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Protein and enzyme technology
We have a wealth of experience in the identification and purification of novel enzymes. Our capabilities also extend to the isolation and characterisation of bioactive peptides. We collaborate with leaders in academia and industry to discover the next generation of bioactive compounds and processes for applications in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, cosmaceutical and food ingredient industries.
Enzymatic conversions in supercritical fluids
Industrial Research is undertaking a research and development project to create new substances using enzymatic conversions. The use of enzymes for carrying out transformations of biomolecules is a promising alternative to conventional and/or multi-step reactions. We are investigating the use of enzymes for the modification of lipids using supercritical fluids as the solvent medium.
We are investigating the mechanisms under which the reactions occur most favourably when using supercritical fluids as the solvent to bring the reactants to the enzyme, and to remove the products from the enzyme.
The research conducted so far has focussed on enzyme type, reaction temperature, pressure, time on the hydrolysis of natural triglyceride oils, and the transesterification of model triglycerides.
Our goal is to identify the means by which selective hydrolysis of triglycerides can be carried out, and how transesterification in high yield can be carried out. Comparison of reaction rates and yields are being made with enzymatic transformations carried out in organic solvents
We’d like to hear from you: We welcome enquiries from companies interested in developing other applications for enzymatic conversions in supercritical fluids and from companies interested in the commercial application of this technology.
Meat and seafood bioactive extracts
Harness the hidden value in meat and seafood waste streams to produce novel bioactives using IRL’s cost-effective technologies.
Waste stream co-products contain multiple high-value bioactive compounds which can be used to deliver health and wellbeing solutions. Currently most of this material is untapped, meaning significant industry revenue is being lost.
IRL has developed smart processes for extracting the active ingredients from co-products, converting waste material into biologically active and useful extracts. These extracts are screened using assays relevant to human health and wellbeing for the development of nutraceuticals and functional foods.
How we can help you
- We have the expertise to identify bioactives from industry co-products
- We have the knowledge and ability to develop cost-effective industrial processes for the production of these bioactive extracts
- We use food grade methods to produce nutraceuticals with demonstrated bioactivity
- We have in-house assays to measure the level of bioactivity, with external validation
Our track record
IRL partners with Meat and Wool NZ, Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), the Meat Biologics Consortia, as well as industry associates, to undertake the discovery of red meat-based bioactives. We have worked with the meat industry since our inception and have a strong relationship with the New Zealand meat industry through a multi-million dollar contract over five years in the ovine automation consortium.
If you want to significantly increase your company’s revenue through the cost-effective utilisation of your co- products, then talk to our experts at IRL.