But there was more to this year than disease and strife. Big deals were done, innovations launched, and progress towards sustainability was made.
To read the roundup of the most important stories of the year, published in PKN's Nov-Dec 2020 issue, click here.
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is consulting on whether packaged food manufacturers should be required by law to display a Health Star Rating, after voluntary uptake targets were not met.
The federal government has committed an additional $387.4 million to CSIRO over four years, but the agency has confirmed its restructure – including a reduction of 300 to 350 full-time equivalent roles and closure of its food science division – will proceed regardless.
The World Drinks Awards has revealed its Gin medallists and country winners for 2026 – with Australia standing tall. Broken Hill Distillery, Callington Mill Distillery, and Never Never Distilling all had standout achievements.
