Fonterra’s Studholme site, located on New Zealand’s South Island, is on track to produce its first advanced proteins by 2026. With significant progress already made in its $75 million expansion, the site is set to become a key player in high-value dairy ingredient production.
Fonterra, New Zealand’s largest dairy cooperative, is progressing steadily on its $75 million investment in the Studholme site on the South Island, a project aimed at transforming the site into a hub for advanced proteins. This development, first announced in August 2024, is on track to produce its first advanced proteins by 2026.
Fonterra’s Studholme site manager, Alan Maitland, expressed excitement over the progress, noting that the foundations and walls of the new processing building extension have already been completed. In February, large equipment for powder milling will be delivered, with plans to secure the building’s exterior by April. Construction work continues with the addition of new powder storage bins, batching tanks, and a high-pressure pump.
As part of the site’s upgrade, process modifications are underway, including safety upgrades to the dryers and the installation of a new powder mill. These improvements, combined with new tie-in connections for steam, water, air, and product interfaces, are crucial for meeting the demands of advanced protein production.
Maitland emphasized that this expansion strengthens the Studholme site’s role within Fonterra’s network, not only increasing its capability in high-value dairy ingredient production but also creating six new roles on-site. “This expansion sends a strong signal about the site’s importance to Fonterra’s future and its commitment to producing top-tier dairy products for global customers,” he said.
This expansion aligns with Fonterra’s broader strategy to innovate and remain a key player in the global dairy market by diversifying its product offerings and expanding production capacity for advanced proteins.
