New Zealand Biotechnology
Natural Products & Nutraceuticals
With a pristine environment and wealth of unique resources, New Zealand has a strong track record of identifying and maximizing the medicinal and nutritional uses of natural products. From harnessing the antibacterial properties of Manuka honey, to research and development identifying a non-calorific natural sweetener, New Zealand now has a lucrative and growing natural health products and nutraceuticals sector.
New Zealand's natural products export industry is estimated to be worth around NZ$300 million annually and growing, with major markets already established in Asia and North America, and a developing presence in Europe.
The sector boasts a broad-based array of nutraceutical and functional food activities and excels in areas such as added-value foods, natural cosmetics, bioactive ingredients and natural pesticides.
Amongst the sector's largest export earners are mussel extract powder, marine oils, natural honey products, deer velvet, skincare, botanical and dairy products. Exports include finished products and ingredients for the cosmetic, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries.
The sector is supported by a national industry group Natural Products New Zealand, which works to increase the profile of New Zealand as a source of quality natural products and further develop overseas markets.
