Plant & Food Research

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Plant & Food Research logo

Plant & Food Research, officially known as The New Zealand Institute for Plant & Food Research Limited, is a New Zealand Crown Research Institute (CRI). Its purpose is to enhance the value and productivity of New Zealand's horticultural, arable, seafood, and food and beverage industries, in order to contribute to economic growth and the environmental sustainability of the agriculture sector. This is achieved through a wide range of research, development, and technology transfer activities.

History

Plant & Food Research was formed in 2008 through the merger of two CRIs: HortResearch and Crop & Food Research. The merger was part of a government initiative to streamline research and development in the agriculture and food sectors in New Zealand. Since its inception, Plant & Food Research has been at the forefront of providing science and technology that ensures the competitiveness of New Zealand's plant and marine-based food industries on the global stage.

Research Areas

Plant & Food Research operates across a variety of research areas, each aimed at supporting the sustainability and productivity of New Zealand's food industry. These include:

• Genomics and Biotechnology: Developing new plant varieties with enhanced qualities such as increased resistance to pests and diseases, better yields, and improved nutritional profiles.
• Sustainable Production Systems: Researching methods to improve crop and seafood production efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts.
• Food Innovation: Creating new food products and improving the safety, quality, and value of existing food products.
• Seafood Technologies: Enhancing the sustainability and value of New Zealand's seafood industry through research in aquaculture and fisheries.
• Environmental Sciences: Studying the impacts of agriculture and food production on the environment and developing strategies to mitigate negative effects.

Facilities

Plant & Food Research has several research sites across New Zealand, including major facilities in Auckland, Palmerston North, and Christchurch. These sites are equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and field research facilities that enable scientists to conduct high-quality research.

Collaborations

The institute collaborates extensively with other research organizations, both in New Zealand and internationally, to leverage knowledge and resources. Partnerships with universities, industry bodies, and government agencies are central to Plant & Food Research's strategy to deliver impactful science.

Impact

The work of Plant & Food Research has led to the development of new plant varieties, innovative food products, and sustainable production technologies that have significantly benefited New Zealand's economy. The institute's research has also contributed to the understanding of environmental sustainability in food production, influencing policy and industry practices.

See Also

• Agriculture in New Zealand
• Horticulture
• Aquaculture
• Food Science