Ireland launches technology transfer strategy to support food companies

As a part of knowledge transfer strategy, Teagasc noted that it is offering five gateways to food firms to promote new technologies. The five gateways include - Technology Offers; Technology Updates; Technology Services; Technology Expertise; and Technology Profiles.

Technology Offers seeks companies to join with those filing patent applications to further develop the technology. Technology Updates provides processors with regular feed of current innovation.

The Technology Services gateway makes pilot plant facilities at Moorepark and Ashtown in Ireland available to food companies. Technology Expertise provides product development and wider services; expertise; facilities; technical training and consultancy.

In addition, Technology Profiles seeks to connect Teagasc scientists with the leading scientists and researchers from around the world.

Teagasc director professor Gerry Boyle said that Teagasc research can help food companies develop a stronger culture of innovation to achieve growth and enhance employment opportunities.

"This new technology transfer strategy supports the agri-food sector to turn knowledge into commercial products and processes," Boyle added.