Food & Beverage Industry News - March 2025

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The importance of the right ingredients

Ipublished by John Murphy. All material in Food & Beverage Industry News is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published.

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n food and beverage manufacturing, the quality of the ingredients used is critical to ensuring a product’s safety, taste, and consistency. Manufacturers rely on a variety of ingredients – from natural produce to specialised additives – to create the final product that reaches consumers. The right ingredients are essential not only for meeting consumer expectations but also for compliance with food safety regulations and maintaining the product’s marketability.

At the heart of this process is the raw material selection. Ingredients such as flour, sugar, oil, and protein must meet specific standards of quality and purity to guarantee that the final product is both safe and of high quality. These ingredients are typically sourced from suppliers who adhere to strict industry guidelines.

The consistency of these materials is crucial to prevent variations in the final product, which could lead to consumer dissatisfaction or even product recalls.

However, it is not only the natural ingredients that play a role in food manufacturing. Food additives are an integral part of the production process, contributing to a range of functions that are vital for the preservation, texture, and appearance of the food.

Food additives can be classified into several categories, including preservatives, stabilisers, emulsifiers, and flavour enhancers.

This helps improve the shelf life of products, maintain their texture during storage, and enhance flavour profiles, all while ensuring the safety and stability of the product over time.

have a shorter shelf life, leading to increased waste and potentially unsafe products on the market.

Flavour enhancers also play a key role in food manufacturing. These additives help to elevate the flavour profile of food and beverages, often by increasing existing tastes without overpowering them. This is especially important in products that require a balance of flavours, such as soups.

While the use of food additives is common in the manufacturing process, it is important that they are used responsibly and in line with food safety regulations. In Australia, the use of food additives is tightly regulated by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), which ensures that only approved additives are used in food production.

FSANZ sets limits on the quantities of additives allowed and ensures that they do not pose a risk to human health when consumed at levels typically found in food products.

The right selection of ingredients, including both natural raw materials and food additives, is essential for successful food and beverage manufacturing. These ingredients ensure that products meet consumer expectations for quality, safety, and taste, while also supporting the efficiency of the manufacturing process.

Moreover, manufacturers are increasingly turning to innovative ingredient sourcing and processing techniques to meet the growing demand for healthier and more sustainable products.

These changes not only respond to the demand for better nutrition but also address environmental concerns, with sustainable sourcing practices gaining traction across the globe.

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Preservatives, for example, are essential for extending the shelf life of food products by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, moulds, and yeasts. Common preservatives like sodium and calcium are often added to processed foods, such as sauces, baked goods, and readyto-eat meals, to reduce the risk of spoilage and maintain product quality.

Without preservatives, many food products would

With ongoing advancements in food science, the role of additives will continue to evolve, offering new opportunities for manufacturers to enhance their products while maintaining compliance with industry standards.

Until next month, happy reading.

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10 MEET THE MANUFACTURER

Remedy Drinks making a splash in healthy drinks category.

14 ADVANCED PROCESSING

Heat and Control to exhibit at the Melbourne International Coffee Expo.

16 INGREDIENTS FEATURE

Australia’s food additives market is set for steady growth through 2025, driven by several factors.

18 INGREDIENTS

Australian Bakels continues to perfect its ingredient solutions

20 BIOSOLUTIONS

Novonesis’ biosolutions are used across the production process.

22 FOODTECH QLD

FoodTech QLD is returning to the Gold Coast in 2025.

24 INDUSTRIAL WEIGHING

Tecweigh unveils enhancements to its volumetric auger feeders.

26 CALIBRATION

AMS Instrumentation & Calibration offers tailored calibration solutions to increase efficiency and safety.

28 FOOD WASTE

The Australian Food Pact has released its Impact Report.

30 LEVEL MEASUREMENT

VEGA’s radar sensors continue to be beneficial to manufacturers.

32 AUSTRALIAN WINE

Australian wine exports surged by 34 per cent in 2024.

34 PARLIAMENT INQUIRY

Stakeholder insight from the ongoing parliamentary food enquiry.

36 FARMING TRADE

Australian farmers are set for another successful year.

38 BREWING INDUSTRY

Australia’s beer manufacturing sector has steady growth.

40 FOOD INFLATION

Food price inflation eased slightly in the December 2024 quarter.

42 MARKET REPORT

Last year had a steady volume of mergers and acquisitions.

44 AFGC

The Australian Food and Grocery Council’s leadership changes.

46 AIP

A look at the what was on display at Tokyo Pack.

48 ORGANIC REGULATION

The Organic Development Group wants consumer protections.

50 PRODUCTS

Alternatives to glass wine bottles undergo feasibility testing

As the Australian wine sector moves towards its emissions reduction targets, six innovative packaging solutions for premium wine have been awarded Federal Government grants to test their feasibility.

The grants have been issued as part of the Business Research and Innovation Initiative (BRII) – Renewables and Low Emissions Round, managed by the Department of Industry, Science and Resources. BRII provides funding to startups and SMEs to develop innovative solutions for government policy and service delivery challenges.

Alternative packaging for premium Australian wine was among three challenges of the Renewables and Low Emissions Round.

The BRII grants were awarded to six companies for their proposed solutions:

• Margaret River Winery Pty Ltd

• Development of quality biopolymers for sustainable wine packaging

• Dr AHA Data and AI

Technology Pty Ltd

• A rtificial Intelligence systems for managing defects in glass production to reduce carbon emissions

• Delivery Happiness International Pty Ltd

• Sustainable eco flat PET bottles for premium Australian wines and beyond

• Wine One Pty Ltd

• Development and feasibility of Eco Steel wine bottles for wine

• Bravu Pty Ltd

• E co friendly soft plastic pouch packaging solutions for wine

• Phantm Pty Ltd

• Development of novel natural polymer materials for wine packaging

The technical and commercial feasibility study of these solutions will be tested over the course of three months.

Grant recipients who successfully demonstrate the feasibility of their solutions may then be invited to apply

CEO, said the Australian grape and wine sector had set itself the major goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, with an initial 42 per cent

wine accounts for around 70 per cent of the Australian wine industry’s carbon emissions with heavy glass bottles being the main contributor,” he said. F

Asahi Beverages announces executive changes

Asahi Beverages has announced the appointment of Nigel Parsons as Chief Commercial Officer, commencing on 1 April 2025.

This is a new role at Asahi Beverages, with the chief commercial officer to have responsibility for the Group’s commercial and sales functions across Australia and New Zealand, covering alcohol and non-alcohol.

Nigel will continue to report to Group CEO Amanda Sellers. Nigel has been CEO of the Asahi Lifestyle Beverages (ALB) business division since joining the business in March 2021.

“I’m delighted that Nigel has accepted the new role of chief commercial officer,” said Sellers.

“Nigel has achieved considerable success as CEO of ALB, increasing our market share and sales across our non-alcohol beverages portfolio. Nigel has built exceptional relationships with our customers, which has resulted in significant new partnership deals and an expanded customer base.

“The consolidation of the Group’s

Australian commercial and sales functions and the NZ business under a chief commercial officer will simplify our multi-beverage business, delivering a superior customer experience.

“We’re confident that we’ll unlock new growth opportunities and deliver on evolving consumer drinking trends.”

“With the consolidation of our alcohol and non-alcohol commercial and sales functions and the NZ business, we will no longer have CEOs in our three business divisions, ALB, Carlton & United Breweries and Asahi Beverages NZ.

“It is therefore with great disappointment that we announce Danny Celoni, CEO of our CUB business division since 2022, has decided to leave the business. Danny has played an important role over the past few months in the discussions that have resulted in our new structure,” said Sellers.

Beverages has announced

of the Year two years in a row.

“His success in instilling a customer-centric mindset at CUB, and his effective strategies to expand the category, have delivered us strong growth across our alcohol portfolio over

Andrew Campbell, CEO of Asahi Beverages NZ, will continue to lead the New Zealand business in the new position of NZ Country Manager, reporting to the new chief commercial

“Danny is an incredibly respected CEO and industry leader, so we understand Danny’s decision to pursue

new opportunities at the CEO level. He will leave the business at the end of June, but until then he will continue to play an important role in ensuring the transition process runs smoothly.

“Danny has made an exceptional contribution to our business and will leave a lasting legacy. Danny’s significant achievements include the development of our leading alcohol innovation pipeline and CUB winning the Australian Drinks Awards Supplier

The final element of the executive reorganisation is an expansion of Brian Phan’s role. Brian’s responsibilities will now include the Group’s Marketing, Innovation and Portfolio Management in Australia, covering both alcohol and non-alcohol, as chief growth officer.

He will continue to lead the Strategy and Disruption teams and will continue to report to Group CEO Amanda Sellers.

There will be no changes to our beverages or manufacturing operations as a result of this announcement.

Alternative packaging for premium Australian wine was among three challenges of the Renewables and Low Emissions Round.

Asahi

the appointment of Nigel Parsons as chief commercial officer.

New biosecurity legislation to protect primary industries

Contemporary legislation to strengthen protections for South Australia’s $18.5 billion primary industries from pests, diseases and other biosecurity threats has passed both houses of State Parliament.

The South Australia Government has introduced the Biosecurity Bill 2024 as part of its legislative reform agenda, aiming to modernise the management of biosecurity risks.

The new legislation consolidates several existing Acts, including the Plant Health Act 2009, Livestock Act 1997, Dog Fence Act 1946, and Impounding Act 1920. This will enhance consistency across animal, plant, and environmental biosecurity management while providing a flexible framework to address both current and emerging challenges.

Amendments have also been made to the Fisheries Management Act 2007 and the Phylloxera and Grape Industry Act 1995.

A key feature of the Bill is the principle of shared responsibility for

biosecurity, placing a general duty on industry, government, and the community to take reasonable steps to manage risks. It emphasises that everyone has a role in protecting the state.

For the livestock sector, the Bill formalises the State Government’s ongoing commitment to match prescribed industry contributions for the Dog Fence Board, which manages the 2,150-kilometre South Australian section of the Dog Fence.

“The passing of the new biosecurity legislation is a significant milestone in strengthening the protections for our state’s $18.5 billion primary industries and agribusinesses against existing and emerging biosecurity challenges,” said Clare Scriven, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development.

“Biosecurity regulatory reform has been occurring around the country and these changes provide South Australia with a contemporary legislative framework to ensure we remain a strong

Biosecurity is crucial for market access, ensuring the safe supply of agricultural, fisheries and forestry products to local, interstate, and international markets.

link in the national system.”

access, ensuring the safe supply of agricultural, fisheries, and forestry products to local, interstate, and international markets. This includes the use of traceability systems to verify the health status, origin, and movement of goods through the supply chain.

of protecting South Australia’s unique flora, fauna, and public amenities from biosecurity threats.

The Bill follows five years of extensive development and consultation, with stakeholder and public feedback incorporated into the final version. F

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Inghams in New Zealand is partnering in world-first research to create animal nutrition from greenhouse geothermal gases.

With poultry brands including Waitoa Free Range and Bostock Brothers organic chicken, Inghams in New Zealand is proud to be a part of this pioneering research, the results of which could support the decarbonisation of animal feed industries, reduce Inghams’ reliance on imported animal feed, as well as the cost of carbon emissions for geothermal companies that adopt the system.

The research focuses on a system that involves biomass being created when micro-organisms feed off greenhouse gas emissions captured from geothermal power stations.

The biomass produced is made up of several potentially commercially valuable components, including protein for

Inghams takes part in world first trial of new feedstock Woolworths announces leadership and organisational changes

Woolworths Group has announced changes to its food leadership and organisational structure to allow a greater focus on the areas that have the most impact for customers.

Annette Karantoni has been appointed to the role of managing director, Woolworths Retail, reporting to Amanda Bardwell, Woolworths Group CEO and managing director, Australian Food.

Woolworths Retail brings together key components of the Australian retail business including Woolworths Supermarkets, Metro, Greenstock (red meat supply business) and Woolworths Food Company Retail (Own Brand).

“Annette has been leading Primary Connect, the Group’s supply chain business, for over three years. This has included oversight of the NSW supply chain transformation, the Group’s biggest strategic investment to date,” said Amanda Bardwell.

“Prior to leading Primary Connect, Annette spent over 20 years working

animal feed.

Greg Bannon, Head of Strategy for Inghams New Zealand, says Inghams is excited about being a key industry partner in the research project and the potential benefits from the project.

“If the research is successful, New Zealand would be the first country in the world to pioneer biomass feedstock production from Aotearoa’s abundant geothermal resources. The benefits of a decarbonised food production alternative would significantly help reduce our Scope 3 emissions,” said Bannon.

With approximately $5 million of funding, Upflow, a Rotorua-based geothermal consultancy, and its partners will progress to a pilot plant phase to research how two micro-organisms, a bacterium and an alga, can be used together to convert carbon dioxide and methane into a protein-rich biomass.

the first in the world to pioneer biomass feedstock production from greenhouse gases and robust micro-organisms that thrive in the extreme conditions found at geothermal sites.

an important contributor to the possible creation of a new biomass feedstock manufacturing industry in New Zealand, which could be worth an estimated $500 million per annum by 2045. F

across Woolworths Group and has held senior leadership roles in Australian Food in eCommerce, Buying, Marketing and Replenishment.

“Our Woolworths Retail business is the cornerstone of our Group and critical to our success. Getting it right for our customers starts with our team and we are taking the opportunity to simplify the way we work to create the biggest impact for our customers.

“With Metro, Greenstock and Woolworths Food Company Retail moving into Woolworths Retail under Annette’s leadership, we will be able to enhance the role our retail food stores and own brand play in meeting the needs of our customers.”

Jeanette Fenske, director of stores and Paul Harker, chief commercial officer, who have been leading Woolworths Supermarkets on an interim basis will continue in their existing roles as part of Woolworths Retail’s leadership team, reporting to Annette Karantoni.

“I would like to thank Jeanette and

last few months,” said Bardwell.

In New Zealand, Sally Copland has been appointed managing director, Woolworths New Zealand following Spencer Sonn’s decision to return to South Africa.

Copland has been with Woolworths Group for over 18 years and will return to Woolworths New Zealand having previously held a number of senior

Brand and CountdownX teams.

“Sally’s experience in Australia and New Zealand across many parts of our food businesses makes her ideally suited to lead Woolworths New Zealand in its continuing transformation. I would also like to thank Spencer for his leadership in a very challenging environment and wish him all the best in his future endeavours,” said Bardwell. F

New research focuses on a system that involves biomass being created when micro-organisms feed off greenhouse gas emissions.

Annette Karantoni has been appointed to the role of managing director, Woolworths Retail.

