NZIFST conference 2025

The speaker presentations from the 2025 New Zealand Institute of Food Science and Technology NZIFST  conference.

Session Highlights – Edible Oils Research and Industry Perspectives

  • Selina Wang (UC Davis) NZIFST 25 Selina Wang

    • Revealed widespread mislabelling and adulteration of imported olive and avocado oils in the U.S.

    • 2010 study: Most imported “extra virgin” olive oils failed authenticity standards.

    • 2020 study: 82% of avocado oils tested were rancid or adulterated.

    • Ongoing work to improve labelling, enforce standards, and protect consumers.

  • Philipp Meissner (Max Rubner-Institut) 50606 Vortrag Contaminants and Quality_ Conference NZIFST_PM_final_15 min

    • Examined challenges in authenticating edible oils and detecting contaminants such as 3-MCPD esters and mineral oils.

    • Discussed advanced analytical techniques for verification and contamination mitigation.

    • Emphasised the need for research, regulation, and vigilance to uphold oil quality and safety.

  • Kirill Lagutin (Callaghan Institute)  

    • Presented New Zealand olive oil market surveillance using NMR profiling.

    • Found NZ EVOO had highest polyphenol and oleic acid levels compared to imports.

    • Highlighted local EVOO as a premium, fresh choice for culinary and health applications.

  • Allan Woolf (Plant & Food Research) Woolf-Avocado oil from Kenya – maximising yield and quality of cold-pressed avocado oil

    • Reported on a 9-year collaboration in Kenya to support smallholder avocado farmers.

    • Developed techniques to optimise harvest timing and ripening for maximised oil yield and quality.

    • Addressed trade-offs between ripeness and disease affecting oil purity.

  • Marie Wong (Massey University) NZIFST June 2023 Marie V3

    • Reviewed the 30-year development of New Zealand’s edible plant oil industry.

    • Noted NZ’s pioneering role in cold-pressed avocado oil production and boutique olive oils.

    • Showcased unique flavours and high quality of locally produced oils.

  • Angela Newton (Bakels Edible Oils NZ)

    • Shared an industry perspective on refining edible oils in New Zealand.

    • Highlighted innovation and technical approaches to deliver consistent, high-quality refined oils.

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