Asian Foods - RIRDC Completed Projects in 2003--2004 & Research in Progress as at June 2005

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RIRDC Completed Projects in 2005-2006 & Research in Progress as at June 2006
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ASIAN FOODS - COMPLETED PROJECTS

PROJECT
No PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION PAGE
No

Industry Development

DAV-218J Access to Asian foods newsletter Mr Graeme Thomson (03) 9210 9259 Department of Primary Industries (Vic)

DNT-29A Improving interaction and communication between RIRDC Asian foods leaders and industry (stage 2) Mr Geoff Walduck (08) 8999 2219 Department of Business, Industry and Resource Development (NT)

New Products

DAT-39A Production and marketing of Tasmanian wasabi Ms. Angela Sparrow (03) 6336 5349 Dept of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (Tas)

UCQ-13A Development of taro, yam, yam bean and sweet potato exports to Japan and USA Prof. David Midmore (07) 4930 9770 Central Queensland University

Sustainable Production Systems

Project Title Technical guidelines to improve supply chains for 'winter' Asian vegetables from Northern Australia

RIRDC Project No.: CON-8A

Start Date: 01-Aug-2005

Finish Date: 31-Aug-2006

Researcher: Mr Barry Lee

Organisation: Connectica International

Phone: 0418 230 393

Fax: (02) 9545 2687

Email: barrywlee@ozemail.com.au

Objectives Support growth of the Asian vegetables industry by: ·1 Mapping supply chain sectors and linkages from NT and WA for the Australian market.
·2 Identifying opportunity areas and weakness gaps in the supply chains.
·3 Developing technical guidelines with type 2 growers and industry stakeholders to support supply chain opportunities and resolve weaknesses areas.

Current Progress Stage 1 of the project for market research of the Australian market factors for NT/WA Asian vegetables has been completed. The market research focused upon feedback from growers, consolidators and transport groups in the supply chains and commercial market agents in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.
This industry research has identified almost 30 control point issues considered to be significant in the Asian vegetables supply chain systems. These systems include processes relating to:
The Physical Products
1. Availability of farm labour and mechanisation (options)
2. Diseases affecting vegetable yields
3. Cool chain management
4. Retained samples by growers
5. Pre-cooling by growers
6. Temperature probing of vegetables in cartons by consolidators/transporters
7. Quality and strength of cartons
8. Correct packing of cartons (no over-packing)
9. Correct pallet stacking (no over-height pallets)
10. Carton mixing on pallets
11. Retained samples by consolidator
12. Cool chain management
13. Load off/on plans (pallet destinations schedule)
14. Time delay for pallet distribution to commercial agents
15. Quality and consistency of vegetables
Paperwork and Documentation 1. Delivery receipts and temperature recording
2. Consignment notes and document security/loss prevention
3. Proof of Delivery and signature of consignment notes
Transactions 1. Prices and pricing transparency
2. Trustworthiness of the commercial marketer or agent
3. Non English Speaking Background account payments
4. Pricing during periods of short-supply

Project Title Integrated management strategies for diseases and pests of Asian vegetables

RIRDC Project No.: DAN-233J

Start Date: 01-Jul-2004

Finish Date: 31-May-2008

Researcher: Mr. Len Tesoriero

Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries
PMB 8
CAMDEN, NSW, 2570

Phone: (02) 4640 6428

Fax: (02) 4640 6300

Email: len.tesoriero@agric.nsw.gov.au

Objectives Identify the important diseases and pests causing losses of Asian vegetables in the major production regions across Australia
Develop and evaluate effective disease and pest scouting/monitoring and integrated management strategies with growers that range from traditional market garden, broad acre and high value intensive production.
Facilitate adoption of sustainable disease and pest management strategies for Non English speaking Background (NESB) growers in NSW and Victoria (with extension activities linking to other states and territories).

Current Progress A number of on-farm trials have been established to refine monitoring strategies and compare the effectiveness of IPM strategies versus normal grower practices. The use of predatory mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis) has successfully been used to control two-spotted mite (Teranychus urticae) on Perilla crops. On one farm, predatory mites not only cleaned up a heavy Two-Spotted Mite population but also kept them to very low levels for more than six months without further predatory mite releases or chemical applications.
Diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella), green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) and downy mildew (Peronospora parasitica) were the target pests for five on-farm trials in the Sydney Basin for integrated pest management (IPM) of Brassica crops. Crops used were Gai Lan (Chinese broccoli) and Choi Sum. Crops managed using pest monitoring-based spraying and soft insecticides and fungicides, were compared with crops managed by growers. Although pest pressure was not heavy, IPM crops were of equal quality to the corresponding crops managed by growers. These trials will be repeated during next spring and summer when higher pest pressure is expected. Downy mildew management trials will continue during the cooler months. We will trial a weather-based disease prediction system for downy mildew that is similar to one being developed by Victorian research colleagues to the related disease, White Blister. Alternative chemical controls will also be assessed to determine the most cost-effective and IPM compatible options for growers.

Project Title Increasing the production of Australian wasabi

RIRDC Project No.: DAT-43A

Start Date: 1/9/2006

Finish Date: 12/21/2007

Researcher: Ms Angela Sparrow

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (Tas)
Vegetables and Associated Industries Branch
PO Box 46
KINGS MEADOWS TAS 7249

Phone: (03) 6336 5349

Fax: (03) 6344 9814

Email: angela.sparrow@dpiwe.tas.gov.au

Objectives · Develop the capacity of an Australian laboratory to produce commercial quantities of tissue-cultured wasabi planting stock.
· Improve product quality through disease management and additional varieties.
· Build the networking capacity of the wasabi grower group

Current Progress An Australian tissue-culture laboratory provided with mother plants from Tasmania has successfully propagated plantlets of wasabi (Wasabia japonica Matsum.) in vitro. These plants will now be trialed in field conditions in Tasmania.
A trial comparing the performance of varieties grown in soil and in water-filled gravel beds was established in Tasmania in January 2006. Sequential harvests conducted at 3-monthly intervals will continue for the duration of the 2-year project and allow growth data to be compared for 10 varietal lines.
An additional field trial established in soil medium, aims to determine the efficacy of fungicide treatments found to be successful in pot trials.
In May 2006 agreement was made among current wasabi growers in Tasmania to form a cohesive group to progress development of the industry.
A field day is scheduled for June 2006 to demonstrate soil-cultivated wasabi to Tasmanian farmers. One aim of the field day is to invite growers with suitable sites to participate in expansion of the new industry.

Project Title Taro industry development: the first step

RIRDC Project No.: DAQ-322A

Start Date: 01-Jul-2004

Finish Date: 30-Sep-2006

Researcher: Mr. Jeff Daniells

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)
Centre for Wet Tropics Agriculture
PO Box 20
SOUTH JOHNSTONE, QLD, 4859

Phone: (07) 4064 1129

Fax: (07) 4064 2249

Email: jeff.daniells@dpi.qld.gov.au

Objectives Assist in the development of the Australian taro industry by:
Survey/benchmarking of current industry practices/problems to provide a snapshot of the industry
Provision of an information resource for the taro industry
Unlocking taro industry workshops
Field monitoring sits testing workshop recommendations
Development of an Australian taro industry R&D strategic plan

Current Progress The taro industry information resource was launched at Taro Growers Australia (TGA) AGM in November 2005. The resource currently consists of about 50 items including books, booklets and DVD’s. Items are available for loan by TGA members and is administered by TGA.
A fertilizer rates trial (20% through to 200% of normal industry rates) was completed by NT DPIFM staff. There was only a 13% yield difference over the wide range of rates trialled. It should be possible to greatly reduce rates of fertilization used by some growers without much effect on yield and so reduce risks of losses off-farm which potentially could damage the environment.
DPI&F have identified a range of taro diseases from samples supplied by growers. Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, Pythium and Erwinia have all been isolated from various corm rots. Their status as pathogens has been determined in glasshouse investigations.
In November 2005 DPI&F at South Johnstone hosted a visit from QUT staff involved in the ACIAR TaroPest project which involves the development of diagnostic software. Our Taro team and TGA will act as a beta test site to provide feedback to QUT which will help ensure that the software is not only useful for the target countries (PNG and Fiji) in their project but also of great benefit to the Australian industry.

