Innovative Solutions Transform Agriculture and Food Safety Management

Recent advancements from several New Zealand-based companies are delivering innovative solutions aimed at improving agricultural practices and food safety management. Companies like MastaPlex, Chomp, and AbacusBio Ltd are redefining industry standards through technology and science, enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability.

MastaPlex Revolutionizes Dairy Diagnostics

MastaPlex has introduced a groundbreaking on-farm diagnostic system that addresses bovine mastitis, a leading cause of antibiotic overuse in dairy cattle. According to the company’s chief executive, Dr. Olaf Bork, the patented system, known as Mastatest, is unique in its ability to identify both the bacteria causing the infection and its antibiotic sensitivity. The system also provides best-practice treatment advice, all within 24 hours and without requiring specialist training.

This innovative approach has undergone rigorous clinical trials, with positive results published in peer-reviewed journals. Farmers now have the confidence to adjust their practices based on reliable data. Developed and manufactured in Otago, Mastatest is now exported to thousands of dairy farmers and veterinarians across more than 20 countries.

The latest iteration of the system, G3, launched in June 2024, incorporates feedback from real-world trials to enhance user experience. Additionally, MastaPlex has introduced advanced customer data analytics and reporting features that empower farmers and veterinarians to make informed decisions for healthier herds. The company is also exploring potential applications of Mastatest for other animal diseases.

Chomp Streamlines Food Safety Management

In the realm of food safety, Chomp has developed a digital solution designed to replace outdated paper-based systems in the hospitality sector. The company’s marketing manager, Jen-Ni Quante, emphasizes that Chomp simplifies compliance for cafes, restaurants, hotels, and childcare facilities. The platform allows users to manage food safety compliance from any device, reducing the burden on busy teams.

Over the past year, Chomp has expanded its staff and redesigned its platform, introducing ChompHQ, a management dashboard that transforms food safety management from a reactive approach to a proactive one. The tool has shown measurable impacts, including time savings, fewer compliance errors, and increased team engagement, helping businesses maintain their reputations in a fast-paced environment.

AbacusBio Drives Agricultural Innovation

Established in Dunedin, AbacusBio Ltd combines scientific expertise with business intelligence to foster genetic improvements in agriculture. According to group managing director Nadia McLean, the company, founded in 2001, now employs a team of 50 and has expanded its operations to Scotland, Canada, and Australia.

The firm integrates various disciplines, including quantitative genetics, big data computing, and farm management, to develop genetic solutions for plant and animal industries globally. Chief scientific officer Peter Amer notes that AbacusBio bridges the gap between research institutions and practical applications, benefiting farmers in regions such as rural India and East Africa through targeted training and resources.

With its diverse team of geneticists, data scientists, and agribusiness professionals, AbacusBio customizes solutions to meet the unique challenges faced by its clients, contributing to a more sustainable agricultural ecosystem.

Incredible Software Enhances Business Efficiency with AI

Another notable player in New Zealand’s innovation landscape is Incredible Software, which focuses on streamlining business operations through AI-driven solutions. Co-chief executive Stephen Johnson explains that the company addresses common operational challenges faced by businesses, such as disorganized inventory tracking and cumbersome sales processes.

Incredible Software’s offerings include AI applications capable of managing customer interactions, generating reports, and automating work orders. The company’s emphasis on user-friendly solutions allows teams to focus on strategic initiatives rather than operational headaches. With a growing workforce that includes remote colleagues from various countries, Incredible Software is establishing itself as a leader in the realm of operational efficiency.

These companies exemplify the innovative spirit present in New Zealand, leveraging technology and scientific advancements to address critical issues in agriculture and food safety management. Their commitment to improving practices not only benefits local industries but also contributes to global efforts in sustainability and efficiency.