Dairy

Optimising health qualities of beef

EAST LANSING, Mich. — Instead of answering, “Where’s the beef?” Michigan State University scientists are gaining a deeper understanding of what’s in the beef. A paper recently published by two MSU researchers highlights new data on how the nutrient composition and healthfulness of beef is impacted by what beef cattle feed on. Jenifer Fenton, a professor in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, and Jason Rowntree, the C.S. Mott Professor of Sustainable Agriculture in the Department of Animal Science, published their findings in October 2024 in npj Science of Food. Funded by the Greenacres Foundation, Fenton and Rowntree, whose work is also supported by MSU AgBioResearch, examined fatty acids and other organic compounds in grass-finished beef from cattle raised using rotational grazing methods, specifically studying whether analysing the nutritional components in beef can lead to accurate predictions on what cattle were fed. Being able to determine the feedstuff cattle ate — such as grass, supplemental feeds or grains — based on the nutrients found in beef could create an approach for how grass-finished beef can be authenticated. Previous research of theirs published in 2022 in Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems confirmed several nutritional benefits of grass-finished beef compared to grain-finished beef from cattle fed barley, oats or corn. Those benefits included less fat, more omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (which support heart health) and a lower omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. Too high of a ratio can cause inflammation in the body and heighten disease risk. “There’s variation in beef, yet we tend to put it under one umbrella,” Rowntree said. “I often say beef is healthy, but there’s nuance to it.” Fenton said the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio in grass-finished beef is usually about 2-to-1. However, some samples her team previously collected had ratios as high as 28.3-to-1. “How […]

Kerry drives dairy innovation with advanced lactase solutions

With rising lactose intolerance affecting an estimated 30-60% of the population in Australia and New Zealand, Kerry is meeting a surging demand for lactose-free dairy options in the region through its portfolio of advanced lactase solutions. Lactose intolerance remains a prevalent issue globally, with only a third of adults worldwide able to digest lactose effectively. By 2028, the Australia and New Zealand market for lactose-free dairy products and alternatives is projected to reach EUR938 million. This shift is not solely driven by lactose intolerance but also by a broadening interest in lactose-free options due to perceived health benefits. This has contributed to impressive growth rates — in 2024, the lactose-free market in Australia is valued at AUD602 million, with a projected 31% CAGR between 2019-2023. In New Zealand, growth is significant with 52% CAGR from 2019-2023 and current market value of NZD63 million. Lactose-Free Solutions for Better Dairy Lactases are naturally occurring enzymes that break down lactose, the sugar found in milk, into simpler sugars — glucose and galactose, which are easily digestible. This enzymatic intervention is critical for those who lack sufficient natural lactase enzymes in their digestive system, a common scenario among the lactose intolerant population. By adding lactase to dairy products, the lactose is pre-digested, making these foods accessible and enjoyable without the usual adverse reactions. The dairy industry has seen a revitalisation in its appeal, much of it thanks to innovations such as lactase enrichment. Traditional dairy products previously thought to cause discomfort are back on the menu, changing the dietary landscapes for many. With these innovative changes, lactose-free is now the fastest-growing dairy category, while low-sugar options are increasingly top of mind for consumers. Kerry’s newly expanded portfolio of lactase solutions includes the high-performing NOLA® Fit and Ha-Lactase™, alongside LactoSens®, a unique rapid residual lactose […]

