
Members of the research team exchange views with representatives from the Chibi High-Quality Development Research Institute. [Photo/news.hzau.edu.cn]
In mid-to-late July, seven joint faculty-student research teams from the College of Biomedicine and Health at Huazhong Agricultural University traveled across Hubei province to explore how the health value of local agricultural products is being strengthened. The teams visited planting bases, enterprises, and research platforms in cities such as Xianning, Zhongxiang, Suizhou, Shiyan, Qichun county, Xiangyang, and Enshi across Hubei to investigate industrial bottlenecks and potential areas of cooperation.
Their trip revealed diverse regional strengths, from medicinal herbs in Zhongxiang to functional grains in Xiangyang, tea industries in Enshi, and premium fungi and oils in Suizhou and Shiyan. However, enterprises widely reported shared challenges, including a lack of scientific support for deep processing, limited understanding of the compounds responsible for health benefits, and insufficient extraction of active components.
To bridge these gaps, the research teams helped connect universities with businesses. Collaborating with local institutions and enterprises, they focused on component testing, functional evaluation, and process optimization. Following the field visits, discussions have already commenced with entities such as the Chibi Lanxin TCM Cooperative to refine extraction techniques.
Moving forward, the college will compile a comprehensive provincial research report, finalize problem-and-demand lists, and provide specific suggestions to relevant authorities. By driving technical breakthroughs and technological commercialization, the university aims to boost the high-quality development of Hubei's agricultural and health industry.