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The scientific foundation of our products

Danone Research & Innovation

At Danone, we believe that food, nutrition, and health are deeply interconnected, and science plays a key role in strengthening this bond. That’s why we have consistently invested in research and innovation (R&I), to serve our consumers and patients across lifespan.

 

From meeting nutritional needs, designing robust recipes to ensure product superiority, and supporting gut health and eco-friendly packaging, all our innovations are driven by the dedication of our passionate teams of scientists and technologists worldwide. This commitment also includes the development of digital solutions that enhance our products and support overall health.

Shaping the future: our global R&I ecosystem

At Danone, innovation is not just a goal—it's at the heart of everything we do. Driven by a global ecosystem of 1,700 world-class experts from over 40 countries, we are redefining the future of food, nutrition, and health. This is anchored at our Global Research & Innovation Centers in Paris-Saclay, France and Utrecht Science Parkin the Netherlands – where our pioneering teams are shaping groundbreaking advances in essential dairy, plant-based products, and specialized nutrition (early life and adult medical nutrition).

Our state-of-the-art facilities, including cutting-edge laboratories, pilot plants for small-scale production, and user experience labs with social kitchens, are purpose-built to create innovations that satisfy consumer expectations.

Our global network spans six specialized hubs, each pushing the boundaries of possibility: packaging innovation in France, precision nutrition in Singapore, fresh dairy technology in Spain, plant-based breakthroughs in Belgium and the USA, and specialized nutrition in China. Complementing these hubs are 55 local Danone R&I subsidiaries, powered by passionate scientists, from biotech innovators to experts in fermentation, hydration, and nutrition. Together, we are shaping a healthier, more sustainable future for people and the planet.

Making an impact

Danone’s research and innovation team is dedicated to pioneering breakthroughs that enhance health and well-being globally with

1,700

world-class experts  

dedicated to innovating superior and sustainable products that seamlessly blend nutrition with exceptional taste

+150

scientific publications/year  

resulting from robust scientific research and clinical evidence

5,000

patents and patent applications

leveraging our unique expertise to pioneer high quality, evidence-based nutritional solutions

Our R&I twin centers at Utrecht and Paris-Saclay

To support our mission of bringing health through food, we rely on one global research center across two sites. Our Utrecht Center in the Netherlands focuses on specialized nutrition, while the Paris-Saclay Center in France drives innovation in fresh dairy, plant-based products, and natural mineral waters. These cutting-edge facilities reflect our commitment to excellence in nutrition, health, science, and technology.

Empowering health through science and technology

As nutritional needs become more intricate, the quest for effective and sustainable solutions becomes increasingly challenging. The demand for thorough scientific research, clear labeling, and strict regulations is crucial in equipping consumers with comprehensive and reliable information.

Now, imagine a world where your daily choices shape a healthier future. At Danone Research & Innovation, we do not just imagine that future—we create it.

With over 125 years of expertise in biotics, gut health, proteins, and biotechnologies, we develop products that not only taste great but also support long-term well-being. Our commitment to sustainability and personalized nutrition ensures your health is at the heart of everything we do.

We are driven by the belief that we can make a positive global impact on nutrition and health by advancing scientific knowledge on nutrition and hydration, while deeply understanding local food cultures, needs, and global health challenges. 

Danone addresses market trends and demands by offering a wide range of high-quality nutritional solutions and healthy hydration for consumers and patients worldwide. I believe that R&I will drive Danone's future, leading in innovation and excellence. Our flagship research centers in France and the Netherlands, specializing in areas such as gut health and proteins, are central to our innovation strategy. Our experts use cutting-edge science and technology to develop superior nutritional solutions, ensuring health through food for everyone.

Isabelle EsserChief Human Resources, Research & Innovation, Quality and Food Safety Officer.

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