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Know Your Grocery Code program for fresh food suppliers to supermarkets

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The Australian Government is supporting farmers and fresh food suppliers to secure a fairer deal when negotiating with large supermarkets. Funding has been awarded to the National Farmers Federation (NFF) and AUSVEG to deliver the Know Your Grocery Code program.

Beginning in the second half of 2026, the program is designed to provide training to fresh food suppliers across Australia to help them better understand their rights under the mandatory Food and Grocery Code of Conduct. It includes online and in-person workshops across metropolitan, regional and rural areas and will be accessible to all suppliers including rural producers and First Nations growers.

“A tomato grower in Bundaberg or an apple producer in the Huon Valley shouldn’t need a legal team to understand their rights. Perishability shifts power towards the big buyers. That’s why we’re helping suppliers know the rules, use the Code, and bargain on a more even footing.” said Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury Dr Andrew Leigh MP.

Industry support welcomed by NFF and AUSVEG

The NFF Horticulture Council Executive Officer Richard Shannon said the investment was a meaningful step towards a more level playing field for fresh produce suppliers.

“Having rights under the Code matters. But those rights are only as strong as the capacity of suppliers to understand them, assert them, and act on them. That takes knowledge, confidence and skills, and that’s exactly what this investment will build,” Shannon said.

“Fresh produce suppliers face real structural pressures when negotiating with large grocery businesses. Products are perishable, growing cycles are long, and significant costs are committed well before a buyer makes any decisions. This program will help suppliers go into those conversations better prepared and better protected.”

AUSVEG CEO Michael Coote said Code training for fresh produce suppliers was timely given the continuing severe production cost surges facing Australian vegetable growers flowing from the Middle East conflict, and persistent challenges securing viable returns for their produce from their customers.

“Supermarket retailers remain the dominant channel through which Australians purchase most of their vegetables, and are the major — if not only — customer for many vegetable growers. Australian vegetable growers supply 10,000 tonnes of fresh produce into the domestic market each day, and 98% of the fresh vegetables consumed in Australia, so the dynamic between the major retailers and grower-suppliers is crucial to Australia’s food security,” Coote said.

“The now mandatory Food and Grocery Code includes enhancements like clearer good-faith obligations, stronger protections around price negotiations, product rejections, promotions and payments, and enhanced dispute-resolution pathways, but many grower-suppliers are still concerned about the longstanding power imbalance that is still making their business relations with large grocery retail businesses challenging.

“A level playing field is critical to ensuring the long-term viability of Australia’s vegetable growers and industry, and to protecting the future availability of Australian-grown vegetables for Aussie families.

“AUSVEG welcomes the government progressing this opportunity for growers to upskill and enhance their understanding of their rights and protections under the Code, as well as the opportunity to provide this important training in partnership with NextGen Group, which is a leading provider of Food and Grocery Code and retail negotiation training.”

Looking ahead

This funding support is part of the government’s broader efforts to address market power imbalances in the grocery sector, including making the Food and Grocery Code mandatory with substantial penalties, and agreeing in principle and progressing the ACCC’s Supermarket Inquiry recommendations.

“The Code has come a long way, and we’re grateful to the government for the reforms already delivered. The next review is a real opportunity to build on that progress, and we’ll be actively engaged to make sure the voice of horticulture growers is heard,” Shannon said.

Image credit: iStock.com/Hispanolistic

2026 PIDA Award Finalists announced

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Finalists for the 2026 round of the annual Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design (PIDA) Awards have been announced, with a number of unique designs being recognised across multiple categories.

Coordinated by the Australasian Institute of Packaging (AIP), the PIDA awards are designed to recognise companies and individuals who are making a significant difference in their field across Australia and New Zealand.

The 2026 finalists are...

2026 Food Packaging Design

The 2026 Food Packaging Design finalists are Primo Sliced Meats Peel & Reseal Pack: Primo Foods and Amcor Flexibles; Arctic Shield EPS Replacement: Opal ANZ; RePlay: Bonson Packaging; Everest Ice Cream Cup: BioPak; Honey Squeeze Pack: Caps & Closures; Heinz Taste Tap Dispenser: Kraft Heinz Australia; Mango Multipack: Opal ANZ & Perfection Fresh; and Auto Punnet for Tomatoes: Detpak.

2026 Beverage Packaging Design

The 2026 Beverage Packaging Design finalists are Asahi Carlton Dry 6 x 330 ml Bottle Shrink Replacement Wrap: Graphic Packaging International & Asahi Beverages; 600 ml Spring Water: Woolworths; capR: Interpack; Remedy Sodaly: MCC Label Australia (Asia Pacific); and Asahi Beverages 6 x 330 ml Bottle Basket to OTC Wrap: Graphic Packaging International.

2026 Labelling & Decoration Design

The 2026 Labelling & Decoration Design finalists are RePlay: Bonson Packaging; Material Free Decoration: Costa Group, Result Group & The Packaging Hippie; EL TORO Tequila Blanco Vok Beverages, Bickfords Australia: MCC Label Australia (Asia Pacific); Elucent Age defying Bright + Balanced range: Ego Pharmaceuticals; and Zeus St Greek Take Away Packaging: BioPak.

2026 Outside of the Box Design

The 2026 Outside of the Box Design finalists are Milk Bottle Recycling System: Popit Recycling, Martogg & Procal Dairies; Nally Folding MegaBin: Viscount; Scaling Traceability: Result Group & Australian Table Grapes Association; ReCree8 PCR Pallet Wrap Range: thinkpac; Libra Range Outer Packaging with 50% PCR LDPE: ProAmpac New Zealand; and Smart Circular Satchel: Australia Post, iQRenew, RollsPack & Signet.

