Researchers at UNSW Computer Science and Engineering have developed a smartphone sensor that can detect if milk is fresh or spoiled without opening the package, to help in cutting down the amount of wasted milk.

Tasmanian sparkling wine producer, House of Arras, has received the Chairman’s Trophy at the 11th annual Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships, with the first Australian sparkling to do so.

Victoria’s pulse production is getting a boost, with over $13 million invested into new plant protein research from the Victorian government and Grains Research and Development Corporation.

Better-for-you company, Soulfresh, has acquired beverage business Emma & Tom’s to expand its beverage portfolio, particularly in the juice sector. Soulfresh founder, Didi Lo, says the companies are a “natural fit”. 

Mars Inc. says the new solar thermal plant at its Mars Petcare facility in Wodonga, Victoria will be the first commercial installation of parabolic trough CST technology in Australia, making the plant a leader in green process heat manufacturing.

ASX listed health and wellness company, Jatcorp, reported a 25 per cent jump in ongoing operations revenue for Q1 FY25, but also logged a statutory revenue decline of 42 per cent as the business completed a strategic pivot.

With alternative proteins on the rise, researchers in Japan have found a way to use photosynthetic microorganisms to produce cultured meat in a more sustainable way.

The results of the 2024 Australian International Olive Awards have been announced, with Australian olive producers dominating the winners list after another challenging year for the industry.

Good Drinks Australia (GDA) says it will seek approval at its upcoming annual general meeting to delist from the ASX. The GDA board says the company is “significantly” undervalued by the market when compared to typical industry metrics including sales volume, revenue, market share, and brand positioning.

After years working as a contract manufacturer, Anastasia Karpoukhina launched her own sweet snack brand in 2023 – Crumble Charms. Since then, the brand has secured national distribution with health and wellness company, Bioliving.

The Australian government has signed an agreement with China that aims to establish stronger agricultural ties and opportunities for collaboration and co-operation on organic goods.

The 2024 Annual Food and Grocery Code Independent Reviewer’s Survey is underway, with the federal government encouraging farmers and suppliers to submit feedback on their dealings with the major supermarkets – Coles, Woolworths, Aldi and Metcash.

The National Farmers Federation Horticulture Council says it cannot support the mandatory Food and Grocery Code of Conduct if it is based on the exposure draft released last month. The proposed mandatory code implements the 11 recommendations made in the Emerson review, to start on 1 April 2025.

Australian Greek yoghurt producer, The Yoghurt Shop, has expanded into Saudi Arabia, with an official launch at Tamimi Markets in Riyadh. Based in Adelaide, South Australia, the family-owned business launched in 2003.

For 146 years, XXXX has carved out a deeply loyal following and become one of Australia’s most recognised beer brands – but even an icon must evolve to keep its currency and attract new followers. Kim Berry speaks to the team from XXXX’s parent company, Lion, about changing consumer tastes and how its launch of XXXX Ultra Zero Carb is rising to the challenge.

Research platform, Growth Scope, has delved into Australian drinking habits, with insights showing alcohol consumption is significantly higher than standard guidelines.