Tuesday, 25 July 2023 11:55

Former Speaker to chair Riddet Institute

Written by  Staff Reporters
Sir Lockwood Smith. Sir Lockwood Smith.

Former Parliament Speaker and diplomat Sir Lockwood Smith is the new chair of the Riddet Institute.

The institute is a CoRE or Centre for Research Excellence, headquartered on the Massey University campus in Palmerston North. It is the country's premier national centre for fundamental and strategic scientific research in food science and novel food processing. It employs leading scientists from research institutes within NZ and overseas.

Smith replaces Stuart McCutcheon, who passed away suddenly at the beginning of 2023.

Smith says the new board role reflects his interest in science and his enthusiasm for the work of the Riddet Institute in food science. He says science is particularly important as our food industry is grounded in evidence-based nutritional research.

"What worries me today is that science is now being downplayed more and more. People desperately need high standards in food research, to ensure the science of food advances in the best way possible for the best outcomes for future populations. This is where the Riddet Institute work is so valuable," he says.

He says the Riddet Institute has an international reputation and a high profile that is well deserved, and he is looking forward to supporting its work through his role as board chair.

More like this

Milk research wins global dairy award

A food scientist from the Riddet Institute has wowed judges at an international dairy industry award, confirming the Palmerston North institute's strength in milk research.

Beef sector must lift its game

Sir Lockwood Smith is full of praise for the efficiency of the sheep industry, saying they have done a great job over the years.

OAD milking affects protein content

Once-a-day milking (OAD) can increase or lower the amounts of proteins in milk, according to a new study published in the journal Dairy.

Featured

Govt limits forestry conversions

Farmers have welcomed the Government’s move designed to limit farm to forestry conversions entering the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).

Beef genetics survey

New Zealand's primary sector is being called on to help shape the future of the country's industry by sharing views and insights about the availability and use of genetic tools.

Consider a career in hort

OPINION: As the fourth generation of my family working in horticulture, I’m proud to be continuing the legacy and honoured to do so carrying the current title of the Young Grower of the Year 2024.

National

Net zero pilot farm success

A net zero pilot dairy farm, set up in Taranaki two years ago to help reduce on-farm emissions, is showing…

Machinery & Products

Claas offers new cylinder option

Renowned as market leaders in the self-propelled forage harvester sector, Claas has used its experience of chopping a wide range…

Safer feeding for dairy cows

Cows ingesting metal objects in conserved feed is typically going to end in tears, quite often with a trip to…

BA Pumps expand

Cambridge based BA Pumps & Sprayers, specialists in New Zealand-made spraying equipment, has acquired Tokoroa Engineering’s product range, including the…

» Latest Print Issues Online

Milking It

Carbon tax

OPINION: A group of University of Auckland academics claim a carbon tax is the most effective way for New Zealand…

Farmer fury

OPINION: The new Labour Government in the UK is facing the wrath of farmers. Last week thousands of farmers and…

» Connect with Dairy News

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter