RegeneraLab is the laboratory of CoLab Food4Sustainability (F4S), focused on the impact of microbiology on the health and function of soil and production systems, serving as a key element in its mission dedicated to innovation in sustainable food production.
By combining various technologies in an integrated approach to soil health, RegeneraLab aims to establish itself as a unique facility in Portugal, fully dedicated to studying the health and function of soil and production systems — providing farmers with personalized solutions to improve their crops and adapt to emerging challenges.
Soil degradation caused by conventional agricultural practices, especially tillage, monoculture, and the use of synthetic chemicals.
Decreased availability and rising costs of production factors: energy, water, fertilizers, and biocontrol agents.
Increased consumer demand for healthier and more sustainable food.
Recent disruptions in global supply chains triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic and conflicts in major agricultural production regions.
Services
Our services aim to improve soil health and function through cutting-edge microbiological analysis. Each analysis produces actionable recommendations for sustainable agricultural management.
Soil, Water & Plant Microbiome Analysis
Microbiome characterization identifies and maps the microbial communities present in soil, irrigation water, and plant tissues, providing an integrated view of the biological health of the production system. This analysis helps detect microbial imbalances, the presence of pathogens, or absence of beneficial microorganisms — enabling informed decisions in soil and crop management. Direct benefits include optimizing practices such as fertilization, crop rotation, and use of biofertilizers, contributing to higher productivity, better product quality, and reduced dependence on chemicals.
Soil Microbial Enzymatic Activity Assessment
Enzymatic assays evaluate the metabolic activity of microbial communities through their ability to utilize different carbon sources. This functional profile provides a clear indication of the level of biological activity and functional diversity of the soil — critical factors for nutrient cycling and fertility. Results allow farmers to adjust management practices such as incorporating organic matter or reducing excessive tillage, with direct impact on nutrient use efficiency, improved soil structure, and increased crop resilience under stress conditions.
PCR-Based Microorganism Detection & Quantification
Molecular techniques such as PCR and real-time PCR (qPCR) enable rapid, sensitive, and specific detection of microorganisms of interest, including plant pathogens, beneficial bacteria, and microbiological quality indicators. In agri-food production, this translates to early disease monitoring, sanitary certification, and rigorous quality control of water and plant products — reducing economic losses, improving phytosanitary management, and ensuring greater food safety based on objective and quantifiable data.
Phenotypic Characterization of Autochthonous Microbial Isolates
Functional characterization of isolated microorganisms identifies strains with agronomically relevant properties such as biological nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, or production of growth-promoting compounds. This information is essential for developing biotechnological solutions — microbial inoculants adapted to specific crops and conditions — providing sustainable alternatives to chemical fertilizers, reducing production costs, and improving plant nutritional efficiency.
Facilities
RegeneraLab is located within the headquarters of Arrudalab — Agro-industrial Innovation and Incubation Center, in the heart of Arruda dos Vinhos, approximately 30 km north of Lisbon. The former Town Hall building was inaugurated on October 20, 2023, following renovation works representing an investment of approximately one million euros.
Documents
Contact
Rua do Adro, n.º 19 · 2630-207 Arruda dos Vinhos