Confidence grows in solutions for processing plant-based foodstuffs

By Antonio Guillermo Jara Ponce, Systems Sales Manager, HRS Heat Exchangers The last two years have seen a slowdown in investment by the global food and drink industry, particularly in terms of products containing added sugar. However, plant-based drinks and alternative proteins have continued to grow as a sector. There are a number of reasons that food and drink manufacturers have postponed investment over the last 24 months. Some were waiting for interest rates to fall to make investment finance more attractive and reduce the price of raw materials, while others appear wary of the effects of proposed legislation by Western governments to tackle public health issues such as obesity and diabetes, which could see the introduction of taxes on sugar and fat, for example. Yet at HRS Heat Exchangers we’ve seen a difference between some of our traditional markets, such as those making juices, sauces and carbonated drinks, where investment has definitely slowed – and the plant-based and health-food sector where, despite some market readjustment, confidence has been noticeably higher. We are definitely seeing more demand from manufacturers of plant-based drinks, and not just those using traditional ingredients like soy and oat, but others such as coconut or rice. From our perspective, the actual ingredient is less relevant than its properties. From a design point of view, the material’s viscosity, thermal conductivity and how it flows are more important. Once we’ve established those parameters we can design an efficient heat exchanger. The ultra-heat treatment (UHT) of soy-, nut- and oat-based milk alternatives is fundamentally the same process as for dairy and, given our experience in dairy processing (together with the increasing use of our systems for handling meat products), makes us well placed to provide solutions both for plant-based drinks and alternative proteins. One of our particular specialisms is […]

CSIRO serves up innovation initiative for food industry SMEs

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has opened its Innovate to Grow program to small to medium enterprises (SMEs) hoping to advance their innovative ideas in food innovation and technology. Led by experienced researchers, the program will help participants examine technical and business challenges, explore research and development (R&D) opportunities, and develop actionable business and funding plans for their R&D idea. CSIRO’s Agriculture and Food Deputy Director Impact, Dr Michelle Colgrave, said SMEs are key to Australia continuing to grow its reputation as a global leader in food technology. “We can combine innovations in fermentation with ‘customer driven’ preferences to deliver reduced sugar beverages, or no and low alcohol wines,” Dr Colgrave said. “To match our growing population, changing climates and evolving consumer preferences, there’s an increasing need to diversify and develop new food and beverages that will be sustainable into the future. “We are well positioned to do that in Australia with our access to the latest technologies and brightest minds. “SMEs will be an important part of that, driving innovation right along the supply chain while delivering sustainable outcomes for the future of our food manufacturing.” Since launching in 2020, Innovate to Grow has helped more than 600 early-stage R&D companies access the knowledge and tools required to progress their ideas. Mr Joshua Poke, from the Tasmanian Oyster Company, participated in the Innovate to Grow program in 2021. “Innovate to Grow really focused me on what I needed to concentrate on for growing our business in the next 12 months,” Mr Poke said. “It also provided me with lots of practical experiences of other (SMEs) that I learned from.” Innovate to Grow: Food Innovation is open to SMEs working in the following sub-sectors: · Beverage manufacturing · Food production · Traditional and complimentary proteins · Bio-manufacturing including precision fermentation · Sustainable […]

Dairy farming offers opportunities for Kiwis

Kiwis are being encouraged to consider joining the dairy sector, with lots of on-farm jobs available now. Through the 2023 GoDairy campaign, DairyNZ is looking to connect Kiwis with the latest farm assistant vacancies across New Zealand. Waikato farmer John Gibson started his dairy career in 2021, leaving his sales job in Wellington to become a farm assistant near Hamilton, and was recently promoted to second in charge on his current farm. “I love the outdoor aspect of farming, along with being able to work with animals. My favourite thing is learning new things, and setting myself goals, targets and challenges to overcome,” says John. “Before starting my first role, I had no farming experience and had never even stepped foot on a farm. Everything I have learnt has been on the job, with the support of my manager while I adjusted to the new lifestyle. “Dairy farming gives you the opportunity to get involved in everything from dealing with animal health, operating heavy machinery, pastoral care and aiding in the calving process. If you’re looking for a career which will help you grow as a person, challenge you, and increase your experience, then dairy farming is the job for you.” DairyNZ chief executive Dr Tim Mackle says now is a great time to get a foot in the door and start a career in dairy, with plenty of farm assistant roles available across the country. “A dairy career is unique, providing the ability to work outside and with animals, while allowing you to join a world-leading sector that contributes to the health and economic wellbeing of Kiwis and people around the world,” says Dr Mackle. “Our farmers care about their people, their animals, and the environment and many are looking to support new people who join the sector […]