Shelf Life

Project Title Improving the market access of Asian vegetables

RIRDC Project No.: DAN-230A

Start Date: 01-Jul-2004

Finish Date: 31-Jul-2007

Researcher: Dr Jenny Ekman

Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries
Gosford Horticultural Institute, Locked Bag 26
GOSFORD, NSW, 2250

Phone: (02) 4348 1900

Fax: (02) 4348 1910

Email: jenny.ekman@agric.nsw.gov.au

Objectives To develop methods of marketing and promotion that can expand the market for Asian vegetables
Provide information to retailers and wholesalers, especially with regard to a standardised nomenclature
Develop and test a marketing strategy to provide consumers with information on how to prepare and cook Asian vegetables, their nutritional value, and what constitutes good quality in order to increase purchases of these products
Build the potential for export of Australian grown Asian vegetables.

Current Progress A survey asking industry what they think different Asian vegetables should be called was completed and presented to the project steering committee in August 2005.
An agreement was brokered between Woolworths, Coles, Harris Farm Markets, Barden Produce and Sydney Markets on the names given to 14 of the commoner Asian vegetable lines.
The names were "launched" in November 2007 by the NSW Minister for Primary Industries the Hon. Ian MacDonald. The event attracted considerable media attention with over 30 known and significant media ‘hits’ on outlets as diverse as ‘Fresh’ TV show, Womens Weekly magazine, Radio National and the Sydney Morning Herald.
Asian vegetables featured at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in April 2006 The display featured a mini ‘garden’ of different Asian vegetables, each with a label detailing its name and cooking tips. A cooking demonstration video ran continuously behind the display, showing how to prepare some simple Asian vegetable dishes.
Visitors to the display were invited to fill out a survey on their Asian vegetable purchasing habits. This included the sources of information they used when trying out new dishes.
Around 40-50,000 people visited the display, which generated a great deal of interest and enthusiasm. Many asked for further information, particularly with regard to recipes. Over 800 surveys were collected over the two weeks of the Show and information from these is currently being examined.
Harris Farm Markets has agreed to allow the project team to use their stores to test different methods of promoting the vegetables. We are now discussing cross promotional opportunities with AYAM, who market products compatible with Asian vegetables.

RIRDC COMPLETED PROJECTS 2005/2006 ?

Industry Development

Project Title: Access to Asian Foods Newsletter

RIRDC Project No.: DAV-218J

Researcher: Mr Graeme Thomson

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries, Victoria

Phone: (03) 9210 9222

Fax: (03) 9800 3521

Email: graeme.thomson@dpi.vic.gov.au

Objectives Produce a national newsletter (in the period July 2004 to June 2006) for effective communication, networking and transfer of information within the Australian Asian vegetable / food industry.

Background The Access to Asian Foods newsletter has been published in one form or another for nearly nine years. This national newsletter keeps growers, food processing businesses, wholesalers, retailers, exporters and researchers informed of industry developments. RIRDC sees the newsletter as an important mechanism for adoption of R&D outcomes from latest market and scientific research.

Research Articles were sourced from around Australia to reflect the diversity of our Asian foods industry. The editor interacted with over 39 researchers and 19 organisations from every state and territory to gather relevant content.

Outcomes Over the two-year project, approximately 26,500 newsletters were dispatched to subscribers all over Australia. Forty-eight articles were published in 20 newsletters. Categories included - agronomy, technology transfer / industry news, research news, new crops, postharvest handling / processing / food safety, product / crop descriptors, marketing / export, pest and disease management / chemical use. In June 2006 the subscription list stood at 760 separate recipient addresses (some of which receive more than one copy). The majority of newsletters (900) are published in English but each month (excepting December and January) 250 Vietnamese, 75 Cambodian and 100 Chinese translations are also produced. Most newsletters go to Victoria (31%), Queensland (28%) and New South Wales (24%).

Implications This newsletter enables researchers to quickly bring findings to a broad audience. It also fosters networking and cohesion between the scattered and varied groups that make up the Australian Asian food industry. Access to Asian Foods plays a vital role in facilitating the communication of research findings to the people and companies that can drive change in the industry.

Publications Access to Asian Foods Newsletter, Issues 72 to 91.

Project Title: Improving interaction and communication between RIRDC Asian foods leaders and industry (stage 2)

RIRDC Project No.: DNT-29A

Researcher: Geoff Walduck

Organisation: Dept Primary IndustryFisheries&Mines [formerly DBIRD NT]

Phone: 08 89992219

Fax: 08 89992049

Email: Geoff.walduck@nt.gov.au

Objectives ·1 To facilitate and promote information exchange (formal and informal) between Asian food Project leaders, IDO's, industry representatives and the RIRDC Program Manager.
·2 Project leaders available to present final and progressive research reports at appropriate industry forums. Formal information exchange documented and available to interested parties.
·3 Industry issues identified regularly at regional level presented at a national meeting for all parties.

Background Project Synopsis A concise overview of the proposal work under the headings of: (i) Objectives/aims of the proposed project Facilitate and promote information exchange (formal and informal) between Asian food Project leaders, IDO’s , industry representatives and RIRDC Program Manager.
Project leaders available to present final and progressive research reports at appropriate industry forums.
Formal information exchange documented and available to interested parties.
Industry Issues identified regularly at regional level presented at a national meeting for all parties.This project was effectively a continuation of Project 28A.
(ii) Outcomes of the proposed project Improved information exchange and communication networks [both formal and informal] between Asian food Project leaders, IDO’s , industry representatives and RIRDC Program Manager. (iii) Deliverables/outputs of the proposed research One 3 day Meeting per year with all participants contributing a written or oral presentation.
Preparation and distribution of the proceedings of the 3 day meeting.
. Formal presentations of research and extension projects from all regions.
(iv) Background, relevance and potential benefits The national Asian vegetable project, Consolidating the Asian vegetable Industry (CQU-10A) finishes in 2001. It was an ambitious project, but one of the important outcomes of this project was that it provides a venue for researchers from all states to meet annually and share research results and industry status insights, and discuss current issues affecting the industry. It also provided an opportunity for researchers to visit farms and talk to growers in other states and get a broader view of the Australian Asian vegetable industry. This opportunity disappears with completion of the project. The Asian vegetable & food newsletters (DAV-179A) provide a vehicle to exchange project results and other information but does not offer the advantages of face to face contact and frank sharing ideas and results. (v) Research strategies and methodology To coordinate attendance, travel, agendas and itinerary for a meeting of Asian foods program leaders and industry. It is planned to have one meeting in a different location each year, and an associated field trip.
Each meeting will have a formal session (presentation on current project results, completed project outcomes/outputs) and one to two days in the field on grower properties. Depending on the needs of the local industry, some form of industry meeting will also be held to maximise the opportunity to promote national RIRDC Asian food research to the local group
(vi) Communications/adoption/commercialisation strategy Outcomes of the meetings will be reported in the Asian vegetables or food newsletters.
A full report of presented papers and/or industry updates (depending on each meeting) will be published annually by RIRDC.
Outcomes and results of current projects will be reported to industry seminars organised by industry.
(vii) Time-lines Researcher communication meeting will be held annually from Mar 2004 to June 2006.

Outcomes 2 day meetings of researchers were held in Brisbane in June 2004 and Sydney in March 2006. The Sydney meeting was delayed by external factors from October 2005.This wa sone meeting for each year of the project.

Publications Proceedings and presentations in PowerPoint form were produced and circulated to all participants.

New Products

Project Title: Production and Marketing of Tasmanian wasabi

RIRDC Project No.: DAT-39A

Researcher: Ms Angela Sparrow

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment
PO Box 46
KINS MEADOWS TAS 7249

Phone: (03) 6336 5439

Fax: (03) 6344 9814

Email: Angela.Sparrow@dpiwe.tas.gov.au

Objectives ·1 Tasmania will become the major supplier of premium fresh wasabi to the Australian market
·2 Yield and product quality will be improved by a reduction in disease incidence.
·3 The ‘Wasabi Production Guide’ will be updated to include aquatic production

Background Wasabi is traditionally a cool climate Japanese crop requiring a specific habitat. Tasmania’s climate is suitable and soil-grown product from trial plots is currently sold on the domestic market.
Marketable yield may be doubled by reducing the incidence of blackened lesions on the stems and by varietal selection.
Water-grown wasabi is considered a superior product on the Japanese market and its cultivation was trialled in Australia. Tasmania’s climate, water sources and the interest in wasabi as a cash crop favours expansion of the Tasmanian industry.

Research Observation of water-cultivated wasabi systems were made in Japan and USA and adapted for Tasmanian conditions. Water availability and gravel quality are essential features of this production system.
A preventative fungicide treatment pre-planting was identified to reduce stem blackening in pot trials and is recommended for trial in field conditions.
Tissue-cultured planting stock tested in both soil and water cultivated systems was found to produce superior stems.

