Innovative Tech Firms Empower Global Agriculture and Food Safety

Several innovative tech companies are making significant strides in agriculture and food safety management, showcasing how local ingenuity can have a global impact. These organizations are introducing advanced solutions that address pressing challenges in farming and food services, helping businesses and communities thrive.

Strawberry Sound MastaPlex Ltd, based in Otago, has developed a groundbreaking system for diagnosing and treating bovine mastitis, a major issue in dairy farming that often leads to excessive antibiotic use. According to Dr. Olaf Bork, chief executive of MastaPlex, the patented Mastatest system is unique in its ability to identify both the bacteria involved and its antibiotic sensitivity. This information allows for optimal treatment advice to be provided automatically, with results available in under 24 hours and without the need for specialist training.

Clinical trials published in peer-reviewed journals have validated the efficacy of Mastatest, instilling confidence among dairy farmers and veterinarians. The latest version, known as G3, was launched in June 2024, following extensive real-world trials and user feedback to enhance the overall experience. MastaPlex exports its technology to over 20 countries, enabling thousands of farmers to adopt better practices. The company is now exploring the application of Mastatest to other animal diseases and is committed to fostering local talent through partnerships with the University of Otago.

In the realm of food safety, Chomp has emerged as a vital player by developing software that modernizes compliance management for various businesses, including cafés, restaurants, and childcare facilities. “Born in Queenstown with an office in Australia, Chomp replaces outdated paper-based systems with a smart, digital solution,” says Jen-Ni Quante, marketing manager. The platform simplifies food safety management across devices, allowing teams to stay compliant and protect their reputations.

Chomp has made significant advancements over the past year, including staff expansions and the introduction of ChompHQ, a management dashboard designed to shift food safety management from reactive to proactive. This software is tailored specifically for the fast-paced hospitality sector, helping businesses save time and reduce compliance errors significantly.

Founded in Dunedin, AbacusBio Ltd has been pioneering innovation in genetic improvement since 2001. Under the leadership of Nadia McLean, the company combines scientific expertise with business intelligence to enhance food production and sustainability. With offices in Scotland, Canada, and Australia, AbacusBio’s team integrates quantitative genetics, big data, and software development to create solutions tailored for clients worldwide.

Notably, AbacusBio’s work extends to rural India, where they empower women with tools and training for genetic improvement in livestock. In East Africa, the company collaborates with local growers to enhance food crop yields. Peter Amer, chief scientific officer, emphasizes the importance of bridging research and practical applications in the agricultural sector.

Meanwhile, Incredible Software is transforming business operations by addressing common pain points through AI-driven solutions. According to Stephen Johnson, co-chief executive, the company focuses on streamlining inventory tracking, sales quoting, and reporting. Their innovative products include a phone agent that can handle calls and appointments autonomously and a tool that converts handwritten notes into professional reports.

With a growing team that now includes remote colleagues from Canada, Ecuador, the United States, and Britain, Incredible Software is committed to providing businesses with the tools needed to optimize their operations.

These companies exemplify how technology can be harnessed to tackle critical challenges in agriculture and food safety, fostering healthier practices and supporting global food production. Through their innovative approaches, they are not only benefiting local economies but also contributing to a more sustainable future for communities around the world.