Research shows plantain can reduce nitrogen leaching by 20-60%

The results, from the DairyNZ-led Plantain Potency and Practice (PPP) Programme, prove using Ecotain plantain in pasture can significantly reduce nitrogen entering waterways. Farm trials at Massey University and initial results from a trial at Lincoln University are showing similar trends. The trials are part of the nationwide PPP research and development programme that partners with dairy farmers, industry and Government. “These are exciting results – we now have robust scientific evidence that Ecotain plantain is an effective solution to help dairy farmers further reduce farm footprint and continue playing their part in improving water quality,” says DairyNZ chief executive Dr Tim Mackle. “Plantain can bring significant benefits to local waterways and communities – we all want healthy freshwater to swim and play in, and dairy farmers can confidently use Ecotain plantain on-farm to support that. “These research findings are part of a broader programme of work to continue delivering on dairy’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint in our local communities, while maintaining profitable businesses,” says Dr Mackle. The $22 million seven-year PPP Programme is funded by DairyNZ, the Government through the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund, PGG Wrightson Seeds and Fonterra, working with six additional research and delivery partners. The programme uses Ecotain environmental plantain from Agricom because it has proven effectiveness. An evaluation system is available to assess the environmental benefits of all plantain cultivars sold by a range of providers. At the Massey University farm trial, scientists are measuring nitrogen leaching from paddocks grazed by 80 dairy cows. After two years, the trial results have shown reduced nitrogen leaching by 20 to 60 percent in perennial ryegrass and clover pastures containing 30 to 50 percent Ecotain plantain. The results are compared to traditional perennial ryegrass and clover paddocks (the most common […]

Government action needed on farmer feedback

New Zealand: DairyNZ recommends the Government makes significant changes to its emissions pricing proposal – taking on board the feedback of farmers and their representatives. In its submission, now available online, DairyNZ stands by the He Waka Eke Noa recommendations developed by the primary sector, in partnership with Government officials. The industry-good organisation does not accept the Government’s pricing proposal, Te tatai utu o nga tukunga ahuwhenua, which DairyNZ chair Jim van der Poel says undermines the balance and equity He Waka Eke Noa aims to achieve. “It is unacceptable for farmers, who have made their thoughts very clear on this issue. The Government needs to take this feedback on board,” says Mr van der Poel. “DairyNZ recommends the Government adopts the He Waka Eke Noa recommendations, which represent more than two years of collaboration, including extensive negotiation with Government partners. The Government must ensure any agricultural pricing is fair and equitable for farmers. “The sector could not support any other solution.” Over the past six weeks of Government consultation, DairyNZ held 14 in-person events and 10 webinars, engaging with over 1000 dairy farmers. “Farmers expressed deep concern about the impacts of the Government’s proposal on the sector and New Zealand’s economy. Areas of concern were significant and wide-ranging, including price-setting, collectives, sequestration, reward and recognition for on-farm planting, and governance,” says Mr van der Poel. “The Government’s response to He Waka Eke Noa has missed the mark on many of these criteria. It places a financial burden on the farming community and removes the ability for agriculture to have a say in its own sustainable future.” Of the farmers DairyNZ engaged with, 99 percent think more on-farm planting should be recognised. Ninety-five percent see governance representation as important or extremely important, while 94 percent believe additional criteria should […]