2026 Marketing Design

2026 Marketing Design award finalists are RePlay: Bonson Packaging; Where the Fruit becomes the Campaign: Costa Group/Result Group/The Packaging Hippie; G’day Honey Anti Dust spray Propolis & Kakadu Plum: Pure Australia; JC’s Quality Foods snack nut range: CTL Packaging; and The Tasty Turkey Bangin’ Burgers raised by Ingham’s: We Are Sprout & Ingham’s Australia.

2026 Save Food Packaging Design

The 2026 Save Food Packaging Design finalists are Birds Eye Frozen Single Vegetables 825 g Range: Simplot; Austlon SG Self Sealing Shrink Bag: IPE Pack and Technology; Heinz Taste Tap Dispenser: Kraft Heinz Australia; and Paper Food Tub and Lid System: Pinnacle Packaging.

2026 Sustainable Packaging Design

The 2026 Sustainable Packaging Design finalists are Smart Circular Satchel: Australia Post, iQRenew, RollsPack & Signet; When the Product Becomes the Package: Costa Group, Result Group & The Packaging Hippie; Milk Bottle Recycling System: Popit Recycling, Martogg & Procal Dairies; RePlay: Bonson Packaging; Nally Folding MegaBin: Viscount; ReCree8 PCR Pallet Wrap Range: thinkpac; Coles Antibacterial Handwash 250 ml: TrendPac & Coles; Honey Squeeze Pack: Caps & Closures; CRYOVAC Recycled Content Retail Meat Trays - Sealed Air Australia, Hot Fill Bag-in-Box (BIB) Pouch: Mondelez International & CTL Packaging; Mono material HDPE tube and cap range: Impact International; Cocktail Truss Tomatoes: Costa Group, Opal & Woolworths; 600 ml Spring Water: Woolworths; and SCA Engine Lubricants: Supercheap Auto.

2026 Young Packaging Professional of the Year

The 2026 Young Packaging Professional of the Year award finalists are Pooja Ganesh Nayak, Packaging Engineer, Coles; Storm Menzies, Owner, Storm Beauty; Curtis Wakeley, Technical Packaging Specialist, Bluestar Group New Zealand; and Kelsey Smith, Managing Director, Birunji.

2026 Industry Packaging Professional of the Year award

The 2026 Industry Packaging Professional of the Year award finalists are David Kilpatrick MAIP, R&D, Quality & Innovation Director, Zipform Packaging; and Prof Gil Garnier, Director & Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University.

2026 Packaging Technologist of the Year

The 2026 Packaging Technologist of the Year finalists are Christopher Cester Dip.Pkg.Tech. MAIP, Senior Packaging Technologist, Flavour Makers; Marian O’Leary Dip.Pkg.Tech. MAIP, Senior Packaging Technologist, Fonterra Australia; and Nicole Roy Dip.Pkg.Tech. MAIP, Regional BDM Cold Chain ANZ, EMBALL’ISO ANZ.

2026 ABA Scholarships

The 2026 ABA Scholarship finalists are Andrew Rennie AAIP, Sales Representative, Oji Fibre Solutions NZ; Marta de Sousa Felix AAIP, Junior Packaging Technologist, Lactalis Australia; Nancy Jackson AAIP, Owner, NJD Creative; Fatemeh Arefian, Packaging Development & Sourcing Analyst, Caspak Products NZ; Mary Clare (Macey) Mapanao AAIP, Packaging Technologist, Suntory Oceania; Maisha Maliha, Packaging Scientist, DuluxGroup; Ola Wicik AAIP, Packaging Engineer, Opal Fibre Packaging Australia.

2026 AIP President Scholarship

The 2026 AIP President Scholarship finalists are Wilsen Kannan AAIP, CPP, Assistant Packaging Manager, Vinda Malaysia; and Dheeraj Kumar MAIP, CPP, Senior QC Manager, Lagata Group (Boden).

2026 Health, Beauty & Wellness Packaging Design

The 2026 Health, Beauty & Wellness finalists are Mono material HDPE tube & cap range: Impact International; Libra Range Outer Packaging with 50% PCR LDPE: ProAmpac New Zealand; Esmi Cleanser Butter Balm, rioa Rio Amazonas Face Wash: Bluestar Group New Zealand; Elucent Age defying Bright + Balanced range: Ego Pharmaceuticals; and Coles Antibacterial Handwash 250 ml: TrendPac & Coles.

2026 Domestic & Household Packaging Design

The 2026 Domestic & Household Packaging Design finalists are Click & Grow Garden Care System: Yates Group; Tahwalhi Towable Bodyboard: Rebel Sports Australia; Libra Range Outer Packaging with 50% PCR LDPE: ProAmpac New Zealand; and Smart Circular Satchel: Australia Post, iQRenew, RollsPack & Signet.

Announcement of winners

Winners will be announced at the gala Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design (PIDA) awards ceremony that will be held alongside foodpro on 28 July, at the Aviary, Crown Complex, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

The PIDA Awards are also the exclusive feeder program for Australia and New Zealand for the WorldStar Packaging Awards run by the World Packaging Organisation (WPO). All 2025 PIDA winners will be automatically eligible for entry into the 2026 WorldStar Packaging Awards competition.

AMS announces 2026 Beamex User Group meeting

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Following a two-year break, AMS Instrumentation & Calibration has announced the 2026 Beamex User Group event will be held on the Sunshine Coast at Marcoola Beach, Queensland, 17–18 November 2026. The event returns after a high level of support expressed by the Beamex customer base in Australia.

The meeting will be held over two days and is free to attend. With a number of recent and pending product releases, the User Group will allow attendees to familiarise themselves with the latest Beamex product range and discuss strategies to improve management of their calibration workloads. AMS said it was excited to have this opportunity to work with customers to build upon their existing Beamex user experience.

