New report about the future of food manufacturing in Australia

The peak organisation for food technology in Australia, the Australian Institute of Food Science and Technology, released a report in October 2020 about the future of the Australian Food Manufacturing Sector.

The food industry in it’s many parts employees more Australians than any other industry type.

Manufacturing makes up an large part of the industry and is responsible for supplying the vast majority of the food we find in our supermarkets and hospitality related businesses.

If there are problems or issues with this vital part of the industry there is a direct impact on our economy.

The report  was based on reviews of literature and interviews to then develop recommendations in a range of areas. These then lead to a significant conclusion.

The Report starts with an overview of the Global Picture, particularly looking at the food outlook and consumer insights and trends.

Then there is a snapshot of the Australian Food industry to establish  an understanding of where we are and the issues and problems which exist or are emerging. This includes a look at both food and water security, as well as biosecurity, food waste. Any snapshot would not be complete without also looking at Agriculture and it’s impact on the food industry and food manufacturing in particular.

After the review of where we are and the associated issues, the report then  presents recommendations for the following areas; Tax and Regulatory Reform, New Opportunities, the Power of Collaboration, Brand Australia and Infrastructure Investment.

The overall conclusion is that there are remarkable opportunities in the near and long term future for Australian Food Manufacturing, and significant potential problems and threats. It is recommended that to get the best from these opportunities and to eliminate or mitigate the risks, the governments across the country need to work with all stakeholders to establish an industry-led, food system strategic advisory body, chaired at the Ministerial level, to develop and coordinate an agreed National Food Plan.

The Report can be found at https://www.aifst.asn.au/Research-Papers