Fonterra, NZX and EEX confirm GDT strategic partnership

Fonterra has confirmed the finalisation of the strategic partnership with New Zealand’s Exchange (NZX) and the European Energy Exchange (EEX) to each take ownership stakes in Global Dairy Trade (GDT) alongside the Co-op. As announced in February 2022, the partnership was subject to the approval of Boards, clearance from relevant competition law authorities, and finalisation of transaction documentation. With those approvals now received, Fonterra, NZX and EEX each hold an equal one-third (33.33%) shareholding in the global dairy auction platform GDT as of 30 June 2022. CFO Marc Rivers says the confirmation of the strategic partnership is an important milestone for Fonterra and global dairy participants. “The move to a broader ownership structure marks the next step in the evolution of GDT – giving it a presence in prominent international dairy producing regions, with greater participation expected at GDT events. “It will bring more participants and transactions, stimulating further growth of risk management contracts available on financial trading platforms. “This creates opportunities for the growth of financial tools to better manage price volatility – which is something many industry participants, from farmers through to customers, are exposed to,” says Mr Rivers. GDT Chief Executive Dr Eric Hansen said: “The GDT team is looking forward to working with EEX and NZX as strategic partners with strong interests in dairy and established reputations as regulated exchanges to enhance GDT’s role as an independent, neutral and transparent price discovery platform.” NZX Chief Executive Mark Peterson says the strategic partnership will strengthen GDT’s market reach benefiting New Zealand dairy farmers and customers. “At a time of geopolitical and macroeconomic instability, GDT’s vision to expand its global reach and provide better transparency in dairy commodity prices, is more important than ever for dairy market stakeholders,” says Mr […]

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Dairy sector looks to the future with new workforce plan

The dairy sector has launched a new workforce plan setting out how it will attract, retain and grow the farm workforce in the next decade. The Great Futures in Dairying plan is the sector’s strategy for shaping dairy farming as a competitive career option through a range of workplace and technology advances. “Dairy farms employ 37,000 people on-farm. The success of dairy is critical for those working in the sector and to New Zealand as a whole,” says DairyNZ chief executive Dr Tim Mackle. “New Zealand is facing significant social changes which will require many businesses to work harder to attract and retain staff. These include an ageing population, increasing urbanisation, wider career options, lower fertility rates and technological change.” Dr Mackle say these trends mean the dairy sector needs to be forward-thinking and develop fresh ideas to attract and keep the right staff. “Farmers are resilient and practical people, and we know they are focused on finding solutions to this challenge.” The Great Futures in Dairying plan is led by DairyNZ in partnership with farmers, Government and farming sector representatives. The plan identifies three key focus areas to make dairy a competitive career option. “As a sector we firstly want to shape up to ensure we are attractive in an increasingly competitive labour market. We are looking at a range of initiatives, including piloting an induction experience for new dairy staff and developing clear career training pathways for people to progress into more senior roles,” says Dr Mackle. The second focus area – change the job – looks at embracing new technology and strategies to improve workplaces. Smart cow collars, milking cup removal technology and flexible milking are some initiatives proposed to provide staff with a better work-life balance. “Lastly, we want to look in new places – […]

Boosting productivity and reducing environmental harm

Dairy Holdings has been on a journey to significantly reduce the amount of water and nitrogen fertiliser it uses as part of a five year strategy to limit environmental impacts – while improving productivity. Precision-ag technology company, CropX, has recently partnered with Dairy Holdings to help it meet those targets. Since implementing its strategy in 2017, Dairy Holdings has reduced water use by one third across its 60 farms spanning 20,000 hectares. This has been achieved by modernising irrigation systems, introducing water meters to measure annual consumption, and installing soil moisture monitors to guide irrigation decisions. Dairy Holdings has also reduced fertliser use to well within the new nitrogen cap regulations of 190 kilograms per hectare (kgN/ha) at an average of 172 kgN/ha for the 2021/22 season. Despite these big cuts in water and nutrient inputs, pasture growth has, in fact, improved. This has resulted in a massive 90% decrease in the quantity of purchased supplementary feed per year. Underlying all of this positive change has been a need for Dairy Holdings to understand, in precise terms, what is happening in the soil of its farms. This allows farm managers to make informed decisions about how much water and nutrients to apply to the land and when, to enable optimal grass growth with minimal inputs. Initially, as part of its irrigation upgrades, Dairy Holdings installed soil sensor tapes below the ground under the irrigators, which farm managers could monitor daily to inform irrigation decisions. But this system required more active management, was very time consuming to use, and often led to inconsistent results. Dairy Holdings needed one, standardised, automated, online, easily accessible, and transparent soil moisture monitoring system with data captured from across all of its irrigated farms. This would guide optimum water […]

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