Suntory Oceania appoints new licensed sales director for New Zealand

Suntory Oceania has announced the appointment of Jared Chamberlain as the New Zealand licensed sales director.

This senior appointment comes as the business prepares to officially launch its $3 billion multi-beverage partnership across the premium spirits and nonalcohol segments.

From January 2026, Suntory will assume management of the licensed Route to Market in New Zealand, further solidifying its commitment to the region.

In his new role, Jared will establish and lead the licensed team in New Zealand, a new unit responsible for the development and execution of Suntory Oceania’s channel strategy, driving customer engagement and market growth across the alcohol portfolio.

Chamberlain brings a wealth of industry knowledge and experience to the role after spending more than 18 years in the beverages industry.

During this time, his experience spanned roles in Commercial Finance

and Sales, and most recently as general manager – Licensed. Speaking about his new position, Chamberlain said he’s thrilled to be joining Suntory Oceania at such an exciting time of growth and transformation.

“Having spent over 20 years in sales, this will be the first year I focus solely on building the route to market rather than selling, and I’m ready for the challenge,” he said.

“Bringing our portfolios together presents a huge opportunity to drive growth and deliver even greater value to our customers. Suntory is an amazing team of people who, by working as one, can create meaningful connections and build a stronger future together.

“It’s a thrill to be a part of Suntory at this pivotal time.”

Brad Erceg, chief commercial officer, of Suntory Oceania said the appointment marks a key milestone in the company’s transformation journey.

“His wealth of experience in the licensed channel and passion for people

development make him the

New Zealand,” he said.

“As we continue to lay the foundations for long-term success in New Zealand, Jared’s leadership will play a crucial role in helping us achieve our ambitions as a multi-beverage powerhouse.”

This appointment is part of Suntory Oceania’s broader strategy to establish itself as the fourth-largest beverage group

in the region, combining the strengths of Suntory Global Spirits and Suntory Beverage & Food in Oceania. With full end-to-end control of its portfolio of more than 40-market leading brands, the partnership will include local manufacturing, sales, and distribution, and is set to be fully operational by mid-2025 in Australia and January 2026 in New Zealand. F

ideal candidate to drive growth in

Image: Suntory Oceania

Brad Erceg, CCO at Suntory Oceania (left), said Jared Chamberlain’s (right) appointment as NZ licensed sales director marks a key milestone in the company’s transformation journey.

Remedy Drinks has grown into a major player in the global healthy drinks category after recognising a gap in the market.

A journey of health, quality, and innovation

What began as a home-brewed kombucha in a small kitchen has grown into Remedy Drinks, a prominent global player in the healthy, sustainable beverages sector.

In 2012, Remedy Drinks emerged from a humble kitchen bench in Melbourne, Australia, founded by Sarah and Emmet Condon with a clear mission in mind: to create a beverage that combined health benefits with exceptional taste.

At the time, the shelves of Australian supermarkets were filled with drinks that either lacked true nutritional value, pretended to be healthy, or were genuinely beneficial but fell short on flavour. Recognising a gap in the market, the couple decided to launch a brand that would defy these shortcomings.

From kitchen to global brand

What started as an experimental home brew soon blossomed into a global

brand that would take the beverage industry by storm. The first product was kombucha, a naturally fermented sparkling tea, which was virtually unknown in Australia at the time.

The couple had to educate Australians about what kombucha was, why fermentation was beneficial, and, perhaps most importantly, convince consumers to take that initial sip of this unfamiliar drink.

Despite the early challenges, the Condon’s’ persistence paid off. Early adopters embraced the product, helping to spread the word and build a loyal following.

into a fridge essential for so many people today,” said Georgia Vile, chief marketing officer, Remedy Drinks.

Product range

What began with kombucha has since expanded into a full range of betterfor-you beverages. While kombucha remains at Remedy’s core, the company has diversified with products like Remedy Sodaly, an all-natural soft drink alternative, Remedy Shots 60ml functional shots, Remedy KICK, a natural energy drink, and Remedy Switchel ACV, a modern take on an old-fashioned apple cider vinegar

conscious drinks.

“As we’ve grown, so has our mission, to shake up the drinks industry and prove that healthy choices don’t have to be boring,” said Vile.

Remedy’s drinks are now enjoyed across the globe, including in the UK, Canada, the US, and beyond, making healthy alternatives more accessible than ever before.

The journey from a small-scale operation to a global brand has been marked by significant milestones.

“We’ve gone from launching in cafes and health food stores to becoming the number one selling kombucha in Australia,” said Vile.

Expanding into independent supermarkets, opening additional factories to meet demand, and ultimately

Images: Remedy Drinks

What began with a single kombucha line at Remedy Drinks, has since grown into a expanded range of better-for-you beverages off the back of rapid growth.

taking Remedy global, have all been pivotal steps in the company’s growth. Remedy has also expanded its product range to include several new offerings, all while remaining true to its roots of all natural, functional drinks.

A particularly notable achievement

of brewing kombucha,” said Vile.

The large-scale facility enables Remedy to continue producing smallbatch-quality kombucha, but at a scale that meets the needs of a growing global market.

of everything we do at Remedy,” said Vile. “We’re constantly listening, whether through brand research, direct conversations, or our engaged online community.”

Remedy’s fans often provide valuable insights that lead to improvements or new product ideas.

“After hearing from our fans, we’ve even brought back old fan-favourite flavours,” said Vile , demonstrating the importance of community in Remedy’s ongoing evolution. This focus on listening to consumers has enabled the company to stay ahead of trends and deliver products that meet customer needs.

Crafting quality

At Remedy, quality control is a key priority. The company’s products are brewed using traditional methods, with no shortcuts taken in the brewing process. Remedy’s kombucha is brewed in small batches, using only the highestquality ingredients.

“We never use concentrates or pasteurise our kombucha,” said Vile. “We brew the traditional way for 30 days, which ensures that all sugar is converted into healthy organic acids.”

The brewing process begins with

organic black and green teas, which are carefully selected for their high polyphenol content. The tea is then fermented using Remedy’s original SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast), which has been used in every batch since the company’s founding.

“We’re committed to keeping our drinks raw, real, and full of live cultures,” added Vile.

Quality is further ensured through extensive testing. Remedy’s on-site labs conduct chemistry, R&D, and sensory tests on every batch, ensuring that each product meets the company’s rigorous standards.

“It all starts with quality ingredients,” said Vile . “Our team works tirelessly to create products that are not only great tasting but also packed with functional benefits like live cultures, organic acids, and antioxidants.”

Committed to sustainability

Sustainability is another core value for Remedy. The company’s commitment to brewing for better means that it is constantly striving to improve its impact on both people and the planet. Remedy has invested in a 5 Green Star-rated fermentary to ensure that its brewing processes are as sustainable as possible.

The dedicated Remedy Drinks team have help grow the company while keeping true to its roots of all natural, functional drinks.

Expanding into independent supermarkets, opening additional factories to go global, have all been pivotal and the growth of Remedy Drinks.

“We’ve also focused on reducing waste and minimising our environmental footprint,” said Vile The company continues to explore ways to make its packaging more sustainable and has implemented ethical sourcing practices for its ingredients.

“Whether it’s sourcing locally grown ginger or ensuring that our suppliers meet strict environmental and employee welfare standards, we take sustainability seriously,” added Vile

Remedy Drinks is part of a broader trend toward healthier beverages, as more consumers seek alternatives to sugary soft drinks.

This shift in consumer preferences is one that Remedy has been able to capitalise on, thanks to its commitment to providing beverages that are both healthy and delicious.

“Consumers are increasingly seeking healthier options to support their everyday well-being,” said Vile “Simple swaps, like Remedy Sodaly, are resonating because they deliver great taste without additives.”

Remedy’s ability to offer a betterfor-you option without compromising on flavour has made it a standout in the functional beverage market.

The future

The company’s focus on natural ingredients and functional benefits, particularly those related to gut health, has played a significant role in the rising popularity of kombucha and other fermented drinks.

As Remedy Drinks continues to grow, the company remains focused on innovation.

“We pride ourselves on rapid innovation,” said Vile .

The company’s ability to quickly

adapt to consumer trends and bring new products to market, often within six months, has allowed it to stay ahead of the competition.

While the details of upcoming launches are under wraps, Remedy is preparing to unveil its next product innovation in May.

“Big things are coming,” said Vile , “And we’re gearing up for a launch that will be worth the wait.”

Looking ahead, Remedy Drinks plans

to continue innovating and pushing the boundaries of what functional beverages can be.

The company’s goal is not just to follow trends, but to create drinks that serve a true purpose and meet the evolving needs of consumers.

For Remedy, the future looks bright. With its commitment to quality and sustainability, Remedy Drinks is poised to continue shaking up the beverage industry, one sip at a time. F

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Remedy Drinks manufactures its product range at its state-of-the-art facility in Dandenong, Victoria.

Ideal packaging and inspection solutions for coffee producers

Heat and Control is set to showcase some of its cutting-edge solutions at this year’s Melbourne International Coffee Expo from March 20 to 22.

Heat and Control, a prominent player in the design and manufacturing of advanced processing, packaging, and inspection equipment, will make its debut at the Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE) in 2025

Known for its innovative technologies, Heat and Control is dedicated to helping businesses optimise efficiency, cut costs, and elevate product quality, with a particular focus on food production and processing industries. At MICE, the company will exhibit packaging and inspection solutions, which meet the unique needs of the coffee and tea sectors.

Engaging with the coffee industry’s needs

“We don’t see ourselves as just equipment suppliers, but as solution providers,” said Robert Marguccio, business manager, Packaging and Inspection Systems, Heat and Control.

“Our goal is to engage with customers, understand their needs, and offer

solutions that improve their operations.”

The decision to exhibit at MICE stemmed from this approach, and the evolving challenges faced by the coffee and tea industries, particularly rising costs, and the need for greater production efficiency.

For example, as margins have tightened, local coffee suppliers have been squeezed by increased costs of imported beans, labour, and processing.

“Twenty years ago, the cost to make a cup of coffee was around 20 cents, and you could sell it for $2.50. The margin was substantial, but now it’s much tighter,” said Marguccio.

He highlighted that competition from established Italian and Brazilian coffee brands has further intensified the pressures on local suppliers. In this challenging environment, Heat and Control provides processing, packaging, and inspection equipment.

The company specialises in optimising production and maintaining quality.

Innovative solutions

The company’s history with the coffee and tea industries dates back to the mid-eighties, and since then there have been rapid changes in the industry.

“Heat and Control has been working and supporting coffee manufacturers in Australia for decades,” said Marguccio.

Initially, Heat and Control represented PROBAT Coffee Roasters, supplying high-end systems for large coffee manufacturers.

Over time, systems have continued to innovate, making them more accessible to smaller, gourmet operations for example small shop roasters.

In addition to improving operational efficiency, Heat and Control’s equipment plays a critical role in maintaining the delicate balance of flavour in coffee. Precision temperature control and cooling are essential to avoid overcooking after roasting, which could negatively affect the final product.

As one of the industry leaders in food processing technologies, Heat and

Control’s packaging and inspection equipment provides fast, accurate, and reliable solutions for coffee and tea applications.

With energy and labours costs being two of the biggest challenges faced by coffee and tea industries, Heat and Control has a range of innovative equipment that can assist with reduction of these costs.

With a strong focus on automation, solutions like Ishida packaging and inspection equipment along with Oxipack leak detection systems can reduce human error, improve efficiency, and ensure consistent product quality while minimising waste.

Sustainability

For example, all of Ishida’s equipment is designed specifically to reduce energy consumption with a focus on removing harmful heavy metals from components within their assemblies. Their check-weighing, multihead weighers and bag makers meet precise

Heat and Control will be showcasing solutions perfectly tailored to the coffee industry at MICE 2025.

weight requirements for packaging accuracy, which is crucial for industries like food processing and manufacturing.

The Ishida systems offer features such as high accuracy, fast production speeds, with minimal give away, and the ability to maintain product integrity through detecting out-of-spec items. These solutions are already widely used by various industries, including snacks, confectionary, pet food, pharmaceuticals, etc.

Leak and metal detection

The disruption caused by discovery of leaking packaging is every processor’s worst nightmare. Leak detection is critical for maintaining the freshness and flavour of coffee and tea products.

Innovative, patented leak detection solutions from Oxipack utilise non-destructive testing methods which identify leaks, without compromising the product’s packing integrity.

“This is critical for products such as coffee capsules. These capabilities

improve operational efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance customer satisfaction,” said Marguccio.

“Testing for leaks is generally conducted via a manual process that utilises a water bath, and random sample testing. By taking a number of samples at each test, statistical analysis is applied to determine if there is a line issue with the packaging process.

“These products cannot be returned to the line, even if they’ve passed the leak test, which is wasteful and costs your business money.

“What makes Oxipack solutions so unique is that it replaces this traditional method with a non-destructive one, so your product doesn’t need to be discarded if it passes the test and it can then be returned to the line, thereby reducing wastage of good product”.

Oxipack offers several systems. For example, there is a statistical sampling machine, full inline leak detection system and a compact stationary device for individual testing.

Solutions include two devices: the Semi-Inline Vacuum Leak Tester and the Stationary Leak Tester M (SLT M). The Semi-Inline Vacuum Leak Tester is suitable for high-speed production lines and monitors leaks by creating a vacuum around the capsule. Any change in pressure signals a potential issue, allowing for quick detection with minimal disruption to production.

“When testing capsules, there is a chamber with a dye plate that accommodates multiple capsules, a membrane closes down onto the capsules and checks the aluminium top seal,” said Marguccio.

The SLT M solution, is a compact, stationary device suited for batch or individual testing. This allows for detailed inspections to ensure seal integrity. Unlike traditional water-based leak detection methods, Oxipacks vacuum-based system avoids the risk of product wastage, with its game changing method that delivers accurate detection for large, small and micro leaks, without damaging packaging.

“You place the item in the chamber, close the lid, press a button, and the system will either pass or fail with high accuracy,” said Marguccio.

“By contrast, the traditional water bath method sees your product submerged in water, which must then be discarded even if it passes the test.”

Marguccio said he has also observed a shift towards automated packaging solutions as companies seek to reduce labour costs and comply with rising regulatory requirements in Australia.

In addition to the Ishida packaging and inspection solutions, and Oxipack leak detection solutions, Heat and Control also offers advanced metal detection systems. This includes the CEIA THS/21 Series metal detectors, which are designed to detect metal contaminants in products with high sensitivity while minimising interference from the product itself. As well as any environmental line influences.

“Heat and Control, in conjunction with CEIA, have developed a metal detector with an innovative auto-test feature. The system learns from the test pieces, recording the signal and amplitude of the metal test pieces relative to the product,” said Marguccio.

