Our R&D organization
Nestlé’s Research & Development organization is the largest in the food and beverage industry with around 4,000 employees working at 22 sites worldwide.
Here’s how we’re set up to drive meaningful innovation boosting growth.
Fundamental research
Nestlé Research provides the scientific foundation for our innovations. The teams work across all product categories globally, from food safety, nutrition and health research through to applied research for product development and packaging.
Our sites in Lausanne, Switzerland, house five research institutes: Nestlé Institute of Food Safety & Analytical Science, Nestlé Institute of Food Sciences, Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences, Nestlé Institute of Packaging Sciences and Nestlé Institute of Agricultural Sciences.
Alongside these institutes, our central research entity includes a Clinical Research Unit, which centralizes the management of Nestlé's clinical trials. Additionally, it is supported by our Singapore Research Hub, that focuses on maternal and infant nutrition, plus a Nestlé Purina Petcare research unit in St. Louis, Missouri, United States.
Category-specific product development
Our category-specific product and technology expertise sits at our Nestlé Product and Technology Centers (NPTCs). We have dedicated NPTCs for all our product categories, such as coffee, confectionery, food, nutrition, pet care, ice cream, solutions for out-of-home, health science and waters. With the development of innovative products and technologies, these centers serve as the bridge between scientific discoveries and business strategies, leveraging our science and technology platforms.
Deep tech
The Nestlé Deep Tech Center evaluates, adapts and co-develops cutting-edge technologies based on advanced engineering capabilities to enable step-changes in consumer value and operational efficiency. The center pioneers solutions in robotics, sensor technologies, advanced simulation, system components and Artificial Intelligence – driving smarter manufacturing, breakthrough product experiences and intelligent operations. The core center in Orbe, Switzerland is complemented by a Deep Tech Hub in Shenzhen, China, ensuring a strong connection to the local technology ecosystem.
Regional innovation centers
Our regional innovation centers in China, India, West Africa, South-East Asia, Latin America and North America play a key role in our commitment to developing products that cater local needs. These centers integrate into their respective local innovation ecosystems, allowing us to effectively address the unique demands and preferences of each region.
