From Waste Stream to Award-Winning Superfood
What if a commonly overlooked part of our dairy system could help feed the world more sustainably? That question sparked the partnership between Māori-owned Alps2Ocean Foods and AgResearch — and led to the development of Mīti, a shelf-stable, high-protein snack bar made from young dairy beef. This bold innovation has just been recognised at Fieldays 2025, earning one of the prestigious Early-Stage Innovation Awards for its potential to redefine value, ethics, and sustainability in food production.
With support from the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Innovation Fund, AgResearch scientists worked closely with Alps2Ocean to test and optimise Mīti’s formulation. By evaluating over 30 ingredient blends and fortification levels, the team identified the ideal mix to maximise protein quality and nutritional value — without compromising taste. Consumer sensory testing confirmed the product’s appeal, paving the way for a refined, market-ready version.
Backed by funding from the Bioresource Processing Alliance, further research validated Mīti’s sustainability and welfare credentials — including reduced carbon emissions and improved animal welfare compared to traditional beef systems. These data-driven insights strengthened the case for Mīti not just as a snack, but as a viable way to repurpose a low-value stream into a premium, ethical product.
Importantly, the journey has brought together a wide network of collaborators — including Alliance NZ, Duncan Venison, Fonterra, Pāmu Landcorp, and SPCA NZ — reflecting a shared belief in the potential of this innovation to benefit the food industry, the environment, and society.
From research to recognition, Mīti is proof that combining mātauranga Māori, industry vision and science can turn overlooked resources into impactful food solutions.
NB: Want to learn more about the carbon savings and sustainability potential of young dairy beef? Check out our earlier story on the emissions advantages of this supply stream:
https://www.agresearch.co.nz/news/dairy-beef-offers-potential-for-significant-emissions-savings/
