Researchers from NUI Galway have devised an online catalogue system for the food industry. The Internet-based CaterNet was displayed at the Catex Exhibition in Dublin's RDS this week. It stores a directory of information and products for use by chefs and managers which can feed directly into their supply chains.

NUI Galway's Centre for Integrated Manufacturing Research developed the catalogue for Pallas Foods, a Co Limerick company. It features a directory of food industry suppliers, a hotel and restaurant reservations facility, and education and advice on nutrition. It is said to enable any chef or purchasing manager to order all their requirements from one location at any time.

The NUI Galway team has spent two years developing CaterNet from an idea into a working prototype.