NCI’s New Home at the Peltier Complex: Expanding Horizons in Agricultural Innovation
The Northern Crops Institute (NCI) has a new home in the Peltier Complex on the campus of North Dakota State University. This move marks a significant step forward in our mission to connect people and ideas that shape the agricultural industry of the northern Great Plains. Designed with collaboration and innovation, the Peltier Complex is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and flexible spaces, offering a world-class venue for educational programs and technical services.
A Global Gathering Place for the Agricultural Industry
The spacious atrium welcomes visitors to the Peltier Complex. Flags from around the world celebrate the global reach of NCI, while displays of regional crops and processed products highlight our connection to the local regions agricultural heritage. From farmers and processors to commodity traders and technical experts, the Peltier Complex is an ideal setting for bringing together diverse stakeholders to discuss industry trends, collaborate on innovations, and participate in educational programs.
Advanced Learning Spaces: The NCI Auditorium
NCI Auditorium
The 60-seat, tiered auditorium exemplifies NCI’s commitment to cutting-edge education and communication. Sponsored by the North Dakota Wheat Commission, this space offers simultaneous language translation and high-tech A/V capabilities to support lecture sessions and events. Presenters can seamlessly engage audiences both in-person and virtually in this space, making this auditorium an invaluable resource for our short courses and events.
Specialized Labs for Technical Excellence and Innovation
In line with NCI’s focus on hands-on, industry-relevant training, the Peltier Complex houses a suite of specialized laboratories that are crucial to our technical services.
The Pasta Processing Lab is equipped to explore the effects of raw materials and processing on pasta quality, from traditional noodles to gluten-free options. Scalable pilot equipment makes it an ideal space for testing new product ideas and refining processing techniques.
The Soy Foods Lab offers a fully food-grade environment for creating soy-based and plant-based products, such as tofu, natto, and plant-based beverages. With pilot-scale equipment that mirrors industrial processes, this lab supports NCI’s ongoing work with clients to optimize and scale their plant-based innovations.
The Extrusion Lab is equipped with a Wenger TX-52 twin-screw extruder for demonstrating the impact of raw materials and processing conditions on the organoleptic, textural, and nutritional characteristics of foods. Post-processing equipment includes a Rosskamp flake mill, enrober, and steam kettle. Computerized data collection and evaluation enable process optimization. This lab supports the development of ready-to-eat breakfast cereals, gluten-free pastas, puffed snacks, breading, TVP, HMMA, and pet foods.
The Baking Lab is a comprehensive space for developing a wide range of baked goods, from pan bread, pizza crust, artisan products, cookies, and more. Outfitted with industry-standard equipment, the lab supports detailed product testing and training, with our skilled staff providing expertise on ingredient functionality and process optimization.
The Analytical Lab is vital to NCI’s quality control services, offering tools for evaluating oilseeds, grains, and finished products. Advanced instruments allow for precise analyses of properties such as protein content, gluten quality, and dough rheology, essential for clients focused on product consistency and quality.
The Stone Milling Room is a new addition to NCI’s offerings. Equipped with a 26-inch granite stone mill, we’re able to produce whole-grain flours from cereals, pulses, and legumes. This facility also supports hands-on training and process development, serving clients who seek to capitalize on the trend for artisan and whole-grain products.
Collaboration Across Disciplines and Industries
The Peltier Complex isn’t just a home for NCI. It also brings together NDSU’s cereal science, meat science, and ag biosystems departments, as well as the North Dakota Trade Office (NDTO) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This strategic co-location fosters collaboration among scientists, educators, and industry professionals, creating an ecosystem that encourages innovation in agriculture, food systems, and product development. Students and professionals alike benefit from the vibrant environment, finding new opportunities to contribute to the growth of agriculture and food production.
NCI’s move into the Peltier Complex reflects our commitment to being at the forefront of agricultural education and technical services. We look forward to continuing our work in this state-of-the-art facility, expanding our programs, and supporting innovation across the food and agriculture industries.