Cardiff Metropolitan University proudly hosted His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales yesterday, as he visited to celebrate the flourishing seaweed industry and food innovation in Wales. The visit highlighted the significant strides being made in these sectors locally and globally.
His Royal Highness toured the ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre at Cardiff Metropolitan University – a world-leading hub providing comprehensive support to food businesses, drawing on Cardiff Metropolitan University’s expertise in food science, nutrition, dietetics, food legislation, and more.
David Lloyd, Director of ZERO2FIVE, highlighted the Centre’s impact: “At ZERO2FIVE, we are proud to support more than 100 Welsh food and drink companies every year.
“Our work with innovative products, such as the baked seaweed snack bar developed with High Tide and Câr-y-Môr, demonstrates the potential of seaweed as a sustainable resource.
“The Prince’s visit is a testament to the significance of our partnership work in driving forward the food and drink industry in Wales.”
The Vice-Chancellor of Cardiff Metropolitan University, Professor Rachael Langford, said: “We were delighted to welcome The Prince of Wales to the University, and to have the opportunity to discuss just some of the significant innovation in food science and sustainability happening through the University’s partnerships here in Wales.
“This visit underscored Cardiff Metropolitan University’s commitment to working with our partners to pioneer sustainable practices and develop research with real-world impact that benefits both the environment and the economy.”
The ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre at Cardiff Metropolitan University includes internationally recognised experts in food science, nutrition, dietetics, food legislation, environmental health, trading standards, new product development and biomedical sciences.ZERO2FIVE is home to 50 staff, including 12 affiliates who are based in food product companies and provide day-to-day support and knowledge transfer to their host business.
During his visit, The Prince of Wales toured several facilities, including development kitchens and a sensory suite for product testing. He learned about the Centre’s contributions to the food and drink industry and the practical support available to businesses.
The Prince also participated in an event showcasing the innovative use of seaweed by global businesses across various industries. Jointly hosted by The Earthshot Prize and the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, the event underscored the critical role of regenerative seaweed farming in promoting sustainability.
The innovation showcase featured businesses from Wales, the UK, and the Commonwealth that use seaweed in product development. Among the featured businesses were Notpla, the 2022 Earthshot Prize Winner, and Sea Forest – a 2023 Earthshot Prize Finalist. These businesses exemplify the pioneering solutions the Earthshot Prize seeks to discover and support to grow.
