Meat wellness, well done
Newly published research shows overseas consumers have a strong interest in improving their wellbeing through eating red meat, highlighting opportunities to achieve a premium for products with proven health benefits.
The proposed Southern dairy hub has got the go-ahead from partners DairyNZ and AgResearch.
Southern Dairy Development Trust chair Matthew Richards says the trust this month updated the directors of DairyNZ and AgResearch on their fundraising, and sought their approval and financial backing.
Farmer pledges numbered 516, amounting to $1.3 million.
The target was $2 million in farmer pledges, but because a majority of southern dairy farmers pledged money a decision was made to proceed.
“DairyNZ and AgResearch were pleased with the number of farmers prepared to back the proposal, especially in a low milk payout time. Both boards wanted to see strong farmer commitment… and this was a key to going ahead. Both boards know how important the hub project is for our region. Their support means we can move to the next phase of the hub development.”
The next step will be to buy a suitable farm, Richards says. “We have been looking at some properties that could meet our needs.”
Then consents, design and planning will go ahead.
“It’s going to be a tight timeframe to be ready for milking cows in June next year, but our team is ready and focused.”
The pledging website will remain ‘live’ until the day the hub is completed, to receive any more pledges.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.
World Veterinary Day falls on Saturday 27 April.
Graham Brown, the executive chef for Deer Industry New Zealand (DINZ), is excited about Korea.
OPINION: Talking about plant-based food: “Chicken-free chicken” start-up Sunfed has had its valuation slashed to zero by major investor Blackbird…
OPINION: Synlait's financial woes won’t be going away anytime soon.