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IFF has announced the opening of its first dedicated food and beverage lab in Gangnam, Seoul, South Korea. The new co-creation centre reinforces the company’s commitment to “be the premier partner” as it brings together flavour and ingredient expertise with food design capabilities to deliver what IFF describes as “the best-in-class innovations to customers in South Korea". The new centre will support beverage, culinary, snack and dairy manufacturers with greater speed-to-market through insights-led innovation Through IFF’s team of expert food designers manufacturers will also have access to advanced lab technology. The centre features dedicated customer co-creation design spaces and a dairy and beverage UHT pilot plant for small-scale product pilot testing. It also houses a professional culinary kitchen, where IFF’s team will develop savoury seasoning solutions for instant noodles, snacks and local sauces. Yongjing Li, president of Nourish, Greater Asia at IFF, said: “This innovation centre marks an exciting milestone, showcasing our dedication to pioneering innovation and enhancing accessibility for our valued customers". He continued: “As a leader in integrated ingredient and flavour solutions, our strategic approach enables us to co-create food and beverages that resonate with consumers. This investment underscores our commitment to ensuring that our customers can swiftly adapt to the demands of a rapidly growing market and evolving consumer preferences." IFF claims the new lab will play a pivotal role in fulfilling South Korea's need for health, wellness and functional products including high-protein and low or no-sugar options that do not compromise on taste and texture.