The program is being finalised and a number of speciality presenters from Beamex will assist in running the program. Other presenters will include Mike Farkas from AMS with further guest speakers to be confirmed in the near future.

Specialty presenters include:

Mike Farkas, Calibration/Flow Product Manager, AMS-IC
Antti Koivisto, Senior Vice President of Sales, Beamex OY
Antti Mäkynen, Product Manager, Beamex OY
Roberto Guaranha, Regional Sales Director, Beamex OY
Jari Kiili, Area Sales Manager, Beamex OY

The deadline for registrations is 16 October 2026.

What: 2026 Beamex User Group
When: 17–18 November 2026
Where: Ramada Marcoola Beach
923 David Low Way, Marcoola Beach, Qld, 4564
Beach Front Ball Room

Singapore, a hub for European dairy in SE Asia

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The European Union is strengthening its engagement with Singapore as a regional hub for advanced food manufacturing and nutrition innovation. This comes as demand for functional dairy ingredients accelerates across South-East Asia.

Led by Bord Bia – The Irish Food Board, the initiative is part of the ‘European Dairy: Ireland, Where Nature Meets Science’ campaign, a €3.2 million investment co-funded by the European Union to strengthen Asia’s nutrition pipeline and foster long-term trade partnerships. The campaign is designed to showcase sustainable farming and scientific research behind European dairy production.

Lorna Allen, South East Market Manager of Bord Bia, said, “Singapore is a key gateway for European dairy engagement in South-East Asia, particularly as demand for functional and science-backed nutrition continues to grow. Ireland has exported €276 million value of dairy products to South-East Asia in 2025, a YoY increase of 16.4%. Through the EU-funded campaign, Bord Bia is supporting closer collaboration between European dairy producers from Ireland and regional food and nutrition innovators.”

The campaign reflects ongoing collaboration between European dairy stakeholders and regional partners, including organisations such as Temasek and Teagasc, to support innovation and knowledge exchange in functional nutrition.

Dr Kalpana Bhaskaran, Deputy Director, industry partnerships and Head, Glycemic Index Research Unit at Temasek Polytechnic, said, “Dairy ingredients play a vital role across the life course. With protein‑fortified and functional dairy products gaining strong momentum, the opportunity to improve population health through evidence‑based dairy innovation has never been greater.”

Dr André Brodkorb, Senior Researcher, Teagasc Food Research Centre Moorepark, said, “Irish grass‑fed milk is scientifically proven to deliver superior nutritional benefits, with Teagasc research showing dairy cows who operate on an Irish grass-fed system, produced milk with higher percentages of omega-3 and conjugated linoleic (CLA) fatty acids compared to cows fed medium and low proportions of grass.”

For more details, visit: european-dairy.eu.

Image credit: iStock.com/esilzengin

Taste perception study to help advance functional food designs

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

A pilot study conducted by researchers at Shibaura Institute of Technology has developed a new sensory evaluation method that links the chemical structures of polyphenols with their distinct taste properties. Using trained human panellists, researchers showed that different polyphenols produce unique sensory effects, including bitterness, acidity and astringency. The findings may help improve functional food design and food processing technologies while advancing understanding of how taste-related sensory pathways could contribute to digestion, metabolism and health-related responses.

Reason for the research

Polyphenols are naturally occurring plant compounds widely found in tea, cocoa, fruits, vegetables and other foods. They are well known for their potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and age-related disorders. However, despite decades of research on their physiological effects, scientists still understand relatively little about how the specific chemical structures of polyphenols influence their taste sensations, such as bitterness and astringency. These sensory properties strongly affect food preferences and may also influence biological responses in the digestive system.

To address this challenge, a research team led by Professor Naomi Osakabe from the Department of Functional Control Systems, Graduate School of Engineering and Science, Shibaura Institute of Technology, Japan, along with Hitomi Nakamura and Moeka Ogata from the same institute, developed a structured sensory evaluation system using trained human panellists to quantitatively analyse the taste characteristics of polyphenols and connect them with their chemical structures. Their findings were published in Volume 15, Issue 8 of the journal Foods on 17 April 2026.

The study focused on four representative polyphenols with different chemical structures: gallic acid, quercetin hydrate, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and a procyanidin-rich fraction derived from cocoa. Before testing, seven carefully selected panellists underwent four months of intensive sensory training designed to improve their ability to distinguish acidity, bitterness and astringency. The researchers combined multiple sensory evaluation approaches, including flavour profile analysis, quantitative descriptive analysis, and three-alternative forced-choice testing, to ensure good results.

The experiments revealed clear sensory differences between the compounds. Gallic acid produced strong acidity similar to citric acid, while EGCG, a major compound in green tea, generated pronounced bitterness and mild astringency. The procyanidin-rich fraction showed intense astringency, likely due to its polymerised structure interacting with salivary proteins. In contrast, quercetin hydrate displayed little detectable taste, mainly because of its low water solubility.

“While polyphenols are known to produce bitter and astringent sensations, very few studies have objectively evaluated these properties using trained human panels. We wanted to establish a reliable system that could scientifically connect sensory perception with chemical structure.” Osakabe said.

Benefit for the food industry

The researchers believe these findings could significantly benefit the food industry, particularly in the development of functional foods and beverages. By understanding how molecular structures influence taste, manufacturers may be able to improve food palatability while preserving beneficial health properties. The study may also contribute to designing products with targeted sensory effects that encourage healthier dietary habits.

Another important aspect of the research involves the growing recognition that taste receptors are not limited to the mouth. Recent studies suggest that bitter and astringent compounds can interact with receptors in the digestive system, influencing hormone release, glucose regulation and gastrointestinal function. Understanding the sensory characteristics of polyphenols may therefore help explain some of their health-promoting effects.