The multispectrum technology used in the THS/21 Series employs multiple frequencies to detect even the smallest metal particles across a range of product types. This improves sensitivity, reduces

false alarms, and ensures accurate detection, resulting in fewer false rejects, better operational efficiency, and less waste.

Through these solutions, Heat and Control continues to support the coffee industry, helping businesses improve efficiency, maintain product quality, and stay competitive in a challenging market. In support of this, the company’s debut at MICE is an important step in making sure the coffee and tea sectors are aware of the fast, accurate and reliable solutions they provide.

In addition to packaging and inspection solutions, Heat and Control offers a comprehensive portfolio of equipment for coffee manufacturers, including preparation, processing, coating, flavouring, drying, roasting, product handling, and weighing solutions.

To learn more, visit Heat and Control booth at MICE (#B13), where you can see and explore their solutions for coffee and tea applications, ranging from Arabica and Italian roasts to green and herbal teas. F

Image:

Vasiliystock.adobe.com

The Oxipack leak detection solution is one product that Heat and Control will showcase at MICE 2025.

Image: Heat and Control

Trends and drivers through 2030

Australia’s food additives market is set to grow steadily through 2030, fuelled by rising demand for processed foods, clean-label ingredients, and healthier alternatives amidst growing consumer health awareness.

Australia’s food additives market is set for steady growth through 2025 and beyond, with key drivers including evolving consumer preferences, an expanding food industry, and increasing regulatory pressures, according to new market data from Mordor Intelligence.

The market is expected to grow at an annual rate of 2.9 per cent from 2025 to 2030. This growth will be propelled by increasing demand for processed foods, rising consumer awareness, and heightened regulatory scrutiny.

Food additives, which are substances added to enhance safety, taste, texture, and appearance, have become commonplace in Australia’s food industry. The market covers various categories, including preservatives, sweeteners, emulsifiers, food colorants,

As the industry evolves, the ability to adapt to new technologies and shifting consumer attitudes will be key to success in this growing sector.

and flavour enhancers.

These additives are applied across multiple sectors, such as bakery, dairy, beverages, meat products, and confectionery.

Key drivers

The primary driver of this market in Australia is the continued growth of the processed food sector. With Australians leading increasingly busy lifestyles, convenience foods are becoming a staple. Rising disposable incomes and longer working hours are also contributing to the demand for packaged, ready-to-eat meals.

In parallel, the retail sector’s expansion has played an important role. Supermarkets and organised retail stores

easily accessible to consumers. The use of additives to improve shelf life and product appeal has become standard practice in the retail space.

However, there is growing consumer concern regarding the potential health risks associated with synthetic chemicals and food additives, particularly for children. As awareness of these concerns increases, demand for natural food additives has been rising.

Consumers are increasingly opting for products with fewer artificial ingredients, prompting manufacturers to adjust their offerings in response to changing preferences.

Clean-label additives

A prominent trend in this market

more interested in knowing exactly what is in the products they purchase, leading to a push for greater transparency in food labelling. Clean-label products, which are minimally processed and contain natural ingredients, are seeing growing demand.

This trend is influencing consumer choices, with many opting for products that avoid artificial preservatives, colourants, and flavourings. Instead, they are favouring additives derived from natural sources. Studies suggesting that natural ingredients may mitigate health issues, such as hyperactivity disorders in children, are also fuelling this shift.

While clean-label products may carry higher price tags, more consumers

increasingly influence purchasing decisions.

This consumer-driven trend is also supported by regulatory agencies. The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have been pushing for tighter regulations on food additives to ensure safety. These efforts have helped make trading in natural ingredients more streamlined in Australia, increasing consumer confidence in food safety.

In response to the growing demand for clean-label products, food manufacturers have been innovating new solutions. A prime example is DSM’s launch of DelvoGuard cultures in March 2022, designed to help dairy producers extend shelf life while meeting consumer demand for clean-label ingredients.

This shift towards clean labels is aligned with broader societal concerns about sustainability and ethical sourcing, further pressuring food manufacturers to move away from synthetic solutions.

Sweeteners gaining ground

One key catalyst for future growth in Australia’s food additives market is the rising incidence of diabetes, prompting a shift toward sugar alternatives. As of 2021, nearly 1.3 million Australians, or approximately 1 in 20, were living with diabetes, a condition linked to high sugar consumption. This has led to increased demand for alternative sweeteners such as sucralose, which is considered safer for those with diabetes due to its minimal impact on blood sugar levels.

due to its stability during cooking and baking processes. Unlike traditional sugar, sucralose has little to no effect on carbohydrate metabolism and insulin secretion, making it a desirable option for both food manufacturers and healthconscious consumers.

international suppliers has resulted in a price drop, making it more affordable and increasing its use in various food products. This demand for low-calorie, healthier alternatives is likely to fuel further innovation in sweeteners, particularly as health concerns about sugar consumption continue to rise.

such as soft drinks, juices, and alcoholic beverages to prevent microbial growth and maintain flavour.

The high-water activity, sugar content, and low pH of many beverages provide an ideal environment for bacterial and fungal growth, making preservatives crucial for product safety.

Enzymes, such as cellulase and alpha amylase, are being employed in the brewing industry to improve extraction yields, beer filtration, and stabilisation.

In addition, beverage producers are increasingly incorporating unique local ingredients, including native Australian fruits, to meet consumer demand for novel flavours and stand out in a competitive market.

rise in the use of natural sweeteners like Stevia in beverages. Stevia, a calorie-free and plant-based sweetener, is gaining traction due to its stability under varying heat, light, and pH conditions.

It is now being used in a wide range of drinks, including sodas, juices, teas, and alcoholic beverages. As consumers continue to prioritise health and sustainability, Stevia is expected to see continued growth within the beverage sector.

Looking toward 2030, Australia’s food additives market will continue to be shaped by evolving consumer preferences and the growing demand for clean-label and natural ingredients.

The pressure on manufacturers to balance health standards with environmental sustainability remains a central concern for consumers.

The pressure on manufacturers to balance health standards with environmental sustainability will remain a central concern.

While the market faces challenges, including regulatory complexities and increasing consumer concerns about synthetic additives, these factors are also driving innovation.

Manufacturers who can successfully meet the demand for natural additives, while complying with safety standards and offering competitive prices, are likely to emerge as leaders in the market.

As the industry evolves, the ability to adapt to new technologies and shifting consumer attitudes will be key to success in this growing sector. F

Consumers are increasingly opting for products with fewer artificial ingredients, prompting manufacturers to adjust their offerings.

Seeking premium food ingredients

Australian Bakels has spent decades perfecting its ingredient solutions and wider capabilities that cater to food manufacturers of all sizes.

As a key player in the Australian food and beverage manufacturing sector, Australian Bakels is known for its innovative approach to ingredient development. With its headquarters in Silverwater, New South Wales, the company also operates nationwide with an extensive supply chain network.

The company caters to various segments within the bakery sector, including bread, pastry, cake, and confectionery, offering solutions that support both large-scale manufacturers and artisan bakers.

Its diverse product range provides a one-stop shop for bakery businesses of all sizes, with offerings spanning bread mixes, frozen pastry, gluten-free options, preservatives, and specialised

products for pies, cakes, cookies, and confectionery.

Kristen Kuan, marketing coordinator and account manager at Australian Bakels, explained how the company’s commitment to innovation and quality defines everything it does.

“We pride ourselves on being a one-stop shop,” she said. “For example, if you’re making doughnuts, you can get everything you need from us, doughnut mix, fillings, icing, and even the cinnamon sugar to roll the doughnuts in.”

Some of Australian Bakels’ core offerings include:

• Bakery ingredients.

• Bread and bun mixes.

• Fats and oils.

• Cake and sponge mixes.

• Gluten-free and allergen-

free products.

• R eady-to-Use fillings and toppings.

• Customised solutions and R&D support.

• Sustainability initiatives.

State-of-the-art

facilities

Australian Bakels’ Silverwater location has four distinct plants, each with specific capabilities.

The dry mixing plant handles products such as bread mixes, cookie pre-mixes, sauces, and seasonings, capable of large-scale packaging from one-tonne bags to smaller, one-kilo bags.

“For example, we also have Tiger paste, a powdered mix that creates the signature crackle look on top of bread. We pack this in 10-by-one-kilo bags,” Kuan said.

Then there is the wet plant, which produces caramels, fillings, ready-touse icings, and butter creams. These products are packaged in various formats, including 20-kilo buckets and smaller piping bags.

The fat plant manufactures fat blends, flavour pastes, and tin release agents, which help release cakes from pans quickly.

Finally, there is the frozen plant, which produces ready-to-bake cookie dough pucks. The dough is mixed, frozen, and stored for direct shipment. Additionally, Australian Bakels operates an icing sugar mill that produces its own icing sugar, ensuring control over one of the key ingredients in many of its products.

Efficiency and quality control

Australian Bakels’ large-scale operations offer benefits in terms of manufacturing efficiency. Smaller-scale manufacturers can often struggle with labour-intensive processes, which can introduce human error or food safety risks.

By partnering with the company, customers can achieve consistency and benefit from rigorous testing procedures.

“We test every mix immediately after it comes off the line,” Kuan said.

“We ensure that the product meets high-quality standards before it leaves

This commitment to quality control is evident in the company’s adherence to regulatory standards, such as BRC certification. Australian Bakels’ technical and product development teams ensure that all products meet the various industry standards.

Global presence

As part of the Bakels Group, Australian Bakels has access to a global network of expertise and resources. With 38 companies under the Bakels umbrella, it benefits from shared knowledge and

For instance, its Belgium-based sister company, Bakbel, specialises in ready-

Images: Australian Bakels

Market experts at Australian Bakels monitor trends closely, ensuring alignment with consumer preferences.

custom products or exploring new trends in the bakery industry.”

The company also offers tailored solutions, such as custom blends and troubleshooting assistance for manufacturing challenges.

“We’re always here to help,” said Kuan. “If a customer is having trouble with a product, we can send one of our technologists to assist.”

The company also ensures consistent

delivery across Australia through its national warehousing and distribution network, shipping products weekly to all states except the Northern Territory, which is serviced by South Australia.

Market trends

Australian Bakels is also proactive in responding to emerging market trends. Kuan said the growing demand for gluten-free and high-protein products as one of these trends. While gluten-free options are still a niche market, the company imports these products from New Zealand’s Bakels division to meet demand.

“We’re always looking for ways to innovate,” said Kuan. “High-protein products, in particular, have seen a significant rise in popularity, and we’re excited to be exploring opportunities in this space.”

Australian Bakels remains focused on market and consumer trends, ensuring the company provides relevant solutions for the evolving baking industry.

At Australian Bakels, staying ahead of industry trends is not just a strategy but a commitment. The company’s approach is rooted in a thorough understanding of customer needs and broader market dynamics.

Market experts at Australian

Bakels monitor trends closely, ensuring alignment with consumer preferences. This helps clients develop products and solutions that resonate with current demands.

Kuan explained that tracking consumer behaviour is essential to identifying emerging trends.

“Consumer behaviour is very important when it comes to tracking trends and what products we can help our customers develop,” she said. “We provide products that appeal to those trends.”

Australian Bakels accesses both national and international trend reports to guide decision-making.

Their marketing department remains aware of evolving trends through these insights, keeping the company ahead of the curve.

In line with this, Australian Bakels also caters to customers keen to create viral products, adapting quickly to the fast-paced nature of digital trends.

By paying attention to customer requests and identifying common needs, the company continually refines its offerings to meet expectations.

With its product range, global connections, and customer-focused approach, Australian Bakels is wellpositioned to continue leading the Australian food industry. F

CUSTOM ENGINEERED WEIGHTOMETERS & WEIGHING SOLUTIONS

Manufacturer of conveyer belt scales (weightometers), weigh belt feeders and volumetric and gravimetric auger feeders all manufactured in Australia

Conveyer Belt Scales and Weigh Belt Feeders to measure instantaneous and total throughput or control Blending, Dosing or Feeding.

Volumetric or Gravimetric Auger Feeders with TT20 Weight Controller.

The TT20 is a single unit gravimetric processor that offers four modes of operation: Loss-in-Weight, Loss-of-Weight, Gain-in-

Weight, and controlled-rate-batching for bag filling. The controller accurately and consistently feeds material into a process at desired rates and batches.

The TT20 has a user friendly HMII allowing the operator to monitor critical process operations. In addition, PLC communication protocols enable the controllers to seamlessly interface with a plant’s control system with access to the Scales Parameters in Real Time.

Contact Tecweigh 03 9775 0266 Website www.tecweigh.com.au Email sales@tecweigh.com.au

Australian Bakels remains focussed on market and consumer trends, ensuring the company provides relevant solutions for the evolving food industry.

The time for biosolutions is now

From farm to fork, biosolutions from Novonesis can be incorporated into just about every aspect of the food and beverage production process.

The recent merger between two giants of the biosolutions industry, Novozymes and Chr. Hansen, has formed Novonesis and brought together decades of expertise in microbes and enzymes. This unification aims to deliver exponential results, especially in sectors like food production, agriculture, and sustainability.

At the helm of Novonesis in Oceania is Kylie Evans, the company’s head of Food & Beverage Biosolutions and country manager for Australia and the Pacific.

Evans sat down with Food & Beverage Industry News to talk about the merger, the benefits to industry, and the future ambitions of the company.

For Novonesis, the merger represents more than just the combination of two global companies.

It is the amplification of resources, research capabilities, and technological expertise that will drive the future of

biosolutions.

This synergy enables Novonesis to apply proven solutions across industries, driving innovation and helping manufacturers optimise processes and enhance quality.

Evans is particularly proud of the company’s investment in R&D, which stands at 10 per cent of revenue, higher than most public companies.

“This commitment shows our dedication to the future of biosolutions,” said Evans.

“By combining our scientific resources, we can address future challenges with biology as a core solution.”

Biosolutions are at the heart of Novonesis, and its application extends throughout the food supply chain, from the farm to the consumer’s table. Evans highlights that the company’s innovations influence not only the production and safety of food but also other industries, including sustainable

aviation fuel, household care, and fabric longevity.

“ The sustainability of food is connected to broader biosolutions,” said Evans.

Working with food and beverage manufacturers, the team at Novonesis in the Oceania region use biosolutions to improve the quality, taste, texture, and safety of food products.

Novonesis’ portfolio of biosolutions supports advancements in areas like food safety, where very specific good bacteria act through fermentation to improve product quality, extend shelflife and safeguard food from pathogens.

A key component of Novonesis’ success is the company’s approach to culture and collaboration, particularly in the context of the merger.

By interviewing over 1,000 employees from both organisations, Novonesis identified four key cultural drivers: collaboration, care, ownership, and impact, which are now embedded

in the company’s daily operations.

