Health and food sciences projects
Protecting animal health
Scientists Louise Jackson and Christine McCarthy examine Asian honeybee brood comb for the presence of the exotic Varroa mite
Biosecurity Queensland researchers and scientists are developing new rapid response capabilities for disease outbreaks and methods for tracking the spread of new and emerging diseases.
Protecting Australia's honeybees
Biosecurity Queensland parasitologist Dr Louise Jackson and scientific assistant Ms Christine McCarthy are working to protect Australia's bees from the devastating Varroa mite. Australia is one of the few Varroa-free countries, allowing Australian honeybees to be exported to other countries.
Honeybees contribute an estimated $4–6 million to the Australian agricultural and horticultural industries each year. Honeybees not only produce honey but also play a vital role in pollinating crops.
Food science
Dr Michael Netzel is investigating the bioactive components of Queensland fruit and what health benefits they might provide
The Queensland food industry benefits from research being undertaken at the precinct into changing consumer food trends, food safety standards, competitiveness and security.
Bioactives and tropical fruit
Increasing consumer interest in the health benefits of food is driving new markets for Queensland's tropical fruits. Dr Michael Netzel is investigating the potential health benefits of varieties of Queensland grown fruits such as mango, banana and other tropical exotic produce.
Maintaining market access for Queensland's food and animal products
Locating scientific experts in the precinct's world-class chemical science laboratories is helping to ensure Queensland's animal and plant products are free from toxins, pathogens and contaminants.
Expertise includes managing chemical control of invasive pests, clinical biochemistry, food safety and nutritional assessment of animal feedstuffs—providing opportunities to link with other research programs on site.