There are several ways that alfalfa is processed in Manitoba. The first involves the processing of alfalfa into pellets or meal. It is, however, the second type of processing, the compaction of hay into bales for export to international markets, which is the larger of the two alfalfa processing industries. As well, many independent Manitoba growers have the facilities and equipment necessary to deliver hay directly to customers in nearby markets. The Manitoba compaction industry is dedicated to ensuring that its products are top quality.
Bales are double compressed for ease of shipping to distant locations.
The bales are then packed into sealed shipping containers that ensure the moisture content and product quality are maintained during transportation. It is this commitment to high quality standards ensures that the hay is still in excellent condition once it arrives at its destination - retaining the fibre length and feel of freshly baled hay. The international demand for Manitoba-grown alfalfa is on the rise as overseas farm operations experience the high quality of our product. As well, the word is spreading that Manitoba hay processors have a reputation of being leaders in the forage compaction and forage handling industries, and helping to design the latest compacting, handling and drying equipment. In fact, all those companies operating in the Manitoba compaction industry use equipment that is less than three years old.