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Sustainable Foods Summit

The summit (www.sustainablefoodssummit.com) is taking place on 18-20th January 2017 in San Francisco for the seventh consecutive year. Agriculture is often cited as the cause and victim of many of the environmental and social issues facing the planet: from climate change, biodiversity loss, water scarcity to social inequality and economic migration. The opening session will highlight the role of sustainable food systems in helping resolve some of these major issues. The Regenerative Design Institute will discuss the solutions provided by permaculture, whilst another paper explores the science of biomimicry. With proteins coming under scrutiny for their high ecological impacts, approaches to reduce environmental impacts of livestock and seafood production will be discussed. Theresa Marquez, Chief Marketing Executive of Organic Valley, will highlight the benefits provided by organic livestock farming. Elizabeth Candelario, Managing Director of Demeter Association, will explain how biodynamic agriculture can produce climate-friendly foods. The Global Salmon Initiative will show how sustainable seafood farming can help alleviate the proteins crisis. Another session gives an update on the growing palette of sustainable ingredients available to food and beverage firms. Seema Kedia from Barry Callebaut will kick off the session with details of the company’s sustainable sourcing programs. She will give insights on how such programs are improving the lives of impoverished growers in developing countries. Other papers will cover developments in marine ingredients, natural flavourings, and natural colours. Although the mandatory GM labeling bill has now been passed, there remain concerns about its scope and implementation. Details will be given of the new bill and its implications to the sustainable food community. Will adoption rates of voluntary schemes such as the Non-GMO Project continue to rise? What new schemes could emerge to cover GMOs in livestock products and / or the foodservice sector? The waste impacts session highlights best-practices in […]

DNA technology to accelerate improvements in agricultural production

A new deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) analysis technology called Genotyping by Random Amplicon Sequencing (GRAS) uses analytical materials. This technology is capable of dramatically improving the efficiency of identifying and selecting useful genetic information for agricultural plant improvement. This technology should lead to substantial time and cost savings in the agricultural plant improvement process. Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC0 is involved in a wide range of initiatives in order to help achieve a sustainable society. In addition to improving the fuel efficiency of its vehicles to help prevent global warming and to also enhance energy security; TMC is also supporting various bio-technology businesses. For example, TMC has applied its wealth of knowledge about production control systems and process improvements to the agricultural field so as to help develop the cloud-based agricultural IT management tool (Housaku Keikaku). At the same time, TMC is also developing a technology that would help to increase the yield of sugar-cane as an alternative biofuel source. Conventional agricultural plant improvement to increase crop yields involves selecting and interbreeding of parent varieties based on extensive past improvement data, assessing progeny over the long term, as well as selecting new progeny with the desired property. However, although the recently developed marker technology(1), which uses genetic information to predict plant characteristics has helped to improve the efficiency of this process, the lengthy time needed as well as the high cost of this method of DNA analysis have sought to hinder its adoption. In response, TMC has paired its proprietary sample preparation technology(2) with a next-generation sequencer(3) to develop GRAS, a new technology that can substantially simplify the process of identifying and selecting useful genetic information. GRAS is capable of analyzing DNA in about one-tenth the time needed, and at around one-third the cost of conventional techniques that are being utilised. This […]

Mood buoyant at co-located Foodtech Packtech and MHL Expo

A record attendance of more than 4000 (mainly) food manufacturers descended upon the biennial Foodtech Packtech and MHL Expo trade show last week in Auckland, with organisers claiming it a huge success. More than 240 exhibitors were on display across 4 halls of the ASB showgrounds in Auckland – the largest contingent of exhibitors in more than a decade with the show collocating with their recently acquired Materials Handling and Logistics Expo. More than 80 of the 240 exhibitors were displaying materials handling related product – so it really fulfilled the brief for trade attendees – helping complete the “Pasture (or seabed) to plate” story for Food Manufacturers visiting the show. “Exhibitors have been completing post-show surveys saying the quality of visitor was spot on,” says Brent Spillane MD of the show. “We’ve had feedback that the sector was very buoyant with many outlaying large CapEx to buy plant, packaging, machinery, equipment and technology for their factories,” says Spillane. The event attracted a strong contingent of international visitors too – with large groups of Chinese and Australian delegates. “We’re excited about the growing internationalisation of the event with ongoing dialogue with industry stakeholders around creating an international food week and conference attached to the show in years to come. When you get this many industry professionals attending the show – there’s a natural progression to create ancillary conferences.” The event hosted three full days of seminars hosted by the NZ Institute of Food Science and Technology, The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and other relevant sector bodies. “We had a very high calibre of speakers covering issues ranging from Risk Management in Exports through to a new $15m MBIE funded Food Research fund – across the three days.” Rebooking for FTPT and the MHL Expo have already been strong […]

