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Biotech & Food Sciences
Ireland’s National Food Biotechnology Centre (NFBC) is based at University College Cork (UCC) –leaders in the field of food science. Its establishment is the result of requests from both academic researchers and the biotech industry for a single, centralised source of information.
The NFBC is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including a large food processing hall, a microbrewery and a bakery. Its aim is to work alongside the food-science industry as it responds to consumer demands for high-quality foods that are competitively priced, nutritious, wholesome and safe.
The success of the NFBC reflects strong growth in the Irish biotechnology industry in recent years, forging strong links with the food industry, both at home and internationally.
Among its current research themes are studies on
- Lactic acid bacteria and food fermentations
- Probiotics
- Functional foods
- Novel antimicrobial agents
- Food safety
- Food ingredient research
- Malting and brewing
- Biotreatment of wastewaters emanating from the food, pharmaceutical and landfill sectors
Breeding of disease-resistant cereals and oil seed rape The placing of the NFBC in UCC has done much to encourage the growth of the biotech industry in the Cork area. Centocor, a global leader in biopharmaceuticals, has invested in a major manufacturing facility at Ringaskiddy and Ely Lilly has just invested €400 million to extend its operation in Kinsale and develop a centre of excellence in biopharmaceutical manufacturing technology.
For more information on relocating to or investing in Cork, email or telephone +353 (0) 21 4317895.
