IFF’s new naturals lab in China is the first outside of the US

The Natural Product Research lab, which was slated for launch on October 15, is located in the Nanjing Life Science Park.

Unveiled six days before, the second facility is a flavours manufacturing plant located in the Zhangjiagang Free Trade Zone. The flavours plant is the IFF’s second in China and was planned to supplement IFF’s existing operations in Guangzhou.

“We are proud to build on this legacy with our growing presence in China and look forward to being a strong corporate neighbour in our new homes within the Zhangjiagang Free Trade Zone and the Nanjing Life Science Park,” said ​Matthias Haeni, Divisional CEO, Taste.

Investing in a critical region

Andreas Fibig, IFF Chairman and CEO, commented that China is a “critical component” of the company’s long-term strategy.

“The opening of these new sites will support our efforts to be a partner of choice and to grow in this exciting region,”​ said Fibig.

“Ever-mindful of the value of naturals for consumers around the world, the output of the new Naturals Lab is not limited by region. It is an opportunity to combine our discoveries with our innovative technologies to create winning solutions for our global customers,”​ he added.

State-of-the-art natural research centre

Designed as an extension of the current Natural Product Research team based in New Jersey, US, the Natural Product Research is expected to accelerate IFF’s natural product pipeline.

Approximately 520 square metres, the facility is equipped with state-of-the-art systems to research and develop products of natural origin.

The lab is also strategically located to leverage the botanical supply chain, biodiversity, and accumulated botanical and phytochemical knowledge prevalent throughout the expansive country.

With this new lab, IFF will be able to expand its capabilities in natural product research and address the rapidly increasing consumer demand for natural and clean labels.

Commitment to sustainability

As for the flavours facility in Zhangjiagang, IFF shares that its main manufacturing building is fitted with a strong odour control system, quality control labs and an ambient warehouse for goods.

However, its 66,800 square meter plant does not just have cutting-edge technology.

Built to LEED Silver qualifications, the site was designed to be a sustainable operation, able to achieve zero liquid discharge by reusing all water on-site. These efforts, said the company, reaffirms IFF’s commitment to sustainable practices in the region.

Haeni said: “With this new world-class facility, we are well-positioned to meet the current and future needs of our customers – and do so in a responsible and sustainable manner.”​

Dr Gregory Yep, EVP Chief Global Scientific & Sustainability Officer, added: “IFF is committed to sustainability in all we do. We are excited to partner with our regional and global customers and help bring their products to consumers in an environmentally responsible manner. These two sites are positioned to push the boundaries of what’s possible for IFF in Greater China and around the world.”​