Evans reflects positively on the company’s culture since the merger, noting that employee engagement and positive synergy have been key to its success.

“ We’ve brought together the entire organisation, from supply chain to sales, and the atmosphere has been incredible,” said Evans.

“Employees are even nominating each other for annual awards, which shows the strength of the culture we’ve built.”

Evans said the focus on collaboration and cultural alignment enables the company to overcome any hurdles.

“ The progress in this first year has been fantastic; we’ve moved forward quickly and effectively,” she said.

As for the future, the food industry faces considerable challenges, particularly in terms of efficiency and sustainability.

Novonesis, however, is uniquely

Images:

Novonesis

The merger of Novozymes and Chr. Hansen has led to the development of a biosolutions powerhouse, Novonesis.

positioned to help meet these challenges.

“We don’t just sell ingredients. We help make processes more efficient by improving texture and quality without adding unnecessary ingredients,” said Evans.

“ We also work on extending shelf life and valorising waste streams, especially in sectors like meat production.”

The company’s innovation is evident

in the dairy, bakery, and meat industries.

For example, Novonesis’ Fresh Keeping technology, which uses enzymes to maintain bread freshness, ensures that the texture and softness of bread remain intact over time.

Similarly, the company’s bioprotective cultures are fighting yeast and mould growth in yogurt, ensuring that the product stays fresh despite

consumer handling.

In the meat and fish industries, Novonesis has partnered with small producers like Harris Smokehouse in South Australia.

The collaboration involved introducing bioprotective cultures to protect the smoked salmon from listeria, without adding artificial preservatives, a technology that has since gained wider acceptance in the salmon industry.

Evans highlighted that this success story is not just about technology but about how collaboration can support small businesses.

“Harris’ story demonstrates how care, exploration, and ownership can transform a business and have a lasting impact on the community,” she said.

Protective cultures are now being used in a wider range of foods, including fresh seafood, processed meats, and even Christmas hams. Evans explains that these biosolutions help address consumer preference for selecting products with clean ingredients lists, address concerns about food safety while maintaining product freshness.

One of the ways Novonesis builds partnerships is through its commitment to education.

The company conducts local

consumer research to better understand Australian preferences, which allows it to co-create products with customers.

“We leverage both local insights and global trends to develop innovative, sustainable products that meet consumer needs,” said Evans.

Emphasising its “test-and-learn” mentality, Novonesis has worked with both large corporations and small businesses to innovate new products.

In the craft beer sector, for example, the company helped develop alcoholfree beers, a product that aligns with Novonesis’ philosophy of creating solutions that are “good for people and the planet”.

Ultimately, Evans believes that collaboration is key in all its client relationships.

“We work with our clients to solve big problems together,” said Evans.

This philosophy is helping the company drive not just business success but also meaningful progress toward a more sustainable and resilient global food system.

Novonesis’ focus on biosolutions in both global and local contexts is not just changing the way food is produced and consumed but shaping the future of a healthy planet across industries worldwide. F

At the helm of Novonesis in Oceania is Kylie Evans, the company’s head of Food & Beverage Biosolutions and country manager for Australia.

The destination for food innovation

FoodTech is returning to Queensland in 2025 and will showcase the latest innovations and solutions from across the food and beverage manufacturing industry.

FoodTech Qld has established itself as a key event for the Australian food and beverage manufacturing sector, helping key stakeholders and decision-makers meet the needs of an evolving industry.

Launched with the aim of fostering technological advancement and industry collaboration, FoodTech Qld has grown in stature and scope since its inception in 2016. The event has become an integral part of Queensland’s food manufacturing landscape, offering businesses access to the latest equipment, processing systems, ingredients, and packaging solutions.

As food production practices become increasingly sophisticated, the event has continued to expand its focus to highlight cutting-edge developments in growth areas such as automation, sustainability, and digitalisation.

These changes reflect the growing importance of technology in the industry and are designed to ensure Australian manufacturers remain competitive in a global market that demands continuous innovation.

“We want FoodTech Qld to focus not just on products but on how businesses can innovate the way they make those products, whether it’s through improving supply chains or leveraging new consumer demands,” said Jon Treherne, event director, FoodTech Qld.

various sectors, including processing equipment, automation systems, refrigeration, and packaging machinery, there will be a wealth of options for every food manufacturer.

“FoodTech Qld is the place to discover innovations in recyclable, biodegradable, and reduced plastic packaging that address environmental concerns while maintaining product

The core purpose of the expo is to bring together key players from various sectors of the food supply chain. Manufacturers attending the event can explore the advancements in food processing, packaging, ingredients, and automation, while suppliers use FoodTech Qld as a platform to showcase their solutions and establish new business relationships.

“Whether you’re looking to innovate your product or streamline operations, there will be something for everyone on the show floor,” said Treherne.

With more than 140 suppliers presenting products and services across

“FoodTech Qld is the place to discover innovations in recyclable, biodegradable, and reduced plastic packaging that address environmental concerns while maintaining product safety and quality.”

Meanwhile, robotics and AI-powered production lines are becoming essential for addressing the demands of a growing global population, making those solutions another feature at the event.

Packaging, too, is a critical focus. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, food manufacturers are under pressure to adopt sustainable packaging solutions.

safety and quality,” said Treherne.

The event will also highlight new ingredient technologies that align with the rising demand for plantbased, gluten-free, and allergen-free products, catering to changing consumer preferences.

Visitors can expect to see innovations that meet the growing global shift towards health-conscious and

environmentally friendly options.

In addition to the exhibition, FoodTech Qld offers a program of activities, including interactive workshops and a two-day conference led by subject-matter experts, covering topics such as food safety and supply chain resilience.

Other conference topics will include the benefits of going digital, consumer trends, and insights on how to attract the best talent.

“We want people to leave FoodTech with actionable insights,” said Treherne. “Whether you’re attending the free show floor sessions or the paid conference, we aim to provide valuable, immediate takeaways that can impact your business.”

FoodTech Qld is tailored for a broad spectrum of professionals in the food manufacturing industry. Key stakeholders

FoodTech Qld has become an integral part of the industry’s landscape, offering businesses access to the latest equipment, processing systems, ingredients, and packaging solutions.

“SMEs, in particular, face a high risk when it comes to innovation and where to spend their dollars. What we aim to do is de-risk those decisions, providing valuable insights from exhibitors, conference sessions, and networking with others who have faced similar challenges.”

from across the production process, including manufacturers, suppliers, product developers, and logistics professionals, are encouraged to attend.

The event is beneficial for decisionmakers in companies looking to improve operational efficiencies, innovate product lines, or implement sustainable practices.

when it comes to innovation and where to spend their dollars,” said Treherne.

“What we aim to do is de-risk those decisions, providing valuable insights from exhibitors, conference sessions, and networking with others who have faced similar challenges.”

Network opportunities at FoodTech

Qld 2025 includes the Punch Bowl networking party at Stingray Lounge in

QT, alongside the Mosca Networking Lounge on the show floor.

FoodTech Qld is not only for manufacturers but also for industry consultants, equipment engineers, and food safety experts, and business owners in the food service industry will also benefit.

A snapshot of exhibitors set for the event includes Continental,

ifm, AusPress, Jarvis, and Vendart Diagnostics, just to name a few.

It’s not all business when you take part in the event either.

Both visitors and exhibitors will be able to take advantage of the sunny Gold Coast backdrop with ample networking opportunities.

These events have been designed to create a relaxed environment for peers to catch up face-to-face over drinks and canapes.

Sustainability will also remain a key focus area for the show.

By practising what they preach, the event organisers hope to emphasise the small, and big steps, that can be taken to be more efficient and sustainable.

Some changes the event has introduced includes reducing the number of printed signs and using recycled material where possible for other signs.

As well as lanyard made from recycled bottles and food packaging. A circular economy on full display.

FoodTech Qld 2025 will take place from June 19-20 at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre, and you can register online for a visitor pass and to purchase a two or one-day conference ticket.

Entry to the exhibition floor is free with a visitor registration. F

FoodTech Qld 2025 will take place from June 19-20 at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre.

FoodTech Qld will host interactive workshops and expert-led conferences on topics such as food safety and supply chain resilience.

Tecweigh expands capabilities of volumetric auger feeders

Tecweigh has unveiled the latest enhancements for its volumetric auger feeders, resulting in improved precision and flexibility.

Tecweigh, a specialist in industrial feeding systems, has introduced the TT20 gravimetric controller, a product designed to enhance the functionality of its existing range of volumetric auger feeders.

With this addition, Tecweigh offers precision, flexibility, and control over material handling, making the TT20 an upgrade for industries ranging from food production to agriculture and bulk material processing.

This range, which also offers reliability, includes three models tailored to different throughput and application needs.

The S5A model, for example, is suitable for small-scale, loss-in-weight dosing applications and is used for dispensing food flavourings, spices, and salt. Then there is the S12A, which caters to higher throughput requirements and is often paired with a tear drop auger for dosing across conveyors in agricultural settings.

At the top end of the scale is the S28A, capable of handling throughputs of up to 30,000 litres per hour, making it suitable for large-scale drum and bag filling operations.

The core benefit of the new TT20 gravimetric controller is its ability to improve the accuracy of these systems by measuring weight changes through a scale base or load cells.

This precise control opens a host of new possibilities for applications that demand high levels of precision. With the TT20, Tecweigh feeders can operate in four different modes: Loss-in-Weight, Loss-of-Weight, Gain-in-Weight, and Controlled-Rate Batching, providing users with flexibility to tailor the system to their specific needs.

The most used mode, Loss-in-Weight, allows the volumetric feeder to sit on a scale base, dispensing material until the desired amount is reached. The TT20 controller continually monitors the weight of the material being dispensed, ensuring consistent flow and rate.

When the hopper begins to empty,

the TT20 signals that a refill is required and compensates for this, maintaining the same feed rate even as the hopper is replenished. This dynamic refilling feature ensures that feed rates remain constant and accurate throughout the dispensing process.

Another key mode offered by the TT20 is Gain-in-Weight, which is typically used in controlled weight batching applications. In this mode, the drum or bag receiving the material sits on a scale base. The system fills the container until it reaches a pre-set weight, ensuring accurate and consistent batching.

This mode is useful for applications where precise ingredient quantities or material weights are critical, such as in food processing or chemical manufacturing.

In addition to the core operational modes, the TT20 also includes features designed to refine and optimise system performance. For example, adjustable feed rates allow for both fast and slow dispensing, and the system provides in-flight compensation to maintain

accurate dispensing during transitions.

The controller’s diagnostics and tuning functions also make it easier for operators to troubleshoot and optimise the performance of the system, ensuring that the feeder continues to meet operational requirements even under changing conditions.

Another feature is the inclusion of product massaging paddles. These paddles are designed to prevent common material flow issues such as bridging or “ratholing,” where materials become stuck or fail to flow consistently from the hopper.

The TT20 controller manages the speed of both the auger and the massaging paddles independently, ensuring optimal material flow and reducing the risk of blockages. This feature is particularly beneficial when dealing with challenging or inconsistent materials that tend to clog or jam under normal conditions.

The construction of Tecweigh feeders is another point of distinction. All models are built using high-quality stainless steel, ensuring durability and

“These paddles are designed to prevent common material flow issues such as bridging or “ratholing,” where materials become stuck or fail to flow consistently from the hopper.”

resistance to corrosion.

For food-related applications, the inlet flex hopper is made from foodgrade polyurethane, meeting stringent hygiene and safety standards. These materials contribute to the overall longevity and performance of the feeders, making them suitable for continuous operation in demanding industrial environments.

The TT20 controller is also equipped with PLC communication protocols, allowing it to seamlessly integrate with a plant’s central control system. This makes it easier for operators to monitor and control the feeder system remotely, as well as to collect data for analysis and reporting.

For applications requiring even higher throughput, or the handling of larger bulk products, Tecweigh offers a stainless-steel weigh belt feeder.

This system is equipped with a wave edge belt, designed to maximise product containment, and prevent spillage, which is essential when dealing with larger volumes or products like vegetables.

The weigh belt feeder offers a reliable solution for industries that need to handle substantial quantities of bulk materials with precision and efficiency.

With the launch of the TT20 gravimetric controller, Tecweigh has expanded the capabilities of its Volumetric Auger Feeders.

The system’s enhanced accuracy, flexibility, and ability to manage material flow challenges make it a suitable solution for a range of industries, from food processing to agriculture, chemicals, and more.

The TT20 is not only helps improve operational efficiency, but also a key step forward in meeting the increasing demand for precision and automation in industrial material handling.

As industries continue to evolve, Tecweigh’s commitment to innovation ensures that its systems provide users with the tools they need to optimise their processes and achieve high standards of efficiency and accuracy.

Imags: Tecweigh

For applications requiring high throughput, or the handling of large bulky products, Tecweigh offers a stainless-steel weigh belt feeder.

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Precision calibration drives innovation

AMS Instrumentation & Calibration provides highprecision calibration solutions and tailored services to ensure compliance, safety, and operational efficiency for the food and beverage industry.

Founded in 1973, AMS Instrumentation & Calibration (AMS IC) has built a reputation for delivering high-quality instrumentation and calibration solutions. The company has expanded across Australia with offices in Melbourne, New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia, as well as extending services to New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and other parts of the Pacific.

It offers a range of services aimed at ensuring industrial instruments and equipment function accurately and

AMS IC specialises in the calibration, maintenance, and supply of various types of instrumentation such as temperature sensors, pressure instruments, and calibration benches.

in compliance with relevant industry standards.

“We are a specialised equipment innovation company offering calibration equipment for the food industry. Some of our product lines are specifically designed for the food sector,” said AMS IC CEO Dirk Kuiper.

“Our main focus is on providing high-quality, sanitary equipment that is well-suited for this industry.”

AMS IC specialises in the calibration, maintenance, and supply of various types of instrumentation such as temperature sensors, pressure

instruments, flow meters and laboratory equipment. The company’s services are critical for industries where precision is vital, as even minor deviations can lead to inefficiencies or safety concerns.

AMS IC is known for providing tailored solutions that help businesses maintain equipment functionality, achieve regulatory compliance, and ensure high standards of safety and quality. These services are essential for industries where accurate measurement ensures product quality, safety, and operational efficiency.

“Calibration equipment is crucial for ensuring the right products reach the market. Our equipment is highly accurate, enabling precise calibration of field instruments to high standards,” said Kuiper. “Additionally, we provide software to maintain calibration records. Most of our equipment is NATAcertified, ensuring accuracy. While some companies may offer calibration services, they often don’t provide the same level of precision that we do.”

