Innovative Otago Companies Transforming Global Industries

Several innovative companies based in Otago, New Zealand, are making significant strides in science, technology, and food safety management, with their advancements having a global impact. These firms are redefining their respective fields through smart design, automation, and close collaboration with local academic institutions.

MastaPlex Revolutionizes On-Farm Diagnostics

MastaPlex is setting new standards in on-farm diagnostics with its pioneering system targeting bovine mastitis, a leading cause of antibiotic overuse in livestock. According to Dr. Olaf Bork, chief executive of MastaPlex, their patented diagnostic system, known as Mastatest, is the only one in the world that can identify both the bacteria responsible for mastitis and its antibiotic sensitivity. This system also provides best-practice treatment advice automatically, requiring no specialist training, with results delivered in under 24 hours.

The effectiveness of Mastatest has been validated through clinical trials published in peer-reviewed journals, instilling confidence in farmers to adopt new practices. Developed and manufactured in Otago, Mastatest is now in use by thousands of dairy farmers and veterinarians across more than 20 countries. The latest version, known as G3, launched in June 2024, incorporates real-world trials and customer feedback to enhance user experience.

Moreover, MastaPlex is advancing customer data analytics and reporting capabilities, empowering farmers and veterinarians to make informed decisions for healthier herds. The company is also investigating potential applications of Mastatest for other animal diseases, further expanding its impact.

Chomp Simplifies Food Safety Management

Chomp, another innovative company, has developed food safety management software designed for various businesses, including cafés, restaurants, hotels, and childcare facilities. According to Jen-Ni Quante, marketing manager, Chomp replaces outdated paper-based systems with a user-friendly digital solution that simplifies compliance.

The software is used daily by teams in the hospitality sector, allowing them to manage food safety compliance from any device. Chomp’s platform has undergone significant enhancements over the past year, including a redesign and the introduction of ChompHQ, a new management dashboard aimed at transitioning food safety management from a reactive to a proactive approach.

Chomp’s team collaborates closely with chefs, managers, and business operators to ensure that the software is more intuitive than traditional methods, delivering measurable impacts such as reduced compliance errors and improved audit confidence.

AbacusBio Leads in Genetic Innovation

AbacusBio Ltd is at the forefront of genetic improvement, blending scientific expertise with business intelligence. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Dunedin, AbacusBio has expanded to include offices in Scotland, Canada, and Australia. The company’s mission is to enhance food and resource sustainability worldwide.

With a multidisciplinary team that includes geneticists, data scientists, and agribusiness professionals, AbacusBio applies quantitative genetics, big data computing, and genomics technologies to develop solutions for the agricultural sector. Notable projects include empowering women in rural India with tools for genetic improvement and boosting food crop yields in East Africa through collaborative efforts.

Incredible Software Streamlines Business Operations

Incredible Software is transforming business operations by leveraging artificial intelligence to eliminate inefficiencies. Co-chief executive Stephen Johnson explains that the company specializes in creating AI-powered solutions that streamline operations, such as inventory tracking and sales quoting, making tasks easier for teams.

With a focus on user-friendly solutions, their tools can handle a range of tasks, from processing spoken requests to generating professional reports. The company has experienced substantial growth, doubling its workforce to include remote colleagues from countries including Canada, Ecuador, the United States, and Britain.

The commitment of these Otago-based companies to innovation not only highlights the region’s ingenuity but also underscores the potential for local advancements to address global challenges across various industries. Their contributions reflect a blend of scientific advancement and practical application, benefiting farmers, food businesses, and communities worldwide.