AgTech Transfer: 43 Patents to Private Sector

Chungbuk Province to License 43 Agricultural & Food Technologies to Boost Industry

Chungbuk province is opening access to a portfolio of 43 patented technologies in the agricultural and food sectors,aiming to accelerate innovation and bolster the local economy.The move, announced on Thursday by the Chungbuk Agricultural Research and Extension Services, will grant non-exclusive licenses to companies seeking to utilize cutting-edge research in their operations.

Expanding Access to provincial Innovation

The initiative focuses on technologies with strong potential for practical submission, particularly those leveraging the region’s agricultural strengths.According to a statement released by the Chungbuk Agricultural Research and Extension Services, the licensed technologies are designed to enhance the utilization of locally sourced agricultural products.

The portfolio is diverse, encompassing several key areas:

• Processing Technologies: 18 technologies focused on processing local crops like garlic and jujubes.
• fermented Foods: 14 technologies related to fermentation and starter cultures.
• Upcycling: 5 technologies dedicated to upcycling by-products from tomato and strawberry production.
• Option Proteins: 3 technologies exploring vegetable alternative protein food processing.
• Edible Insects: 3 technologies focused on processing edible insects as a food source.

Did you know? – Chungbuk Province is a major agricultural hub in South Korea,known for its production of garlic,jujubes,and other specialty crops. This initiative aims to add value to these existing strengths.

Commercial Successes Pave the Way

The licensing program builds on existing successes, including the commercialization of a “red bean meju and red pepper paste manufacturing technology” already adopted by multiple companies. Officials anticipate further expansion of this technology and similar advancements through the new licensing initiative.

“This industrialization transfer is an important process that connects research results to industrial sites,” stated Director Cho Eun-hee of the Provincial Agricultural Research and Extension Services. She further emphasized the commitment to provide ongoing education and consulting to companies adopting the technologies.

Pro tip – Companies interested in licensing should prepare a detailed business plan outlining how thay intend to utilize the technology and its potential impact on their operations.

Responding to Consumer Trends

The province is also proactively addressing evolving consumer preferences. The inclusion of upcycling processing technology and technologies related to alternative foods reflects a growing demand for sustainable and innovative food solutions. This strategic alignment is expected to drive increased consumption of local agricultural products and enhance the competitiveness of food processing companies within Chungbuk Province.

Companies interested in obtaining a license can submit applications to the Food Progress Team at the Chungbuk Agricultural Research and Extension Services by July 12th. Detailed data about the available technologies can be found on the Chungbuk Agricultural Research and Extension Services website.

This initiative represents a critically important step towards bridging the gap between agricultural research and industrial application, promising a more vibrant and innovative future for the food sector in Chungbuk Province.

Reader question – How might these technologies impact the price of food products for consumers in Chungbuk Province and beyond? Share your thoughts!