Nestlé invests in Singapore R&D to boost innovation and sustainability

Nestlé’s R&D Centre in Singapore, a key hub for developing innovative and sustainable food solutions. Image: Shutterstock

Nestlé is strengthening its Research & Development (R&D) presence in Singapore to accelerate innovation in sustainable food, packaging and digital transformation. Supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), this latest investment will enhance Nestlé’s local capabilities, helping the company address global food security and environmental challenges while continuing to deliver nutritious, affordable and great-tasting products.

As part of this expansion, Nestlé will commit additional resources to its Singapore R&D Centre, creating opportunities across a variety of roles — from chefs and engineers to product developers. The aim is to drive forward new solutions in key innovation areas such as alternative proteins, including plant-based and hybrid plant/dairy products, alongside cutting-edge packaging solutions that reduce environmental impact.

Nestlé’s partnership with Singapore’s EDB and other government agencies also extends to working closely with local enterprises, including start-ups and SMEs, to co-develop emerging technologies. These collaborations will support the next generation of sustainable products, ingredients, and manufacturing methods.

A strong example of this approach is Nestlé’s work with local start-up KosmodeHealth, which led to the creation of high-protein, high-fibre noodles made from upcycled spent barley grains — a project that was recognised with the “Most Transformational Collaboration” Award by the Singapore International Chamber of Commerce in 2023.

Guglielmo Bonora, Head of Nestlé R&D Singapore, commented:

“For over 40 years, our R&D Centre in Singapore has been central to developing products and technologies that serve consumers in Southeast Asia and globally, for many of Nestlé’s iconic brands. Our continued collaboration with the EDB reflects our commitment to growing Singapore as a global hub for innovation and technology. By nurturing a strong local business ecosystem and developing skilled talent, our R&D teams can continue to deliver science-driven innovations that meet evolving consumer preferences and nutritional needs.”

Nestlé’s R&D Centre in Singapore was first established in 1980 and now employs more than 200 people, including experts working at the Nestlé Quality Assurance Centre (NQAC). Over the decades, this facility has played a pivotal role in creating products that resonate with regional consumers, including key innovations like Nestlé’s breakthrough sugar reduction technology, now used in MILO beverages across Southeast Asia and beyond.

Rajat Kumar Jain, Managing Director of Nestlé Singapore, added:

“Singapore’s strategic location at the heart of Southeast Asia, combined with its rich culinary heritage and openness to food innovation, makes it the ideal base for Nestlé to create new products — in Asia, for Asia, and the world. Our R&D Centre complements Nestlé’s long-standing presence in Singapore and enables us to develop, test and launch market-leading products that support sustainable business growth both locally and globally.”

Melissa Guan, Acting Vice President & Head of Consumer at EDB, said:

“We’ve seen Nestlé grow over the past four decades into one of Singapore’s largest R&D centres. Their latest investment in future-ready capabilities — spanning innovation, digitalisation and sustainability — aligns well with Singapore’s Food Manufacturing Job Transformation Map. It also reinforces Singapore’s role as a regional hub where global brands like Nestlé can partner with our local ecosystem to co-create the next wave of food innovation.”

Through its Singapore R&D Centre, Nestlé continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of food — driving innovation that not only meets consumer demands but also advances sustainability across the food industry.