“Our long-term goal is to create predictive models that can estimate sensory properties directly from chemical structures. This could support the future development of next-generation functional foods tailored for both taste and health benefits,” Osakabe said.

Overall, the study provides one of the first systematic frameworks for quantitatively evaluating polyphenol taste characteristics using trained human panels. By linking molecular structure with sensory perception, the research opens new opportunities for food science, nutrition research and functional food innovation while improving understanding of how taste-related pathways contribute to human health.

Image credit: iStock.com/Antonio_Diaz

Avocado supply chain handling training program partners with Woollies

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The Australian Avocado Industry Virtual Reality Training Program (AV24010) program has been launched, following 12 months of collaboration between industry and Woolworths. Attendees at Avo Connections in Adelaide will be among the first to trial the picking and packing module, which will be made available through VR headsets and on both mobile and tablet from 1 July 2026.

Funded by Hort Innovation through the avocado research and development levy, with contributions from the Australian Government, the program uses VR scenarios to simulate real-world environments across the avocado supply chain, from orchard through to retail in-store handling. Accessible via VR headsets, mobile and tablet, the program is designed to provide a scalable way to upskill workers and embed best-practice handling at every stage, to deliver high-quality Australian avocados.

Designed to help reduce handling damage and wastage across the supply chain, the program is suitable for avocado farm staff, orchard managers, pack house staff and retail team members. It trains users on the practical skills needed to manage quality, temperature and avocado handling throughout the supply chain.

By immersing trainees into realistic environments across orchard and packhouse, VR builds muscle memory and confidence in best-practice techniques, while addressing the longstanding challenge of workforce turnover and seasonal labour variability, through a scalable, repeatable training solution.

“Each member of our supply chain, from farm to retail, plays a critical role in delivering high-quality Australian avocados to consumers,” said Avocados Australia CEO John Tyas. “This program aims to standardise training at each point in the supply chain to deliver a more consistent eating experience for consumers and strengthen our industry’s commitment to delivering a high-quality and valued product”.

“The industry welcomed the opportunity to partner with Woolworths on the retail modules, where handling and merchandising play a critical role in quality outcomes. We look forward to seeing the program’s long-term positive impacts on our industry.”

From a retail perspective, the goal is to train around 18,000 Woolworths in-store Fruit & Veg Managers and team members to develop an even better understanding of the avocado supply chain delivering quality avocados to supermarket customers. Woolworths is expected to begin implementation across its stores nationally from 1 July.

Woolworths’ Commercial Director, Fresh, Louis Eggar, said: “From growers right across the country, our horticulture industry produces the most consistently amazing quality fresh fruit and vegetables.

“As a retailer, we’re keen to support truly innovative approaches like this that can give our teams a ‘real-world’ understanding of the horticultural supply chain, from orchard to store.

“This is a genuinely collaborative, end-to-end program, built on the latest technology, that will really enhance our commitment to delivering the quality avocados our customers demand and expect.”

Data to drive ongoing improvement

Co-designed key performance indicators developed collaboratively between the Australian avocado industry and Woolworths will track outcomes and drive continuous improvement through monitoring adoption rates, completion rates, knowledge and confidence levels. Secondary indicators such as display quality, waste trends and voice of customer insights will support assessment of implementation effectiveness.

This work will be further supported through monitoring sales data, handling consistency and customer feedback experience.

Image: Supplied

Next-generation automation on show at CeMAT 2026

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Together with its parent company KUKA, Swisslog will be showing its latest portfolio of scalable warehouse automation solutions at CeMAT in Melbourne from 23–35 June at Stand D27 — including its grid-based ASRS solution AutoStore, new 4-way pallet shuttle system WonderStore and the SynQ software platform.

Swisslog solutions are designed to increase storage density, throughput flexibility and operational efficiency in fast-moving distribution environments. KUKA will exhibit demo applications including Autonomous Mobile Robots from its KMP portfolio and industrial robots. The modular, software-driven solutions are designed to help supply chain operators build long-term resilience, flexibility and performance. They are a core part of the Swisslog and KUKA Automation 2.0 strategy. Automation 2.0 is the next step in industrial automation. It moves beyond individual machines to fully connected, intelligent and software-driven production and logistics systems.

“Supply chains need to continuously adapt,” said Steve Dimitrovski, Director of Sales, Swisslog Australia and New Zealand. “Our focus is on delivering automation that continues to perform as businesses grow, shift and diversify — what we call being ‘Ready for the Next’.”

Swisslog’s Ready for the Next framework outlines five key pillars for future-ready automation, including outcome-led design, modular scalability, intelligent software architecture, integrated technology ecosystems and long-term partnership models.

“The cost of implementing the wrong type of automation is rarely immediate,” said Dimitrovski. “Outdated or inflexible systems will reveal themselves through capacity constraints, costly retrofits, and technology decisions that become harder to unpick the longer they’re left. Swisslog’s framework closes that gap by grounding automation investment in long-term outcomes rather than point-in-time delivery.”

Mondelēz site tours and conference presentations

During CeMAT, Swisslog will be offering exclusive guided site tours of the Mondelēz International West Melbourne distribution site — providing a first-hand look at an automated facility in action. Visitors will experience a site that is designed to handle 56,000 pallets initially in the high bay, with the room to expand the ASRS up to 62,000 in the future

Two tour sessions will be available directly from the exhibition at 09:45 am on Tuesday and Wednesday. Spaces are limited so registration is essential — find out more here.

