The unit explores human population growth and the impending global food crisis by introducing agriculture as a managed ecosystem, from the earliest shifting cultivation systems to the most intensive systems currently practiced today. The ecological, economic and social sustainability of these systems is considered in relation to diversity, intensity of management and productivity. The unit...

The unit introduces the science behind pasture production and management and the link between pasture or other feedstuffs on animal digestion, feed and nutrient utilisation and productive performance. In the practical classes, students are given the opportunity to perform pasture assessment, assess the digestive system of ruminants, and experience the methods used to determine meat quality. The...

This unit examines the relevance and influence of international political, economic, and regulatory trends on agribusinesses, how trade agreements effect export opportunities, and how to mitigate risks when engaging with international agricultural markets. Students will learn how to plan their business to take advantage of opportunities that arise due to globalisation, while mitigating related...

Food safety comprises a broad range of scientific endeavours that are important in human society. Maintenance of food security and public health requires vigilance in the food supply, including safety, traceability, epidemiology and the ecology of food-borne pathogens. The science also involves the application of knowledge related to food fermentation, processing techniques, manufacturing, and...

With the rise of more varied and specialised diets, consumers are seeking novel and nutritious value-added food products. This unit examines how new food products are created and developed, and explores the role of science in determining the optimal properties and safety of new foods. These elements will be illustrated through case studies based on topical situations addressing marketing,...

Traditional approaches to food safety assurance are failing to keep up with the modern food industry. In response, and to harmonise international trade in food, food safety management is moving to a "risk-based approach that relies strongly on synthesis of scientific evidence to generate inferences and conclusions that can be drawn from it to assist in developing more effective food safety...

Welcome to Insect Ecology & Behaviour. This unit is research focused in its content and assessment. We will explore three key research areas in depth: these are insect Page 6 KLA314 Insect Ecology & Behaviour mating systems, insect natural enemies and insect-plant-interactions. In each of these areas we will ask why and how insects locate mates and hosts, examine evidence for and against current...