LATEST UPDATES

In August, AIFST welcomed the opportunity to make a submission to the National Biosecurity Strategy Action Plan 2024: Connected, Resilient, Shared. We were grateful to contribute our insights to help strengthen Australia’s biosecurity system.

Our submission is informed by the report commissioned by AIFST, Exploring the Growth Potential of Australia’s Food Manufacturing Sector: A New Narrative for Australia’s Agrifood System, published in January 2021.

To access the full submission, visit our submisions page here https://www.aifst.asn.au/AIFST-Submissions

It’s National Science Week (10-18 August) and the Australian Government has released the National Science Statement and the National Science and Research Priorities. 

The National Science Statement provides a framework to shape science policy and leadership across governments, in our labs, in research institutions and in boardrooms, to 2034. It is supported by a set of revitalised National Science and Research Priorities. These emphasize the science and research collaborations Australia will need to solve its greatest challenges. 

As we saw at the recent AIFST24 convention, new ways of working are emerging that embrace multi-disciplinary approaches, shared infrastructure, shared datasets, and developing digital capabilities. This shift is particularly important in the food science sector, where the integration of cutting-edge technology, sustainability practices, and consumer health insights are critical. Food scientists are now at the forefront of these changes, playing a pivotal role in addressing global food security, developing alternative proteins, and creating healthier, more sustainable food systems. 

In particular, the world is shifting to new models for conducting science – moving away from siloed science funding, hyper-competitive teams, and a lack of collaboration. Mission-led science is becoming the new normal, and Australia can lead the way. In this context, food scientists are not only contributing to innovations in food production and safety but also to broader scientific missions, such as improving public health and reducing environmental impact through sustainable practices. 

The National Science Statement outlines five imperatives that will shape the national science system and national science policy, and their influence on Australia’s transformation, over the next 10 years: 

• Australian scientists, science institutions, and infrastructure shaping Australia’s science future 
• Science at the centre of Australian industry  
• A diverse, skilled workforce to underpin the translation of science into new industries  
• Embracing science to drive Australia’s regional and global interests  
• A science system prepared for future challenges  

Access the link below to read the National Science Statement: 

https://www.industry.gov.au/publications/national-science-statement-2024 

 

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (the department) is aware of reports in international media asserting that cooking oil has been transported in the same trucks that are used to transport fuel and other chemicals.

The department can confirm that Australia imports significant quantities of oils that could be considered a ‘cooking oil’ from China. While one company in China is named in the media reports (Sinograin), it is currently unclear how many producers and oils may be impacted by the contamination concern.

The department sought information from the relevant competent authority in China, via our Agriculture Counsellor in Beijing, on the safety of cooking oils exported to Australia and have received a response from the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC). In this response GACC has confirmed:

• the Chinese government attaches great importance to the issue of cooking oil being contaminated and the relevant departments are investigating
• there have been no reported cases of consumers becoming sick from consuming potentially contaminated cooking oils
• exports to Australia of oil from China in 2023 and the first half of 2024 are all pre-packaged refined edible vegetable oils for direct sales, rather than vegetable oils transported by oil tankers and exports complied with the relevant requirements for exporting food.

The Department has asked our Counsellor in Beijing to keep abreast of this issue and we will continue to provide updates if any new information becomes available. We encourage industry to continue to seek assurances from suppliers on the safety of cooking oils sourced from China.

In a significant milestone, food australia, the Australian Institute of Food Science and Technology’s (AIFST) quarterly journal is proud to celebrate its 75^th anniversary this year. 

As Australia’s leading resource in food science and technology, food australia—formerly known as Food Technology in Australia—has been a cornerstone of the industry for 75 years. Since its inaugural issue in August 1949, the publication has consistently delivered cutting-edge scientific research and technical advancements to food industry professionals. It has served as a crucial platform for disseminating the latest insights, offering expert guidance, and fostering connections among the diverse stakeholders across the food supply chain.

Over these 75 years, the field of food science and technology has evolved dramatically, yet the journal has remained at the forefront, continually updating and informing the industry and its partners about significant developments.

