Innovation supports the key to jobs and adding value for the agri-sector

The need for easier access by small and medium-sized food companies to product development skills was stressed by Larry Murrin, chief executive, Dawn Farms, at the Agricultural Science Association conference in Naas yesterday.

Mr Murrin, who is also incoming president of Ibec, said small and medium companies will be key engines of growth in the food industry and generators of new jobs.

“Ensuring they have access to the necessary innovation supports is a challenge for the food research institutes and the universities,” he said.

He said Ireland has now a super cadre of food scientists, in Teagasc and the universities.

“Twenty years ago, we were producing primary products and allowing others in export markets to mine them for the added value and profit,” he said.

“We have become much better at adding value at home and, consequently, a lot of new industries have developed.”

Mr Murrin said Dawn Farms, which was established in Dublin 30 years ago, has evolved into the leading manufacturer of cooked and fermented ingredients in Europe.

“Our Meat Science and Innovation Centre in Naas, developed at a cost of €6m and opened in 2007, now employ 30 multi-skilled, multi-lingual scientists,” said Mr Murrin.

“This ensures that we continue to be at the forefront of food innovation and culinary expertise.”