Ifan joined Food Centre Wales in July 2025 from Cardiff Metropolitan University, where he is studying BSc Food Science and Nutrition (Quality, Safety & Innovation Pathway). From day one, his enthusiasm, professionalism and willingness to learn made him a valuable member of the team.

During his placement, Ifan has supported a diverse range of food and drink businesses across Wales, gaining hands on experience while helping deliver meaningful outcomes through the HELIX Programme. His work has included supporting businesses with SALSA accreditation, conducting nutritional analysis and water activity testing, assisting with legislative compliance, supporting pasteurisation trials and contributing to technical projects across a variety of sectors.

Among his many achievements, Ifan played an important role in supporting Trefaldwyn Cheese and Daisy Bank Dairy with food safety systems and SALSA accreditation work. The impact of his contribution was recognised by business owner Glenn Lloyd, who praised his attention to detail, professionalism and enthusiasm.

“It’s been great working with Ifan during his placement at Food Centre Wales. He quickly understood our needs and brought real attention to detail when supporting us with technical work. His enthusiasm and professionalism have been clear from the start and it’s encouraging to see the next generation of food technologists making such a positive impact.” - Glenn Lloyd, Gate Farm

He also completed a technical project with Rachel's Organic, undertaking detailed cooling trials, analysing production data and presenting recommendations that are helping to inform future investment decisions within the business. His work received positive feedback from the company's technical team, who highlighted both the quality of his work and how well he integrated into the business.

Alongside his project work, Ifan demonstrated a real commitment to professional development, successfully achieving qualifications in auditing, food safety and microbiology while actively engaging with the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST), where he serves as Welsh Branch Student Officer.

What has impressed us most, however, is the way Ifan has become such an integral part of the Food Centre Wales team. Whether supporting clients, getting involved in events, embracing new challenges or simply bringing energy and humour to the workplace, he has consistently shown the qualities that make a great food technologist and an even better colleague.

His placement has been a fantastic example of how investing in future talent benefits both industry and individuals. Through his hard work, curiosity and drive, Ifan has increased our capacity to support Welsh food and drink businesses while building a strong foundation for what we are confident will be a successful career.

"Ifan has been an exceptional placement student whose contribution has far exceeded expectations. His technical ability, professionalism and commitment to supporting businesses have been outstanding. Just as importantly, he has become a valued member of the Food Centre Wales team. We are incredibly proud of what he has achieved and have no doubt he has a very bright future ahead of him." - Gina Sarracini Davies, Senior Food Technologist

While we will be sorry to see him go, we are incredibly proud of everything he has achieved during his time with us. We have no doubt that wherever his career takes him next, he will continue to make a positive impact on the food and drink industry.

Thank you, Ifan, for everything you have brought to Food Centre Wales. We look forward to following your future success.