Opened by André Nogueira, president of JBS USA, it is being billed as one of the most modern research facilities in the world.
JBS USA entered into a strategic, long-term partnership with CSU in March 2017, which included a US$12.5m investment in the construction of the building and the development of an educational program for Pilgrim’s and JBS USA employees.
The centre, with more than 3,300m² of built area, is expected to be a core of global innovation for new product development, culinary research, food science, food safety and animal welfare, as well as aiding CSU students in their studies.
The various disciplines of CSU's Meat Science program address all aspects of production, food and the consumer market, including: animal welfare and management; nutrition and health; food safety; culinary and value-added development; and international collaboration.
Previously, CSU students on the program needed to travel to laboratories and/or production units to learn about these processes. From now on, all of these disciplines will be taught on the university campus itself, with the facility able to meet the needs of students.
“It is a great pleasure to be here today and to participate in the inauguration of this centre,” Nogueira said during the opening ceremony. “The mission of JBS is to be the best and the mission of the centre is to advance best practices in food safety, meat sciences, animal husbandry and animal welfare. This is a natural partnership for the company and a source of great pride.”
Ajay Menon, rector of the School of Agricultural Sciences CSU, said: “We have a global vision of education and research, and we are looking for new ways to encourage innovation in livestock and meat sciences, food safety and animal welfare. JBS is the partner we need because there is a great alignment between our goals and values and we are very grateful for the support. Our goal with the centre, in addition to supporting teaching and research, is to nurture the industry and advance the way that meat is processed around the world.”