START Fund Winners 2024

Validation of an innovative biotechnology to control Campylobacter in broilers

Declan Bolton

Location: Teagasc Food Research Centre, Ashtown 

An innovative five‑strain probiotic is being evaluated for its ability to cut Campylobacter levels in broiler chickens, supporting safer poultry production and helping reduce the burden of foodborne illness

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LidoPak (Rhubarb Absorbent Pad)

Shivani Pathania

Location: Teagasc Food Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin

Rhubipad- A novel active absorbent pad for fresh food packaging based on repurposed rhubarb waste (generated within SFI Challenge- LEAF NO WASTE Project), which enhances the shelf life of the packaged produce was developed at Teagasc. Teagasc START Fund (€15,000) was awarded to the lead applicant Dr Shivani Pathania of Teagasc food research centre, Ashtown, in Nov 2024, to fund a consultant undertaking market validation study before investment in further technology development

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Market research for protein-rich plant-based alternatives to animal derived gelatine

Laura Mascaraque

Location: Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy

A Teagasc Start Award was awarded to Laura Mascaraque in October 2024 to engage a Consultant to evaluate the commercial potential of our novel plant‑based gelling ingredients by analysing market needs, customer requirements, competitive products, and regulatory considerations.  Our novel ingredients offer exceptional natural gelling and emulsifying performance, enabling them to replace animal‑based ingredients in products such as jellies, yoghurts, and other structured foods. They deliver both superior nutrition and high‑quality texture – addressing a major gap in today’s plant‑based market, where many products rely on starches and lack protein richness. With growing consumer demand for healthier, more sustainable plant‑based options, this technology represents a strong commercial opportunity for manufacturers seeking premium, protein‑rich ingredients and new product differentiation.

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