Outcomes Wasabi growers in Tasmania have recognised the benefits of forming an incorporated company to coordinate the Tasmania industry.
Wasabi growers have identified tissue-cultured wasabi plants produced by an Australian laboratory as a research priority.
The practical manual ‘Wasabi- A guide to the production of wasabi in Tasmania’ now includes recommendations for both soil and water-cultivated wasabi.

Implications This project has demonstrated the value of plant hygiene from establishment through to production and has provided the incentive for Tasmanian growers to develop a company. Expansion of the industry will be assisted by specific recommendations made for soil and water-cultivation systems.

Publications Sparrow, A. ‘Tasmanian wasabi’ in "The New Crop Industries Handbook" Australia" Eds. S. Salvin. A Byrne, M. Bourke, RIRDC publications 2004.
Sparrow, A. ‘Tasmanian wasabi’ paper presented at Second Australian New Crops Conference, Gatton Qld September 2004.
Sparrow A. ‘Farm Hygiene Protocols for wasabi’ Access to Asian Foods newsletter No.67, February 2004. A Publication of Department of Primary Industries, Victoria and Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.

Project Title: Development of taro, yam, yam bean and sweet potato exports to Japan and USA

RIRDC Project No.: UCQ-13A

Researcher: David Midmore, Daniel White, Vong Nguyen, David Hicks, Eric Coleman, Suzie Newman, Phillip Wilk, Dee Reeve and Peter McLaughlin

Organisation: Central Queensland University and Other Organisations,
Rockhampton, Qld 4702.

Phone: (07) 4930 9770

Fax: (07) 4930 9255

Email: d.midmore@cqu.edu.au

Objectives The objective of this project was to establish a supply chain for the successful ongoing export of taro, yam, yam bean and/or sweet potato to Japan and/or USA. The expected beneficiaries are primarily Australian producers who can establish cost-effective production of good to high quality produce for supply to an increased domestic market and to select export markets. It is also expected that consumers in Australia would also benefit from having an increased variety of nutritious vegetables to choose from.

Background As Australian horticulture and agriculture producers are continually faced with increasing challenges in quality management, pests and diseases, competition from developing countries on the world market and competition from cheaper imports on the domestic market, many are seeking to diversify their production operations and are willing to explore non-traditional crops and markets in Australia and for export. As a result of recent efforts in Australia in the research and development of production and marketing of traditional Asian food commodities, there is increased awareness of the potential for profit by supplying high quality food products to Asian markets in Australia and overseas. From information gathered in a previous RIRDC project, UCQ-10A, "Consolidating the Asian Vegetable Industry", and other RIRDC-funded reports on Asian food markets it was apparent that taro, yam, yam bean and sweet potato had potential for further development in Australian domestic and international Asian export markets.

Research The project proceeded in two stages. The first stage involved market assessment through information available in literature and databases, and followed up by information from two visits by project participants to Japan and USA. Information was gathered on seasonal supply and price patterns, preferred varieties and quality and presentation preferences and Japanese domestic production and sources of desired cultivars. Stage two of the project primarily involved production, quality and marketing trials of a sato-imo cultivar already available in Australia. Production trials were conducted at a number of locations in Queensland, NSW and NT. Quality assessment was conducted by NSW DPI and samples of fresh corms were sent to companies contacted during stage one visits to Japan. Several growers coordinated with an Australian export company to send a trial shipment to Japan. Attempts continued throughout stage two to import relevant Japanese cultivars of taro, sweet potato and yam for further production trials.

Outcomes Production trials over three seasons generated sufficient information to recommend production guidelines for Australia. A protocol of quarantine risk assessment for burrowing nematode (Radopholus similis) was established with the assistance of Biological Crop Protection and in conjunction with AQIS to meet Japanese plant quarantine restrictions for fresh taro corms. Results of quality assessment experiments of sato-imo corms have allowed definition of storage and transport conditions. Feedback from trial samples and a trial shipment sent to Japan has allowed further recommendations for quality control, sorting, packing and presentation of fresh corms. A Growers’ Guide for the supply of sato-imo has been produced, and is being published by RIRDC.

Implications The necessity of cohesion and single-mindedness of growers towards the export market and specifications is brought out as being essential for success.

Publications Numerous (>40) meetings, articles and reports. One at "Select markets for taro, sweet potato and yam"(RIRDC 03/052 UCQ-13A)

Asian Foods - Research In Progress

PROJECT
No PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION PAGE
No

Industry Development

DAN-211A Improved economic sustainability of Vietnamese vegetable growers in the Sydney region Peter Malcolm (02) 4588 2105 NSW Dept of Agriculture

New Products

CSP-9A Edamame soybean development in Australia Mr. Andrew James (07) 3214 2278 CSIRO Plant Industry

DAQ-298A Development of Prunus mume, a new tree crop for Australia Dr. Bruce Topp (07) 5441 2211 Dept of Primary Industries (QLD)

DAQ-307A Anti-cancer properties of Asian crucifers Dr. Tim O'Hare (07) 5466 2257 Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

DAV-227A Health-promoting, plant-based products identified through traditional Chinese knowledge Mr Graeme Thomson (03) 9210 9259 Department of Primary Industries (Vic)

Sustainable Production Systems

CON-8A Technical guidelines to improve supply chains for 'winter' Asian vegetables from Northern Australia Mr Barry Lee 0418 230 393 Connectica International

DAN-233J Integrated management strategies for diseases and pests of Asian vegetables Mr. Len Tesoriero (02) 4640 6428 NSW Department of Primary Industries

DAT-43A Increasing the production of Australian wasabi Ms. Angela Sparrow (03) 6336 5349 Dept of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (Tas)

DAQ-322A Taro industry development: the first step Mr. Jeff Daniells (07) 4064 1129 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

Shelf Life

DAN-230A Improving the market access of Asian vegetables Dr Jenny Ekman (02) 4348 1900 NSW Department of Primary Industries

Industry Development

Project Title Improved economic sustainability of Vietnamese vegetable growers in the Sydney region

RIRDC Project No.: DAN-211A

Start Date: 01-Nov-2002

Finish Date: 30-Sep-2006

Researcher: Peter Malcolm

Organisation: NSW Department of Agriculture, Gosford Horticultural Institute
Locked Bag 26, GOSFORD NSW 2250

Phone: (02) 4588 2105

Email: peter.malcolm@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Objectives ·1 Adoption of best practices by Vietnamese vegetable growers;
·2 Increased economic viability of Vietnamese vegetable growers due to improved market access;
·3 Increased consumer confidence in safety of Asian vegetables;
·4 Detailed understanding of the information requirements and priorities of a specific Non English Speaking Background (NESB) grower groups;
·5 Socially, more empowered, less isolated Vietnamese vegetable growers accessing information and negotiating for their local community;
·6 More environmentally sustainable vegetable production in the Sydney region;
·7 Verification of the transportability of the communication and extension model piloted in Northern Territory (DAV-176A).

