
Episode #152
Ep 44: Becoming the Go-To Lab for Novel Foods: A Guide for Contract Testing Labs & Manufacturers In Partnership With Merck Life Science
Powered by Protein Production Technology International As novel foods move closer to commercialization, analytical testing, validation, and regulatory readiness are becoming increasingly important to the alternative protein industry. From cultivated meat and precision fermentation to biomass and next-generation plant proteins, manufacturers need testing partners who understand the complexity of these emerging products. In this episode of the Protein Production Technology International Podcast, Nick Bradley is joined by experts from Merck Life Science and across the novel foods testing ecosystem to explore what it takes for contract testing laboratories to become trusted partners for novel food manufacturers. The discussion examines the challenges of finding the right laboratory for alternative protein development, including the limitations of conventional testing methods when applied to novel ingredients and complex product matrices. The panel explores why manufacturers need more than a standard test report, highlighting the value of collaboration, method development, validation expertise, and tailored testing workflows. Regulatory strategy is another key focus. The speakers discuss why regulatory considerations should be addressed from the earliest stages of product development, rather than treated as a final hurdle before market entry. They explore the importance of understanding regional requirements, defining the right testing scope, preparing robust data packages, and aligning product development with regulatory expectations. The conversation also covers the technical and operational challenges facing novel food manufacturers, including analytical bottlenecks, toxicology, product characterization, and the need for specialized testing approaches. Real-world examples illustrate how conventional methods may not work for new food matrices, making method development and validation essential. For contract testing laboratories, the opportunity lies in becoming more than service providers. By building collaborative relationships with manufacturers, developing expertise in novel food applications, and supporting regulatory readiness, labs can play a critical role in helping innovative products progress from development to commercialization. The Future of Protein Production is connecting companies working to make the global protein system more sustainable, kind and fair for the planet, people, and animals. To find out more about our platform click here: https://www.futureofproteinproduction.com/ To read the most recent edition of Protein Production Technology, our multi-media magazine, click here: https://www.futureofproteinproduction.com/ #FutureOfProteinProduction #ProteinProductionTechnology #Merck #MerckLifeScience #NovelFoods #AlternativeProteins #AnalyticalTesting #FoodSafety #RegulatoryCompliance #ContractTesting #CultivatedMeat #PrecisionFermentation #FoodTech #FoodInnovation





