Molatek: Fuelling the Future of Farming since 1985

Molatek: Fuelling the Future of Farming since 1985

Born out of adversity and built on innovation, Molatek has become one of South Africa’s most trusted names in nutrition for cattle, sheep and goats. With the brand celebrating its 40th birthday on the 9th of September, we’re reflecting on four decades of dedication to excellence, growth, and partnership within the agricultural space.

A Story Rooted in Resilience

The origins of Molatek trace back to the early 1980s during a period of severe drought. In response to the challenges faced by farmers, our Sugar business identified a groundbreaking opportunity: turning byproducts of the sugar industry (molasses and bagasse) into high-quality animal feed. In September 1985, Molatek was officially born, with its name derived from, “Molasses Technology.” That same month, the first delivery went out, setting in motion a journey marked by innovation, purpose, and progress.

From these humble beginnings, Molatek has transformed into a dynamic force in the industry. Over the years, both the sales force and factory operations have evolved significantly, guided by a strong mission and a vision to support the sustainability and profitability of livestock farmers.

A Trusted Partner in Farming

Molatek is more than a feed supplier, it’s a knowledge partner to farmers. With a dedicated team of over 395 professionals, including technical experts, factory specialists, and more than 40 qualified sales advisors across South Africa, Molatek is well-equipped to deliver expert advice, tailored solutions, and consistent service.

Sustainability at the Core

One of Molatek’s most defining features is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. The brand doesn’t just create feed; it creates value from byproducts of sugar manufacturing. By repurposing agricultural byproducts like molasses and bagasse, Molatek reduces waste while delivering nutrient-rich feed to ruminant animals like sheep, cattle, goats and game.

Beyond its products, Molatek also champions environmentally conscious packaging, such as biodegradable lick block boxes and reusable plastic buckets, to minimise its ecological footprint. Certified under ISO 9001 and AFMA, the brand’s operations maintain the highest standards in quality and sustainability.

Through robust biosecurity protocols, including measures to curb the spread of diseases like foot-and-mouth, Molatek contributes to a safer, more responsible farming sector. This aligns with the brand’s bold vision of “Creating the Future” – an initiative that responds to today’s environmental and social challenges by embedding long-term thinking into everything they do.

Community Roots & Industry Leadership

Molatek’s impact extends well beyond its products. Through initiatives like the Selati Cup, Selati Marathon, and regional rugby tournaments, the brand actively supports community engagement and development. Its partnerships with tertiary institutions, investment in postgraduate research, and involvement in Farmer’s Days all contribute to a thriving agricultural future. This empowers students, educates farmers, and fosters innovation.

Innovation and People Development

At the heart of Molatek’s operations is a culture of continuous innovation. The company is constantly advancing its production processes with new technologies and software systems to improve efficiency and maintain its competitive edge.

Internally, Molatek places a strong emphasis on people development, offering structured leadership programmes, individual growth plans, and ongoing training to nurture a capable, safety-conscious workforce. This commitment to people ensures that the brand’s future is as strong and sustainable as its past.

Looking Ahead

As Molatek steps confidently into its fifth decade, it does so with a legacy not only built on trusted feed solutions but also on the values that sustain communities and the land they live on. Molatek remains steadfast in its purpose, fuelling the future of farming, supporting profitability, and ensuring the health of animals and the planet.

Here’s to 40 years of Molatek, and many more to come.