Corporate Social Responsibility
Interview: Corporate Social Responsibility in One Health
In 2024, MIAVIT became an official sponsor of VSF Germany furthering our mission to continue establishing the One Health approach as a pillar of our work. This partnership is grounded in the conviction that the health of humans, animals, and the environment are inseparably linked – and it symbolises a growing movement in which responsible privatesector actors actively contribute to sustainable change.
We spoke with Dr. Lea Middendorf about the collaboration.
To begin with: Could you briefly introduce MIAVIT and explain what social engagement means to your company? Why did you choose VSF Germany as a partner?
MIAVIT is a family-owned company from the Oldenburg Münsterland region, founded over 60 years ago by my grandfather, Dr. Hans W. Niemeyer, a veterinarian himself. From the very beginning, our focus has been on animal nutrition, and we produce premixes, mineral feed, and specialty products in various forms for a wide range of animal species. Social responsibility has always been important to us. In addition to our role as an employer, we have long been involved in regional initiatives, and we are now pleased to expand our engagement globally through our partnership with VSF Germany. Our guiding principle, “Prevention over medication”, aligns well with the work done by the organization. Beyond the technical collaboration, the regular exchange with everyone involved provides a great sense of purpose.
One Health is a central concept that connects human, animal, and environmental health. How is this approach reflected in MIAVIT’s work – for example, in product development, sustainability management, or client relations?
We view human and animal health as closely intertwined. In agriculture, only healthy animals can
produce food that ensures safe and high-quality nutrition for humans. By providing livestock with tailored and appropriate nutrient supplies, many diseases – and consequently, the use of medications such as antibiotics – can be significantly reduced. That’s why we focus daily on developing products and solutions that contribute to improved animal health.
We often speak about the growing importance of civil society and the private sector in sustainable development. In your view, what role should companies play in global health and development?
Private-sector companies should be bold enough to play an active role in sustainable development. This, in my opinion, requires the courage to launch new projects, optimise processes, and embrace change.
Our partnership began with a resilience project in arid regions of East Africa. What makes this engagement particularly valuable for MIAVIT?
Our involvement in East Africa is especially meaningful to us, as we have operated a subsidiary in Kenya for several years. This long-standing presence has fostered strong regional ties, which we now aim to strengthen and deepen through our collaboration with VSF Germany.
What does MIAVIT hope to gain from this partnership – in terms of mutual learning, shared impact, or new perspectives?
Our headquarters are located in the heart of Europe, which often shapes our strategies and development processes through a “European lens.” However, life for people and their animals outside this context is often very different. Different challenges and circumstances require different approaches and product solutions. This project allows us to experience the market from a unique perspective, and I hope it will foster greater understanding and fresh inspiration for future projects and goals.
Looking ahead – what long-term impact do you hope this partnership will have, both for the communities supported and for the visibility of the One Health approach?
What I particularly appreciate about VSF Germany’s work is the emphasis on local education and
capacity-building – essentially “helping people help themselves.” I hope we can sustainably improve the living conditions of both animals and people. I am especially looking forward to co-developing practical, field-ready strategies that can ideally be scaled globally. As a scientist, I also hope for accompanying research to generate evidence and raise awareness of these important topics.
And finally: What advice would you give to other companies considering involvement in social projects or One Health initiatives?
I believe it’s most important to find partners, projects, or initiatives that truly align with your organisation’s core values – something you genuinely believe in. When there is a good fit, challenges can be overcome, and the engagement can be communicated authentically to the public. Beyond doing “the right thing,” such initiatives also help shape a company’s identity – something that works best when it’s sincere. In addition, courage and openness are key. Sometimes opportunities arise that you never expected at the outset.
Dr. Lea Middendorf
Head of Science to Business, MIAVIT
Source: VSF Germany - Annual Report 2024 (https://www.vsfg.org/media-library/)