Purdue University.

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Charles Starkey

VP, Regulatory and Scientific Affairs

Specialist in scientific services and regulatory affairs with a strong background in data analysis, sustainability, and rendering. He provides technical expertise to support innovation, safety, and compliance across global agricultural industries and markets.

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Anna D. Carlson (Wilkinson)

VP, Communication

Experienced Communications & Public Relations professional with expertise in environmental and transportation industries. Skilled in website and social media management, press kits, SEO, feature writing, media relations, and public speaking.

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Matthew Meredith

North Africa Representative

International finance professional with 20 years of experience in global markets, specializing in logistics, energy and chemical terminals, private investment advisory in Africa, capital engagement, corporate finance, and leading multilingual teams.

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Jennifer Wilson

EU/UK Representative

Formerly with USDA London, Jennifer helps North American organizations with sustainability and agri-food communications. With 30 years in international trade, she offers market guidance, B2B partnerships, and strategic solutions.

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German Davalos

Regional Director for Latin America

Upon graduation from the University of Florida with a bachelor's and master's in animal science, he worked in livestock production in Georgia, as a cooperative extension agent for Cornell University in upstate NY, and in the dairy feed division of Agway Inc.

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Peng Li, PhD

Regional Director for Asia

He earned his bachelor's from Ocean University of China and Ph.D. from Texas A&M University. Since joining the North American Renderers Association in 2009, he has co-authored over 40 peer-reviewed articles, promoting U.S. rendered proteins and fats in Asian markets.

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Amy Moulden

Director, Operations & Members

With extensive experience in rendering, food, and livestock industries, she leads operational initiatives and member engagement at the North American Renderers Association. Her background combines technical knowledge with strategic leadership, fostering collaboration and growth.

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Dara John

Manager of APPI Programs

As Manager of APPI Programs, she oversees initiatives promoting safety, quality, and continuous improvement across the rendering industry. She works with member companies to implement best practices, support compliance, and advance industry goals aligned with NARA's mission.

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Register for Free

Learn why rendered ingredients remain the cornerstone of feed, biofuels, and diverse industrial applications!

Mastering Rendering: The Buyer’s Guide offers a complete reference to rendered proteins, fats, and other co-products, integrating technical, commercial, and regulatory perspectives.