Fiona Fleming, CEO, AIFST says “After 75 years of being a leading voice in food science and technology, our publication has continually addressed key topics in the food industry through insights from industry experts, establishing itself as an invaluable resource for food industry professionals. As we celebrate this milestone, we eagerly anticipate the future challenges and opportunities awaiting the agri-food sector. We remain committed to supporting and inspiring the next generation of food science innovators and technologists.”

As part of its 75^th anniversary celebration, visit the AIFST website in August to discover a series of exclusive interviews with some of the people who played a significant role in the journal's success. These esteemed voices share their perspectives on how food australia has continually adapted and remained a vital resource in the agri-food sector over the decades. Their reflections provide a unique look at the journal’s journey and ongoing impact.

The journal’s diamond anniversary is a testament to its enduring commitment to excellence and its role in advancing knowledge.

Priority access to the journal is available exclusively to AIFST members and subscribers. Join today to access the anniversary edition.

Visit the membership section of the AIFST website to become a member: https://ow.ly/bNMu50PgItk

Leaders and innovators in technology, sustainability, and academia will converge at the highly anticipated AIFST24, the Australian Institute of Food Science and Technology’s annual convention 

The 2024 Convention will be held in Sydney on August 6 & 7 at the Sydney International Convention Centre.

The theme for AIFST24, FOOD SCIENCE: Navigating Our Future, speaks to the challenges and exciting opportunities ahead for the agri-food industry and the important role food science and technology will play.  

AIFST24 will feature a comprehensive technical program, and the great networking opportunities offered by a face-to-face event.  

Over two days with plenary and four concurrent session streams, the convention will feature over 60 scientific and food industry speakers from across the agri-food sector. Key areas covered will include food safety, advances in health and nutrition, sensory and consumer science, food security and resilience, advanced food manufacturing, AI, food policy & regulation, innovation, and sustainability. 

The are many benefits to attending AIFST24 includingnetworking opportunities; knowledge enhancement; professional development; collaboration and partnership opportunities, plus staying ahead of industry trends.Participants can expect a diverse array of presentations, panel discussions and networking opportunities designed to inspire collaboration and innovation. 

"We are thrilled to bring together some of the brightest minds and most forward-thinking professionals in food science and technology for this year’s convention," said AIFST CEO, Fiona Fleming. "The convention serves as a pivotal platform to explore how the latest technologies and advances across multiple disciplines can drive sustainable practices and solutions." 

Key highlights of AIFST24 include: 

• Keynote Addresses: Insights from renowned experts shaping the future of technology and sustainability, including Dr Chris Downs, Director, Food and Beverage Accelerator (FaBA), who will present the JR Vickery address on Day 1 of the convention. 

• Panel Discussions: Engaging debates on pressing issues and emerging trends in the field. 

• Networking Opportunities: Connections with peers, potential collaborators, and industry leaders.A key highlight of the AIFST Convention is the food and wine networking evening. The event is a great opportunity to create new connections and reconnect with industry colleagues.Likewise, the Rise and Shine: Career Connect Breakfast on Wednesday 7 August is an exciting event open to all students, young members, and AIFST 2024 mentors and mentees 

Whether you're advancing your career or exploring new opportunities, AIFST24 offers unparalleled networking and learning opportunities.  

The convention is expected to draw attendees from across the agri-food sector, including professionals, researchers, policymakers, and students, all united by a common goal of uniting agri-food industry professionals in the science of feeding our future. 

Access Convention information here https://www.aifst.asn.au/sys/website/?pageId=18560 

 

The AIFST welcomed the Inquiry Report from the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Agriculture into food security in Australia – Australian Food Story: Feeding the Nation and Beyond.

The inquiry’s remit was to look at strengthening and safeguarding food security in Australia.

The Committee, chaired by Labour MP Meryl Swanson, made 35 recommendations overall.

The primary recommendation is the development of a comprehensive National Food Plan providing for the food security, including nutritional security, of the nation and its people. The National Food Plan must have clear objectives and measurable targets set out in regular updates and action plans, and subject to regular review.

Further to the establishment of a National Food Plan, the Committee recommended the Australian Government appoint a Minister for Food, within the portfolio of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, with responsibility for the development and implementation of the National Food Plan, regular monitoring and updating of the plan, and accountability for achieving outcomes and targets under the plan.

