Research & Development

Well-equipped R&D laboratories undertake research and development in the food sector, focusing on the creation of innovative functional food products, post-harvest technologies including export protocols, value addition to agricultural commodities such as cereals, pulses, fruits, vegetables, yams & nuts as well as to fish, meat, poultry and dairy products. It provides consultative services aimed at modernizing, upgrading, and resolving challenges within the food processing industry. It also offers specialized training programs designed for food industry personnel, addressing aspects such as food safety, regulatory compliance, and emerging quality requirements. Accredited food testing laboratories offer internationally recognized testing services for the food industry, while the food related R&D laboratories offer special services such as shelf-life evaluation studies, thermal process validation of low acid and acidified canned foods and sensory analysis via a trained Food Tasting Panel.

The Herbal Technology laboratories engage in Research and Development initiatives centred on the advancement of herbal healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetic products. The research encompasses the exploration of functional natural products from medicinal and aromatic plants, spices, and essential oils. Furthermore, the laboratories conduct research and development on biopesticides derived from microbes and plants, as well as specialized research on Kithul, Cinnamon, Moringa, underutilized fruits, and the breeding and propagation of medicinal plants.

Material Technology Laboratories  dedicated to material research and development focused on nanotechnology applications, developing  nano-materials, creating novel bio-degradable polymers, advancing surface coatings, formulating composites, rubber and plastics, ceramics, and exploring graphite-based, red clay-based, natural quarts-based, and natural fiber-based product technologies.

The Environment Technology laboratories undertake research and development in environmental pollution and mitigation including industrial pollution control, wastewater treatment, solid and hazardous waste management, ventilation management, plant system design, evaluations, and performance assessments. Further, it undertakes compliance monitoring & surveys, indoor & outdoor air quality and illuminance testing and energy management services. Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and Initial Environmental Examinations (IEE) are the other main activities undertaken by the laboratories to facilitate the establishment of new industries. It also contributes to formulating and implementing environmental guidelines, policies and regulations.

The advanced research platform consists of five research centers established in 2023, targeted to undertake cutting-edge research to fulfill the future demands of the country. It is an investment aimed at reinforcing innovation and discoveries paving the path for establishment of new industries in Sri Lanka. This state-of-the-art platform will enable scientists and industrialists in any part of the world to conduct joint, advanced research in collaboration with ITI scientists.

Biotechnology laboratories engage in comprehensive research and development endeavors including DNA barcoding of plants, animals, and microbes, DNA-based disease diagnostics, crop improvement, and value addition through genetic engineering, bioremediation, as well as the production of industrial enzymes, vaccines, and biopolymers. These initiatives aim to propel advancements in agriculture, health, environment, and industry within the context of Sri Lanka. Additionally, the laboratories conduct testing services for genetically modified (GM) food, diagnostic tests for food-borne pathogens, and identifying and assessing adulteration in food. Furthermore, the laboratories contribute to academic initiatives by offering training programs in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at various educational levels.