Innovative Research Solutions (IRS), supported through investment by Synercore, recently launched its new state-of-the-art analytical and research laboratory designed to accelerate food innovation, strengthen quality assurance, and nurture the next generation of food scientists in South Africa.
The facility will enhance the development of market-ready solutions for the South African food and beverage industry, setting a new benchmark in local food research and analytical services.
Pioneering Quality Research and Rapid Analysis
The IRS laboratory is built around three key objectives:
- To develop novel methods for analysis and quality assurance of raw materials and finished products in the food and related industries. These methods are employed in root cause analysis.
- Providing rapid and accurate, science-backed analytical capacity to clients across all sample types.
- To perform medium- to long-term research into potential technologies and new applications applicable to the food industry.
The New IRS Laboratory is Unique
The new laboratory represents a significant investment in South Africa’s scientific capacity. By creating advanced analytical capabilities in South Africa, IRS is uniquely able to provide the food and beverage industry with real-time access to local expertise and rapid turnaround times, which are critical factors in a market often dealing with time-sensitive situations.
Bridging the Gap
IRS bridges the gap between fundamental science and market-ready food solutions. The laboratory is equipped with advanced technologies, including ultraperformance liquid chromatography, tandem mass spectrometry, multimode spectrophotometers, gas chromatography, real-time PCR and rapid automated systems for microbial analysis. These tools enable highly specialised analysis and identification of known and unknown analytes.
A Platform for Advanced Science
The IRS team is made up of highly qualified biochemists, microbiologists, and biotechnologists, led by Professor Pieter Swart, Emeritus Professor of Biochemistry at Stellenbosch University. Professor Swart is a well-published author with over five decades of experience as a biochemist. He is supported by Dr. Timo Tait (Senior Scientist and Lab Operations Manager), who has more than a decade of experience in novel test method development and analysis of complex samples, Dr. Stefan Hayward (Principle Scientist), as well as Anneri Carinus (Senior Microbiologist).
Driving Growth in Local and Global Markets
With the launch of the new IRS facility, and through its strategic investment in IRS, Synercore views this not merely as an investment in a laboratory, but as a commitment to strengthening South Africa’s broader food and beverage ecosystem. Real-time access to expert analysis, faster turnaround times, and customised solutions will empower the company to remain competitive in both local and global markets.
In his opening address at the launch, Professor Swart remarked: “We don’t live in a perfect world, and in striving for perfection we often exclude the possible, the practical and the profitable. At this international-class facility, our goal is to provide solutions that are all these things – possible, practical and profitable.”
Dr. Tertius Cilliers, CEO of Synercore confirmed: “The services of IRS extend beyond only Synercore, with analytical capabilities available as contract services to industry partners, suppliers, and clients. By opening its expertise to the wider market and investment in IRS, Synercore seeks to strengthen the entire South African food value chain.”
Nurturing the Next Generation of Food Scientists
With roots in academia, IRS continues to play a vital role in training and mentorship. The laboratory works closely with Stellenbosch University’s Centre for Food Safety and the Department of Food Science, supervising postgraduate students and enabling graduates to gain meaningful research experience. By creating otherwise rare opportunities for young scientists to engage in real-world R&D, IRS supports the growth of South Africa’s food science talent pool.
With the launch of the IRS laboratory, Synercore reaffirms its commitment to advancing food science, empowering local industry, and shaping a more resilient and innovative future for South Africa’s food and beverage sector.
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