Have you ever wondered how a scientist can turn a passion for research into a thriving business? Dr. Sheeba Veluthoor’s story is an inspiring example of determination, innovation and entrepreneurship. Dr. Sheeba Veluthoor completed her post-doctoral research in institutions across Japan, the United States, Italy and France, supported by scholarships. Inspired by her global exposure and driven by a desire to contribute locally, she decided to start a testing laboratory in her hometown of Kozhikode. In 2014, with unwavering determination, Dr. Sheeba established the “Core Valleys Technologies” lab in the Nallalam Mini Industrial Estate, Kozhikode. Starting with just one staff and a modest monthly income of 20,000, the lab has now grown into a successful venture generating over 30 lakhs annually. Core Valleys was recently featured in Malayala Manorama, Kerala’s leading Malayalam daily, highlighting its innovative work and industry contributions. The article spotlights Core Valleys’ commitment to empowering entrepreneurs, offering expert business development guidance and supporting startups with practical solutions. The Growth of Core Valleys TechnologiesWhat began as a modest soil and water testing facility quickly gained recognition from local businesses and institutions. In the early days, Core Valleys Technologies primarily focused on providing basic water quality tests for hotels and other establishments in Kozhikode. The lab’s accurate and reliable testing results soon earned the trust of these businesses, helping them ensure the safety and quality of water used for their operations. A significant milestone in this journey was receiving formal approval from the Pollution Control Board.The demand began to expand beyond simple water tests. Food manufacturers operating in the nearby industrial estate approached the lab with requests to analyse the quality of their packaged food products. These businesses required detailed assessments of ingredients, correct labelling of nutritional information, and precise shelf-life studies to comply with food safety regulations and market standards. The lab quickly adapted to meet these needs, developing expertise in food testing procedures that assured products remained safe and of high quality throughout their lifecycle.With time, Core Valleys Technologies grew steadily, reinvesting its early revenues into acquiring advanced testing equipment and developing in-house capabilities. Achieving NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories) accreditation was a landmark achievement, reflecting the lab’s adherence to strict national and international testing standards. Today, Core Valleys Technologies stands as a fully equipped, accredited laboratory providing a broad spectrum of essential testing services. It supports not only the food industry but also major hospitals, non-governmental organisations and food exporters. The lab’s critical services include dialysis water quality testing, making sure the water used in sensitive medical treatments is absolutely safe; comprehensive analysis of purified water, wastewater and other water sources; and technical support for food exporters needing to meet international quality standards.Through continuous innovation and commitment to quality, Core Valleys has evolved into a trusted name in testing services, playing a vital role in ensuring public health, environmental safety and industrial compliance across Kerala.
Recognising the importance of education, Dr. Sheeba opened her lab doors to BSc and MSc students seeking project experience. What started as a handful of students has now grown to over 30 annually. Additionally, the lab conducts specialised short-term courses in water quality analysis and nutritional labelling, providing hands-on learning opportunities to aspiring scientists.
Dr. Sheeba’s lab has become a hub for entrepreneurs working on plant-based product development. From helping businesses extract essential oils from spices to offering technical assistance in producing oud oil from oud trees, Core Valleys play an important role in turning ideas into viable products. Dr. Sheeba provides end-to-end support, offering technical expertise, helping with patent applications and taking an upfront approach to avoid non-payment issues.
In addition to testing services, Dr. Sheeba runs a successful product line under the brand All Things Good. The brand features innovative products such as:Pillow spray made from natural plant extracts to promote better sleepStress relief oil designed to reduce tension when inhaled or applied to the skinKombucha tea, a fermented health drink rich in probioticsProbiotic yogurt and kefir, popular for their digestive benefitsA Legacy of Innovation and ImpactToday, Core Valleys Technologies has 13 hardworking employees and keeps expanding its services. Dr. Sheeba’s journey shows how combining scientific knowledge with an entrepreneurial mindset can build successful businesses. Her work helps the community, supports young scientists and assists local entrepreneurs in developing their ideas.
