Leading food scientists from around the world will gather in Palmerston North next week for the 17th International Hydrocolloids Conference. The Riddett Institute’s Cr David Everett, acting chair of the organising committee, tells Bryan all about hydrocolloids, which form the building blocks of food and influence food texture, flavour, shelf life, digestion and nutrition. 

Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford is touring the country with the Prime Minister in an effort to boost farmer confidence. He says the three events will offer farmers a chance to hear about the government’s plan for the food production sector.

Senior reporter Hugh Stringleman joins the studio to reflect on the latest GDT auction, a possible cash windfall for Fonterra shareholders, and he previews next week’s Fonterra annual meeting.