WUR opens CIBIA: Food tech facility for product development

Food companies can develop, test, and scale up new products at the CIBIA food tech facility. Researchers also study how consumers respond to them. Wageningen University & Research (WUR) opens the facility in Wageningen on September 29, 2026. CIBIA brings technology development, product development, and consumer research together under one roof.

Evaluating products

Researchers assess prototypes for their physical, chemical, microbiological, and sensory properties. They also examine nutritional value and health-related properties. WUR integrates the data into digital models and digital twins. WUR uses artificial intelligence to support these models. Researchers can then model scenarios for energy and water use, salt and sugar reduction, and product quality. WUR says this helps researchers refine innovations more quickly.

WUR also studies how consumers evaluate new products. Sensory testing and consumer research provide insight into product acceptance and food choices. WUR wants to involve consumers early in development. According to WUR, this increases the chances of a successful market launch.

Access for companies

Companies, startups, and research institutions can use CIBIA. They can do so through research projects, partnerships, and shared-use arrangements. Civil society organizations and government agencies can also take part.

CIBIA’s food innovation work includes new protein sources and sustainable packaging. Other areas include making better use of raw materials and reducing food waste. Reducing energy and water use is another focus. The Dutch ministries for agriculture and economic affairs (LVVN and EZK) helped fund its development. That support came through the Faciliteiten Toegepast Onderzoek (Facilities for Applied Research) program.