New products

 Food Science and Technology

CSIC research has led to the commercialisation of innovative food products tailored to the needs of an increasingly demanding market. These include a probiotic salmorejo that provides beneficial microorganisms for consumers with lactose intolerance, and a plant-based meat alternative made from carob and rice for those seeking to reduce their consumption of animal products in a healthy way.

 Agricultural Sciences

From recovering long-lost crop varieties to developing and commercialising new fruit tree cultivars, CSIC research groups have contributed to the implementation of innovative agricultural solutions. Through painstaking investigative work, researchers located century-old olive and grapevine varieties that had disappeared from cultivation, recovering dozens of heritage cultivars. Our laboratories have also developed new almond and apricot varieties now grown across thousands of hectares in Spain.

 Biology and Biomedicine

In the field of digestive diseases, the CSIC has developed innovative prevention and treatment technologies. A new stem cell therapy enables the regeneration of damaged tissue in patients with complex fistulas associated with Crohn's disease, while a novel gluten detection method identifies the peptides responsible for coeliac disease in food products.

Responding to the COVID-19 Pandemic

By focusing its efforts on developing technologies for the prevention, detection and treatment of COVID-19, the CSIC played a leading role in improving pandemic control. Achievements include the first face mask manufactured in Spain capable of providing highly effective protection, as well as an antibody test that measures immunity to COVID-19. This technology led to an agreement with the World Health Organization to make these tools available to developing countries.

 Physical Sciences and Technologies

To improve cataract and presbyopia surgery, the CSIC developed a portable simulator that allows clinicians and patients to evaluate the effects of multifocal intraocular lenses before surgery, enabling them to assess expected visual outcomes in advance. Patented by the CSIC and CE-marked for international commercialisation, the world's first paediatric exoskeleton helps children affected by spinal muscular atrophy or cerebral palsy to walk.

 Chemical Sciences and Technologies

To improve patient care and the management of hospital facilities and equipment, the CSIC has developed innovative products and processes. The lactose intolerance test created by our laboratories, based on an artificially synthesised sugar, offers significant advantages over existing diagnostic methods. Meanwhile, our helium recovery system—now installed in 150 hospitals and research centres worldwide—helps ensure that this increasingly scarce resource is recovered rather than wasted.

 Materials Science and Technology

Implemented in Ethiopia's Rift Valley, CSIC technology provides safe drinking water by preventing waterborne health problems. Using natural microporous materials known as zeolites, the system removes fluoride from water supplies, helping to prevent fluorosis, a disease affecting teeth and bones.