Agriculture, Food & Wine
Our agricultural, food and wine producers face a complex task: satisfying and sustaining a growing population, in an increasingly harsh natural environment and fiercely competitive global marketplace. Our research is revealing better ways.
We’re home to the southern hemisphere’s largest cluster of agricultural research expertise. We’re committed to helping the world feed 9 billion people by 2050. And we’re finding effective new ways for producers to cope with climate change, rising energy costs, environmental degradation and more.
Impact stories
Farmer to pharma? Creating new products from agriculture waste
Agriculture is a key engine of South Australia’s bioeconomy, and according to researchers at the University of Adelaide, the high volume of waste product has hidden value for other industries.
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A little water can go a long way when battling heatwaves
It appears that how you use water is more important than how much you use when trying to protect vines from the impact of heatwaves.
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Wild yeasts may hold key to better wines from warmer climates
Researchers at the University of Adelaide have found yeasts that naturally occur on wine grapes may improve wines produced in warmer climates. Up until now the use of these ‘natural’ or ‘wild’ yeasts during the production process has mostly been discouraged by wine makers.
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Cover crops – get it right, and reap the benefits
The correct type of cover crop does not adversely affect vine yield and performance, a current research project has found.
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Crying over plant-based milk: neither science nor history favours a dairy monopoly
Plant-based liquids have been called milk for centuries.
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Protecting crops by preserving their pollinators
A worrying global decline threatening food security.
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GM crops: to ban or not to ban? That’s not the question
A government-commissioned report estimated that South Australia’s ban on genetically modified crops cost canola growers A$33 million since 2004.
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Finding food security in a changing climate
Our research has led to new sophisticated technology that is increasing crop yields in difficult environmental conditions caused by climate change.
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Making wine in a warmer world
South Australian winemakers are looking to Europe as the climate—and what drinkers want—is changing.
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Drought-tolerant grape vines tested for Australian conditions
Wine researchers at the University of Adelaide are investigating drought-tolerant grape varieties from Cyprus for their suitability for Australian conditions.
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Agrifood and Wine
Through research and education, we’re leading thought for food to drive the next wave of innovation for the food sector.
Who to contact
Professor Andy Lowe is the Director, Agrifood and Wine. As leader of this Industry Engagement Priority area for the University, Professor Lowe builds relationships and works closely with industry and government partners across the sectors to identify joint innovation and training opportunities and help improve research translation.
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