Wheat quality in the spotlight

Molecular biologist Professor Rudi Appels has been awarded a Visiting Fellowship within the Food Futures Flagship, to advance the application of genomics technologies to high quality grains, including wheat and barley.

A member of staff at Murdoch University, Appels will work on researching new techniques in advanced genetics. The aim is to develop a program to determine the quality of grain required for specific end-products, such as breads, pastries and noodles.

"It is crucial we continue to invest and research grain quality to maintain the competitive edge of Australian grain in [export] markets," said Appels.

A key aspect of the research is to identify genes and gene networks that control the expression of the desired attributes in the grains " the "genomics of quality'.

"A consequence of success in this area is a capability to produce "designer' varieties targeting niche markets that reward our producers for providing consistent and targeted quality attributes in the grain sold."