AMS IC ensures consistent product quality and safety through its precise calibration solutions. The

company’s expertise is crucial to the food and beverage industry’s complex production processes, where even minor discrepancies can impact product quality and compliance with health and safety regulations.

Food and beverage production facilities rely on instruments measuring temperature, pressure, and flow. These measurements must be precise to ensure the correct processing conditions, product consistency, and adherence to health and safety standards.

For example, accurate temperature control is essential for pasteurisation processes and refrigeration. Meanwhile, pressure measurement plays a key role in equipment like boilers and tanks used in brewing or soft drink production.

“The sanitary equipment we offer is made of stainless steel and is 3A-certified, particularly for pressure, temperature, and flow measurements. Accuracy is vital to producing consistent products in the factory, and our instrumentation and calibration equipment help maintain that standard,” said Kuiper.

“Whether the calibration occurs

Images:

AMS Instrumentation & Calibration

AMS IC can calibrate flow meters for liquid ingredient measurement.

“Calibration equipment is crucial for ensuring the right products reach the market. Our equipment is highly accurate, enabling precise calibration of field instruments to high standards.”

in the field or at our workstation, we ensure it is done with high precision. Calibration data is transferred directly into our software for record-keeping, and historical data is available for reference.”

AMS IC’s calibration solutions also ensure that instruments in critical production areas are operating within specified tolerances. This helps food and beverage manufacturers maintain quality control and consistency, which are essential for meeting customer expectations and complying with food safety regulations like HACCP.

Tailored calibration

AMS IC’s calibration services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. The company works closely with food manufacturers to offer customised solutions for equipment calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

“We specialise in calibrating pressure, temperature, and flow devices, such as differential pressure transmitters, flow meters, temperature indicators, and pressure measurement devices,” said Kuiper.

“Our portable calibration equipment is taken into the field to check and calibrate these devices accurately.”

For example, in a beverage production facility, AMS IC might calibrate flow meters for liquid ingredient measurement, pressure sensors for carbonation conditions, and temperature sensors for pasteurisation effectiveness. This level of precision helps ensure operations are efficient and compliant with industry standards.

The company offers regular preventative maintenance programs to maintain calibration accuracy over time. These programs are important for food and beverage manufacturers,

our overseas suppliers to maintain their quality systems. This ensures we meet high standards of accuracy and maintain correct processes,” said Kuiper.

AMS IC’s commitment to quality assurance is evident in its technical expertise, with more than 350 years of combined experience among its staff. This knowledge allows the company to handle complex calibration challenges faced by food and beverage manufacturers.

Technology and innovation

As technology evolves, AMS IC continues to invest in the latest tools and equipment to stay at the forefront of the calibration industry. The company employs advanced digital technologies to ensure its calibration processes are precise and efficient.

This includes software for calibration management, which streamlines operations and ensures all calibration records are maintained accurately and easily accessible for audits.

as they help avoid costly downtime and reduce the risk of equipment failure, which could lead to production delays or substandard products.

Compliance and quality assurance

In food and beverage manufacturing, compliance with industry standards and regulations is non-negotiable. AMS IC helps food manufacturers navigate these regulatory environments by ensuring its equipment is calibrated and maintained to the highest standards.

The company provides traceable calibration certificates, which are essential for audits and inspections. These certificates demonstrate that calibration processes have been carried out according to relevant standards and that equipment is operating within required tolerances. Such documentation is critical for meeting stringent regulatory demands and maintaining compliance with international standards, including ISO and HACCP.

“We are ISO 9001 certified, adhering to proper procedures and relying on

AMS IC’s use of mobile and on-site calibration services ensures minimal downtime for food and beverage manufacturers during calibration activities. Technicians can perform calibration at the client’s facility, providing flexibility and reducing the need to send equipment off-site for servicing. This is important for manufacturers who rely on continuous production.

“When working with customers, we assess their specific needs and offer tailored solutions, including high- or low-pressure devices and temperaturebased equipment. We provide a range of options to meet various calibration requirements,” said Kuiper.

“Recently, we partnered with a Canadian supplier known for highaccuracy equipment primarily used in the gas industry, expanding our product offerings outside the food sector.

“We are always looking for growth opportunities and, last year, we acquired a majority stake in a New Zealand company to expand our reach.”

By offering a combination of calibration, maintenance, and compliance services, AMS IC plays a vital role in helping food and beverage manufacturers maintain the highest standards of product quality and safety.

The company’s commitment to precision and customer satisfaction, backed by a team of skilled professionals, ensures clients can rely on AMS IC to meet their ongoing calibration needs and industry requirements. F

As technology evolves, AMS IC continues to invest in the latest tools such as the Beamex MC6 multifunction calibrator.

Shaping a less wasteful future for food industry

The Australian Food Pact has released its Impact Report detailing the progress being made in the journey to halving food waste by 2030.

Australia is taking a leadership role in addressing food waste through the Australian Food Pact, a voluntary, multi-year initiative launched in 2021 by End Food Waste Australia to bring together businesses across the food supply chain.

This innovative collaboration has already yielded impressive results, including a 13 per cent reduction in food waste (16,000 tonnes) from 2022 to 2024, saving signatories $57 million. By working together and committing to sustainability, the Pact is shaping a more responsible and less wasteful future for the food industry.

A collaborative approach

At its core, the Australian Food Pact is a model of collaboration, bringing together food businesses, industry groups, and government organisations. This shared responsibility fosters the development of practical solutions for minimising waste across the food system.

Pact signatories range from food manufacturers to retailers and charities, with resources like waste tracking tools, technical assessments, and strategic guidance supporting businesses in creating tailored Food Waste Action Plans. The Pact’s ‘Target, Measure, Act’ framework has been key to keeping these companies on track with their sustainability goals.

Goodman Fielder, a regional food manufacturer, reduced its food waste from 5–6 per cent to just 2.4 per cent after joining the Pact. Scott Burgess, operations manager at Goodman Fielder, shared: “Three years ago, we were sitting at around five to six per cent waste, which is quite high for manufacturing facilities.

“Since joining the Australian Food Pact three years ago, we’ve reduced our waste significantly down to 2.4 per cent, which is a great achievement.”

This focus on measuring food waste and setting clear targets is driving change across the sector, creating

a culture of collaboration where businesses work together to achieve common sustainability goals.

One of the Pact’s standout achievements is the 13 per cent reduction in food waste between 2022 and 2024.

This decline represents 16,000 tonnes of food worth $57 million, helping businesses reduce waste while improving profitability and contributing to environmental goals.

“We’ve been able to tap into End Food Waste Australia’s tools and expertise to map the food waste at our

“Simplot is committed to taking action to reduce food waste as we know it has the potential to financially benefit manufacturers and farmers, help to alleviate pressure on natural resources like water, reduce GHGs, and help to address food insecurity.”

Despite a 19 per cent increase in food production from 2022 to 2024, food businesses have reduced waste, showing that expansion and sustainability can go hand in hand. Furthermore, 76 per cent of food that would have gone to waste was repurposed by 2024, up from 73 per cent in 2022.

reducing waste, helping to address food insecurity across Australia. Over the past three years, 254 million meals have been donated to food rescue organisations, providing nourishment to vulnerable communities.

A noteworthy example comes from Simon George & Sons, a premium fruit and vegetable wholesaler, which partnered with FareShare, a food charity.

This collaboration successfully diverted 20 tonnes of fresh produce, helping create 50,000 nutritious meals for people facing hardship.

End Food Waste Australia has released its Impact Report outlining the positive steps being made by the industry to reduce waste.

“Simplot is committed to taking action to reduce food waste as we know it has the potential to financially benefit manufacturers and farmers, help to alleviate pressure on natural resources like water, reduce GHGs, and help to address food insecurity.”

reduce waste while also addressing hunger.

The Pact’s environmental achievements are equally important. By reducing food waste, Pact signatories have saved an estimated 505,000 tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions—the equivalent of removing 210,000 cars from the road for a year.

In addition to cutting emissions, this reduction also conserves vital resources like water and arable land.

The Pact’s signatories are increasingly aligning with the Food Waste Hierarchy, which prioritises waste prevention, repurposing, and recycling over landfill disposal. In 2024, 100 per cent of signatories adhered to the Food Waste Hierarchy, up from 67 per cent in 2022.

This shift is key to improving resource efficiency and minimising environmental impact.

Food waste solutions

The success of the Pact is also evident in the innovative solutions being developed by businesses. For example,

Nutri V repurposes vegetable waste by turning it into powders and snacks, providing new revenue opportunities for farmers. Nutri V’s approach is one of many creative ways companies are reducing food waste while generating new value.

Partnerships, such as the collaboration between Coles, Nutri V, and Fresh Select to convert waste products into vegetable snacks, highlight the growing industry commitment to sustainability.

Industry commitment

The Pact is driving a cultural shift within the food industry, with 78 per cent of signatories now having an executive responsible for food waste reduction, up from 44 per cent in 2022. This shift reflects the increasing recognition that food waste is a critical issue requiring top-level leadership.

In addition, 89 per cent of signatories provide employee training on food waste minimisation, an increase from 67 per cent in 2022.

Empowering staff at all levels to

take responsibility for waste reduction is helping create a culture of sustainability that extends beyond corporate headquarters into everyday operations.

As the Pact continues to grow, it is gaining momentum within the broader food industry.

ALDI joined the Pact in 2025, expanding its reach to cover 83 per cent of Australia’s supermarket sector.

However, more work remains to be done, particularly in securing continued government support, funding, and policy changes to meet national food waste reduction targets by 2030.

The Australian Food Pact’s success is a testament to the power of collaboration in addressing sustainability challenges.

By continuing to expand its network and fostering innovation, the Pact has the potential to reduce food waste on a national scale.

With more businesses, government agencies, and non-profits joining the effort, the future of the food industry looks less wasteful and more sustainable.

The Pact demonstrates that through collaboration, businesses, government, and non-profit organisations can drive meaningful change, reduce food waste, and build a more sustainable future for all. F

The innnovative Australian Food Pact has helped signatories reduce food waste by 13 per cent.

Images: End Food Waste Australia

VEGA VAULT: Radar sensor helps with accuracy of tank levels

Robern Menz required an accurate method to measure chocolate levels in its holding tanks when upgrading its production facility. VEGA provided the solution.

Robern Menz’s production facility is located 15 minutes from Adelaide’s CBD, in Glynde, and is responsible for Australian favourites like Violet Crumble, Crown Mints, and FruChocs. The company recently upgraded its plant, which presented an opportunity to install new radar sensors in its chocolate holding tanks.

The need for an upgrade arose as there was no accurate way to measure chocolate levels in the tanks.

“The only way the company could check the levels was to physically look inside the tanks,” said Nick King, business development manager for VEGA in South Australia, Northern Territory, and Western Australia.

“That volume of chocolate is an expensive piece of inventory worth tens of thousands of dollars. The company wanted to get better inventory control.

VEGA’s VEGASPULS 61 radar devices in its sucrose tanks.

For the chocolate tanks, the VEGAPULS 64 radar sensor was the chosen solution.

“It was a bit of a challenge because there was not a lot of clearance in the tanks to put in the sensors,” said King.

“It was a fairly tight-fitting option. When they were upgrading the plant, they had a window of opportunity to install them.

“The tanks had existing connections we utilised. These were not in ideal positions, so we had to supply the radars with suitable process connections to fit the existing connections.”

The 80GHz radar technology was selected for its accuracy and higher repeatability compared to other sensor technologies available.

Radar is unaffected by temperature or

radar, is solving problems that we couldn’t do reliably in the past,” said King.

“ The VEGAPULS 64 is a narrow beam, 80GHz radar. This made it simple to install in this application where we were restricted for room and mounting position.

“It has a function called STC, which effectively helps it cope with build-up on the face of the sensor, so when the sensor is splashed with chocolate it still measures reliably.

“It has a high dynamic gain and the radar copes with an agitated surface. Even when the agitators pass in front of the radar, the setup procedure of the radar is able to tune them out. Imagine it’s like a fan running slowly passing through the sensor beam that goes on/ off every time an agitator goes past.

“With functions like focus window and false signal suppression, these noise signals are ignored.”

The radar sends level data back to a PLC controller.

The information is displayed on

In addition to measuring tank levels, the VEGAPULS 64 radar sensor can handle temperatures ranging from -40°C to +150°C degrees in its base model.

large screens using SCADA software, allowing the production team to monitor the process.

These sensors were chosen for their reliability, measurement certainty, and national support, including stock holdings and technical backup, said King.

In addition to its primary function of measuring tank levels, the unit offers various other features.

It can handle temperatures ranging from -40 °C to +150 °C in its base model, with options extending up to 200°C and 25 bar.

Other radars in the range are rated up to 160 bar and 400°C, with multiple process connection options, including bracket mount, hygienic, threaded, triclover, and flanged mounting.

“Clients have told us how easy it is to use our sensors. This is made very easy with our app VEGA TOOLS via Bluetooth on your smart device,” said King. F

For more information visit VEGA’s website at www.vega.com

When it needed an accurate method of measuring chocolate levels, Robern Menz reached out to VEGA.

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Australian wine exports surged by 34 per cent in value and seven per cent in volume in the 12 months to December 2024.

Australian wine exports exceed $2.5 billion

Australian wine exports surged by 34 per cent in value and seven per cent in volume in the 12 months to December 2024.

Australian wine exports grew by 34 per cent in value to $2.55 billion and 7 per cent in volume to 649 million litres in the 12 months to December 2024, according to Wine Australia’s Export Report released in late January.

The increase in value was driven by strong shipments to mainland China between April and December 2024, following the removal of tariffs on Australian bottled wine at the end of March 2024. During this period, 83 million litres of wine, valued at $902 million, were exported to China.

The average export value to mainland China for the 12 months to December 2024 was $10.79 per litre, contributing to a 24 per cent rise in the average value of total packaged exports to a record $9.35 per litre.

“While there has been month-to-month volatility in the value of shipments to mainland China in the period since tariffs were removed, the performance is nonetheless very positive,” said Peter Bailey, manager, Market Insights, Wine Australia.

“However, Chinese wine consumption is much lower than it was before the import tariffs were imposed, so it will take more time before it becomes clear what the ‘new normal’ level of exports to mainland China will be, after this initial re-stocking period.

“Continued growth is not assured, and it is still important to focus on market diversification in a challenging global business environment.”

Global alcohol consumption is facing challenges, impacting Australian wine exports to markets outside mainland China. In many established wine markets,

declining consumption due to health concerns and the rising cost of living has contributed to a global oversupply of wine and increased competition in

in the 12 months to December 2024.

The drop in value was mainly driven by Hong Kong, following a surge in shipments at the end of 2023, likely due to some exporters anticipating the removal of import tariffs in mainland China in early 2024.

