WA grains will be headed for even more export markets with Agriculture and Food Minister Terry Redman today announcing a new Centre for Grain Food Innovation.
Speaking at the Grains West Expo today, Mr Redman said a collaboration agreement between the Department of Agriculture and Food, CSIRO and Curtin University would see new grain food products developed for our international markets.
"Western Australia is already a world leader in grains and it's important that we invest in research that will ensure we maintain our competitive advantage," Mr Redman said.
"The new Centre for Grain Food Innovation being established at South Perth will work to address the perception in South East Asian markets that WA wheat supposedly doesn't bake well. By working with South East Asian flour processors to provide them with a better understanding of how our wheat reacts to their baking methods, we will be able increase their demand for our wheat.
"The Centre will also develop food products with health benefits from wheat and lupins to provide WA grains with a competitive edge in the South East Asian market. For example, they will work to educate Asian markets on how to make the most of both the taste and health benefits of WA lupins in their flour."
The Centre will be formally opened later this year where industry will be invited to see the latest equipment and expertise in grain food innovation on display.
"This investment in the Centre for Grain Food Innovation fits nicely into the changes to the way the Liberal-National Government approaches research and development in agriculture and food," Mr Redman said.
"With the changes that are underway to the national research and development framework, WA will be investing in research we are leaders in - and dove-tailing into research from other states on issues where others have greater capacity. I want to ensure that WA has access to world-leading R&D, no matter where it comes from.
"Clearly the grains industry is an area in which the State has great knowledge and capacity, so therefore I see us putting more of our resources into this area of research. The Centre for Grain Food Innovation is going to be a big part of that."
The Centre will be managed by Dr Sumana Bell, seconded to DAFWA from the CSIRO.
Minister's office - 9213 6700
