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Fonterra's Komal Mistry-Mehta Joins Science Council, Sparks Cronyism Outcry

6/25/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In May 2025, Komal Mistry-Mehta of Fonterra, without scientific qualifications, joined New Zealand's PM's science advisory council after a casual text. Critics decry this move as cronyism, fearing the council's agricultural bias may overshadow essential scientific fields and prioritize commercial interests, jeopardizing the future of innovation.

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Story summary

In May 2025, Komal Mistry-Mehta of Fonterra, without scientific qualifications, joined New Zealand's PM's science advisory council after a casual text. Critics decry this move as cronyism, fearing the council's agricultural bias may overshadow essential scientific fields and prioritize commercial interests, jeopardizing the future of innovation.