A reduction in unpackaged wine

exports to the United States also contributed to the decline in volume.

Exports to North America fell by five per cent to $482 million, driven by a decline in shipments to the United States, though growth in exports to Canada partially offset the drop.

In Europe, results were mixed. The value of shipments to the region decreased by four per cent to $521 million, with declines in exports to the United Kingdom, Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands. However, exports to Sweden, Belgium, Finland, Ireland, and Poland saw value increases.

Most other Asian markets, outside of mainland China, experienced declines in exports during the 12 months to December 2024. Despite this, the long-term growth rate for the region (excluding mainland China) remained positive at four per cent per year over the past five years.

The top five destinations by value were:

• Mainland China (up $898 million to $907 million)

• U K (down $9 million to $352 million)

• US (down $38 million to $325 million)

• Hong Kong (down $125 million to $171 million), and

• Canada (up $13 million to $156 million)

• Meanwhile, top five destinations by volume were:

• U K (down 8 million litres to 212 million litres)

• US (down 28 million litres to 106 million litres)

• Mainland China (up 83 million litres to 84 million litres)

• Canada (down 7 million litres to 66 million litres), and

• New Zealand (down 2 million litres to 27 million litres)

The rise in exports to mainland China has also affected the share of red wine in total exports, as 93 per cent of shipments to China are red. In the 12 months to December 2024, the volume share of red and rosé wines increased from 54 per cent to 60 per cent.

Meanwhile, white wine’s share decreased from 46 per cent to 40 per cent, as exports to Australia’s main white wine markets declined. As a result, the top three red wine varieties, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, all saw increased volumes, while the top three white wine varieties, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris/Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc, all saw declines in volume.

The next year of wine export is expected to experience continued growth on the back of several of these market factors, causing optimism in the market.

The average export value to mainland China for the 12 months to December 2024 was $10.79 per litre.

The rise in exports to mainland China has affected the share of red wine in total exports.

A call for increased innovation and sustainability

Ongoing submissions to a parliamentary enquiry into food manufacturing detail what stakeholders would like to see achieved by the industry over the coming years.

The ongoing Parliamentary inquiry into food manufacturing by the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Industry, Science, and Resources continues to shine a light on how the industry can continue to improve and grow.

For example, the Australian Food and Grocery Council’s (AFGC) submission urged the government to take decisive action to secure the future of an industry worth billions of dollars annually.

Representing more than 17,000 businesses, from multinational corporations to small enterprises, the sector is responsible for more than a third of Australia’s entire manufacturing output, and plays a critical role in the nation’s economy, particularly in rural and regional areas.

The industry’s workforce, 271,000 strong, includes a proportion (40 per cent) based in rural and regional areas,

underlining its integral role in driving economic growth outside metropolitan hubs.

The AFGC’s submission proposed a set of recommendations to address the challenges of innovation, export growth, sustainability, and regulatory reform.

The path forward

At the core of the AFGC’s submission was the main goal outlined in its Sustaining Australia: Food and Grocery Manufacturing 2030 report, which envisions growing the sector to $250 billion by the year 2030.

This target, however, hinges on expanding both domestic production and exports while also leveraging new technologies and responding to evolving consumer preferences.

In a positive sign, export of wine and primary proteins saw an increase throughout 2024, mainly due to a lifting of tariffs by China.

The AFGC submission also outlined why innovation is a critical pillar for achieving this goal.

For example, some of the sector’s future growth lies in meeting rapidly changing consumer demands, such as increasing interest in healthconscious products, sustainability, and convenience.

From plant-based proteins to personalised nutrition, Australian manufacturers are being urged to innovate constantly to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.

To achieve this, the AFGC proposed a series of strategies to supercharge innovation, starting with a 30 per cent investment tax incentive to encourage businesses to adopt new technologies and equipment.

These technologies would not only enhance productivity and product innovation but also support decarbonisation efforts and

sustainability goals.

Another key recommendation was the development of programs to promote research and innovation within the sector.

Specifically, the AFGC has called for initiatives that foster the creation of sustainable packaging, decarbonising production processes, and meeting growing consumer demand for healthier, functional food and beverage options.

While many Australian businesses are already adopting energy-efficient measures and hybrid systems, the AFGC stated a more comprehensive support framework is needed to help manufacturers transition to renewable energy sources.

This would involve government incentives and grant programs, as well as the development of globally aligned emission protocols.

The push for digitalisation is also central to the AFGC’s vision, with the council encouraging the adoption of digital labels, such as 2D barcodes, to provide consumers with detailed, transparent information about products, boosting both convenience and trust.

The AFGC also called for an overhaul of the food regulatory system to streamline processes and provide clearer, more flexible pathways for new and emerging products, particularly those incorporating novel ingredients or production methods.

The submission stated that the government should look to coordinate its regulatory efforts with international standards, particularly as many companies rely on ingredients developed by global suppliers.

This is because inconsistent regulations between Australia and other major markets, such as Europe or the United States, often result in Australian consumers missing out on cutting-edge innovations.

Tapping into global markets

As Australia’s food manufacturing sector navigates the complexities

The ongoing Parliamentary inquiry into food manufacturing is designed to identify areas of improvement.

of domestic market competition, particularly with the major supermarket chains, export opportunities represent a significant avenue for growth.

The AFGC notes that while Australia already exports billions of dollars’ worth of food and beverage products annually, there is untapped

export strategy aimed at achieving 10 per cent annual export growth to 2030.

This strategy would include improving market access through trade agreements, such as the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement with India, which is expected to unlock new opportunities for Australian food and beverage products.

recycling, especially in foodgrade packaging.

However, the AFGC highlighted a lack of national cohesion in this space, with various state and territory-based initiatives causing confusion and undermining investment confidence.

A unified, harmonised approach to the circular economy, along with clear

“The push for digitalisation is also central to the AFGC’s vision, with the council encouraging the adoption of digital labels, such as 2D barcodes, to provide consumers with detailed, transparent information about products, boosting both convenience and trust.”

potential, especially in high-value, processed food, and beverage markets.

Key export markets such as China, Japan, and the United States continue to show strong demand for Australian products, but there are barriers to scaling up exports, notably non-tariff trade barriers.

To overcome these challenges, the AFGC is advocating for a targeted

Circular economy

One of the most pressing concerns raised by the AFGC is the environmental impact of food manufacturing.

As sustainability becomes an increasingly critical issue for consumers, the AFGC is pushing for a shift towards a circular economy, one that reduces waste, reuses materials, and promotes

traceability standards for packaging materials, is crucial for driving meaningful change, the submission stated.

The future

Finally, the AFGC emphasised the importance of collaboration between the food manufacturing sector, research institutions, and the government.

The AFGC submission also gives valuable insight into what key stakeholders in the industry have identified as areas of focus.

The AFGC also recommended providing financial incentives to support these joint research ventures.

One such initiative is a proposal for a 10 per cent collaboration premium to be added to the existing R&D tax incentive, designed to encourage businesses to partner with research bodies and scientific organisations.

This would facilitate innovation, particularly in areas like new food technologies, product development, and sustainability efforts.

By focusing on the barriers to innovation, export growth, sustainability, and regulatory reform, the AFGC believes the food and beverage sector can thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

The AFGC submission also gives valuable insight into what key stakeholders in the industry have identified as areas of focus to help achieve greater growth over the coming five years, and further into the future. F

International markets to boost agriculture sector

Thanks to tariff reductions and beneficial trade agreements with countries like the UK, India, and the UAE, Australian farmers are set for another successful year.

Australia’s network of free trade agreements continues to offer valuable opportunities for sectors such as red meat, grain, seafood, horticulture, and other agricultural industries.

The Federal Government’s focus on trade diversification has broadened global market opportunities.

This includes agreements with the United Kingdom, India, and the recently signed deal with the United Arab Emirates, which will provide further market access once applied.

“Australia’s prosperity is directly linked to trade. More trade, with more trading partners, means more jobs, more pay, more opportunities, and a lower cost of living,” said Minister for Trade and

The Federal Government’s focus on trade diversification has broadened global market opportunities.

Tourism, Senator Don Farrell.

“The lifting of trade impediments affecting our exports of barley, oaten hay, cotton, timber, wine, and seafood to China is testament to what can be achieved by a government that has a steady hand on the tiller.

“Our job is to continue supporting our primary producers by opening doors for exporters and build on the trade outcomes we have achieved since coming to office.”

Meanwhile, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP, pointed out the critical role trade plays for farmers.

“Trade is critically important to agriculture, and by strengthening the sector we create new opportunities

for small business and regional communities, and importantly higher paying jobs both directly in agriculture and across the supply chain.

“Tariff and quota improvements in existing bilateral free trade agreements that take effect this week, as well as exciting gains in new agreements, promise to deliver new and diversified trade opportunities for Australian farmers in 2025.

“For example, Australian red meat exports increased in 2023–24 and are expected to reach a new record in 2024–25, aided by further reductions in tariffs on Australian beef exports to Mexico and Korea and expanded beef quotas under the Australia-United Kingdom FTA.

“The India, UK trade agreements are supporting expanded opportunities, and the recently signed FTA with the UAE will provide new opportunities for Australian sheep meat exports”.

With these improved market conditions and the efforts of Australian farmers, agriculture exports are expected to reach $70.1 billion in 2024–25, the third highest on record.

Trade supports Australian jobs, with one in four jobs linked to trade. Exportrelated jobs also offer 10 per cent higher average annual incomes.

Among the tariff reductions and trade agreement renewals is the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which has been ratified by all

original signatories. Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam.

The CPTPP recognises the challenges facing Small and Mediumsized enterprises (SMEs) in establishing export markets and includes outcomes to help make this task easier in the CPTPP region.

There is also the Australia - United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement, which includes key commitments that create new export opportunities, reduce business input costs, and strengthen trade diversification. It also aims to ease cost-of-living pressures for consumers, with tariffs being removed on more than 99 per cent of Australian goods exports to the UK.

According to recent Federal Government figures, Australia’s largest food exports to the United Kingdom includes sheep meat, wine, seafood, beef, and almonds.

Meanwhile, the Australia – India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (IA-ECTA) helps secure access to the fast-growing Indian market of over 1.4 billion people and gives Australian businesses opportunities for trade diversification.

Agriculture exports are expected to reach $70.1 billion in 2024–25, the third highest on record.

Citrus, almonds, sheep meat, and seafood are also among some of the largest food exports from Australia to India.

And then there is the Australia – UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (A-UAE

CEPA). In December 2023, Australia and the UAE announced the start of negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, a bilateral free trade agreement aimed at strengthening economic ties.

Australia’s Ongoing Free Trade Agreements:

• Chile China

• Hong Kong India

• Indonesia

• Japan

• Korea

• Malaysia

• New Zealand

• Peru

• Singapore

• Thailand

• the United Kingdom

• the United States

As stated by Senator Farrell, these developments and agreements around free trade, and the lifting of tariffs, are set to benefit the food and beverage manufacturing industry beginning this year. F

Beer sector experiences revenue growth despite less consumption

Australia’s beer manufacturing industry is seeing a positive impact heading into the rest of 2025, in part, due to the rising popularity of craft beer.

Australia’s beer manufacturing industry has seen steady growth in recent years, despite a decline in per capita beer consumption, according to the latest research from IBISWorld.

The rise of craft beer has driven much of this growth, with consumers increasingly opting for higher-priced, premium beers over traditional options. As a result, craft beer sales have outpaced those of regular beer, and independent breweries have gained market share. In response, major brewers like Asahi and Lion have expanded their craft beer portfolios.

Lion’s 2021 acquisition of Fermentum Pty Ltd highlights how larger brewers are leveraging acquisitions to tap into the craft beer boom. IBISWorld’s market research projects

the industry’s revenue will reach $8.7 billion by 2025, growing at an annual rate of 0.9 per cent between 2020 and 2025. The revenue growth has been supported by consumers shifting away from full-strength beers like Victoria Bitter and XXXX Gold and opting for more expensive craft beers.

Despite a drop in overall beer consumption, higher prices and greater spending per beer have helped maintain revenue levels.

The beer manufacturing industry in Australia remains concentrated in New South Wales and Victoria, where population density and market demand are highest.

However, new breweries face challenges, including securing land, obtaining licenses, and competing for tap and shelf space.

The beer manufacturing industry is expected to continue growing until 2030, although increasing excise taxes may impact profit margins. Australia has the third-highest beer tax in the world, behind only Norway and Finland, which could affect the cost structures of breweries and their pricing strategies.

Traditional full-strength beers, such as Victoria Bitter, Carlton Draught, and XXXX Gold, remain the largest revenue drivers, despite their declining market share. Other categories, including mid-strength, light, and low-carb beers, are also growing, but have not yet surpassed full-strength beers in terms of revenue.

Overall, the industry is projected to be worth $8.7 billion, with competition rising as the number of breweries increases by 8% annually, bringing the

total to 878 businesses. While beer consumption per capita has decreased— from 190 litres per person in 1974-75 to 82 litres per person in 2019-2020— revenue growth has been driven by the increasing demand for craft beer.

Despite the rise of craft beer, fullstrength beer remains the most popular category, with brands like Victoria Bitter, XXXX Gold, and Carlton Draught still holding large market share. Most breweries are based in New South Wales and Victoria, where the consumer base is largest. The leading brewers by revenue are Asahi Holdings ($3.1 billion), Lion ($1.8 billion), and Coopers Brewery ($187 million).

In response to this growth in craft beer production and consumption, some State Governments thrown support behind the sector.

The Australian beer manufacturing sector remains highly profitable but also highly competitive.

The Western Australia Government has announced a new strategy to grow the state’s craft beer sector, create jobs and promote the industry’s ‘paddock to pint’ tourism experience.

Western Australia is considered the birthplace of Australia’s craft beer sector, with the establishment of a handful of now iconic breweries in Perth in the 1980s and 1990s.

The inaugural Western Australian Craft Beer Strategy brings together all parts of the craft beer supply chain to drive forward a unified and sustainable industry.

The industry-led strategy aims to boost production, with the ambitious goal of tripling either the volume or value of locally produced beer over ten years.

It also strives to improve supply chain integration, including those that produce homegrown barley, hops and malt, and the local businesses that provide packaging, distribution, and retail services.

There are now more than 120

breweries across the metropolitan area and regional WA, representing 20 per cent of the national industry.

“Our craft beer industry uses premium ingredients grown in the State’s agricultural sector and it’s that unique WA ‘paddock to pint’ experience that an increasing number of customers are drawn to,” said Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis.

“It’s also a major draw card for tourists with more than 120 breweries across the State, half of which are in our regions.