AIFST had previously provided a submission to the Inquiry in December 2022 and AIFST CEO, Fiona Fleming and Acting Chair Dr Michael Depalo testified at a public hearing in June 2023.

In December, AIFST CEO, Fiona Fleming, attended a virtual Q & A with the Committee Chair, Meryl Swanson, to gain further insight into next steps.

AIFST looks forward to the opportunity to support the progression of the recommendations in 2024 and beyond.

The full Inquiry report is available here: https://ow.ly/gbBm50Qh6pe

The Food Ministers’ Meeting (FMM) met on Friday 28 July 2023 in Wellington, New Zealand, to consider food regulation and policy matters. The FMM is chaired by the Hon Ged Kearney MP and comprises all Australian and New Zealand Ministers responsible for food. The Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) CEO attended the meeting as an observer.

Key outcomes from the meeting covered the following topics:

• Priority 3 System Modernisation update
• Use of the Health Star Rating (HSR) system on digital platforms
• Improving the composition of the food supply in relation to industrially-produced trans fats
• Added Sugars Labelling
• Food Standards Australia New Zealand Act 1991 (FSANZ Act) Review – Progress Update

For details, viist the Food Regulation website: https://foodregulation.gov.au/internet/fr/publishing.nsf/Content/forum-communique-2023-july

Reducing the burden of foodborne illness and harnessing the potential of microorganisms are vital issues for everyone involved along the food supply chain. This conference will speak to the challenges, complexity, and opportunities posed by microorganisms in our food supply. In doing so we seek to raise the profile of food microbiology and the importance of ongoing research and development activities in the field.

The conference will be presented as a hybrid event (face-to-face and virtual), offering a content-rich, day-long program focusing on the Australian food safety landscape.

The program hosts an excellent selection of speakers addressing topics from the burden of foodborne illness to factors impacting the supply of safe and trusted food. Plus, there will a series of moderated question and answer sessions where you can engage with the speakers.

Our goal is to deliver a professionally rewarding experience, which will provide a platform to make professional contacts, and takeaways that will elevate your knowledge of current issues in food microbiology.

The Food microbiology conference will be of interest and relevance to personnel across the entire food industry, as well as food regulators, academics, researchers, and Government officials.

To register and for further details visit our website HERE

AIFST is very pleased to announce the latest book in the Aussie STEM STARS series features Skye Blackburn on eating bugs for the planet.

At a virtual morning tea event this morning, Skye spoke about her food science journey and how she is inspiring and education the next generation of food scientists. To mark this special day, the publisher, Wild Dingo Press, has a special offer on the full series of STEM STARS books, including the opportunity to pre-order Skye’s book. Visit their website to take up the offer: https://lnkd.in/db-XxhMx

To view the recording of the virtual morning tea click here

AIFST members can also get free shipping – contact aifst@aifst.com.au for the code.

National Science Week is Australia's major national celebration and recognition of the sciences.   

Celebrating this year’s theme, ‘Food: Different by Design’, the Australian Institute of Food Science & Technology (AIFST), along with our partners, are pleased to announce the launch of the Australian Agrifood Science Portal. The AIFST has contributed with key resources focused on ‘What is food science & technology’ and ‘Food Science Teacher Resources’.

The Portal has been designed to support school agrifood science educators with access to resources, programs, and ideas to inspire and engage students with the wonderful world of agriculture and food science.

The Portal is a collaborative effort of partners from the Australian Science Teachers Association (ASTA); AIFST; Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia (PIEFA); Action for Agriculture; University of Southern Queensland; Centre for Excellence in Agricultural Education – Richmond Agricultural College; and OzHarvest.

A career in food science & technology is guaranteed to be challenging and fulfilling with so many opportunities in different fields of food science, by supporting our science teachers we are hoping to inspire the next generation of food scientists.

The Australian Agrifood Science Portal is a great example of fulfilling the AIFST mission to advance and inspire all food sector professionals through education, collaboration and recognition to champion a robust, innovative science based Australian food industry to meet future food needs.