Matt Bolger returns to Fonterra to lead co-operative affairs division
Fonterra's co-op model and what it does for New Zealand has lured one of its bright stars back on board.
Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd backs the move by Ravensdown and Ballance Agri-Nutrients to voluntarily suspend sales and use of Dicyandiamide (DCD) treatment on farm land until further notice.
The fertiliser companies announced the suspension yesterday after very low levels of DCD were identified in some test samples of dairy products.
"We have been assured by New Zealand's regulatory authority – the Ministry for Primary Industries - that there is no food safety risk. However, DCD residues in agricultural products may present a future trade issue," said managing director cooperative affairs Todd Muller.
"Although DCD was a promising option for reducing nitrate leaching, it is critical that New Zealand's trade reputation is preserved. The voluntary suspension is the responsible approach in the absence of any internationally agreed standards for DCD residues in food."
Fonterra will participate in a working group set up by the Ministry for Primary Industries to examine what the suspension means in terms of the future use of DCD in farming, including the impact on water quality requirements.
The country's second largest milk processor hopes to produce its first commercial butter within two months.
There's no doubt that vehicle manufacturers at Fieldays saw a steady stream of rural folk treading the boards.
Fonterra's co-op model and what it does for New Zealand has lured one of its bright stars back on board.
Farmer lobby Federated Farmers is reporting a growth in membership, for the first time in decades.
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