“The inaugural Western Australian Craft Beer Strategy will lay the groundwork for industry, Government and other stakeholders to collaborate and shape the future of the craft beer industry.”

Beer manufacturing contributed an estimated $648 million to the WA economy in 2020-21, directly supporting around 967 full-time jobs and indirectly supporting more than 4,000 jobs across Western Australia

The industry-led strategy was

facilitated by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development as a partnering initiative with the Independent Brewers Association, Western Australian Brewers Association and Southwest Brewers Alliance.

The five strategic priorities are industry leadership, brand awareness, market access and export opportunities, supply chain management, and regulation.

Meanwhile, the Australian beer market is considered one of the most restricted globally, with two foreignowned corporations, Lion (Kirin) and Carlton & United Breweries (Asahi), dominating beer supply. Additionally, two large companies dominate the retail beer sector.

Mergers, acquisitions, and regulatory factors have also shaped the market structure seen today.

Market concentration in Australia is notable. As of 2024, publicly available data indicates that Lion holds a 33 per cent market share, CUB commands 50

per cent, major retailers Coles Group and Endeavour Group control five per cent, Coopers (a family-owned independent) holds five per cent, and Good Drinks Australia, an ASX-listed independent, has 1.25 per cent. The remaining 5.75 per cent of the market is shared by various independent breweries.

This independent sector figure is expected to continue to grow.

In 2019, AB InBev (then owner of Carlton and United) described the Australian beer market as one of the most profitable worldwide, with a high value per hectolitre consumed.

At that time, AB InBev and Lion Nathan together held over 80 per cent of the market, both in volume and value.

The market was highly consolidated, with strong retailer relationships and modern trade structures giving both companies a competitive advantage.

All in all, the Australian beer manufacturing sector remains high profitable but also highly competitive, with 2025 expected to be another positive year. F

The rising popularity of craft beer is helping to prop up Australia’s beer manufacturing sector as general consumption saw a drop.

Food inflation eases to close out 2024

Food price inflation eased slightly in the December 2024 quarter, reflecting broader trends in overall inflation, with some food items even experiencing price deflation.

Consumers have seen a slight easing in food price inflation, according to the latest quarterly Consumer Price Index (CPI) data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Released last month, the December 2024 quarter data shows food price inflation at 3 per cent compared with the same quarter in 2023. This is a decrease from the 3.3 per cent annual inflation recorded in the September 2024 quarter.

This slowdown mirrors the broader trend in overall inflation, which fell to 2.4 per cent in the December quarter, down from 2.8 per cent in the previous quarter.

The CPI data also revealed a slower rise in food prices at restaurants and takeaway outlets, with the annual increase easing to 2.6 per cent in the December quarter, compared to 2.9 per cent in the September quarter.

The most significant contributors to the rise were Food and non-alcoholic beverages (+2.7 per cent), Alcohol and tobacco (+5.8 per cent), and Housing (+1.5 per cent).

But these were also offset by falls for fruit and vegetables (-3.3 per cent).

“Inside the basket, there was deflation seen in some food items –with prices going down in breakfast cereals (albeit up in bread and cakes),

the dairy aisle and some meats,” said RaboResearch senior food retail analyst Michael Harvey.

“An increase in promotional activity across these categories is likely a key driver of these lower prices.”

Harvey also highlighted a notable rise in lamb prices, which surged 17 per cent in the December quarter compared with the same period in 2023. However, he explained that this increase followed a 15 per cent drop in lamb prices in the December 2023 quarter.

However, according to figures from Meat & Livestock Australia, lamb prices ended up 79 to 158 per cent higher by the same time in 2024.

This was in large part due to lamb trade indicators reaching its peak in August 2024, which was 865 cents per kilogram, over 95 per cent above the September bottom.

“The current market conditions, when compared to the past five years, show a positive shift towards stability and alignment with seasonal trends, instilling a sense of optimism in the market,” a Meat & Livestock Australia statement read.

Meanwhile, the prices of eggs and cooking oil remain a concern for consumers. “Eggs rose 11.2 per cent year on year and cooking oils rose a further 7.5 per cent,” he said.

The December 2024 quarter data shows food price inflation at 3.0 per cent compared with the same quarter in 2023.

Consumers have seen a slight easing in food price inflation, according to the latest quarterly Consumer Price Index (CPI).

Confectionery prices also continued to climb.

“This has been triggered by high cocoa prices, which rallied in the second half of 2024, with manufacturers passing through the higher cocoa bean prices to customers,” said Harvey.

Looking ahead, Harvey said seasonal conditions will be important to monitor for their potential impact on fresh produce prices in the coming months.

Meanwhile, Rabobank senior market strategist Ben Picton said that overall inflation results for the December quarter were weaker than expected, both compared to the Reserve Bank of Australia’s forecasts and the consensus among market economists.

“There was important progress in key categories like rents, insurance costs and new home construction costs. Services inflation remains elevated, but appears to have resumed its downward trajectory,” he said.

Picton suggested that, given the weaker-than-expected economic growth in Australia, the soft inflation result could give the RBA confidence to begin easing monetary policy, despite low unemployment.

“Consequently, RaboResearch revises its RBA cash rate forecast to incorporate a 25-basis point cut in February and subsequent cuts in May and August to reach a terminal rate of 3.60 per cent,” he said.

The slight easement of food inflation prices came at a time when the ABS

“The current market conditions, when compared to the past five years, show a positive shift towards stability and alignment with seasonal trends, instilling a sense of optimism in the market.”

reported a rise in business turnover in November of 2024, with 10 of the 13 major industries rising.

industries that had a notable rise.

non-discretionary items fell to 1.8 per cent while annual inflation for

Discretionary items rose to 3.2 per cent.

“Non-discretionary inflation was lower than Discretionary inflation for the first time in nearly four years,” said ABS head of prices statistics, Michelle Marquardt.

Non-discretionary goods and services include those that households are less able

to reduce their consumption of, such as food, housing, and health costs, whereas discretionary goods and services reflect more optional purchases.

“The drop in non-discretionary inflation was from lower prices for automotive fuel and electricity over the past 12 months, as well as lower inflation for food and non-alcoholic beverages and new dwellings.

“This contributed to the lowest non-discretionary annual inflation since the March 2021 quarter,” said Marquardt. F

Food and Beverage companies continue to draw buyers due to the sector’s inherent stability, resilience, and room for innovation.

Steady movement across the sector in 2024

The figures in the latest M&A Industry Report has shed light on the steady volume of mergers and acquisitions across the industry in 2024.

The Food and Beverage sector rounded off 2024 with solid M&A activity, recording a total of 412 transactions over the year. While deal volume in the fourth quarter dipped slightly to 104 deals, down from 113 in Q3, the overall trend remains positive.

The key takeaway of the report was that food and beverage companies continue to draw buyers due to the sector’s inherent stability, resilience, and innovation.

The uptick in deal making during 2024 is indicative of the sector’s robust health, particularly in Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG), which has seen benefits from rising prices. As was the case throughout the year, Q4 saw a majority of transactions in the CPG space, ranging from billion-dollar deals to smaller mid-market acquisitions.

A consistent trend in Q4 involved large CPG companies acquiring healthier snack brands, driven by shifting consumer preferences and changing shopping habits. Private label producers also garnered buyer interest, mirroring the year-long shift towards more affordable alternatives as consumers opt for these budget-friendly options.

While major corporate players such as Mars and Campbell’s Soup were responsible for some of the year’s largest

deals, including Mars’ $36 billion purchase of Kellanova and Campbell’s $2.3 billion acquisition of Sovos Brands, many of the deals throughout 2024 were of a more modest scale. Smaller transactions are expected to remain the dominant feature of M&A activity, given the limited opportunities for major acquisitions. Buyers are likely to continue focusing on deals that are financially manageable and align with their core business strategies.

The restaurant sector experienced its fair share of turbulence in 2024, with several high-profile bankruptcies making headlines.

Many eateries are still grappling with the aftermath of the pandemic, compounded by the stricter enforcement of financial covenants by banks and landlords.

However, not all news was bad. Q4 saw several notable multi-unit restaurant acquisitions, from large franchise takeovers to investments in fast-casual brands in regional markets.

M&A activity in the agribusiness segment has been muted over the past couple of years, as many companies have struggled with financial distress caused by volatile commodity prices and high operational costs such as those for fertiliser, equipment, and labour.

Despite this, there are signs of recovery, with cooling inflation and improving commodity prices offering some hope, although trade disruptions remain a concern.

Other notable transactions in Q4 included Granite Creek Capital’s purchase of Global Animal Products, a manufacturer of feed additives for the beef, dairy, and poultry markets.

While deal makers had hoped for a surge in activity in 2024, the anticipated boom did not materialise. However, there is optimism for 2025, with expectations that lower interest rates, easing inflation, and a reduction in regulatory restrictions will pave the way for a strong year of acquisitions.

With dry powder available from both private equity firms and corporate buyers, the outlook for the year ahead remains promising.

Sector breakdown

In Q4 2024, packaged food producers and beverage manufacturers led the way in deal volume, with 34 and 27 transactions, respectively. Significant deals included Butterfly Equity’s $1.95 billion acquisition of fine wine producer The Duckhorn Portfolio, and PepsiCo’s $1.2 billion purchase of Siete Foods, a maker of better-for-you products. The packaged

food segment also saw mid-market activity, such as J.M. Smucker’s sale of its Voortman cookie brand to Second Nature Brands for $305 million.

The fresh food segment remained active, with 14 deals recorded in Q4. Noteworthy transactions included Fresh Express, a provider of value-added salads, acquiring McEntire Produce, a fresh-cut processor and wholesaler. Happy Egg, a free-range egg brand, also merged with Egg Innovations, a regenerative farming business.

In the restaurant industry, deal flow remained consistent throughout 2024, with 12 transactions in Q4. The largest deal was the sale of Jersey Mike’s Subs to private equity firm Blackstone for an estimated $8 billion. In the mid-market, fast-casual Hawaiian chain Mo’Bettahs sold a majority stake to Blue Marlin Partners and Trive Capital.

This deal marks a growth milestone for the concept, which plans to open 20 new locations in 2025, expanding its current footprint of around 50 restaurants.

Despite challenges in the restaurant and agribusiness segments, the overall outlook for 2025 is positive, with expectations of a strong year driven by easing inflation, lower interest rates, and abundant investment capital. F

AFGC undergoes leadership changes

AFGC CEO Tanya Barden has announced she is leaving her position as CEO after more than a decade working closely with key stakeholders across the industry.

The chairman of the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC), Anthony Holme, has announced that AFGC CEO Tanya Barden will depart the organisation following a mutually agreed separation.

“Tanya is departing the AFGC after more than 12 years in the organisation, including over seven as CEO.”

“Since joining the AFGC, Tanya has been a staunch and very effective advocate for our industry, demonstrating sound expertise on the issues that matter most to our members.

“This includes helping our sector navigate the myriads of challenges through COVID, working collaboratively on the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct and the importance of food and grocery manufacturing to the Australian economy.

“In addition, Tanya, and her team, along with key partners and our members, have been instrumental in designing and leading the National Plastics Recycling Scheme, now Soft Plastics Stewardship Australia (SPCA), a legacy-building initiative that serves as a blueprint for future circular systems.”

Holme also said that Barden has made a great impact in her time as CEO and on behalf of the AFGC and its members, he would like to thank her for her leadership and wish her the best for the future.

He said that Barden will step down immediately and will take a break before considering her next career opportunity. Barden began her tenure with AFGC in 2012 as the director of Economics, Trade, and Sustainability, leading work on issues related to international trade, competitiveness, and environmental sustainability within the $126 billion food and grocery sector.

In June 2017, she was appointed CEO, succeeding Gary Dawson.

During her leadership, she was a vocal advocate for the industry, addressing challenges such as cost pressures, supply chain resilience, and sustainability.

The SPCA initiative has provided a framework for future circular systems, focusing on soft plastic recycling to reduce waste and increase sustainability.

It is an industry-led initiative that addresses the challenges of managing soft plastic waste in Australia.

Designed and led by the AFGC, with input from industry partners, the stewardship program focuses on creating a circular economy for soft plastics, ensuring they are recycled instead of sent to landfill. It aims to reduce the environ-mental impact of plastic waste and contribute to Australia’s plastic recycling efforts.

This, and other initiatives launched during Barden’s tenure, will remain part of her legacy in the sector.

AFGC’s chief operating officer, Colm Maguire, will assume the role of Interim CEO until a suitable successor is confirmed.

Maguire brings industry experience

and knowledge of the AFGC’s operations to his new role. His appointment will ensure that the needs of AFGC’s members, partners, and staff are met while the organisation searches for a new CEO to drive its strategy forward.

The AFGC was established in 1995 to advocate for policies that promote industry growth, competitiveness, and sustainability.

With a focus on enhancing supply chain resilience, improving regulatory standards, and fostering fair relationships between suppliers and retailers, the AFGC plays a vital role in shaping the future of the food and grocery sector in Australia.

The food and grocery industry remains a cornerstone of the Australian

economy, contributing over $162 billion annually and employing more than 280,000 people across the nation.

The AFGC’s vision is to double this contribution by 2030, creating a more sustainable and resilient sector.

The Council is committed to driving innovation in areas like sustainability, product safety, and consumer health, helping businesses navigate complex regulatory environments and ensuring that Australia’s food and grocery industry remains competitive on the global stage.

Through advocacy, support, and extensive industry collaboration, the AFGC continues to work towards building a stronger, and more sustainable future for Australia’s food and grocery supply chain. F

Image:

The AFGC has announced the departure of long-term CEO, Tanya Barden.

TokyoPack a huge success for visitors

Nerida Kelton, executive director at the Australian Institute of Packaging, details what the 30th TokyoPack packaging exhibition had on offer for the industry.

Author Nerida Kelton FAIP, Executive Director – AIP, Vice President – Sustainability & Save Food - WPO

Arriving at Tokyo Big Sight to attend the 30th edition of TokyoPack with 70,711 other visitors, I was looking forward to seeing how many new packaging innovations were being launched in Japan.

hall, I knew that somewhere in the 720 exhibitors were some stand-out packs, and I had three days to find them.

intuitive and easy to open designs.

A category-specific Product Stewardship program that I discovered

Kewpie & Ajinomoto’s horizontal recycling for mayonnaise bottles

The initiative has been designed as a category-based Product Stewardship program between Kewpie and Ajinomoto to encourage consumers to bring their mayonnaise bottles back to the assigned away-from home collection points to be recycled.

An additional objective of the collaborative project is to collate data and knowledge from both companies to better understand how to recycle mayonnaise bottles and to be able to design future technologies to implement horizontal recycling in Japan.

