Abbott inaugurated its first nutrition research and development centre in collaboration with Syngene at Biocon Park in Bangalore. The Abbott Nutrition R&D Centre was inaugurated by Dr Sam Pitroda, Advisor to the Prime Minister of India on Public Information Infrastructure & Innovations and Chairman of the National Innovation Council. More than 50 researchers and scientists will be based at the centre.
The state-of-the-art R&D centre will focus on the development of science-based, affordable nutrition products for the country and enable the expansion of Abbott’s nutrition product portfolio. The facility will extend to over 13,000 square feet and house a range of integrated capabilities including product development and analytical laboratories as well as a dedicated laboratory for analysing flavour, sensory elements and packaging. The analytical lab will be equipped with technology for a broad spectrum of nutritional analysis ranging from micronutrient to microbiological testing.
The new R&D centre will focus on the development of nutrition products for maternal and child nutrition and diabetes care. The centre will tap into local expertise to focus on product design, development and delivery specifically for the Indian consumer market. Among the products being developed for the Indian market are meal complements for diabetics and pre-diabetics. In addition, the centre will address local taste and texture preferences with new flavours and formulations.
Speaking at the inauguration, John Landgraf, Executive Vice President, Global Nutrition, Abbott, said, “Abbott’s scientific heritage has driven the growth of our company, which has been in India for over 100 years. This new R&D centre in Bangalore will play a pivotal role in getting us even closer to the Indian market and addressing the nutritional requirements of the Indian consumer.”
Robert H Miller, Divisional Vice President, Global R&D and Scientific Affairs for Abbott Nutrition said, “India is a priority market for investment, growth and innovation. Our strategic collaboration with Syngene will accelerate the design, development and delivery of science-based, affordable nutrition products in India, for India.”
“It’s a landmark day for Abbott Nutrition and Syngene, as they shape their common vision of innovating towards a healthier India through affordable nutrition products. The combined market insights and nutrition science expertise of our two organisations will enable us to address the healthcare and nutritional challenges of an emerging economy like India across a diverse range of diseases that straddle both infectious and chronic maladies,” said Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Chairman and Managing Director, Biocon Group.
Commenting on the collaboration, Peter Bains, Director, Syngene International Limited, said, “We are delighted that Syngene’s discovery scientists and development capabilities will be supporting Abbott Nutrition in this important strategic initiative in India.”
EP News Bureau — Mumbai
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