BRF, a Brazil-based poultry meats exporter and dairy products processor, has inaugurated its R$58m ($25.67m) Innovation Center in Jundiai, Sao Paulo, as part of its strategy to double investments in research, development and innovation by 2015.
The 10,000m2 center includes four areas, one each for breeding and research, application, experimental kitchens and sensorial analysis laboratories. It will have mini-plants for pilot production runs, and advanced instruments for product, packaging and process research.
The facility has provision for conducting tests in the form of specific mini-production lines. The five experimental kitchens will enable clients to conduct sensorial tests, training, demonstrations and joint product development.
BRF vice president for operations and technology Nilvo Mittanck said, "We now no longer need to depend on production units for undertaking tests. We shall be able to simulate large-scale production, project costs and test the parameters of processes and quality of the new products."
The innovation center has various sustainable features such as reuse of rainwater, solar power, and roof coverings with natural gardens to maintain cooler temperatures.
The project, which is trying for LEED international certification, will become a benchmark for BRF's future projects, the company said.
Mittanck said, "The Jundiai center will be a reference inside and outside the Company both in the creating of new businesses as well as the solution of problems."
The meat exporter plans to employ 150 engineers, nutritionists, pharmacologists, nutritionists, chemists and veterinarians at the center.
BRF has a portfolio of 3,300 products including the Chester Assa Facil, the Hot Pocket line of pizzas and ready-to-eat snacks, and Meu Menu frozen and individual meals.