Current Progress A. Monitoring of the adoption by Vietnamese farmers of best farming practices:
Surveys: The project officer, Dr Ho Dang, a fluent Vietnamese speaker, accomplished the initial benchmarking survey on grower’s farming practices, skills, attitudes and needs. The results of this survey were used to;
(1) Define target areas where assistance is required
(2) Measure grower’s progress in adopting good farming practices when the final survey is repeated at the end of the project.
The final survey assessing grower’s progress in adopting good farming practices is currently in progress.
B. Improved awareness of good farming practices among Vietnamese farmers:
Farmer training: There were 16 events organised for Vietnamese growers in the 2005/6 financial year. These included formal training on water/soil/fertiliser/pest management and/or field days/ workshops on topics such as the safe operating and maintenance of farm machinery, post-harvest handling of farm produce, computer skills, farm financial record keeping, occupational health and safety and, farm management planning. In addition, as a result of training completed over the last three years as well as recognised prior learning, 18 Vietnamese growers have been awarded their Certificate III in Horticulture.
C. Monitoring improved economic stability:
Among the Vietnamese vegetable growers, 46 % have implemented bettor hygiene and integrated pest management (IPM) practices, 47% are now using dam water for irrigation instead of reticulated town water and 66% now have greenhouses, many equipped with sophisticated facilities such as heating/cooling systems and, insect exclusion screens. As a consequence, of practising protected cropping and hydroponics, many have significantly increased their yield and improved the quality of their produce. In many instances this has necessitated an improvement in their packing and cooling facilities to cope with higher production.
Overall 85 % of Vietnamese growers have adopted improved farming/management practices, that have resulted in higher production, better product quality and less expenditure on crop protection.
D. Additional outcomes:
The Project Officer, Dr Ho Dang also liaised with the Vietnamese Vegetable Growers Association in Queensland (VVGAQ) as well as Queensland DPI staff. This was in addition to assisting Vietnamese growers in Queensland on their individual farms, identifying their pest and disease problems and suggesting possible control measures. The Project Officer also made several visits to Victoria where he liaised with staff from the Victorian DPI, assisted the Victorian Vietnamese Vegetable Growers Association and participated in/assisted with a number of pest and disease recognition and control workshops and field days.
Communication and Industry liaison:
Bi-lingual Communication Model:
As a major objective of the project, a Bi-lingual Officer (Project Officer) was used to communicate with Vietnamese growers and to co-ordinate the government’s efforts to assist growers. The results so far indicate that with the use of a Bi-lingual Officer, trust between growers and NSW DPI and other government agencies was more easily established, the attendance at formal training and workshops was greatly improved and, growers felt more empowered as the result of the acquisition of new knowledge and better communication networks.
Media activities:
Routine advertisements, in Vietnamese, of all training events were placed in appropriate local newspapers, weekly magazines and on SBS Vietnamese broadcasting programs.
Other issues:
Vietnamese growers in the Sydney basin are concerned on about their future, as the majority of them are landless farmers, many of them without formal / long term leases. Under the pressure of residential development, many of their farms could disappear as the owners of the land capitalise on increasing land values. Because of this uncertainty, farmers are less inclined to invest large amounts of capital in their farms and/or improve farm infrastructure. This economic instability adversely affects their adoption of best farming practices.

New Products

Project Title Edamame soybean development in Australia

RIRDC Project No.: CSP-9A

Start Date: 01-Dec-03

Finish Date: 30-Nov-06

Researcher: Dr Andrew James

Organisation: CSIRO Plant Industry
306 Carmody Road
St Lucia Qld 4067

Phone: (07) 3214 2278

Fax: (07) 3214 2730

Email: andrew.james@csiro.au

Objectives This work seeks to develop a critical understanding of the ripening process in CSIRO-bred and elite Japanese cultivars of edamame soybean, and in particular, to understand how changes in seed size and the seed content of protein, oil, sugars (fructose, glucose, sucrose, raffinose and stachyose), vitamins (A, D and E) and isoflavones (genistein, diadzein and glycitein) vary with ripening and maturation environment. This knowledge will be used to develop strategies to ensure consistent supplies of excellent quality edamame to high-value markets in Australia initially and overseas.

Current Progress The key determinants of quality in edamame are seed size, sugar content and bright green colour. This project has shown that in well-watered plants sugars accumulate in the seed at about the same rate as seed expansion. The optimum time of harvest can therefore be timed to maximise seed size but before any loss of chlorophyll has occurred. The project has also determined variation in seed size and hence edamame quality due to plant population in the variety Bunya and breeding line C784. It has also developed robust photothermal models of time to flowering for the varieties Tanbaguro, KS#1, Bunya and the breeding line C784. These models are able to predict time to flowering with an accuracy of plus or minus two days over a wide range of cropping environments. Since time to flowering is the most important determinate of adaptation in determinate soybean, this model is able to determine the potential range of environments and planting windows to which a variety is adapted.

Project Title Development of Prunus mume, a new tree crop for Australia

RIRDC Project No.: DAQ-298A

Start Date: 01-Jan-03

Finish Date: 31-May-06

Researcher: Dr Bruce Topp

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)
Queensland Horticulture Institute
PO Box 5083 SCMC
NAMBOUR QLD 4560

Phone: (07) 5441 2211

Fax: (07) 5441 2235

Email: toppb@dpi.qld.gov.au

Objectives The main outcome will be the establishment of an entirely new industry involving producers, processors and exporters. The mume industry will generate new jobs and will replace current imported product. The R&D objectives are:
To determine new markets, potential competitors and to quantify the business economics of the agri-supply chain in the production and marketing of processed mume products (salted plums, mume sauces, umeboshi and umeshu).
To study the adaptation, cropping and agronomy of mume in Australia and determine potential yields, consistency of supply and make recommendations on suitable varieties.
To evaluate mume as a genetic bridge in the development of other Prunus species and create novel products for processing.

Current Progress The first crop of mume fruit was harvested from the cultivar trial at Applethorpe Research Station, Stanthorpe, Queensland during the 2005-2006 season. Fruit from this trial was used to produce sample product lines of dried salty mume, umeboshi (a pickled mume) and umeshu (a type of mume wine/liqueur). These samples were sent for evaluation to Japanese companies who have expressed interest in development of an Australian mume industry. ‘Nankou’ is preferred as the premium cultivar for production of umeboshi and umeshu. The one month harvest window of ‘Nankou’ coupled with a requirement to use fresh fruit for umeshu production is a reason for Japanese manufacturer interest in Australian umeshu production.
A market attractiveness and competitive position analysis was conducted based on desktop and Japanese market research. The study indicates that the best prospects for an Australian industry are to initially form alliances with Japanese manufacturers to develop competitive products for their existing markets, while developing a range of products acceptable to the Australian mass market and other markets to spread financial risk. The research provides an indication that for an Australian-produced umeboshi the Japanese market is moderately attractive, as is the much smaller Australian market, with some potential for competitiveness in both.

Project Title Anti-cancer properties of Asian crucifers

RIRDC Project No.: DAQ-307A

Start Date: 31-May-03

Finish Date: 30-Sep-06

Researcher: Dr Tim O'Hare

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)
Queensland Horticulture Institute
Gatton Research Station
LMB 7, MS 437
MS437
GATTON QLD 4343

Phone: (07) 5466 2257

Fax: (07) 5466 2208

Email: Tim.O'Hare@dpi.qld.gov.au

Objectives Identification of key crucifer species which could form the basis of industry sales on health rather than culinary issues, similar to broccoli sprouts in the USA. Identification and quantification of demonstrated anti-cancer glucosinolates in Asian crucifers. Provision of advice or recommendations on a pathway for addressing the regulatory issues relating to anti-cancer claims.
The research has an aim to promote the consumption of Asian vegetables by broadening the consumer base through sales to people who would not have purchased Asian vegetables on a culinary basis (ie. flavour). A second and underlying issue is to identify products that will reduce the incidence of internal cancers in the Australian community.

Current Progress Analysis of glucosinolate profiles of horticultural members of the Brassicaceae was expanded, with the acquisition of wasabi (seed and seed-sprouts), an important Asian species particularly in Japan. Studies on refrigeration of sprouts from broccoli, white radish, kohl rabi and rocket, indicated stability of glucosinolate profiles for at least 21 days in all species except rocket. The effect of growing temperature, sprout developmental stage and cultivar was assessed for white radish sprouts. All factors significantly affected glucosinolate composition and could be used to optimise glucosinolate yield and anti-cancer potency. Further study into cultivar variability in glucosinolate composition has been initiated. Further study into the role of proteins inhibiting conversion of glucosinolates to their anti-cancer derivatives is underway.
We presented our results in 2 oral presentations at the biennial Australasian Postharvest Horticulture Conference (October 2005), one oral presentation at the First International Symposium on Human Health – Effect of Fruits and Vegetables (August 2005), and one poster presentation at the 5^th Annual Health and Medical Research Conference of Queensland (November, 2005).

Project Title Health-promoting, plant-based products identified through traditional Chinese knowledge

RIRDC Project No.: DAV-227A

Start Date: 01-Jul-2005

Finish Date: 31-Aug-2006

Researcher: Graeme Thomson

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries, Victoria

Phone: 03 9210 9222

Fax: 03 9800 3521

Email: graeme.thomson@dpi.vic.gov.au

Objectives This project aims to conduct a comprehensive, up-to-date literature review that critically examines the health benefits to consumers of plant products used in traditional Chinese medicine. The focus is on plant products with the potential to bring significant curative and preventative benefits to sufferers of chronic diseases in Australia.