“These site tours are an opportunity to see automation operating at scale in a real-world environment,” said Dimitrovski. “Mondelēz is one of the largest snack food companies in the world, and Swisslog’s ASRS solution allowed them to consolidate their Victorian Distribution Centres and their off-site storage, into one facility, with continuing benefits to efficiency, safety, and throughput.”

Swisslog and several of its customers will also be presenting at the conference, and its website will be updated with presentation details soon.

New this year: 4-way pallet shuttle

2026 marks the first time Swisslog will be showcasing its new 4-way pallet shuttle WonderStore in the Australian and New Zealand market.

“Using roaming pallet shuttles, the product delivers true 4-way travel — forward, backward, lateral and vertical. The system’s modular architecture allows businesses to scale storage and throughput progressively as demand grows, without major disruption to live operations,” Dimitrovski said.

“The new shuttle is particularly well suited to operations managing increasing SKU complexity, changing fulfilment demands, and constrained warehouse space. By combining high-density storage with adaptable automation, it supports more agile and future-ready supply chain operations.”

AIP joins AFGC as a member

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The Australasian Institute of Packaging (AIP) has joined the Australian Food & Grocery Council (AFGC) as a member.

Executive Director of the AIP, Nerida Kelton said joining the AFGC solidifies a long-standing and strong partnership that the two peak organisations have had for decades.

“The AIP and AFGC have worked together for so long that we are proud to have formalised the partnership. We look forward to strengthening this relationship and supporting AFGC Members to be upskilled in all areas of technical packaging, sustainable packaging design, designing to be recycle ready, save food packaging and more. We are here to help any AFGC Member that needs knowledge gaps filled within the packaging side of their business.” she said.

Sarah Collier, Membership & Director – Sustainability, AFGC said: “Working with the Australasian Institute of Packaging (AIP) is an effective way to ensure practical, industry‑led packaging solutions to some of the most complex problems our sector faces. Together, we can build capability, support sustainability outcomes and help manufacturers respond to packaging reform with confidence.”

Image caption: iStock.com/Rizwan Mehmood

Jet Technologies partners with renewable ink technology business

Thu, 28 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Jet Technologies has announced a partnership with US-founded business Living Ink Technologies, which has developed a portfolio of renewable, algae-based black pigment technology called ALGAE INK. The technology has been adopted by international brands such as Nike, and this new partnership with Jet Technologies is set to introduce the portfolio to the Australian market.

Designed to replace conventional fossil fuel-derived carbon black used across inks, coatings and industrial applications, the pigment is described as carbon negative as the production process is claimed to sequester more carbon than it emits.

“As demand grows for more sustainable alternatives across packaging and print, partnerships like this are critical to making new technologies commercially accessible,” said Scott Fulbright, CEO, Living Ink Technologies. “Jet Technologies stood out immediately because of their intentional approach and clear commitment to advancing sustainability within the packaging industry.”

Living Ink’s products are designed as ‘drop-in’ replacements for conventional black pigments, allowing printers and packaging manufacturers to integrate bio-based alternatives into existing workflows without requiring major equipment changes or capital investment.

“There is increasing pressure on brands and manufacturers to reduce environmental impact across the entire supply chain, not just the product itself,” said Jack Malki, Director at Jet Technologies. “This partnership gives our customers access to innovative bio-based ink technologies that can support sustainability goals while still meeting the performance and quality standards required in commercial production environments.”

At launch, Jet Technologies will be able to provide Living Ink’s Flexographic ALGAE INK range alongside conventional and UV-cured Offset ALGAE INK products. The partnership also creates opportunities to expand into additional printing applications over time, including specialised UV Flexo technologies developed through Living Ink’s global development agreement with ACTEGA.

Image: Supplied

Dematic celebrates 60 years of Australian innovation

Thu, 28 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Dematic is celebrating 60 years of innovation, engineering excellence and customer partnership in Australia and New Zealand, marking a major milestone in the company’s journey from humble beginnings in a small workshop in Sydney’s Northern Beaches to becoming a global leader in supply chain automation.

Founded as Colby Engineering in 1966 by Gerry Hatton AM, the business began as a local manufacturing and engineering operation built on mechanical and structural steel expertise, with the introduction of the adjustable racking system ColbyRACK which remains a key part of Dematic’s local offering. Over six decades, Dematic has grown into a global automation and technology leader supporting industries including grocery, retail, e-commerce, health care, manufacturing, third-party logistics, and food and beverage. Now a provider of advanced automation technologies including voice-directed picking, goods-to-person (GTP) systems, robotics, and integrated software, Dematic has delivered major automation projects for businesses including Woolworths, BIG W and Sigma Healthcare.

“Dematic has always been built on a culture of innovation, partnership, and a commitment to customers,” Hatton said. “From the very beginning, there was a strong belief that we could design and build world-class solutions locally, while continuing to evolve with the changing needs of industry. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how far the business has come, and even more exciting to see the next generation continuing to push innovation forward.”

Dematic now employs more than 850 people across Australia and New Zealand and continues to invest in local manufacturing, engineering capability and apprenticeship programs.

The anniversary comes at a time of growing demand for intelligent automation, robotics and AI-driven optimisation as businesses respond to labour challenges, operational complexity and rising customer expectations. With solutions spanning software, storage and order fulfilment systems, robotics, automated guided vehicles, and fully integrated automation technologies, the company has focused on improving operational performance, efficiency and resilience throughout modern distribution centres.

“A significant number of products move through supply chains powered by Dematic technology every day,” said Simon Barrow, V.P. and Managing Director for Dematic ANZ. “Whether consumers are shopping online, purchasing groceries, accessing medical supplies or receiving essential goods, there is a high probability that Dematic technology has played a role somewhere along that journey.”

Dematic’s growth over the past six decades has mirrored the evolution of Australia’s supply chain sector, from traditional warehousing through to highly automated distribution environments.

