President Approves Patent for NRCRI Turmeric Tea Innovation
The National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike, has received a Certificate of Patent for its breakthrough innovation in turmeric tea production, marking a major step in agricultural value addition, product development, and commercialisation of indigenous crops.
For developing three tea varieties from turmeric rhizomes and leaves, the institute has earned formal patent recognition, underscoring its growing role in scientific innovation and practical product development. The achievement highlights NRCRI’s commitment to converting research into solutions with health, economic, and commercial relevance.
A Landmark in Product Innovation
The patent recognises the institute’s formulation and production method for turmeric tea made from rhizomes and leaves. Beyond laboratory achievement, the development points to a wider vision of strengthening Nigeria’s herbal wellness economy, expanding market opportunities for indigenous crops, and encouraging value-added agricultural enterprise.
It also demonstrates how agricultural research can move beyond field performance into consumer-facing products. In practical terms, this means that research outputs are not only being generated, but packaged in ways that can support adoption, enterprise, and national economic growth.
“This is a landmark achievement that underscores the institute’s unwavering commitment to advancing scientific innovation, value addition in agriculture, and the commercialisation of indigenous crops.”Prof. Chiedozie Egesi, Executive Director/CEO, NRCRI
From Research to Packaged Product
Innovation Pathway
This achievement can be understood as a clear progression from scientific inquiry to recognised product innovation.
Why This Matters
The patent strengthens NRCRI’s profile as an institute that does more than produce scientific findings. It shows a deliberate shift towards practical innovation, commercial relevance, and new opportunities for enterprise around root and tuber crops. It also reinforces the wider national effort to grow an innovation ecosystem capable of turning indigenous resources into high-value products.
Explore More NRCRI Innovations
Discover more research breakthroughs, crop development updates, and science-driven solutions emerging from NRCRI Umudike.