Food Pilot

Food Pilot provides a comprehensive range of services from initial concept development to the final product, allowing clients to select support for any phase of the innovation process, enhanced by customized testing, analysis, and advisory services. Established in 2011 due to the Flemish government's recognition of the need for improved pilot infrastructure and technical advice in the food sector, Food Pilot has maximized the potential of the National Dairy Station in Melle, utilizing advanced semi-industrial machinery and expertise for innovative companies. In 2024, Food Pilot conducted around 250 technological advisory actions and engaged with 111 clients for pilot tests, including 31 new contacts. Of these clients, 74 were industrial companies, 36% of which were international, and another 36% were SMEs, alongside 7 agricultural companies. The company also served knowledge institutions and facilitated 20 assignments as part of international projects. A notable trend in 2024 was an increased focus on research concerning alternative protein sources, addressing the development of sustainable and palatable products. The majority of pilot tests were related to alternative proteins (18%), dairy analogues (17%), meat analogues (12%), and valorization of residues (10%). Knowledge institutions were the primary requesters for pilot tests, accounting for 37%, along with ingredient suppliers (12%) and dairy products (8%). Food Pilot performed over 20,000 nutritional analyses for more than 180 companies, with roughly 60 of these being new clients, and created around 90 quality assurance items for 51 different customers, including laboratories and scientific institutions. Prospective clients are encouraged to make contact for appointments and visits to their facilities.