Precision N application test costs 'outweigh returns'
Precision application of nitrogen can improve yields, but the costs of testing currently outweigh improved returns, according to new research from Plant and Food Research, MPI and Ravensdown.
It's being recommended that consumers add an additional two servings of fruit a day to their diet during winter.
With winter chills hitting, getting at least two servings of fruit each day is a great way to improve your health and wellbeing.
That's according to 5+ A Day trustee and principal scientist, Dr Carolyn Lister. She says that in addition to the recommeded five servings of vegetables, winter fruit such as kiwifruit, lemons, Navel oranges and tamarillos provide important immunity support.
"Fresh is best when it comes to winter fruit. With the huge variety of fresh fruit available through the winter months, it's easy to grab a kiwifruit or a Navel orange for a healthy snack on the go, but why not try adding your favourites to a main meal?"
Lister says that buying the varieties that are in season now will not only provide consumers the biggest nutritional punch, but also the best value.
"The delicious fruit grown here in NZ are one of the best sources of the essential nutrients our bodies need. They're packed full of vitamins, anti-oxidants, fibre and water that support repair and recovery, immunity, energy levels, and mental wellbeing."
Lister adds that incorporating fresh fruit into your evening meal is a great way to make sure the whole whānau gets at least two servings of fruit every day for optimal health.
The 5+ A Day Charitable Trust website has a database with recipes and suggestions for in season fruit and vegetables at https://www.5aday.co.nz.
According to ASB, Fonterra's plan to sell it's Anchor and Mainlands brands could inject $4.5 billion in additional spending into the economy.
New Zealand’s trade with the European Union has jumped $2 billion since a free trade deal entered into force in May last year.
The climate of uncertainty and market fragmentation that currently characterises the global economy suggests that many of the European agricultural machinery manufacturers will be looking for new markets.
Dignitaries from all walks of life – the governor general, politicians past and present, Maoridom- including the Maori Queen, church leaders, the primary sector and family and friends packed Our Lady of Kapiti’s Catholic church in Paraparaumu on Thursday October 23 to pay tribute to former prime Minister, Jim Bolger who died last week.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister, Todd McClay is encouraging farmers, growers, and foresters not to take unnecessary risks, asking that they heed weather warnings today.
With nearly two million underutilised dairy calves born annually and the beef price outlook strong, New Zealand’s opportunity to build a scalable dairy-beef system is now.

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