Editorial: What is driving research in NZ?
OPINION: The politics of science or is it the science of politics that is driving research in New Zealand?
Strong evidence is emerging that consumers are suspicious of processed foods, says Professor Warren McNabb.
McNabb, of the Riddet Institute, Palmerston North, is leading a five year, $11 million research project, aimed at producing new high-value milk products.
People want fewer processed foods and would prefer foods they view as more natural. They want to know where their food comes from and the effects of food on their health.
This is a trend will get bigger and bigger, McNabb says.
“People are concerned about the environment, climate change and sustainability and they are starting to add dimensions of that when they think about food. There is a rapidly growing trend towards ‘sustainability nutrition’ from a consumer perspective.”
To meet these consumer trends, the researchers hope to better understand the properties of the various milks; they will look at ways of exploiting these by developing ‘co-products’, e.g. two types of milk mixed together possibly with a plant additive.
The health factor is intrinsic to developing milk products for export, with particular emphasis on increasing the value but not necessarily the volume. That’s why the research is especially ‘value-add’, McNabb says.
“I see NZ as an exporter of agri-foods as being a high-end delicatessen. You have to be the best at what you want to do well; it’s no good being second best.
“How can you crack this high end, these high value substantiated foods? If you make a claim, be it an environmental or sustainability or a health claim, that needs to have scientific substantiation.
“Given the power of social media and the speed at which information gets around you need to have scientific credibility.”
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has welcomed a resolution adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly to declare 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Waikato herd health veterinarian Katrina Roberts is the 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
Trade Minister Todd McClay says New Zealand has no intention of backing down in a trade dispute with Canada over dairy products.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.