Measuring the benefits of cover crops in maize

Globally there is increasing interest and research in cover crops within cropping systems. The questions New Zealand growers are asking are, ‘what benefits can they bring to our systems and how can they be practically managed’?’ Allister Holmes, FAR’s Waikato based Research and Extension Manager, says weed suppression, improved soil health and reduced erosion, nitrogen fixation, improved biodiversity and the ability to provide in situ or cut and carry animal feed are just some of the reported benefits associated with the use of cover crops. However, he says, more work is required in order to understand how any effects, either positive or negative, can be managed in individual farm systems. “Recently FAR have increased their research into cover crops, focussing on their integration with maize systems. Much of this research has been based at FAR’s Northern Crop Research Site (NCRS) at Tamahere in Waikato, where currently six cover crop trials are underway. These trials are investigating issues such weed suppression, growth and development patterns, growing cover crops under maize, intercropping, establishment techniques and the impact of cover crops on following crops.” Cover crops and weed suppression Assessing different cover crops and their weed suppressive abilities. The trial, which is looking at faba beans, gland clover, oats and annual ryegrass, builds on a trial from last season, investigating a range of pre- and post-emergent herbicides and whether the weed control provided by cover crops could be used to reduce herbicide applications. The cover crops were sown in early winter and maize will be over sown in spring, before harvest assessments are carried out in autumn. Trevor James and Mike Trolove from AgResearch’s Farm Systems are undertaking this work. Growth and development patterns Observing growth and development patterns of a range of cover crop species were sown with two sowing dates, and […]

Rexmoi controls temperature and humidity

Rexmoi® has now become a multipurpose tool with the ability to control temperature and humidity with applications such as drying various products, cooking at low temperatures, and controlled cooling of products. The units are sealed enclosed chambers which allows control of the atmosphere within, using smart controls and refrigeration technology. Air flow around the product is an important factor of how well the system works. There are different trolleys and trays and variable air flow to optimise this. Filters are used to control product particles in the chamber. An air sanitising system can be added. The Rexmoi® technology is not limited to our current units. It can be used to control the atmosphere in an existing environment, designed to suit your requirements. The existing units can be used for trials to obtain the information necessary to design a unit or environment to suit your product or situation. The Rexmoi® technology is not limited to food products. We have supplied a unit that heats and cures a material product at various temperatures for a certain length of time. The reason for choosing the Rexmoi® method is it a safer method of heating volatile products as there is no exposed electric elements or gas fire. This technology is available from Drying Solutions Ltd who are appearing at FoodTech PackTech on Stand 2100.

How to get Asia-savvy

Want to break into an Asian market? New Zealand businesses need to think big but start small and get “Asian-savvy”, an expert in Asian business networks says. And that will take a shift in mind-set among some of our businesses as well as serious investment in upskilling. Professor Natasha Hamilton-Hart, the new director of the New Zealand Asia Institute, says New Zealand is “behind the curve” in developing a workforce with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in Asian markets. “We’ve increased sales to the region, but we can’t rely on the low-hanging fruit to grow in the longer term,” she says. She says the $34.5 million government funding announced in June to set up new Centres of Asia-Pacific Excellence is welcome but overdue. “Australia is way ahead educating for Asia engagement, and even Singapore – which is squarely in and of the region – has recognised since the 1980s that it needs to actively develop the skills and mind-sets for expanding in the region. It won’t happen automatically.” Professor Hamilton-Hart has previously held positions at the National University of Singapore and the Australian National University. She introduced the Asia Savvy Conference at the University of Auckland Business School on Saturday 27 August. The conference, in its sixth year, is student-driven and supported by the institute. Speakers shared their experiences of doing business in Asia, emerging market trends and opportunities for New Zealand entrepreneurs. Being Asia-savvy not only helps entering a market, it means you’re less likely to be blindsided by predictable events, Professor Hamilton-Hart says. Her advice to businesses wanting to take on an Asian market: • Really get to grips with your market. Beyond standard market research, businesses need to understand the wider culture and politics at play. • Share stories of failure as well success. “There […]

Materials Handling & Logistic Show to run alongside Foodtech Packtech

With less than 8 weeks to go the countdown has begun for this year’s largest combined trade only industry event – the Materials Handling & Logistics Expo (MHL) running alongside Foodtech Packtech (FTPT). Event organisers, XPO Exhibitions have already confirmed in excess of 200 exhibiting companies across both shows and are expecting thousands of industry attendees across the three days. This is a unique industry opportunity to view latest products and cutting edge technologies across food & beverage manufacturing, food and industrial packaging as well as materials handling and logistics solutions. This year’s Materials Handling and Logistics Show already has 50 exhibiting companies – a number that’s well up on the previous event in 2013. We’ve had a great deal of interest from forklift providers right through to 3PL providers. “MHL is under new management and back alongside FTPT where it all began more than 10 years ago. Food specific materials handling and logistics solutions have always been popular exhibitor features within FTPT so the formal alignment of MHL is simply helping the combined show grow. The materials handling and logistics side of things completes our ‘New Zealand pasture (or sea) to plate’ capability story which is so important to realise our export market potential.” Says Tony Waite Events Director of XPO. “Now we’ve got MHL onboard we’ll also be cross referencing our database of close to 300,000 industry professionals registered for other successful trade shows we run – to send out relevant invites to a wide variety of industry interested in materials handling and logistics solutions. “Examples will include general engineering and manufacturing, homewares importers, retail and even the construction industry – anyone storing, moving or distributing good in New Zealand or internationally.” The organisers are quick to point out that Foodtech Packtech itself has grown a great deal […]

