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College of Agriculture and Life Sciences 
Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences

Extension Programs and Product Testing

Tough Questions. Innovative Solutions.

Our extension specialists are enthusiastic about FBNS and NC State’s mission to connect farmers, agribusinesses, and communities with research-based information and technology. With expertise in a variety of disciplines, we collaborate with stakeholders to find solutions to their challenges in food, bioprocessing, and nutrition sciences.

We consult with entrepreneurs in the development of new products and processes and support industry leaders with their ongoing improvements. Our unique extension programs and product testing services appeal to a wide audience across the nation.

Extension programs

howling cow ice cream

Dairy Enterprise System

Feldmeier Dairy Processing Lab is our full-scale dairy plant. We provide cutting-edge food science innovations and research, as well as test and produce our Howling Cowu00ae ice cream.

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test tubes containing milk

Maternal and Infant Lactation Knowledge (MILK) Research and Educational Group

Dedicated to education and research related to maternal and infant nutrition, MILK offers a breastfeeding support program and courses for aspiring certified lactation consultants or providers specializing in infant feeding support.

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students working in a lab

Plant Food Processing

Assistance for those in the food processing industry, food and growers associations, and food supply chain. Services include shelf-life studies, food product design and development, and training and workshops.

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oysters

Seafood Laboratory

Located at the Center for Marine Sciences and Technology in Morehead City, services include validation of HACCP plans, evaluation of manufacturing processes, and commercialization and marketing assistance.

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Pilot Plants

Seven pilot plants are dedicated to advancing knowledge in broad disciplines or specific commodity areas. Six plants in Schaub Hall focus on aseptic processing and packaging applications of dairy products, fruits and vegetables, and meats. The seventh plant at the Center of Marine Sciences and Technology in Morehead City is devoted to innovative seafood technologies.

Cartons of PowerPack travel through the packaging process in an NC State food processing facility.

PRODUCT TESTING

a man inspecting a jar of food

Entrepreneur Initiative for Food Program (EI4F)

Assistance for small business owners and entrepreneurs like written process authority letters, nutrition labels, lab analyses for new products, and training in safely manufacturing and processing quality food products.

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three people in a lab

Rheology Lab

University and contract lab services, including training opportunities for those interested in learning about the rheological properties of foods and pharmaceuticals.

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A woman in a lab coast sitting in the sensory center

Sensory Service Center

Solving product quality problems with flavor analysis services, including targeted food and non-food testing and evaluation.

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