“For 60 years, we have remained focused on helping customers solve complex operational and supply chain challenges. We are incredibly proud of our people and the role Dematic has played in supporting Australian industry, manufacturing, and engineering innovation.

“Ongoing investment in Australian engineering capability remains central to the business’s long-term strategy. Our engineers, technicians, software specialists, project teams and apprentices have always been pivotal to Dematic’s success. Supplementing our manufacturing in Sydney is a commitment to our Lifecycle Solutions and Service apprenticeships program, coupled with our graduate pathways to ensure we grow our local engineering expertise across multiple disciplines,” Barrow said.

Image: Supplied

For Food's Sake agrifood event returns in September

Thu, 28 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Hosted by Future Food Systems (FFS), For Food’s Sake returns in September 2026 to bring together leaders and decision-makers from across the agrifood ecosystem. Following a successful event in Coffs Harbour last year, where 23 initiatives were seeded between local industry and researchers, the event is set to expand its national impact to the harbour city, Sydney.

The 2026 program will highlight initiatives across research, industry and government, with discussions focused on sustainability, nutrition, energy, food security, and the broader challenges and opportunities shaping Australia’s agrifood system.

The summit will feature speakers from leading research institutions including UNSW, the George Institute for Global Health and Western Sydney University, alongside industry organisations including the World Farmers’ Organisation and Sanitarium Health Food Company.

FFS CEO Dr James Krahe said the event reflects the growing importance of collaboration in shaping the future of Australia’s agrifood sector and creating new partnership opportunities across industry and research.

“We are proud of the evolution of For Food’s Sake. What started as an idea focused on cross-sector engagement has grown into an initiative that has fostered multiple collaborations across the agrifood sector,” Krahe said.

The event will also feature keynote speaker Dr Flávia Fayet-Moore from FOODiQ Global, who said For Food’s Sake offers a valuable opportunity to connect with others across the food system and gain insight into emerging trends and innovations shaping the sector.

“Attending For Food’s Sake helps me to shift my perspective about food, to hear about innovation and what’s happening, and to connect with people in the food system that otherwise I wouldn’t meet within my area of work.”

Held from 1–3 September, this year’s event will include a two-day Summit at the Roundhouse in Kensington, a Gala Dinner at 6HEAD, a Research Showcase, side tours, workshops and an exhibition zone where partners can showcase their products, technologies and services.

For further information, visit: www.forfoodssake.com.au

Image credit: iStock.com/Plateresca

New CEO and MD for Pure Foods Tasmania

Wed, 27 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Pure Foods Tasmania Limited (PFT) announced to the ASX on 25 May 2026 that Robert Knight has been appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, effective 1 July 2026.

Back in October 2024, Knight was appointed as Director of PFT and has therefore played an active role in the operational and strategic direction of the business. In June 2025, he relocated to Hobart from Melbourne to take up the role of Sales and Marketing Director. Since that time, he has played a central role in a number of key commercial and strategic initiatives across the business, including:

increasing the company’s Coles store footprint from approximately 300 to 800 stores;
re-establishing Costco;
relaunching the company’s Potato & Gravy product;
securing ranging in Drakes of the full Tasmanian Pâté product range; and
having principal involvement in the acquisitions of Elato and Brilliant Food Australia.

The Board said it believes Knight’s appointment provides PFT with strong alignment between management, shareholders and the Board at an important stage in its development.

Knight said: “I am grateful for the strong Board support and opportunity to lead Pure Foods Tasmania.

“I originally returned to Tasmania because I believe strongly in the underlying potential of this business, its brands, its people and its position as a Tasmanian food company with national and international growth opportunities.

“I look forward to working closely with the Board, staff, customers, suppliers and shareholders as we enter this next phase.”

Image credit: iStock.com/Shaiith

Fresh produce technology on show at Hort Connections 2026

Wed, 27 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Result Group will showcase fresh produce innovation at Hort Connections 2026 on stands 210 and 211, including its EcoMark Natural Branding, QR-enabled traceability, product identification and packaging automation.

From 1–4 June 2026 at the Adelaide Convention Centre, visitors will be able to see live natural branding on selected fresh produce, explore the ATGA Plug-and-Play Traceability Platform and experience practical technologies designed to support product origin, compliance, supply chain visibility and consumer engagement.

Industry-built traceability for grapes

One of the features on the stand will be the ATGA Plug-and-Play Traceability Platform, an industry-built solution developed by Result Group in collaboration with the Australian Table Grape Association and industry partners.

The platform has been designed to connect product, packhouse and supply chain information through QR-enabled labels and digital traceability tools. For the grape industry, it is designed to provide a practical way to strengthen provenance, transparency, market access, supply chain visibility and consumer confidence.

“The ATGA Plug-and-Play Traceability Platform is something we are incredibly proud to be part of. It has been built for the grape industry, with a clear goal: to make export traceability more practical, accessible and valuable. It supports compliance, strengthens trust in Australian produce and gives growers a simpler way to connect existing data with the needs of modern export markets,” said Michael Dossor, Sales Director at Result Group.

Natural Branding live on stand

Alongside the traceability solution, Result Group will demonstrate its EcoMark Natural Branding, with live laser marking on selected fresh produce throughout the event.

Natural branding is designed to provide a different way to think about produce identification. Instead of relying only on stickers or additional packaging, selected produce can be marked directly using laser technology.

At the event, Result Group will also launch the next chapter with its EcoMark Natural Branding campaign, which is expected to spark interest across the fresh produce industry.

