R&D in Food and drink

New recipes, processes, preservation methods and packaging can qualify when they overcome a technical challenge.

Typical qualifying R&D

Examples of the work we see qualify in this sector. What matters is the technical uncertainty a project resolves, not the industry it sits in.

  1. 01

    Developing New Food Products

    Innovating with new recipes, flavours, or product lines, including the creation of healthier, allergen-free, or organic options. This may involve experimenting with alternative ingredients to improve nutritional profiles or taste.

  2. 02

    Improving Food Processing Techniques

    Enhancing or developing new methods of food processing to increase efficiency, extend shelf life, or improve food safety. This includes advancements in pasteurisation, fermentation, or packaging technologies.

  3. 03

    Formulating New Drinks

    Crafting new beverages or reformulating existing ones to meet emerging consumer demands, such as low-sugar, fortified, or functional drinks. This can involve novel ingredient combinations or new preservation methods.

  4. 04

    Enhancing Food Packaging

    Innovating in packaging solutions to improve sustainability, reduce waste, or enhance the preservation and presentation of food products. Projects could focus on biodegradable materials, smart packaging, or lightweight options.

  5. 05

    Automation and Robotics in Production

    Implementing or developing new automation technologies to streamline production processes, increase production rates, or maintain consistency and quality in manufacturing.

  6. 06

    Advanced Food Safety Measures

    Researching and developing new approaches to food safety, including pathogen detection, contamination prevention, and allergen control methods.

  7. 07

    Sustainable Sourcing and Production

    Exploring ways to use sustainably sourced ingredients or reduce environmental impact through energy-efficient processes, waste reduction, or resource recycling within the production cycle.

  8. 08

    Optimising Supply Chains

    Enhancing the supply chain through innovations in logistics, inventory management, or tracking technologies to ensure freshness, reduce costs, and minimise environmental impact.

  9. 09

    Developing Plant-Based Alternatives

    Innovating in the creation of plant-based or alternative protein products to cater to vegan, vegetarian, or flexitarian diets. This includes improving texture, flavour, and nutritional content to better mimic traditional meat and dairy products.

  10. 10

    Nutritional Enhancements

    Conducting research to fortify foods and beverages with additional nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, or probiotics, to address specific dietary needs or health benefits.

Client case study

Juicy River

juicyriver.com
Client
Roberto Vanin
Sector
Low and non-alcoholic drinks using Zero Gradi technology
Scheme
SME
My R&D claim process with the Walmer team was simple and straightforward. They were able to liaise with my accountant in terms of the financial process and were able to build a detailed technical report on the basis of the information I provided them in a simple document. Thanks to the team, I utilized the funds to complete the installation of equipment at the factory and hired an additional consultant for sales, marketing & social media. I came across the right people at the right time!
Roberto Vanin