Innovative Solutions from Otago Transform Global Industries

Innovative companies based in Otago, New Zealand, are making significant strides in various sectors, including agriculture, food safety, and technology. MastaPlex Ltd, Chomp, AbacusBio Ltd, and Incredible Software are leveraging science and technology to provide solutions that benefit not only local markets but also clients around the globe.

MastaPlex Leads in Dairy Diagnostics

MastaPlex Ltd is revolutionizing on-farm diagnostics with its innovative system for managing bovine mastitis, a leading cause of antibiotic overuse in dairy farming. According to chief executive Dr. Olaf Bork, the company’s patented system, Mastatest, is unique as it identifies both the bacteria causing mastitis and its antibiotic sensitivity. The system provides best-practice treatment advice automatically, requiring no specialist training from users. Results are available in under 24 hours.

Clinical trials published in peer-reviewed journals have validated the effectiveness of Mastatest, encouraging farmers to adopt new practices. Developed and manufactured in Otago, the product is now exported to thousands of dairy farmers and veterinarians in over 20 countries. The latest iteration, known as G3, launched in June 2024, incorporates feedback from real-world trials to enhance user experience. Furthermore, advancements in customer data analytics support farmers and veterinarians in making informed decisions for healthier herds. MastaPlex is also investigating the potential application of Mastatest in other animal diseases.

Chomp Simplifies Food Safety Management

Chomp, another innovative company from Otago, has developed food safety management software tailored for various businesses, including cafes, restaurants, and childcare facilities. Marketing manager Jen-Ni Quante highlights that Chomp replaces outdated paper-based systems with a digital solution that streamlines compliance processes. The software is designed for daily use by busy teams, enhancing efficiency in managing food safety compliance from any device.

In the past year, Chomp has expanded its workforce, redesigned its platform, and launched ChompHQ, a new management dashboard that shifts food safety management from a reactive to a proactive approach. The team collaborates closely with chefs and business operators to ensure the software is user-friendly and significantly more effective than traditional methods. As a result, clients report time savings, fewer compliance errors, and improved audit confidence.

AbacusBio Drives Genetic Improvement

Founded in 2001, AbacusBio Ltd is at the forefront of genetic improvement across agriculture. Headquartered in Dunedin, the company employs a diverse team of 50 professionals and has expanded its operations to Scotland, Canada, and Australia. Group managing director Nadia McLean states that AbacusBio integrates quantitative genetics, genomics, and big data to develop genetic building blocks that benefit both plant and animal industries worldwide.

Through collaborations, AbacusBio enhances genetic improvement in rural India and boosts crop yields in East Africa, while also supporting sustainability initiatives in advanced economies like New Zealand. The company’s multidisciplinary team, which includes geneticists and software developers, customizes solutions to meet the unique needs of each client.

Incredible Software Streamlines Business Operations

Incredible Software is transforming the operational landscape for businesses through AI-powered solutions. Co-chief executive Stephen Johnson explains that the company addresses common operational challenges such as scattered inventory tracking and disconnected reporting. By replacing these outdated systems with streamlined, AI-driven tools, Incredible Software enables teams to focus on more strategic tasks.

The company has developed various AI solutions, including a phone agent capable of managing calls, generating reports, and booking appointments without human intervention. Their innovations also feature tools that convert spoken words or notes into professional reports. With a growing workforce that includes remote team members from various countries, Incredible Software is committed to simplifying complex business processes.

These Otago-based companies exemplify how innovation in science and technology can lead to impactful solutions that address pressing global challenges. By fostering local talent and collaborating with institutions like the University of Otago, they are setting a benchmark for excellence in their respective fields.