Innovations in Food Products

Sustainable innovation for the agri-food future

Discover CIAGRO’s “Innovations in Food Products” (IPOA) Group

Agro-industrial co-product fibres produced by IPOA

• • Development of new foods and technological solutions for agri-food industries.

• • R&D&I, science communication and research networks.

• • Eco-efficient approaches and critical-thinking methodology for sustainability.

The world of agri-food research is constantly evolving. In this landscape, the Innovations in Food Products Research Group (IPOA) stands as a fundamental pillar of the Institute for Agri-Food and Agri-Environmental Research and Innovation (CIAGRO). Since it was formed in 1997, IPOA has embraced an essential mission: to provide technological solutions to the needs of agri-food industries.

The IPOA group excels in the development and innovation of new foods. Its expertise and differentiation lie in its 25-year track record, as pioneers of the “turnkey” concept, where they not only develop products but also integrate legal aspects, shelf life and implementation in companies. Companies present their challenges and the team delivers technological solutions, products or processes aligned with consumer needs and sustainability criteria, using specific R&D&I methodologies.

Its role in CIAGRO is crucial: it leads research into the development of products and processes for the valorisation of co-products, such as extracts rich in dietary fibre and bioactive compounds, expanding the range of intermediate food products. It also contributes to science communication through radio programmes dedicated to CIAGRO’s work and takes an active part in national and international Scientific Committees and Research Networks.

Diagram summarising some of the co-products valorised by IPOA and their origin

Innovation is its hallmark, exploring eco-efficient technologies for the valorisation of co-products and the production of intermediate food products. The group stands out for its focus on critical thinking and its contribution to the circular economy, thereby promoting the Sustainable Development Goals.

Its outstanding contributions include the 5S Foods methodology, which reduces the risk of failure in new products by promoting foods that are healthy, safe, tasty, sustainable and socially accepted. This approach has led to new products on the national and international market. As strategic allies for SMEs, the IPOA group offers its expertise to develop new products under scientific and technological criteria, backed by more than 100 products in various agri-food sectors.

The social and environmental impact of the IPOA group is evident in the improvement of consumers’ quality of life through healthier foods and its contribution to the sustainable management of agri-food co-products. Its work on co-product valorisation fosters the Circular Economy and social well-being.

The key message IPOA wants to convey is its multidisciplinary nature and its commitment to companies: they are available to solve problems and offer solutions in new product development. Their motto reflects their dedication and willingness to collaborate: The IPOA group, your safe bet in New Product Development. Having problems with your co-products? At the IPOA Group, we give you several types of solutions.