Kerry and APC Microbiome Ireland (APC), a world leading Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) research centre based at University College Cork, Ireland, have partnered in a joint exploration into how diet can support cognitive health.

APC’s 20 years of research expertise in harnessing the microbiome to improve health and wellbeing combines with Kerry’s long-standing experience in commercializing science-backed ingredients in global markets.

The research agreement between Kerry and APC will leverage expertise in biotic technologies – techniques which harness micro-organisms for functional benefits - to develop novel solutions focused on the gut-brain axis, which could address issues relating to stress, anxiety and mood.

With this cooperative endeavor, Kerry teams will benefit from working with key experts in the field of cognitive health, to further understand how it is influenced by the microbiome, and APC will benefit from an additional commercial partnership, to identify pathways for the practical application and consumer uptake of the scientific solutions being explored at the centre.

Kerry’s existing ProActive Health portfolio includes a range of clinically validated, branded ingredients for the food, beverage, and supplement industries, designed to support digestive health, immune health, cognitive health, women’s health and infant health.

This collaboration is a positive step on a shared journey towards the development of new science-centred consumer products and health technologies.