Fonterra Suppliers Confident in Mainland Dairy Future
Fonterra's 460 milk suppliers in Australia, who will switch to Lactalis end of this month, are unfazed with the impending change.
Trade Minister Tim Groser has confirmed New Zealand is working closely with our trading partners to keep them informed of the potential contamination of some products.
These include follow-on infant formula, made from whey protein concentrate contaminated with the bacteria that causes botulism.
"As soon as New Zealand authorities were notified of this risk, we immediately acted to inform relevant authorities around the world," says Groser.
"This has included formally notifying Infosan, the World Health Organisation's international food safety regulators network. As more information on this issue is confirmed we will provide our trading partners with further updates.
"We understand that the markets to which contaminated whey protein concentrate, or products using this ingredient, has been exported are Australia, China, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Thailand and Vietnam.
"New Zealand authorities are working with Fonterra to identify and trace all potentially affected products and then inform regulators around the world," says Groser.
New Zealand's dairy and beef industries say they welcome the announcement that the Government will invest $10.49 million in the Dairy Beef Opportunities (DBO) programme.
New Zealand farming is riding a high, with strong prices, full feed covers and improving confidence lining up at the same time.
Manawatu Mayor Michael Ford says the district sees itself as the agribusiness capital of the lower North Island.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is looking forward to connecting with farmers, rural professionals and community members at this year's Central District Field Days.
Labour Party Leader Chris Hipkins has announced a reshuffle of the party's caucus portfolios.
Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says a series of rural resilienced set to be rolled out next week will help farmers and growers better prepared for adverse weather events.