Image: Supplied

HMPS uses Rockwell's FactoryTalk Optix for its packaging machines

Tue, 26 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Australian OEM HMPS, which specialises in designing, developing and manufacturing machinery for packaging processes, is enhancing the performance, usability and flexibility of its packaging machinery by integrating Rockwell Automation’s FactoryTalk Optix HMI platform across its portfolio.

As a Gold OEM Partner in Rockwell Automation’s PartnerNetwork, HMPS has worked closely with Rockwell to deliver advanced automation solutions tailored to the needs of Australian manufacturers. HMPS has now integrated OptixPanel HMIs into its machinery range, including its newest Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) machines which will be showcased at Rockwell Automation’s industrial automation event ROKLive in Adelaide from 23–25 June.

The HMI platform is designed to introduce a more modern, intuitive and data-rich operator experience for the HMPS machines, which are used across a range of packaging environments.

“The latest OptixPanel platform allows HMPS to offer faster changeovers, clearer operator guidance, and smoother day-to-day operations,” said Adrian Giecco, regional director, South Pacific, Rockwell Automation.

“Operators can view real-time production data, make adjustments quickly, switch recipes in just a few clicks, and plan maintenance more effectively — helping reduce downtime and improve overall productivity.”

For end users, the result is less downtime, faster changeovers and easier day-to-day operation. Operators can quickly identify and resolve issues through clear, guided alarms and visual prompts, while built-in training content and on-screen documentation reduce reliance on external support.

According to HMPS, selecting the latest Rockwell HMI platform across its machinery range supports both operational simplicity and long-term customer value.

“We’re focused on making our machines easier to operate, maintain and optimise,” said Glen Foreman, national sales manager, HMPS.

“With the new interface, operators can troubleshoot issues more quickly, access the information they need directly on the machine, and complete changeovers with minimal effort. That translates to less downtime, faster onboarding, and lower support costs for our customers.”

The collaboration between HMPS and Rockwell Automation highlights how machine builders and technology providers can work together to simplify packaging operations while improving user experience.

“With its latest VFFS machine set to debut at ROKLive, HMPS is demonstrating how modern HMI technology can help manufacturers improve performance, reduce downtime, and operate with greater agility,” Giecco said.

Toddler milk regulation proposal by FSANZ under discussion

Tue, 26 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is calling for submissions on a proposal to develop a modernised regulatory framework for young child formula, commonly referred to as toddler milk.

‘Proposal P1066 — Review of young child formula’ is considering whether the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (the Code) should be updated to ensure regulatory requirements for young child formula remain fit for purpose and reflect their intended role as a special-purpose food.

FSANZ CEO Dr Sandra Cuthbert said young child formula are widely marketed for use in young children’s diets, raising questions about whether the current regulatory framework continues to reflect their role as a supplementary product.

“Assessment to date indicates there is a need for greater regulatory clarity to ensure product composition, labelling and representation are consistent with the intended purpose of young child formula as a special-purpose food,” Cuthbert said.

“Our assessment has considered the role of these products, the available scientific evidence and regulatory approaches in other jurisdictions.

“We are proposing a clearer and more targeted framework, including revised compositional requirements and strengthened labelling measures to support safe use, improve consumer information and reduce the potential for confusion.

“We are seeking feedback from consumers, health professionals, industry, enforcement agencies and other interested stakeholders to help inform next steps in this work, including whether we progress to draft regulatory measures.”

The proposal was prepared following a request from the Food Ministers’ Meeting in November 2024 to review regulatory provisions for young child formula in response to market developments.

Submissions close on 7 July 2026. To find out more, visit here.

Image credit: iStock.com/Juanmonino

Packserv appointed Australian distributor of SIAT Packaging Equipment

Tue, 26 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Packserv, an Australian manufacturer and supplier of packaging machinery, has been appointed as the Australian distribution partner for Italian packaging equipment manufacturer SIAT’s range of end-of-line packaging equipment.

Through this agreement, Packserv will now supply and support SIAT’s range of packaging equipment, including case erectors, case sealers and pallet wrappers designed to improve packaging efficiency, consistency and line automation.

By incorporating SIAT’s solutions into its portfolio, Packserv can now provide fully connected modular production lines that integrate filling, capping, labelling, printing, conveying, case erecting, case sealing and pallet wrapping, providing a scalable approach to packaging automation.

“We are pleased to be a distribution partner of SIAT, extending our offering into end-of-line automation,” said Nathan Wardell, Managing Director of Packserv. “This addition allows us to deliver complete packaging lines, giving customers greater flexibility to scale production, improve efficiency and reduce manual handling across their operations.”

Packserv technician at work.

The expanded offering strengthens Packserv’s position as a single-source supplier for packaging machinery, combining Australian-made equipment with global machinery solutions backed by local service and technical support.

As demand continues to grow for automation and connected production environments, the integration of SIAT equipment enhances Packserv’s ability to design tailored solutions that improve uptime, consistency and overall line performance.

Top image caption: The SIAT NASTRO SB M Semi Auto Case Sealer.

Aussie wrapping solution for pallets designed to save waste

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The Australian entrepreneur who built frank green has launched a new venture to help eliminate single-use plastic for wrapping pallets.

Benjamin Young’s new company No Wrap developed a system of reusable Backbone Corner brackets and high-tension Loop and Lock straps that fit existing pallets.

Designed, patented and manufactured in Victoria, the No Wrap innovation is not just a plastic wrap replacement, it has been designed to represent a future operating system for sustainable logistics across supply chains.

Young said the No Wrap system has been implemented at frank green's distribution centre in Dandenong, which has eliminated approximately 7 tonnes of plastic wrapping each year.

“I knew there had to be a better way to secure pallets and avoid all the plastic going into landfill, so we invented the solution,” Young said.

“We removed plastic wrap from our business and cut minutes of wrapping time per pallet. Our operations team prefers it because it’s safer and easier, because there are no cutters — and our waste bins stay empty.”

