The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

FrieslandCampina Ingredients has unveiled a new state-of-the-art application centre in Singapore, aimed at enhancing its R&D capabilities.

This expansion, which increases R&D space by 30%, is strategically positioned to cater to the rapidly evolving food and beverage markets across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, including key markets such as Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia.

The new facility, backed by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), reinforces Singapore’s status as FrieslandCampina’s regional headquarters, and accelerates the company’s ability to deliver customised ingredient solutions tailored to the diverse nutritional needs of consumers in the area.

Tjalling Bekker, regional director APAC of FrieslandCampina Ingredients, said: “The opening of our new application centre in Singapore marks a pivotal time for our business, demonstrating our commitment to the APAC market and the strategic importance we place on the region”.

He continued: “The APAC market is changing rapidly. Consumers are prioritising daily health, emotional wellness and beauty-from-within. Our new application centre will help our customers succeed in this fast-moving and growing market by accelerating application development and enabling closer collaboration so we can navigate these exciting opportunities together.”

With 80% of consumers in APAC actively seeking nutritional supplements, the demand for innovative, consumer-focused applications is surging. The new centre is equipped with advanced laboratories dedicated to the development of functional foods, including yogurts, bars and dietary supplements.

The facility will enhance FrieslandCampina’s technical expertise in areas such as UHT processing, analytical testing, sensory science and packaging, enabling faster and more efficient application development.

Historically focused on infant and medical nutrition, the new application centre will expand FrieslandCampina’s capabilities to include performance and active nutrition, as well as children’s nutrition. This pivot allows the company to better address emerging trends and collaborate with partners to co-create innovative products such as functional beverages and healthy snacks.

Since establishing its APAC headquarters in Singapore in 2011, FrieslandCampina has committed to building a robust local innovation ecosystem. The new facility not only aims to drive product development but also to create jobs and enhance local skill sets.

FrieslandCampina Ingredients has initiated a long-term internship programme with local universities and signed an MOU with the Health Promotion Board to promote healthy living through initiatives like the Eat, Drink, Shop Healthy campaign.

Melissa Guan, vice president and head of consumer at the Singapore EDB, noted: “FrieslandCampina Ingredients’ new application centre is a valuable addition to our vibrant food and nutrition ecosystem. The facility will accelerate innovation through co-development efforts with customers to support health and well-being outcomes across all life stages.”