Nestle has opened a food safety research centre in Beijing as part of its drive to support the Chinese government and “strengthen” food safety efforts in the country.

The Nestle Food Safety Institute will work “closely” with Chinese authorities to help provide a “scientific foundation” for policy and standards, Nestle said.

Support will include early management of food safety issues and collaboration with local universities, research institutes and government agencies.

“Food safety and consumer trust are key priorities for Nestle. The new Food Safety Institute will help meet China’s growing demand for healthy and safe food, one of the top three concerns among Chinese consumers,” Nestle said.