With the aim of examining and developing solutions in plant science, agricultural systems and dairy farming, the transnational food and beverage company Nestlé inaugurated the Institute of Agricultural Sciences in Vaud, Switzerland, based on the company's knowledge of plant science from the coffee and cocoa chains. Nestlé's expert scientists have contributed to the company's sustainable cocoa and coffee sourcing plans -- the Nestlé Cocoa Plan and the Nescafé Plan -- including the recent discovery of coffee varieties that are more resistant to disease and drought.

"The new institute will strengthen our expertise and use our global network to support farming communities and protect our planet," said Paul Bulcke, Chairman of Nestlé's Board of Directors, during the inaugural event.

Now, Nestlé is expanding this knowledge to other crops, including legumes and grains. The institute also works with farmers to test regenerative farming practices to improve soil health and encourage biodiversity. Experts explore new approaches in dairy farming with the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from herd feeding and manure management.

"Our goal is to identify the most promising solutions for the production of nutritious raw materials, minimizing their environmental impact. We take a holistic approach and look at a number of factors, including impact on yield, carbon footprint, food security and cost, as well as feasibility of expansion," added Jeroen Dijkman, Director of Nestlé's Institute of Agricultural Sciences.

As part of Nestlé's global R&D network, the institute works hand-in-hand with external partners such as farmers, universities, research organisations, startups and industry partners to evaluate and develop scientific solutions.

"The new institute is strengthening the Canton of Vaud as a centre of excellence for research and education in agriculture and nutrition. It also contributes to ongoing efforts to support farmers in the face of climate change.  Agriculture is at the heart of quality nutrition, and in the canton of Vaud we can count on an innovative ecosystem that brings together partners such as agricultural professionals, higher education schools and private research centres such as Nestlé," said Valérie Dittli, State Councillor of the Swiss Canton of Vaud, during the inauguration.

In addition to its new facilities at Nestlé Research in Switzerland, the institute incorporates an existing plant science research unit in France and farms in Ecuador, Côte d'Ivoire and Thailand, as well as partnerships with research farms.

Source: Um só Planeta