Current Progress A review has identified over 350 plant species used in Chinese (and Asian) medicine for treatment of diseases that are chronic in Australia (eg. cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis). Evidence for the efficacy of these plants has been reviewed and evaluated using information from scientific and medical journals. Summaries for each species will appear in the project’s final report. The focus has been on plants that are not current commercial crops in Australia. Nonetheless, marketing opportunities based on verified health claims have been identified for some existing crops.
Many extracts from plants used in traditional Chinese medicine have demonstrated effects such as anti-oxidant and anti-cancer/proliferation properties based on cell-line in vitro studies but results from human clinical trials are less readily available. Many Chinese medicinal plants also have modern uses that are different, or additional to their traditional roles in medical treatment. However, the health-promoting benefits of some Chinese herbs are now well proven and opportunities for their production in Australia need consideration. The final report will make recommendations about which species are our best options and will present additional information on how these plants might be incorporated into Australian agriculture.

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ASIAN FOODS - COMPLETED PROJECTS
PROJECT No	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION	PAGE No

DAV-218J	Access to Asian foods newsletter	Mr Graeme Thomson	(03) 9210 9259	Department of Primary Industries (Vic)
DNT-29A	Improving interaction and communication between RIRDC Asian foods leaders and industry (stage 2)	Mr Geoff Walduck	(08) 8999 2219	Department of Business, Industry and Resource Development (NT)

DAT-39A	Production and marketing of Tasmanian wasabi	Ms. Angela Sparrow	(03) 6336 5349	Dept of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (Tas)
UCQ-13A	Development of taro, yam, yam bean and sweet potato exports to Japan and USA	Prof. David Midmore	(07) 4930 9770	Central Queensland University

Project Title	Technical guidelines to improve supply chains for 'winter' Asian vegetables from Northern Australia
RIRDC Project No.:	CON-8A
Start Date:	01-Aug-2005
Finish Date:	31-Aug-2006
Researcher:	Mr Barry Lee
Organisation:	Connectica International
Phone:	0418 230 393
Fax:	(02) 9545 2687
Email:	barrywlee@ozemail.com.au
Objectives	Support growth of the Asian vegetables industry by: ·1 Mapping supply chain sectors and linkages from NT and WA for the Australian market. ·2 Identifying opportunity areas and weakness gaps in the supply chains. ·3 Developing technical guidelines with type 2 growers and industry stakeholders to support supply chain opportunities and resolve weaknesses areas.
Current Progress	Stage 1 of the project for market research of the Australian market factors for NT/WA Asian vegetables has been completed. The market research focused upon feedback from growers, consolidators and transport groups in the supply chains and commercial market agents in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. This industry research has identified almost 30 control point issues considered to be significant in the Asian vegetables supply chain systems. These systems include processes relating to: The Physical Products 1. Availability of farm labour and mechanisation (options) 2. Diseases affecting vegetable yields 3. Cool chain management 4. Retained samples by growers 5. Pre-cooling by growers 6. Temperature probing of vegetables in cartons by consolidators/transporters 7. Quality and strength of cartons 8. Correct packing of cartons (no over-packing) 9. Correct pallet stacking (no over-height pallets) 10. Carton mixing on pallets 11. Retained samples by consolidator 12. Cool chain management 13. Load off/on plans (pallet destinations schedule) 14. Time delay for pallet distribution to commercial agents 15. Quality and consistency of vegetables Paperwork and Documentation 1. Delivery receipts and temperature recording 2. Consignment notes and document security/loss prevention 3. Proof of Delivery and signature of consignment notes Transactions 1. Prices and pricing transparency 2. Trustworthiness of the commercial marketer or agent 3. Non English Speaking Background account payments 4. Pricing during periods of short-supply

Project Title	Integrated management strategies for diseases and pests of Asian vegetables
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-233J
Start Date:	01-Jul-2004
Finish Date:	31-May-2008
Researcher:	Mr. Len Tesoriero
Organisation:	NSW Department of Primary Industries PMB 8 CAMDEN, NSW, 2570
Phone:	(02) 4640 6428
Fax:	(02) 4640 6300
Email:	len.tesoriero@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	Identify the important diseases and pests causing losses of Asian vegetables in the major production regions across Australia Develop and evaluate effective disease and pest scouting/monitoring and integrated management strategies with growers that range from traditional market garden, broad acre and high value intensive production. Facilitate adoption of sustainable disease and pest management strategies for Non English speaking Background (NESB) growers in NSW and Victoria (with extension activities linking to other states and territories).
Current Progress	A number of on-farm trials have been established to refine monitoring strategies and compare the effectiveness of IPM strategies versus normal grower practices. The use of predatory mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis) has successfully been used to control two-spotted mite (Teranychus urticae) on Perilla crops. On one farm, predatory mites not only cleaned up a heavy Two-Spotted Mite population but also kept them to very low levels for more than six months without further predatory mite releases or chemical applications. Diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella), green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) and downy mildew (Peronospora parasitica) were the target pests for five on-farm trials in the Sydney Basin for integrated pest management (IPM) of Brassica crops. Crops used were Gai Lan (Chinese broccoli) and Choi Sum. Crops managed using pest monitoring-based spraying and soft insecticides and fungicides, were compared with crops managed by growers. Although pest pressure was not heavy, IPM crops were of equal quality to the corresponding crops managed by growers. These trials will be repeated during next spring and summer when higher pest pressure is expected. Downy mildew management trials will continue during the cooler months. We will trial a weather-based disease prediction system for downy mildew that is similar to one being developed by Victorian research colleagues to the related disease, White Blister. Alternative chemical controls will also be assessed to determine the most cost-effective and IPM compatible options for growers.

Project Title	Increasing the production of Australian wasabi
RIRDC Project No.:	DAT-43A
Start Date:	1/9/2006
Finish Date:	12/21/2007
Researcher:	Ms Angela Sparrow
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (Tas) Vegetables and Associated Industries Branch PO Box 46 KINGS MEADOWS TAS 7249
Phone:	(03) 6336 5349
Fax:	(03) 6344 9814
Email:	angela.sparrow@dpiwe.tas.gov.au
Objectives	· Develop the capacity of an Australian laboratory to produce commercial quantities of tissue-cultured wasabi planting stock. · Improve product quality through disease management and additional varieties. · Build the networking capacity of the wasabi grower group
Current Progress	An Australian tissue-culture laboratory provided with mother plants from Tasmania has successfully propagated plantlets of wasabi (Wasabia japonica Matsum.) in vitro. These plants will now be trialed in field conditions in Tasmania. A trial comparing the performance of varieties grown in soil and in water-filled gravel beds was established in Tasmania in January 2006. Sequential harvests conducted at 3-monthly intervals will continue for the duration of the 2-year project and allow growth data to be compared for 10 varietal lines. An additional field trial established in soil medium, aims to determine the efficacy of fungicide treatments found to be successful in pot trials. In May 2006 agreement was made among current wasabi growers in Tasmania to form a cohesive group to progress development of the industry. A field day is scheduled for June 2006 to demonstrate soil-cultivated wasabi to Tasmanian farmers. One aim of the field day is to invite growers with suitable sites to participate in expansion of the new industry.

Project Title	Taro industry development: the first step
RIRDC Project No.:	DAQ-322A
Start Date:	01-Jul-2004
Finish Date:	30-Sep-2006
Researcher:	Mr. Jeff Daniells
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld) Centre for Wet Tropics Agriculture PO Box 20 SOUTH JOHNSTONE, QLD, 4859
Phone:	(07) 4064 1129
Fax:	(07) 4064 2249
Email:	jeff.daniells@dpi.qld.gov.au
Objectives	Assist in the development of the Australian taro industry by: Survey/benchmarking of current industry practices/problems to provide a snapshot of the industry Provision of an information resource for the taro industry Unlocking taro industry workshops Field monitoring sits testing workshop recommendations Development of an Australian taro industry R&D strategic plan
Current Progress	The taro industry information resource was launched at Taro Growers Australia (TGA) AGM in November 2005. The resource currently consists of about 50 items including books, booklets and DVD’s. Items are available for loan by TGA members and is administered by TGA. A fertilizer rates trial (20% through to 200% of normal industry rates) was completed by NT DPIFM staff. There was only a 13% yield difference over the wide range of rates trialled. It should be possible to greatly reduce rates of fertilization used by some growers without much effect on yield and so reduce risks of losses off-farm which potentially could damage the environment. DPI&F have identified a range of taro diseases from samples supplied by growers. Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, Pythium and Erwinia have all been isolated from various corm rots. Their status as pathogens has been determined in glasshouse investigations. In November 2005 DPI&F at South Johnstone hosted a visit from QUT staff involved in the ACIAR TaroPest project which involves the development of diagnostic software. Our Taro team and TGA will act as a beta test site to provide feedback to QUT which will help ensure that the software is not only useful for the target countries (PNG and Fiji) in their project but also of great benefit to the Australian industry.

