Food projects funded under Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future Programme
Teagasc has been awarded funding to complete two research projects – one in the area of 4D food printing and the other examining technologies to make reduced salt foods tastier – as part of the Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future Programme.
Dr Norah O’Shea, a researcher based at the Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy Co. Cork, has been awarded funding for the project titled: ‘Evaluating the Fourth Dimension – Innovative 4D Food Printing for Producing Healthy and Flavoursome Snacks of the Future’.
The 4DSnacks project aims to develop a sensory appealing and healthy snack using Irish ingredients produced by 4D food printing. 4D food printing uses a 3D food printed object and by changing the environmental conditions of the object over time, a change in the object’s appearance is triggered, resulting in a snack with different texture, appearance or colour.
Additionally, Dr Song Miao, a Teagasc Research Officer again based in Moorepark, and Dr Maurice O’Sullivan, University College Cork, have been awarded funding for the project titled: ‘Study on the Mechanism of Starch-based Emulsion Gel Regulating Sodium Ion Release and Salt Taste Perception and Food Applications’.
This study proposes a new approach to reducing salt in food, by exploring the microstructure of emulsion gels made from starch. By manipulating the structure of the gel, the study aims to promote sodium ion release and salty taste perception, even with reduced salt content.
This could lead to the development of new, healthier food options that are more palatable and acceptable to consumers. The study also aims to deepen the understanding of human sensory perception and flavour modulation in low-salt food systems.
Wider funding announcement
The awarding of funding comes as part of a wider announcement by the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Patrick O’Donovan TD.
Announcing funding of €26 million for 40 research projects as part of the Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future Programme, Minister O’Donovan said: “I am pleased to announce the Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future projects, which support high-risk, high-reward research endeavours. The selected projects, spanning 12 research institutions, bring fresh and innovative ideas that will help boost business and benefit society.”
Celine Fitzgerald, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Research Ireland, added: "The Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future programme helps to build research capacity, expertise and reputation. This latest round of grants will support a diverse range of research positions and represents a strong commitment to developing future talent in key areas.”