Sustainability Victoria Chief Executive Matt Genever said he was excited that a Victorian company has developed this innovation.

"No Wrap is a simple concept, but with the support of Australian businesses the positive impact on our environment promises to be huge given the many tons of plastic wrap sent to landfill every day," Genever said.

Meet the Buyer trade show in WA

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Western Australia's food and beverage trade show, Meet the Buyer, will return to Crown Perth on Tuesday 20 October 2026. The event is designed to bring together WA producers, buyers and industry decision-makers for a day of business connections and commercial opportunities.

Now in its sixth year, the event is part of WA State Government's Buy West Eat Best program, administered by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).

In 2025, there were 85 exhibitors with more than 570 WA food and beverage products to more than 400 delegates.

For producers like Rademi Enterprises, who brought their Amaise popcorn range to the event for the first time in 2025, the experience opened doors they hadn’t had access to. “The introduction to interstate and international delegates was a standout of the trade show; that kind of access is hard to create anywhere else, and it’s exactly why Meet the Buyer provides a unique opportunity for local producers,” said Milan Vaswani, Director of New Product Development at Rademi Enterprises.

The 2026 event will again connect WA growers, producers, fishers and food and beverage manufacturers with buyers from across retail, hospitality, foodservice, airlines, aged care, education, resources and export sectors.

DPIRD Manager of Food Industry Development Deborah Pett said, “Meet the Buyer plays a critical role in strengthening WA’s food and beverage industry.

“Meet the Buyer creates direct commercial pathways for WA producers and reflects the strength and diversity of what our state grows, farms, fishes and produces,” Pett said.

“In 2025 we welcomed a 22-strong TradeStart delegation from 12 countries who came specifically to find WA products worth taking to the world, and they found them. We’re looking forward to building on that this year.”

For more information, visit meetthebuyer.com.au.

Image credit: iStock.com/Ljupco

Sustainable food model for localised production in Brisbane

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Greenspace has developed an urban farming model that is designed to bring food production right next door to where it is consumed. A commercial integration of its centralised Macrofarm has now been launched at the Amora Hotel in Brisbane, which follows other installations in Sydney and Melbourne.

Macrofarms are designed to transform underutilised urban spaces into optimised hydroponic farms which grow diverse produce year-round in indoor environments. The ready-to-harvest produce is then distributed locally to smaller Microfarms (hydroponic cabinets) that are located within hotels, workplaces, restaurants and retail environments, where it remains living and until harvested based on demand.

The Microfarm redefines how organisations approach food, sustainability and ESG. It enables hotels like the Amora Hotel Brisbane to grow, maintain and harvest living produce like micro greens, herbs, lettuces, and Australian natives onsite.

Peter Fox, Founder and CEO of Greenspace, said: “We’re shifting from a framework where buildings simply consume resources, to one where they actively produce them as well. It’s a model that makes both commercial and environmental sense for some of our customers like Amora, Sofitel, the Greenbank SC and W hotel.

“By embedding networked food production into a community, we’re reducing supply chain reliance and food miles, while improving nutrition, consistency and quality for that urban environment.”

John Bristowe, General Manager at Amora Hotel Brisbane, said the Greenspace Urban farm is reshaping how the hotel approaches both sustainability and food operations.

“Sustainability is an important part of our hotel’s ongoing journey, and working alongside Greenspace allows us to further embrace ideas that are practical, purposeful and aligned with the future of hospitality. This collaboration is a wonderful example of how businesses can work together to create something meaningful for guests, visitors and the wider Brisbane community.”

Traditionally, greenery in commercial buildings has been decorative, it’s a hard cost with limited functional return. Greenspace’s model replaces this with productive, edible systems, allowing buildings to operate as part of the food supply chain.

Images supplied

Submissions open for 2026 Melbourne Royal Food Awards

Fri, 22 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Australia’s food producers are being invited to enter the 2026 Melbourne Royal Australian Food Awards (AFA). With a history dating back to 1874, this year’s awards have a range of new and returning categories across beer, wine, spirits and food.

The Bread and Baked Goods and Olive Oils categories have been reintroduced. These categories will feature three bread classes, three baked goods classes and two olive oil classes, culminating in the presentation of Champion Bread, Champion Baked Good and Champion Olive Oil trophies.

The new categories at this year’s awards include: Champion Chilli Preserve Trophy, Apprentice Butcher Category and a Champion Australian Independent Cheesemaker Award.

Previously judged under a single chilli class, the new Champion Chilli Preserve Trophy within the Preserves category has now expanded to include dedicated awards for chilli sauce, chilli oil and other chilli preserve products. The Champion Australian Independent Cheesemaker Award is designed to celebrate the artistry and craftsmanship of Australia’s independent cheesemakers. Open to apprentices currently undertaking a Certificate III in Meat Processing (Retail Butcher), the Apprentice Butcher Category includes gourmet sausages and gourmet burgers.

“The Melbourne Royal Australian Food Awards are about celebrating the producers shaping Australia’s food industry while also providing a trusted benchmarking platform that supports growth, innovation and excellence,” said Kirrily Waldhorn, Melbourne Royal Senior Manager Food & Beverage Awards.

Open exclusively to 100% Australian products, the awards are designed to inspire and celebrate excellence in food production, providing producers of all sizes — from boutique artisan makers to large-scale commercial operations — the opportunity to receive blind judging, industry recognition and valuable market credibility.

Entries are blind tasted and assessed against strict technical and sensory criteria by some of Australia’s most respected food producers, chefs, retailers, food technologists, educators, writers and recipe developers.

For more information, visit: www.melbourneroyal.com.au/australian-food-awards.

Image: Supplied