Under the guidance of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ebru Yılmaz, a faculty member of the Veterinary Department at Bozdoğan Vocational School (MYO), students from the Laboratory and Veterinary Health Program conducted a technical trip to the Noordze Aquatic Products Söke Feed Factory on February 20, 2025, as part of their practical course on "Feed Knowledge".
The event was organized in cooperation with Bozdoğan MYO and Bozdoğan Youth Center and attended by Dr. Lecturer Okan Ertosluk, Lecturer Aydan Başçalışkan, Physical Education Teacher Rıdvan Taşkıran, Youth Center staff member Buket Gönül, and students.
Students had the opportunity to observe the feed production process and gained detailed information about each production stage. Welcoming the group, Factory Manager İmge Ulusoy provided an overview of the factory's structure, explaining its production capacity and critical role in the aquaculture sector. She emphasized that feed production is a meticulous process where quality, hygiene, and sustainability are key priorities. Ulusoy highlighted the importance of carefully selected raw materials and thorough quality control tests in every phase of production. She also stated that environmentally friendly production methods and recycling processes are integral to the factory’s operations.
"Feed production must consider both fish health and environmental balance. Our factory utilizes eco-friendly technologies, enhancing production efficiency while maintaining environmental responsibility," Ulusoy remarked.
Deputy Factory Manager Mahmut Genç provided a detailed tour of the production sections, explaining the procurement and storage of raw materials, the significance of maintaining optimal temperature and humidity conditions, and the planning process for sustainable production. He also introduced students to the extruder technology, explaining how it improves the shape and nutritional value of the feed.
Production Chief Serdar Ciritoğlu demonstrated how automated systems are integrated into the production line, enhancing efficiency and quality control. Extruder Operator Erkan Toparlı discussed the advanced drying and cooling systems used during production, ensuring that the feed is hygienic, durable, and retains its nutritional values.
In the quality control laboratory, Quality Control Specialist Ömür Çapar explained the analytical processes involved in testing parameters like protein, fat, moisture, and mineral content. Quality Control Manager Tansu Bıçakçıoğlu shared the quality standards and control processes applied at every production stage.
Throughout the visit, students actively engaged with factory officials, asking questions and gaining insights into the real-world production environment. They expressed their appreciation, noting that such practical experiences significantly enhance their professional knowledge and skills.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ebru Yılmaz emphasized the importance of such trips, stating that "observing production processes firsthand provides a deeper understanding of the industry and strengthens professional competencies." She highlighted how these experiences build awareness of industry practices and create a solid foundation for students' careers.
Dr. Yılmaz extended her gratitude to Noordze Aquatic Products Söke Feed Factory and the Bozdoğan Youth Center, acknowledging the invaluable role of such collaborations in enriching students’ educational journeys.
