Developing beneficial microbes to products

Skåne Innovation Day 2023 was arranged in Malmö at the beginning of October by Region Skåne. This year, the focus was on examples of the support offered via promotion actors. Stories from those who have used this support - when it comes to investing both time and money in innovation development - was told.

Collaboration between industry, test bed facilities, and academia

The researcher Ramesh Vetukuri was a panelist on the topic "The Food Chain as a Development Arena for Sustainability and Competitiveness."

– Our discussion centered on the collaboration between the industry, test bed facilities, and academia. We explored how startup companies utilize test bed facilities for product development and the impact of test bed environments on their business development, says Ramesh.

– Additionally, we pondered on the hypothetical scenario: What would have been the course of action if there were no access to test beds in Skåne?

An eye opener for innovation opportunities

Beyond the panel, Ramesh had the opportunity to engage with diverse professionals, including industry startups, representatives from various test bed facilities, and researchers from universities across southern Sweden.

– The meeting was very useful. I got a robust understanding of how to transition my research on biocontrol and probiotics from a theoretical framework to practical application and product development, says Ramesh.

– I think this meeting served as an eye opener regarding the many opportunities that are available for researchers at SLU, especially for those looking to advance ideas like biocontrol or the use of beneficial microbes in product development.

Supporting sustainable innovation

Numerous test beds, support from various municipalities, Swedish agencies, and the EU are available to support innovations for sustainability in the agriculture and food industry.

– Should any SLU researchers require further insights, I am available to assist. Additionally, Nicholas Jakobsson from SLU Holding, reachable at nicholas.jakobsson@slu.se, possesses extensive knowledge on these matters and can be an invaluable resource, concludes Ramesh.