In Japan used mayonnaise bottles are classified as ‘burnable waste’ and as such are not typically recycled. The new program is designed to take the used bottles, reprocess them, and put the material back into future mayonnaise bottles. The Product Stewardship program will then enable recyclers to have access to quality feedstock of PE bottles to ensure that they can develop and cleaner recycling stream for the material.

The Kewpie and Ajinomoto horizontal recycling trial is being run in Tokyo and I look forward to seeing the Product Stewardship Program expand into other parts of Japan.

This important collaborative program is a part of the Japan Clean Ocean Material Alliance, which is referred to as CLOMA. CLOMA is a multi-stakeholder industry program where companies across the entire value chain can work together to reduce the volume of plastic waste in the waterways and environment.

CLOMA also encourages the development, manufacture and use of more circular and sustainable plastic materials that offer a lower environmental impact in the country.

The CLOMA initiative aims to bring competitors together from the same category to collaborate on recycling, but to also advance and improve horizontal recycling of all plastic packaging in Japan, which in turn will ultimately reduce the number of plastics in the

Kewpie & Ajinomoto collaborated to develop horizontal recycling for mayonnaise bottles.

waterways and the environment.

An earlier project under the CLOMA initiative was launched in Kobe City on June 30, 2021, and is known as the Kobe Plastic Next Refill Pack Recycling Project. This project sees collaboration across Kobe City, retailers, brands, and recyclers to challenge the notion of designing ‘horizontal recycling’ (film to film) in which refill packs such as Kao, Kose, P&G Japan, Unilever Japan, and others work together to create viable recycling solutions for difficult to recycle packaging materials.

Attack Zero ‘Okaeri’ refill pouch recycling program

The Attack Zero ‘Okaeri’ refill pouch is one of the achievements from this program, whereby a horizontal recycling program has been developed for soft plastic refill pouches for Attack Zero’s

liquid detergent by Kao.

The program takes used refill packs collected from the public, and other sources, and using a technology developed by Kao for film-to-film recycling, reprocesses the materials into future refillable pouches.

To recycle the refill packs, Kao have focused on utilising the properties of polyethylene, which makes up about 80 per cent of the composition of refill packs, which means reducing impurities coming from PET, nylon, aluminium foil, and ink.

They have also removed refill packs incorporating aluminium foil from the product stream at the sorting stage. Kao aims to move to a recycle-ready mono material in the future with a higher level of recycled content used in the new refill packs.

The ‘Okaeri’ refill pack was developed in collaboration between Kao Corporation, Lion Corporation,

2025 attracted 70,711 visitors interested in seeing some of

Seal Co, Ltd, Mitsui Chemicals Inc, Prime Polymer Co. Ltd and Tosoh Corporation. The 6x companies have proven that a collaborative approach can create a successful technology for refill pouches.

TokyoPack a success

After three days at TokyoPack I walked

away recognising that there are many packaging technologists in Japan working towards redesigning packaging to lower environmental impacts. The transition to fibre-based alternatives is also great to see and I am keen to see more advancements in mono material packaging and recycle-ready designs in the future. F

Fuji

The Attack Zero ‘Okaeri’ refill pouch is one innovation that stood out to key stakeholders at the show.

Creating a recyclable and circular economy around repurposing used packaging is another key area for the sector.

TokyoPack

the latest packaging innovations.

Calls for greater regulation around organic foods

The Organic Development Group (ODG) says momentum is increasing for new consumer protections following the release of a Senate Committee Report.

A new Senate Committee Report has outlined how the organic food sector’s lack of regulation is leaving it vulnerable to greenwashing.

Anew Senate Committee Report has outlined how the organic food sector’s lack of regulation is leaving it vulnerable to greenwashing and exploitation.

The Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport Legislation Committee spent two months reviewing the National Organic Standard Bill, which aims to introduce a legal definition for organic goods, aligning with all other OECD nations.

The Committee’s report states that while exporters must meet strict organic content rules, no equivalent standards exist for the import or sale of domestic organic products.

“The lack of clear domestic regulation leaves some consumers vulnerable to greenwashing or exploitation as operators can claim to sell organic produce without any certification,” the report said.

In response to this, Organic Development Group, said it has become clear that a desire to increase consumer protections in the sector has grown.

The Committee also recognised the potential benefits of domestic regulation, and while it did not endorse the Bill in its current form, it acknowledged the burden placed on certified businesses.

“The Committee believes that a properly designed regulation could be beneficial for import and export markets along with the domestic market and could provide additional consumer

confidence in Australian produce,” the report said.

Jackie Brian, CEO of Australian Organic Limited and an ODG member, said the report brings domestic regulation closer.

“ODG members welcome this report and its endorsement of the need and benefits of domestic regulation,” said Brian said.

“We now have reports from committees in both houses of Parliament on the gaps in Australia’s regulatory framework. The Trading North report handed down by the Standing Committee on Agriculture highlighted last November the very real need to harmonise Australian and international organic standards.”

Damien Rankine, general manager of the National Association for Sustainable Agriculture Australia Organic, said it was encouraging to see political support for domestic regulation.

“The organic industry is lined up behind this essential reform as it will assure consumers that when they see ‘organic’ on a label it has strong legislation behind it,” said Rankine.

“It will protect our valuable customers and it will protect an industry that contributes more than $2.3 billion to the Australian economy each year.”

Brian added that the Bill would simplify the system by aligning rules for import, export, and domestic sale.

“It also has the potential to open up

valuable markets overseas. Some of our key trading partners require Australian producers to acquire their own certification. If Australia had domestic regulation, the Australian government would have a powerful argument for equivalency arrangements,” she said.

“This would take costs out of the system.”

W hile supporting the idea of domestic regulation, the Senate Committee Report raised three concerns about the National Organic Standard Bill, including the proposed definition of “organic,” legislative power for the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to act as the regulator, and a recommendation for a further scoping study.

Katrina Kehoe, director, and owner of certified organic food producer Kehoe’s Kitchen, said while the report is moving in the right direction, she was disappointed by the lack of a clear plan of action.

“We are the last country in the OECD to do this and it was raised in the 1990s,” she said. “It’s been 35 years of talking.”

I n its submission to the Senate Inquiry, Kehoe’s Kitchen pointed out that while it could afford USA Organic and Korea Organic certification, requiring each supplier to do the same was “impossible.”

“Looking at kimchi as an example, it has seven ingredients. We cannot ask

50-plus farmers to outlay this cost so that we may try to enter a market, with no guarantee to purchase from them,” the submission stated.

Kehoe added it would be a waste of their suppliers’ money and resources.

“Kehoe’s cannot export organic to the USA until we have domestic regulation, it’s as simple as that,” she said.

“We have 100 per cent Australian ingredients in 100 per cent Australian packaging, made by 100 per cent Australian family-owned businesses and we want to export organic, but we can’t. Our government should be doing everything possible at warp speed to increase exports and decrease inflation. What more is there to discuss?”

Brian also said the issues could be addressed with minor amendments to the Bill and called for government support for domestic regulation and a commitment on a timeline for implementation.

“The certified organic industry has been lobbying for this change for many years,” said Brian.

“We look forward to working with all parties who have an interest in the prosperity of our industry and the truth that Australian consumers demand in labelling.

“ We are so close now to a positive outcome on domestic regulation and I am sure that with hard work, good faith and constructive dialogue, it can be achieved together.” F

THE WORLD’S DESTINATION FOR COFFEE

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internationalcoffeeexpo@primecreative.com.au

Neousys Nuvo-10108GC series

Backplane Systems Technology’ Neousys Nuvo-10108GC Series stands at the forefront of industrial Edge AI computing, blending extreme CPU and GPU performance to cater to demanding applications such as autonomous driving and AI-powered factory automation. This rugged Edge AI computer is equipped with an Intel® 13th/ 12th-Gen Core™ processor and supports a single NVIDIA® RTX™ GPU with a 350W power requirement, ensuring superior computational capabilities. It boasts a Gen4 x16 signal for the GPU and includes a dedicated bracket for secure GPU locking, reflecting its design for harsh operational environments.

With up to 64GB of DDR5 memory supported by the Intel R680E chipset and three additional PCIe slots for expansion, the Nuvo-10108GC Series offers ample room for memory and add-on cards, enhancing its versatility in various industrial scenarios. The system’s rich I/O options, including USB 3.2 ports, multiple Ethernet connections, and optional 10GbE, ensure comprehensive connectivity.

The Nuvo-10108GC Series is built to withstand rugged conditions, operating reliably in temperatures ranging from -25°C to 60°C. Its innovative thermal design ensures stable performance even under the stress of continuous vibration, a critical feature for deployment in mobile or challenging industrial environments.

Leveraging the latest in computing technology from Intel and NVIDIA, along with Neousys’ expertise in industrial design, the Nuvo-10108GC Series is a powerful solution for modern AI applications, offering unprecedented computational power, durability, and flexibility for edge computing tasks.

Key Features:

• Supports single NVIDIA® 350W GPU with Gen4 x16 signal and dedicated GPU-locking bracket

SODIMM)

• Three x8 PCIe slots (Gen3 x4) for add-on cards

• 6x USB 3.2, 2x 2.5GbE, 1x GbE, and 1x optional 10GbE

• Two front-accessible storage options: 1x 2.5” SATA tray and 1x optional NVMe tray

• 8V to 48V wide-range DC input with ignition power control

• Rugged, -25°C to 60°C operation

Backplane Systems Technology (02) 9457 6400 www.backplane.com.au

ICP Electronics Australia’s learning module

ICP Electronics Australia provides the industry with its ICP DAS IR-712PMTCP. The ICP DAS

This device is designed to learn and store up to 512 infrared commands from electronic devices, making it a versatile tool for controlling a wide array of smart meeting rooms and surveillance systems, among others.

Equipped with two IR output channels and one IR learning input, the IR-712P-MTCP supports IR remote control carrier frequencies ranging from 33 kHz to 56 kHz, ensuring compatibility with most IR-controlled devices. Its support for Ethernet interface and PoE power supply (IEEE 802.3af, Class 1) simplifies installation and operation, eliminating the need for additional power sources and reducing cable clutter.

Notably, the IR-712P-MTCP employs the Modbus TCP/UDP communication protocol, enabling seamless integration with Modbus master station equipment like PACs, PLCs, and PCs. Included with the module are two CA-IR-SH2251 IR transmitter cables, extending its reach and efficacy in controlling devices. This product is not only compliant with RoHS WEEE standards, ensuring its environmental friendliness, but also revolutionizes remote control by offering an all-encompassing solution for managing and automating electronic devices in a variety of settings.

KEY FEATURES:

• 2 IR output channels.

• 1 IR learning input

• IR command capacity: 512

• Supports IR carrier frequencies: 33, 36, 37, 38, 40 and 56 kHz.

• Supports Ethernet interface.

• Supports Modbus TCP/UDP protocol to emit IR commands.

• Provides ASCII String Command (DCON over TCP/UDP) to emit IR signal.

• Includes 2x CA-IR-SH2251 IR emitter cables.

• (Remote control range: CA-IR-SH2251 is 80% of CA-IR-SH2251-5)

ICP Electronics Australia (02) 9457 6011 www.icp-australia.com.au

The ICP DAS USB-4018HS-16 16-channel high-speed thermocouple measurement USB I/O module

ICP Electronics Australia is proud to introduce ICP DAS USB-4018HS-16. The ICP DAS USB-4018HS-16 emerges as a cutting-edge solution in the realm of data acquisition, particularly designed for precise thermocouple measurement across a diverse range of industrial applications. As part of the USB-4000 series, this 16-channel high-speed thermocouple measurement USB I/O module stands out for its ease of use and rapid deployment capabilities, offering a seamless USB 2.0 full-speed (12 Mbps) connection without the need for an external power supply, being efficiently USB bus-powered.

One of the distinguishing features of the USB-4018HS-16 is its comprehensive support for various thermocouple types including J, K, T, E, R, S, B, N, C, L, M, and LDIN43710, ensuring versatility across different temperature measurement needs. Its capability for automatic cold-junction compensation on each channel enhances measurement accuracy, critical for applications in sensitive manufacturing processes.

The device also has a 3000 VDC intra-module isolation, enhancing its reliability and safety. The USB-4018HS-16 is ideal for industries requiring precise temperature measurements such as SMD assembly in the food industry. Users can effortlessly configure and test the module, making advanced data acquisition accessible without extensive coding knowledge.

KEY FEATURES:

• 16-Channel Analog Inputs

• High Speed Thermocouple Measurement

• •

• Lockable USB cable

• 3000 VDC intra-module isolation

ICP Electronics Australia (02) 9457 6011 icp-australia.com.au

Food safe stainless-steel fanless industrial panel PC

Interworld Electronics is excited to introduce the FABS-9B series of food safe stainless-steel fanless industrial Panel PCs from APLEX Technology.

The FABS-9B series features a powerful built-in Intel 8th generation energy efficient core i3/i5 processor, as well as a 260-pin SO-DIMM DDR4 slot, offering up to 32GB (2400MHz) of RAM.

It has a wide range of rugged industrial features and customisable options which makes it ideal for a wide variety of food and beverage applications, including processing and manufacturing.

The FABS-9B series is housed in a fanless aluminium chassis with a 304 or optional 316 grade stainless-steel bezel that provides IP66/IP69K front panel water and dust protection.

The stainless-steel front bezel provides anti-corrosion, anti-bacteria, and anti-oxidation protection, making it durable and rugged, even when it is exposed to harsh conditions.

The whole series is CE/FCC Class A certified, and the P Model has been optimised to meet the hygienic design requirements of DIN EN 1672-2, a high standard for food and beverage processing.

The FABS-9B series comes in a range of TFT-LCD screen sizes, 15” with a 4:3 aspect ratio, 15.6” wide screen (1920 x 1080 FHD), and 21.5” wide screen (1920 x 1080 FHD).

The series offers the option between resistive touch, ideal for use with gloves, and projected capacitive touch. The projected capacitive touch screen option features multi-touch support, and an anti-scratch surface which helps to improve usability, while also providing the screen with tough protection.

All screens also have the option of high brightness (1,000nits), making them ideal for outdoor use or in areas exposed to a lot of sunlight.

The FABS-9B includes: two COM, two GbE LAN ports, and four USB3.0 ports as well as support for internal Mini-PCIe expansion modules

supporting 3G/4G or WiFi/BT.

Furthermore, the FABS-9B also has a DisplayPort output which enables users to connect an additional monitor when required. Additional COM, LAN and USB ports can also be included. The FABS-9B series supports Windows 10 IoT and Windows 11, helping to future-proof any applications that may be required.

Interworld Electronics (03) 9593 7555 www.ieci.com.au