USDA Western Regional Research Center – 75 Years of Research and Technology Transfer

The USDA Western Regional Research Center is located in the San Francisco Bay Area. We discover, develop and deploy innovative scientific and technological solutions in agriculture for the public and stake-holders in the Western United States, the Pacific Rim, and beyond.

The Western Regional Research Center was established in 1939 with the charter of developing ways to utilize agricultural products. Over the years, WRRC evolved into a multidisciplinary research center that covers many important aspects of USDA’s research priorities, such as Healthy Processed foods, Bio-products and Energy, Crop Improvement and Genetics, Produce Safety and Microbiology, Foodborne Toxin Prevention, and Exotic and Invasive Species Management. WRRC conducts mission focused research to 1 ensure high-quality, safe food, and other agricultural products; 2 assess the nutritional needs of Americans; 3 sustain a competitive agricultural economy; 4 enhance the natural resource base and the environment; and 5 Provide economic opportunities for rural citizens, communities, and society as a whole.

Over the last 75 years, WRRC scientists contributed to over 10,000 journal publications, 820 US patents, developed and transferred many technologies to practical use. Our research improved the quality of lives of American people. Our research in frozen foods and flavor chemistry earned us two National Historic Chemical Landmarks by the American Chemical Society.