The Fonterra Research and Development Centre

The FRDC is a place dedicated to innovation and expertise.

Dairy is who we are and what we do best

From our very first dairy exports in 1845, New Zealand has been at the forefront of new developments in dairy.

As early as 1927, New Zealand launched a dedicated Dairy Research Institute (NZDRI), founded as a branch of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research.

Today, Fonterra’s Research and Development Centre in New Zealand is one of the largest of its kind in the world, with around 280 scientific and technical staff from 46 countries.

The NZDRI was the foundation of New Zealand’s reputation as a global leader in dairy

It was also the inspiration behind Fonterra’s quest for continual innovation.

Along the way, we’ve clocked up many ‘firsts’ that have shaped the world of dairy ingredients today.

• The world’s first whey protein concentrate
• Developed functional uses for casein powders
• Extended whole milk powder shelf-life to 24 months
• The world’s fastest-reconstituting instant whole milk powder

Dairy innovation stretching across the globe

FRDC is home to over 130 PhDs and 350 dairy patents.

Our Centre is complemented by our other innovation centres in Melbourne, Amsterdam, Chicago, Shanghai and Singapore. We also have active research partnerships with dozens of universities and research facilities worldwide.