NZ Food Safety Leader Earns Prestigious Award

Key Takeaways

  • Professor Phil Bremer received the Significant Contribution to Food Safety Award at the NZIFST Awards on June 25, 2025.
  • With over 40 years in the field, Bremer has published more than 200 academic papers and led various industry initiatives, including a guide on preventing infant formula contamination.
  • He is currently Distinguished Professor of Food Science at the University of Otago and Chief Scientist at the NZFSSRC, contributing significantly to food safety in New Zealand.

Professor Bremer’s Recognition in Food Safety

Professor Phil Bremer was honored with the Significant Contribution to Food Safety Award during the New Zealand Institute of Food Science and Technology’s (NZIFST) Food Industry Awards on June 25, 2025. The award, sponsored by New Zealand Food Safety, acknowledges individuals who have notably advanced food safety in the country. The accolade was presented by Vincent Arbuckle, Deputy Director-General of New Zealand Food Safety, who praised Bremer for his extensive contributions.

Bremer has dedicated over 40 years to enhancing food safety science, publishing more than 200 academic papers that have helped shape effective food safety practices across various sectors. His efforts have strengthened the food safety culture in New Zealand by influencing industry best practices, technological advancements, product development, and scientific research.

He currently serves as the Distinguished Professor of Food Science at the University of Otago and as Chief Scientist at the New Zealand Food Safety Science and Research Centre (NZFSSRC). Additionally, Bremer actively participates in several industry steering groups that focus on improving food safety outcomes.

Among his significant achievements is the development of a guide aimed at preventing Cronobacter contamination in infant formula. This initiative is crucial, as Cronobacter can pose life-threatening risks to infants under six months old. Arbuckle commented on the positive impact this guide has had, particularly for New Zealand dairy companies, ensuring the safety of infant formula for young consumers both domestically and internationally.

Throughout his career, Bremer has made substantial contributions to food safety science in New Zealand and has held numerous leadership roles in various food safety associations and societies. His commitment extends to mentoring and supervising numerous postgraduate students, furthering the next generation of food safety experts.

Previous recipients of the Significant Contribution to Food Safety Award include Dr Pierre Venter (2024) and Dr Rob Lake (2023). For more information on all the award winners at the NZIFST Food Industry Awards, additional details can be accessed.

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