Nestlé Launches First Research Unit in Japan

The programme will begin on 1 June 2009. It will explore emerging research topics in health and nutrition for the 21st century, such as healthy ageing with special focus on mobility and cognitive performance.

20/05/09 Nestlé S.A. has launched its first Japan-based research unit for fundamental scientific research. The research unit, part of Nestlé Science and Research in Switzerland, is based at the University of Tokyo, and focuses on fundamental research in nutrition and health.

This collaboration between Nestlé and the University of Tokyo is further strengthened by a new joint research programme, “Food for Life”. The programme was announced by Junichi Hamada, President of the University of Tokyo, and Peter van Bladeren, Head of Nestlé Science and Research and will begin on 1 June 2009. It will explore emerging research topics in health and nutrition for the 21st century, such as healthy ageing with special focus on mobility and cognitive performance. Through sharing knowledge and expertise, this research will provide the scientific basis for developing new products that will bring health benefits to consumers in Japan and world-wide.

Nestlé has committed around CHF1 million over a period of three years for a Chair endowed by Nestlé. The research collaboration will also include the secondment of scientists from the Nestlé Research Center in Lausanne. Nestlé is the first nutrition, health and wellness company outside Asia to contribute to the academic programme of the University of Tokyo.

Nestlé’s new collaboration with the University of Tokyo further strengthens the company’s commitment to the advancement of nutrition research in Japan. For almost 20 years, the Nestlé Nutrition Council of Japan has constructed an extensive national research network by providing grants and support to promising researchers in the field of food science and nutrition. Nestlé has been present in Japan since 1913. Today, Nestlé Japan operates three factories and has a strong brand portfolio in coffee, chocolate and nutrition products as well as pet food.

Nestlé’s global R&D network comprises 27 Research, Development and Technology Centers, and employs around 5,000 people. Nestlé’s internal innovation capability is expanded through innovation partnerships with renowned companies and its 300 collaborations with external research bodies, including universities.