Bronwyn Hannafin
Project title: Characterisation and production of milk and water kefir: from isolation of strains to creation of new health-promoting fermented beverages
Biography: Bronwyn is a PhD student investigating milk and water kefir, traditional fermented beverages that are gaining popularity among consumers for their potential health benefits. However, the mechanisms behind kefir’s health-promoting properties remain poorly understood. Bronwyn’s research aims to bridge this gap by characterising the microbial communities involved in kefir fermentation and assessing how these microbes contribute to beneficial effects.
Her work involves isolating and sequencing bacteria from existing milk and water kefir grains and fermentates to build a well-defined library of strains. Using in vitro, ex vivo, and in silico approaches, she will evaluate these strains for desirable functional and health-promoting properties. Selected microbes will then be combined into defined communities to create new health-promoting beverages. These beverages will be developed and scaled up to pilot scale, supporting the production of consistent and scientifically validated fermented products.
Originally from Co. Kerry, Bronwyn has spent the past several years in Cork, where she completed her BSc in Chemistry and MSc in Food Microbiology at University College Cork. She also holds over two years of industry experience as a Quality Control Analyst.
Teagasc email:Bronwyn.Hannafin@teagasc.ie
University email: 117449324@umail.ucc.ie
Teagasc Research Programme: Food Programme
Research Location: Teagasc Moorepark – Food
University: University College Cork
University Supervisor: Professor Jennifer Mahony
Funder: Teagasc