Project Title	Improving the market access of Asian vegetables
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-230A
Start Date:	01-Jul-2004
Finish Date:	31-Jul-2007
Researcher:	Dr Jenny Ekman
Organisation:	NSW Department of Primary Industries Gosford Horticultural Institute, Locked Bag 26 GOSFORD, NSW, 2250
Phone:	(02) 4348 1900
Fax:	(02) 4348 1910
Email:	jenny.ekman@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	To develop methods of marketing and promotion that can expand the market for Asian vegetables Provide information to retailers and wholesalers, especially with regard to a standardised nomenclature Develop and test a marketing strategy to provide consumers with information on how to prepare and cook Asian vegetables, their nutritional value, and what constitutes good quality in order to increase purchases of these products Build the potential for export of Australian grown Asian vegetables.
Current Progress	A survey asking industry what they think different Asian vegetables should be called was completed and presented to the project steering committee in August 2005. An agreement was brokered between Woolworths, Coles, Harris Farm Markets, Barden Produce and Sydney Markets on the names given to 14 of the commoner Asian vegetable lines. The names were "launched" in November 2007 by the NSW Minister for Primary Industries the Hon. Ian MacDonald. The event attracted considerable media attention with over 30 known and significant media ‘hits’ on outlets as diverse as ‘Fresh’ TV show, Womens Weekly magazine, Radio National and the Sydney Morning Herald. Asian vegetables featured at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in April 2006 The display featured a mini ‘garden’ of different Asian vegetables, each with a label detailing its name and cooking tips. A cooking demonstration video ran continuously behind the display, showing how to prepare some simple Asian vegetable dishes. Visitors to the display were invited to fill out a survey on their Asian vegetable purchasing habits. This included the sources of information they used when trying out new dishes. Around 40-50,000 people visited the display, which generated a great deal of interest and enthusiasm. Many asked for further information, particularly with regard to recipes. Over 800 surveys were collected over the two weeks of the Show and information from these is currently being examined. Harris Farm Markets has agreed to allow the project team to use their stores to test different methods of promoting the vegetables. We are now discussing cross promotional opportunities with AYAM, who market products compatible with Asian vegetables.

Project Title:	Access to Asian Foods Newsletter
RIRDC Project No.:	DAV-218J
Researcher:	Mr Graeme Thomson
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries, Victoria
Phone:	(03) 9210 9222
Fax:	(03) 9800 3521
Email:	graeme.thomson@dpi.vic.gov.au
Objectives	Produce a national newsletter (in the period July 2004 to June 2006) for effective communication, networking and transfer of information within the Australian Asian vegetable / food industry.
Background	The Access to Asian Foods newsletter has been published in one form or another for nearly nine years. This national newsletter keeps growers, food processing businesses, wholesalers, retailers, exporters and researchers informed of industry developments. RIRDC sees the newsletter as an important mechanism for adoption of R&D outcomes from latest market and scientific research.
Research	Articles were sourced from around Australia to reflect the diversity of our Asian foods industry. The editor interacted with over 39 researchers and 19 organisations from every state and territory to gather relevant content.
Outcomes	Over the two-year project, approximately 26,500 newsletters were dispatched to subscribers all over Australia. Forty-eight articles were published in 20 newsletters. Categories included - agronomy, technology transfer / industry news, research news, new crops, postharvest handling / processing / food safety, product / crop descriptors, marketing / export, pest and disease management / chemical use. In June 2006 the subscription list stood at 760 separate recipient addresses (some of which receive more than one copy). The majority of newsletters (900) are published in English but each month (excepting December and January) 250 Vietnamese, 75 Cambodian and 100 Chinese translations are also produced. Most newsletters go to Victoria (31%), Queensland (28%) and New South Wales (24%).
Implications	This newsletter enables researchers to quickly bring findings to a broad audience. It also fosters networking and cohesion between the scattered and varied groups that make up the Australian Asian food industry. Access to Asian Foods plays a vital role in facilitating the communication of research findings to the people and companies that can drive change in the industry.
Publications	Access to Asian Foods Newsletter, Issues 72 to 91.

Project Title:	Improving interaction and communication between RIRDC Asian foods leaders and industry (stage 2)
RIRDC Project No.:	DNT-29A
Researcher:	Geoff Walduck
Organisation:	Dept Primary IndustryFisheries&Mines [formerly DBIRD NT]
Phone:	08 89992219
Fax:	08 89992049
Email:	Geoff.walduck@nt.gov.au
Objectives	·1 To facilitate and promote information exchange (formal and informal) between Asian food Project leaders, IDO's, industry representatives and the RIRDC Program Manager. ·2 Project leaders available to present final and progressive research reports at appropriate industry forums. Formal information exchange documented and available to interested parties. ·3 Industry issues identified regularly at regional level presented at a national meeting for all parties.
Background	Project Synopsis A concise overview of the proposal work under the headings of: (i) Objectives/aims of the proposed project Facilitate and promote information exchange (formal and informal) between Asian food Project leaders, IDO’s , industry representatives and RIRDC Program Manager. Project leaders available to present final and progressive research reports at appropriate industry forums. Formal information exchange documented and available to interested parties. Industry Issues identified regularly at regional level presented at a national meeting for all parties.This project was effectively a continuation of Project 28A. (ii) Outcomes of the proposed project Improved information exchange and communication networks [both formal and informal] between Asian food Project leaders, IDO’s , industry representatives and RIRDC Program Manager. (iii) Deliverables/outputs of the proposed research One 3 day Meeting per year with all participants contributing a written or oral presentation. Preparation and distribution of the proceedings of the 3 day meeting. . Formal presentations of research and extension projects from all regions. (iv) Background, relevance and potential benefits The national Asian vegetable project, Consolidating the Asian vegetable Industry (CQU-10A) finishes in 2001. It was an ambitious project, but one of the important outcomes of this project was that it provides a venue for researchers from all states to meet annually and share research results and industry status insights, and discuss current issues affecting the industry. It also provided an opportunity for researchers to visit farms and talk to growers in other states and get a broader view of the Australian Asian vegetable industry. This opportunity disappears with completion of the project. The Asian vegetable & food newsletters (DAV-179A) provide a vehicle to exchange project results and other information but does not offer the advantages of face to face contact and frank sharing ideas and results. (v) Research strategies and methodology To coordinate attendance, travel, agendas and itinerary for a meeting of Asian foods program leaders and industry. It is planned to have one meeting in a different location each year, and an associated field trip. Each meeting will have a formal session (presentation on current project results, completed project outcomes/outputs) and one to two days in the field on grower properties. Depending on the needs of the local industry, some form of industry meeting will also be held to maximise the opportunity to promote national RIRDC Asian food research to the local group (vi) Communications/adoption/commercialisation strategy Outcomes of the meetings will be reported in the Asian vegetables or food newsletters. A full report of presented papers and/or industry updates (depending on each meeting) will be published annually by RIRDC. Outcomes and results of current projects will be reported to industry seminars organised by industry. (vii) Time-lines Researcher communication meeting will be held annually from Mar 2004 to June 2006.
Outcomes	2 day meetings of researchers were held in Brisbane in June 2004 and Sydney in March 2006. The Sydney meeting was delayed by external factors from October 2005.This wa sone meeting for each year of the project.
Publications	Proceedings and presentations in PowerPoint form were produced and circulated to all participants.

Project Title:	Production and Marketing of Tasmanian wasabi
RIRDC Project No.:	DAT-39A
Researcher:	Ms Angela Sparrow
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment PO Box 46 KINS MEADOWS TAS 7249
Phone:	(03) 6336 5439
Fax:	(03) 6344 9814
Email:	Angela.Sparrow@dpiwe.tas.gov.au
Objectives	·1 Tasmania will become the major supplier of premium fresh wasabi to the Australian market ·2 Yield and product quality will be improved by a reduction in disease incidence. ·3 The ‘Wasabi Production Guide’ will be updated to include aquatic production
Background	Wasabi is traditionally a cool climate Japanese crop requiring a specific habitat. Tasmania’s climate is suitable and soil-grown product from trial plots is currently sold on the domestic market. Marketable yield may be doubled by reducing the incidence of blackened lesions on the stems and by varietal selection. Water-grown wasabi is considered a superior product on the Japanese market and its cultivation was trialled in Australia. Tasmania’s climate, water sources and the interest in wasabi as a cash crop favours expansion of the Tasmanian industry.
Research	Observation of water-cultivated wasabi systems were made in Japan and USA and adapted for Tasmanian conditions. Water availability and gravel quality are essential features of this production system. A preventative fungicide treatment pre-planting was identified to reduce stem blackening in pot trials and is recommended for trial in field conditions. Tissue-cultured planting stock tested in both soil and water cultivated systems was found to produce superior stems.
Outcomes	Wasabi growers in Tasmania have recognised the benefits of forming an incorporated company to coordinate the Tasmania industry. Wasabi growers have identified tissue-cultured wasabi plants produced by an Australian laboratory as a research priority. The practical manual ‘Wasabi- A guide to the production of wasabi in Tasmania’ now includes recommendations for both soil and water-cultivated wasabi.
Implications	This project has demonstrated the value of plant hygiene from establishment through to production and has provided the incentive for Tasmanian growers to develop a company. Expansion of the industry will be assisted by specific recommendations made for soil and water-cultivation systems.

