Nestlé, A*STAR sign research agreement in Singapore

FMCG giant Nestlé and Singapore-based Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) have entered into a research agreement to expand the former’s R&D operations in Singapore.

Under the deal, the firms will conduct research in areas such as packaged food and beverages, food ingredients, nutrition, food manufacturing processes, food science and technology, as well as biotransformation.

It will combine the capabilities and expertise of both firms in a range of advanced technologies and research fields that will help Nestlé to optimise its production processes and provide nutritional foods for its consumers.

The agreement will also enable A*STAR to expand its capabilities as the research collaborator of choice in Asia for the global food and nutrition industry.

A*STAR chairman Lim Chuan Poh said that A*STAR is looking forward to the opportunity to broaden and deepen the work that it does with Nestlé to expand its R&D capabilities in Singapore.

"This agreement marks a significant milestone in propelling forward A*STAR’s research thrust into food and nutrition," he added.

As part of the deal, researchers from across all 18 A*STAR research entities will have the opportunity to embark on collaborations with Nestlé’s affiliates globally.

The collaboration will also enable Nestlé to access A*STAR’s research facilities and technology in Singapore.

Speaking about the research agreement, Nestlé chief technology officer and innovation, technology, research and development head Stefan Catsicas said: "It provides the framework for future collaboration that will help to strengthen our food science and technology capabilities in Singapore and beyond."