Kerry opened a BSL-2 certified Food Protection and Preservation Lab at the Beloit Innovation Center on June 19, 2024. Officials said the new lab marks “a significant milestone” for the company’s progress in ensuring food safety and quality and reducing food waste.
Among those at the event were Sam Rikkers, Wisconsin Economic Development Council COO; and Kevin Byrne, Consul General of Ireland, Chicago. It also featured notable figures from Kerry's team including Bert De Vegt, VP of Food Protection and Preservation; Eimear Robertson, Chief Technology Officer North America; Malcolm Sheil, Chief Commercial Officer; Saurabh Kumar,Senior Business Development Director Food Protection and Preservation; and Gerry Behan, Global President and CEO Taste and Nutrition.
Globally, foodborne illnesses affect 600 million people and cause 420,000 deaths annually (WHO). In 2023, meat contamination led to over 1.4 million pounds of recalled product in the US and numerous hospitalizations (USDA FSIS). This new lab at Kerry’s Beloit Innovation Center has been (BSL-2) certified to safely handle food safety microorganisms, enabling in-house isolation of bacteria like Listeria, Salmonella, and E. coli.
Kerry’s food scientists and experts will use the state-of-the-art lab to conduct studies where food is intentionally contaminated to verify the effectiveness of safety protocols. These measures are vital in preventing real-world outbreaks of deadly bacteria. With over 1,000 bacterial strains collected through collaborations and post-outbreak analyses, Kerry can provide comprehensive food safety testing for its customers, offering an "insurance policy" with natural or conventional ingredients like buffered vinegar or acetates to inhibit bacterial growth.
Additionally, the lab tests the effectiveness of innovative preservation ingredients and concepts, aiming for extended shelf life and reduced food waste. This capability supports Kerry’s mission to enhance food safety and quality, benefiting both consumers, the food industry, and the planet. In 2023, Kerry helped reduce more than 8,000 tons of food waste globally and looks forward to more success in 2024.
