Smithfield Foods Inc. announced the launch of Smithfield Bioscience, a new strategic platform within the organization that leverages byproducts from the meat production process for the development of pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and medical device solutions.

“Smithfield is taking a leadership position in developing these types of cutting edge initiatives, which support a range of biotechnology solutions in areas of human therapeutics, tissue fabrication and regenerative medicine,” the company said in a statement.

"Our commitment to innovation and sustainability stretches across all aspects of our company," said Kenneth M. Sullivan, president and CEO of Smithfield Foods. "Smithfield Bioscience reflects these same values by finding new uses for byproducts that benefit the health and well-being of others."

Currently, Smithfield sells byproducts to pharmaceutical and nutraceutical companies who use these materials to develop drugs that treat a range of issues, from indigestion, to hypothyroidism, to deep vein thrombosis. Smithfield Bioscience will expand upon these efforts by exploring new methods and technologies for addressing concerns such as tissue regeneration and the availability of viable human organs for transplantation. This dedicated team is solely focused on the responsible and transparent pursuit of these science-based endeavors.

One of Smithfield Bioscience's first projects is the participation in the Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute (ARMI), a public-private U.S. manufacturing initiative that brings together 100 organizations across academia, advanced robotics and pharmaceutical to develop next-generation technologies and manufacturing processes for cells, tissue and organ development. With funding from the Department of Defense, the consortium is initially focused on technologies that would enable the repair and replacement of human tissue of soldiers injured in combat. Smithfield Bioscience is also working with multiple academic institutions on the research and development of immunology therapies.

"Smithfield is a longstanding leader in sustainability and renewables with a broad geographic presence and strong manufacturing expertise," said Courtney Stanton, vice president of the new Bioscience Group for Smithfield Foods. "With these capabilities, our vertical integration and a reputation for transparency and quality, Smithfield Bioscience is well-positioned to help the U.S. medical and pharmaceutical industry achieve significant, scalable developments in biologics."

For more information, please contact SmithfieldBioscience@Smithfield.com.

Source: Smithfield Foods Inc.