The sector consists of approximately 150 companies covering a broad spectrum from micro-businesses to large companies. In 2009, over 6000 people were employed in this processing sector and the gross turnover of these companies was in excess of £800 million.

Our team of food technologists provide information and advice across a range of technical areas. We use our modern processing equipment to facilitate the pilot scale commercial production of bakery, fruit, vegetable and beverage products and have extensive knowledge of legislation specifically relating to these sectors.

The team also has experience of farm diversification and technical evaluation of new products and regularly assist companies in the product innovation of their products and the development of product portfolios.

Examples of work undertaken:

• Shelf life extension through modified atmospheric packaging.
• The development of fortified products.
• Review and evaluation of quality systems.
• Factory design and layout.
• Evaluation of process controls and packaging.
• Mentoring of food safety management systems.