Novel Foods, partners to build $500mln biotech cluster in UAE

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UAE - Novel Foods Group, the Abu Dhabi based global pioneer in the alternative proteins sector, and several global engineering firms have agreed to commence the planning phase of a $500 million biotech production site located in the UAE.

The agreement was signed between Novel Foods, Glatt Group, BioEngineering AG, and CB Consultancy AG during the inaugural Healthy Innovation Conference (HiConf) held recently in Dubai.

The new biotech production site will focus on the development of brazzein, a natural sweet protein with a genuine sugar taste that is several thousand times sweeter than traditional sugar (sucrose). The commercial applications of brazzein extend across various sectors, including beverages, confectionery, bakery, as well as dairy and ice cream.

Growing use of brazzein

The growing use of brazzein comes at a time when the global alternative sugar market is growing faster than the traditional sugar market, with a yearly growth rate of approximately 5% versus 1%, respectively.

Brazzein is currently derived from berries of the equatorial belt of West Africa and has been an integral part of local consumption for centuries. However, challenges in harvesting due to remote locations and limited availability are now being addressed through precision fermentation, a process combining traditional fermentation and precision biology to economically bring brazzein into the commercial market.

Alaa Al Ali, Shareholder and Member of the Board of Novel Foods Group, said: "We believe people should enjoy the sweetness they love without sacrificing health or taste."

Novel Foods currently engages in partnerships with universities and research institutions to create brazzein-infused recipes, organise tastings, and collect consumer feedback. Its existing concept and R&D centre in Dubai is committed to crafting tailor-made recipes that replace sugar with brazzein, supporting co-creation with regional decision-makers and product development teams.