US-based snack maker Diamond Foods will break ground on a new product development and testing centre in Salem, Oregon.
The proposed facility will house a R&D kitchen and lab that will produce product samples and simulation preparation processes, a sensory evaluation centre for real-time product testing with consumers, and a concept room designed for ideation and customer meetings.
Upon completion in 2016, the facility will have food scientists, sensory personnel, and marketing, packaging and regulatory experts. It will develop new snack and nut brands.
Diamond Foods Research, Development and Innovation vice president Holly Mensch said: "We are focusing on innovation on all fronts - flavors, formats and packaging and the new facility gives us more space and equipment to do our work more efficiently and space to immediately test with consumers."
Designed by ZGF Architects, the facility will also have a low environment footprint.
Diamond Foods processes, markets, and distributes snack products and nuts. The company's snacks segment offers microwave popcorn products and potato chips under the Kettle and Pop Secret brands.
