Medhini Group and the Malaysian Biotechnology Information Centre (MABIC) co-organised a dynamic one-day Forum on Alternative Proteins for Food & Feed in Johor Bahru, Malaysia on 16th Aug 2023. The event brought together industry leaders, government agencies, and experts to discuss key topics such as cultivated meat, insect proteins, policy measures, and sustainability in the alternative protein space.
The forum aimed to address the need for comprehensive regulatory and safety guidelines, investments, optimised technologies, sustainability practices, halal protocols, and cost-effective solutions within the alternative protein industry.
Esteemed industry leaders from organisations including Cell AgriTech, The Good Food Institute, AFFIA: Asian Food and Feed Inset Association, UN Global Compact Network Malaysia & Brunei, and Nutrition Technologies shared valuable insights. Additionally, government agencies such as the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA), East Coast Economic Region Development Council (IRDA), and Invest Johor provided crucial perspectives on fostering growth in the sector.
Notable speakers, including Paul Teng, Joel William, Ts. Dr. Mahaletchumy Arujanan, Jason Ng Chin Aik, Mohd Nazlee Kamal, Nick Piggott, Mohammad Naqib Hamdan, and Edey Suresh, enriched the dialogue with their expertise and insights
The success of the forum has inspired a commitment to fostering more discussions across various states in Malaysia and beyond. Both MABIC and Medhini Group share a dedication to advancing progress and innovation in the alternative protein industry.
Furthermore, Medhini Group is proud to contribute to the cultivated meat value chain by providing bioreactors and biotech process solutions, designing and commissioning cleanrooms, and constructing advanced facilities for high-tech industries.
Following the forum, Medhini Group organised an exclusive site visit for selected participants to Nutrition Technologies, a valued client. Nutrition Technologies is a biotech company with a mission to reintroduce insects into the global food supply chain, harnessing their natural potential as sustainable ingredients for both animal and plant nutrition.
Medhini Group serves as their industrial construction project management consultant, playing a crucial role in realising Nutrition Technologies’ vision. Their expertise and innovation work in harmony, propelling them further along the path of collective sustainability.
One of the highlights of the visit was the discovery of the Black Soldier Fly, a true champion of the circular economy. This remarkable insect symbolises sustainability by transforming waste into valuable resources. The collaboration between Medhini Group and Nutrition Technologies has yielded a wide range of outcomes, including eco-friendly aquaculture feed, innovative pet food, organic fertiliser for agriculture, and even cosmetic oil. The possibilities are extensive, with more products in development. Each step represents a significant stride toward a greener and more circular future in the alternative protein industry.