Careful whom you employ

Rural Contractors New Zealand – the only national association and the leading advocate for rural contractors in New Zealand – is urging farmers to ensure their agricultural contractor is a member of the organisation. The warning comes in the wake of a recent Fair Go item that saw a Central Otago farmer lose a $60,000 linseed crop due to a mistake in the spray application to the crop. “Farmers should use a Registered Chemical Applicator and preferably a member of RCNZ to ensure –as far as possible – that the potential for mistakes like this happening are minimised,” says RCNZ chief executive Roger Parton. “This also gives farmers the back-up that a contractor — who is part of our insurance scheme –will have insurance cover in these types of circumstances.” Mr Parton says RCNZ members who are part of its Registered Chemical Applicator scheme are trained and regularly updated in the safe and expert handling of applying chemicals to crops and pastures. “RCNZ has introduced its chemical application accreditation programme to meet the needs of both our members and the industry. “The application of agrichemicals has to be carried out in a competent and professional manner to ensure the enhancement of the crop and the safety of the operator, the environment and the public. Mr Parton says there are two levels of agrichemical applicator accreditation available through Rural Contractors New Zealand: – Basic Chemical Applicator; and – Registered Chemical Applicator RCNZ promotes to central and local government, as well as industry associations, the following policy: Any person applying agrichemicals in a public place or on private property for hire and reward, shall either be: – The holder of a Registered Chemical Applicator accreditation or; – The holder of a Basic Chemical Applicator (or equivalent) accreditation operating under the immediate and […]

Agribusiness needs to budget for volatility

While volatility in business is to be expected, many of New Zealand’s primary producers have experienced a bumpy ride in recent years. Increased volatility driven by to swings in international commodity prices and the value of the NZ dollar is now the new normal according to professional services firm Crowe Horwath. In this context, Crowe Horwath says a strong case is made for agribusinesses in general to invest time and effort into careful budgeting and cash flow planning to weather unexpected difficult times. “The dairy sector witnessed the heady payout levels of 2013-14 rapidly give way to the current trough and associated uncertainty around a recovery timeframe. This has created real pressure for many,” confirms Larry Mitchell Agribusiness Advisor at Crowe Horwath. “However, while this is a case in point, it illustrates that as a globally traded commodity any agribusiness faces volatility risks where markets can and do change regularly.” That, Mitchell notes, makes a strong case for optimising cash flow through careful planning and preparation. “Getting a clear handle on budgets and cash flows is good business practice that should be undertaken in the good times as well as bad. In fact, the point of planning is to give your business the resilience to ride the lows – even though you may have little-to-no idea when they might come,” Mitchell adds. Take stock of spending habits Putting together cash flow and budgets starts with taking the time to honestly evaluate spending patterns for the business. “Once budgets are established, stick to them. Avoid the temptation to spend a little bit extra here and there; the extras quickly add up and soon you could be looking at a significant amount of unplanned expenditure over the year,” Mitchell points out. The temptation is likely to be stronger in good times; don’t […]

Training vital through the ups and downs

Michael and Susie Woodward, runners up in the Share Farmer of the Year category in the 2016 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA), know that riding the ups and downs of the dairy sector is part and parcel of the industry but the key is knowing what’s truly adding value to your business. “This is not the time to take shortcuts,” Michael says. The award-winning 50/50 Share Farmers are strong believers in constantly upskilling – both themselves and their staff. The Woodward’s have four full-time staff on board at the farm in Leeston on the Canterbury Plains completing a range of qualifications through Primary ITO, the industry training organisation for the dairy sector. “We’re firm believers in continuing education. Training is crucial to ensure you don’t fall behind the times. We actively encourage our team to train, and we’re constantly upskilling ourselves,” Susie says. “The most important thing is that the right decision is made the first time. There is a cost to training but without it, it could come at a large expense to the business,” Michael says. “I believe it’s easy to get the money back and for every dollar you invest in a person’s training – you receive a whole lot more in return.” In terms of how the couple split their farm roles, Michael holds responsibility for staff engagement on farm, ensuring everything gets done. He also looks after staff training. Susie heads up accounts, payroll, HR and office admin, recruitment, legal requirements and on top of that health and safety requirements. Hailing from the USA, Susie built up her skills through Primary ITO training. “I’ve competed Rural Staff Management through the ITO,” Susie says. “It gave me better information about how to make our recruitment and employment process fluid and fail safe. I gained the […]

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