Fonterra Co-op managing director Global Markets Consumer, René Dedoncker, has resigned. He is moving to Elders and will start as CEO on 1 October. Dedoncker has been with the co-op since 2005.

The Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) has called on the federal government to take decisive action in the 2026–27 Budget to support Australia’s food and grocery manufacturing sector.

Yowie Group will manufacture and distribute a portfolio of seasonal products across 16 chocolate and confectionery product types for the heritage brands Violet Crumble, Polly Waffle and FruChocs.

From the bottle beside the stove to the drizzle over weekend brunch, olive oil has become a familiar part of Australian kitchens. With global supply still recovering from two difficult seasons, Australia’s rapidly maturing olive industry is standing out as a stable and promising contributor to the olive oil market.

The federal government is conducting a review of the Horticulture Code of Conduct, following several difficult years for farmers and growers, with rapidly rising levels of dissatisfaction.

The federal government has committed to developing an Industry Code of Practice for labelling plant-based protein products, supported by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) research and led by the Alternative Proteins Council (APC).

Consumers may soon see products containing cocoa-free chocolate appearing on shelves, as confectionery manufacturers look to manage increased volatility in the price and supply of cocoa beans, according to research from agribusiness banking specialist, Rabobank.

Cargill has commissioned a 2.58 megawatt (MW) onsite solar array at its Newcastle crush plant, marking the company’s first large-scale renewable energy project in Australia and a milestone in its efforts to cut emissions and strengthen energy resilience across its local operations.

AFNOR International has acquired the HACCP Group companies in Australia, including HACCP Australia and HACCP International. The deal will extend AFNOR’s footprint across the Asia Pacific region while strengthening HACCP International’s reach into Europe.

After a three year break, foodpro is returning in 2026, taking place over four action-packed days at the end of July. Registration is now open for the key food and beverage manufacturing event, featuring processing technology, packaging, ingredients and sustainable solutions – all under one roof.

Taste and nutrition company, Kerry, has revealed its 2026 Global Taste Charts – drawing on the expertise of over 1200 scientists, 100 flavourists, and extensive consumer research to unlock the rising trends in food and beverage.

The World Whiskies Awards has revealed its 2026 Rest of the World winners, shining a spotlight on several Australian distilleries making their mark on the growing international whisky community.

Starward Whisky has returned to full Australian ownership, with founder David Vitale acquiring the brand and ending its decade-long involvement with Diageo’s Distill Ventures program.

Pure Foods Tasmania (PFT) has commenced contract manufacturing for Sydney-based smoked seafood producer Brilliant Food Australia, in a strategic step to increase utilisation at its Woodbridge Smokehouse facility in southern Tasmania.

Australia’s spirits excise has increased to $107.99 per litre of alcohol, in the first automatic tax rise of 2026, and renewing calls from peak bodies for reform of the country’s alcohol taxation system.

Noosa Chocolate Factory has appointed Marcus Raward as its new CEO, as the company prepares to enter its next phase of growth.