CPI (Centre for Process Innovation) has recently unveiled the Novel Food Innovation Centre, a state-of-the-art facility located in Wilton, Redcar. This groundbreaking establishment positions the North East of England as the focal point of a green revolution within the food industry. Through cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, the centre will drive innovation in food production, paving the way for the creation of novel foods that are both environmentally friendly and nutritionally advanced.
In its initial phase, the Novel Food Innovation Centre is anticipated to generate and safeguard up to 50 job opportunities. However, its ambitions extend beyond employment as it strives to attract further investment into the region’s novel food production sector in the years to come.
Thanks to an initial investment of £2 million from the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority, CPI has constructed a certified food grade facility within the centre. This fully equipped facility offers a conducive environment for companies to develop and refine new food ingredients, ensuring they adhere to the highest safety standards and can be safely consumed.
The centre’s mission encompasses addressing both local and global challenges that impact us all. Recent data reveals that, in 2020, the food supply chain contributed to a staggering 26% of total greenhouse gas emissions. By fostering the development of novel foods, the centre aims to reduce the environmental footprint of the food industry by up to 45%.
At the Novel Food Innovation Centre, food production will rely on precision fermentation, a technique similar to the process employed in beer production. This innovative approach enables the creation of high-quality ingredients that can be incorporated into various food products.
Companies are encouraged to collaborate with CPI and leverage its expertise to fast-track the development of novel food ingredients for the market. Additionally, businesses can explore the centre’s proficiency in creating sustainable packaging solutions as part of their involvement.
Kris Wadrop, Managing Director of Food, AgriTech, and Materials at CPI, emphasized the urgent need for transformative changes within the UK’s food systems. To combat the global challenge of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, he stressed the tremendous potential of novel foods in future-proofing the country’s food industry. Through collective action and innovation, these changes can ensure a more sustainable and prosperous future.