Project Title:	Development of taro, yam, yam bean and sweet potato exports to Japan and USA
RIRDC Project No.:	UCQ-13A
Researcher:	David Midmore, Daniel White, Vong Nguyen, David Hicks, Eric Coleman, Suzie Newman, Phillip Wilk, Dee Reeve and Peter McLaughlin
Organisation:	Central Queensland University and Other Organisations, Rockhampton, Qld 4702.
Phone:	(07) 4930 9770
Fax:	(07) 4930 9255
Email:	d.midmore@cqu.edu.au
Objectives	The objective of this project was to establish a supply chain for the successful ongoing export of taro, yam, yam bean and/or sweet potato to Japan and/or USA. The expected beneficiaries are primarily Australian producers who can establish cost-effective production of good to high quality produce for supply to an increased domestic market and to select export markets. It is also expected that consumers in Australia would also benefit from having an increased variety of nutritious vegetables to choose from.
Background	As Australian horticulture and agriculture producers are continually faced with increasing challenges in quality management, pests and diseases, competition from developing countries on the world market and competition from cheaper imports on the domestic market, many are seeking to diversify their production operations and are willing to explore non-traditional crops and markets in Australia and for export. As a result of recent efforts in Australia in the research and development of production and marketing of traditional Asian food commodities, there is increased awareness of the potential for profit by supplying high quality food products to Asian markets in Australia and overseas. From information gathered in a previous RIRDC project, UCQ-10A, "Consolidating the Asian Vegetable Industry", and other RIRDC-funded reports on Asian food markets it was apparent that taro, yam, yam bean and sweet potato had potential for further development in Australian domestic and international Asian export markets.
Research	The project proceeded in two stages. The first stage involved market assessment through information available in literature and databases, and followed up by information from two visits by project participants to Japan and USA. Information was gathered on seasonal supply and price patterns, preferred varieties and quality and presentation preferences and Japanese domestic production and sources of desired cultivars. Stage two of the project primarily involved production, quality and marketing trials of a sato-imo cultivar already available in Australia. Production trials were conducted at a number of locations in Queensland, NSW and NT. Quality assessment was conducted by NSW DPI and samples of fresh corms were sent to companies contacted during stage one visits to Japan. Several growers coordinated with an Australian export company to send a trial shipment to Japan. Attempts continued throughout stage two to import relevant Japanese cultivars of taro, sweet potato and yam for further production trials.
Outcomes	Production trials over three seasons generated sufficient information to recommend production guidelines for Australia. A protocol of quarantine risk assessment for burrowing nematode (Radopholus similis) was established with the assistance of Biological Crop Protection and in conjunction with AQIS to meet Japanese plant quarantine restrictions for fresh taro corms. Results of quality assessment experiments of sato-imo corms have allowed definition of storage and transport conditions. Feedback from trial samples and a trial shipment sent to Japan has allowed further recommendations for quality control, sorting, packing and presentation of fresh corms. A Growers’ Guide for the supply of sato-imo has been produced, and is being published by RIRDC.
Implications	The necessity of cohesion and single-mindedness of growers towards the export market and specifications is brought out as being essential for success.
Publications	Numerous (>40) meetings, articles and reports. One at "Select markets for taro, sweet potato and yam"(RIRDC 03/052 UCQ-13A)

Asian Foods - Research In Progress
PROJECT No	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION	PAGE No

CSP-9A	Edamame soybean development in Australia	Mr. Andrew James	(07) 3214 2278	CSIRO Plant Industry
DAQ-298A	Development of Prunus mume, a new tree crop for Australia	Dr. Bruce Topp	(07) 5441 2211	Dept of Primary Industries (QLD)
DAQ-307A	Anti-cancer properties of Asian crucifers	Dr. Tim O'Hare	(07) 5466 2257	Department of Primary Industries (Qld)
DAV-227A	Health-promoting, plant-based products identified through traditional Chinese knowledge	Mr Graeme Thomson	(03) 9210 9259	Department of Primary Industries (Vic)

CON-8A	Technical guidelines to improve supply chains for 'winter' Asian vegetables from Northern Australia	Mr Barry Lee	0418 230 393	Connectica International
DAN-233J	Integrated management strategies for diseases and pests of Asian vegetables	Mr. Len Tesoriero	(02) 4640 6428	NSW Department of Primary Industries
DAT-43A	Increasing the production of Australian wasabi	Ms. Angela Sparrow	(03) 6336 5349	Dept of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (Tas)
DAQ-322A	Taro industry development: the first step	Mr. Jeff Daniells	(07) 4064 1129	Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

Project Title	Improved economic sustainability of Vietnamese vegetable growers in the Sydney region
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-211A
Start Date:	01-Nov-2002
Finish Date:	30-Sep-2006
Researcher:	Peter Malcolm
Organisation:	NSW Department of Agriculture, Gosford Horticultural Institute Locked Bag 26, GOSFORD NSW 2250
Phone:	(02) 4588 2105
Email:	peter.malcolm@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·1 Adoption of best practices by Vietnamese vegetable growers; ·2 Increased economic viability of Vietnamese vegetable growers due to improved market access; ·3 Increased consumer confidence in safety of Asian vegetables; ·4 Detailed understanding of the information requirements and priorities of a specific Non English Speaking Background (NESB) grower groups; ·5 Socially, more empowered, less isolated Vietnamese vegetable growers accessing information and negotiating for their local community; ·6 More environmentally sustainable vegetable production in the Sydney region; ·7 Verification of the transportability of the communication and extension model piloted in Northern Territory (DAV-176A).
Current Progress	A. Monitoring of the adoption by Vietnamese farmers of best farming practices: Surveys: The project officer, Dr Ho Dang, a fluent Vietnamese speaker, accomplished the initial benchmarking survey on grower’s farming practices, skills, attitudes and needs. The results of this survey were used to; (1) Define target areas where assistance is required (2) Measure grower’s progress in adopting good farming practices when the final survey is repeated at the end of the project. The final survey assessing grower’s progress in adopting good farming practices is currently in progress. B. Improved awareness of good farming practices among Vietnamese farmers: Farmer training: There were 16 events organised for Vietnamese growers in the 2005/6 financial year. These included formal training on water/soil/fertiliser/pest management and/or field days/ workshops on topics such as the safe operating and maintenance of farm machinery, post-harvest handling of farm produce, computer skills, farm financial record keeping, occupational health and safety and, farm management planning. In addition, as a result of training completed over the last three years as well as recognised prior learning, 18 Vietnamese growers have been awarded their Certificate III in Horticulture. C. Monitoring improved economic stability: Among the Vietnamese vegetable growers, 46 % have implemented bettor hygiene and integrated pest management (IPM) practices, 47% are now using dam water for irrigation instead of reticulated town water and 66% now have greenhouses, many equipped with sophisticated facilities such as heating/cooling systems and, insect exclusion screens. As a consequence, of practising protected cropping and hydroponics, many have significantly increased their yield and improved the quality of their produce. In many instances this has necessitated an improvement in their packing and cooling facilities to cope with higher production. Overall 85 % of Vietnamese growers have adopted improved farming/management practices, that have resulted in higher production, better product quality and less expenditure on crop protection. D. Additional outcomes: The Project Officer, Dr Ho Dang also liaised with the Vietnamese Vegetable Growers Association in Queensland (VVGAQ) as well as Queensland DPI staff. This was in addition to assisting Vietnamese growers in Queensland on their individual farms, identifying their pest and disease problems and suggesting possible control measures. The Project Officer also made several visits to Victoria where he liaised with staff from the Victorian DPI, assisted the Victorian Vietnamese Vegetable Growers Association and participated in/assisted with a number of pest and disease recognition and control workshops and field days. Communication and Industry liaison: Bi-lingual Communication Model: As a major objective of the project, a Bi-lingual Officer (Project Officer) was used to communicate with Vietnamese growers and to co-ordinate the government’s efforts to assist growers. The results so far indicate that with the use of a Bi-lingual Officer, trust between growers and NSW DPI and other government agencies was more easily established, the attendance at formal training and workshops was greatly improved and, growers felt more empowered as the result of the acquisition of new knowledge and better communication networks. Media activities: Routine advertisements, in Vietnamese, of all training events were placed in appropriate local newspapers, weekly magazines and on SBS Vietnamese broadcasting programs. Other issues: Vietnamese growers in the Sydney basin are concerned on about their future, as the majority of them are landless farmers, many of them without formal / long term leases. Under the pressure of residential development, many of their farms could disappear as the owners of the land capitalise on increasing land values. Because of this uncertainty, farmers are less inclined to invest large amounts of capital in their farms and/or improve farm infrastructure. This economic instability adversely affects their adoption of best farming practices.

Project Title	Edamame soybean development in Australia
RIRDC Project No.:	CSP-9A
Start Date:	01-Dec-03
Finish Date:	30-Nov-06
Researcher:	Dr Andrew James
Organisation:	CSIRO Plant Industry 306 Carmody Road St Lucia Qld 4067
Phone:	(07) 3214 2278
Fax:	(07) 3214 2730
Email:	andrew.james@csiro.au
Objectives	This work seeks to develop a critical understanding of the ripening process in CSIRO-bred and elite Japanese cultivars of edamame soybean, and in particular, to understand how changes in seed size and the seed content of protein, oil, sugars (fructose, glucose, sucrose, raffinose and stachyose), vitamins (A, D and E) and isoflavones (genistein, diadzein and glycitein) vary with ripening and maturation environment. This knowledge will be used to develop strategies to ensure consistent supplies of excellent quality edamame to high-value markets in Australia initially and overseas.
Current Progress	The key determinants of quality in edamame are seed size, sugar content and bright green colour. This project has shown that in well-watered plants sugars accumulate in the seed at about the same rate as seed expansion. The optimum time of harvest can therefore be timed to maximise seed size but before any loss of chlorophyll has occurred. The project has also determined variation in seed size and hence edamame quality due to plant population in the variety Bunya and breeding line C784. It has also developed robust photothermal models of time to flowering for the varieties Tanbaguro, KS#1, Bunya and the breeding line C784. These models are able to predict time to flowering with an accuracy of plus or minus two days over a wide range of cropping environments. Since time to flowering is the most important determinate of adaptation in determinate soybean, this model is able to determine the potential range of environments and planting windows to which a variety is adapted.

Project Title	Development of Prunus mume, a new tree crop for Australia
RIRDC Project No.:	DAQ-298A
Start Date:	01-Jan-03
Finish Date:	31-May-06
Researcher:	Dr Bruce Topp
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries (Qld) Queensland Horticulture Institute PO Box 5083 SCMC NAMBOUR QLD 4560
Phone:	(07) 5441 2211
Fax:	(07) 5441 2235
Email:	toppb@dpi.qld.gov.au
Objectives	The main outcome will be the establishment of an entirely new industry involving producers, processors and exporters. The mume industry will generate new jobs and will replace current imported product. The R&D objectives are: To determine new markets, potential competitors and to quantify the business economics of the agri-supply chain in the production and marketing of processed mume products (salted plums, mume sauces, umeboshi and umeshu). To study the adaptation, cropping and agronomy of mume in Australia and determine potential yields, consistency of supply and make recommendations on suitable varieties. To evaluate mume as a genetic bridge in the development of other Prunus species and create novel products for processing.
Current Progress	The first crop of mume fruit was harvested from the cultivar trial at Applethorpe Research Station, Stanthorpe, Queensland during the 2005-2006 season. Fruit from this trial was used to produce sample product lines of dried salty mume, umeboshi (a pickled mume) and umeshu (a type of mume wine/liqueur). These samples were sent for evaluation to Japanese companies who have expressed interest in development of an Australian mume industry. ‘Nankou’ is preferred as the premium cultivar for production of umeboshi and umeshu. The one month harvest window of ‘Nankou’ coupled with a requirement to use fresh fruit for umeshu production is a reason for Japanese manufacturer interest in Australian umeshu production. A market attractiveness and competitive position analysis was conducted based on desktop and Japanese market research. The study indicates that the best prospects for an Australian industry are to initially form alliances with Japanese manufacturers to develop competitive products for their existing markets, while developing a range of products acceptable to the Australian mass market and other markets to spread financial risk. The research provides an indication that for an Australian-produced umeboshi the Japanese market is moderately attractive, as is the much smaller Australian market, with some potential for competitiveness in both.

Project Title	Anti-cancer properties of Asian crucifers
RIRDC Project No.:	DAQ-307A
Start Date:	31-May-03
Finish Date:	30-Sep-06
Researcher:	Dr Tim O'Hare
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries (Qld) Queensland Horticulture Institute Gatton Research Station LMB 7, MS 437 MS437 GATTON QLD 4343
Phone:	(07) 5466 2257
Fax:	(07) 5466 2208
Email:	Tim.O'Hare@dpi.qld.gov.au
Objectives	Identification of key crucifer species which could form the basis of industry sales on health rather than culinary issues, similar to broccoli sprouts in the USA. Identification and quantification of demonstrated anti-cancer glucosinolates in Asian crucifers. Provision of advice or recommendations on a pathway for addressing the regulatory issues relating to anti-cancer claims. The research has an aim to promote the consumption of Asian vegetables by broadening the consumer base through sales to people who would not have purchased Asian vegetables on a culinary basis (ie. flavour). A second and underlying issue is to identify products that will reduce the incidence of internal cancers in the Australian community.
Current Progress	Analysis of glucosinolate profiles of horticultural members of the Brassicaceae was expanded, with the acquisition of wasabi (seed and seed-sprouts), an important Asian species particularly in Japan. Studies on refrigeration of sprouts from broccoli, white radish, kohl rabi and rocket, indicated stability of glucosinolate profiles for at least 21 days in all species except rocket. The effect of growing temperature, sprout developmental stage and cultivar was assessed for white radish sprouts. All factors significantly affected glucosinolate composition and could be used to optimise glucosinolate yield and anti-cancer potency. Further study into cultivar variability in glucosinolate composition has been initiated. Further study into the role of proteins inhibiting conversion of glucosinolates to their anti-cancer derivatives is underway. We presented our results in 2 oral presentations at the biennial Australasian Postharvest Horticulture Conference (October 2005), one oral presentation at the First International Symposium on Human Health – Effect of Fruits and Vegetables (August 2005), and one poster presentation at the 5^th Annual Health and Medical Research Conference of Queensland (November, 2005).

Project Title	Health-promoting, plant-based products identified through traditional Chinese knowledge
RIRDC Project No.:	DAV-227A
Start Date:	01-Jul-2005
Finish Date:	31-Aug-2006
Researcher:	Graeme Thomson
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries, Victoria
Phone:	03 9210 9222
Fax:	03 9800 3521
Email:	graeme.thomson@dpi.vic.gov.au
Objectives	This project aims to conduct a comprehensive, up-to-date literature review that critically examines the health benefits to consumers of plant products used in traditional Chinese medicine. The focus is on plant products with the potential to bring significant curative and preventative benefits to sufferers of chronic diseases in Australia.
Current Progress	A review has identified over 350 plant species used in Chinese (and Asian) medicine for treatment of diseases that are chronic in Australia (eg. cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis). Evidence for the efficacy of these plants has been reviewed and evaluated using information from scientific and medical journals. Summaries for each species will appear in the project’s final report. The focus has been on plants that are not current commercial crops in Australia. Nonetheless, marketing opportunities based on verified health claims have been identified for some existing crops. Many extracts from plants used in traditional Chinese medicine have demonstrated effects such as anti-oxidant and anti-cancer/proliferation properties based on cell-line in vitro studies but results from human clinical trials are less readily available. Many Chinese medicinal plants also have modern uses that are different, or additional to their traditional roles in medical treatment. However, the health-promoting benefits of some Chinese herbs are now well proven and opportunities for their production in Australia need consideration. The final report will make recommendations about which species are our best options and will present additional information on how these plants might be incorporated into Australian agriculture.