Dubai — Consumers’ dietary preferences are shifting in the Middle East and Africa, with a notable decline in the preference for meat and meat-based products among Middle Eastern and African consumers.
The rise of flexitarian and vegan diets has opened numerous opportunities for manufacturers to innovate in the alternative proteins sector. Driven by health concerns, climate action, and growing awareness of ethical issues in factory farming, demand for alternative proteins is surging.
Data Bridge Market Research reports that the alternative proteins market, valued at $1034.02 million in 2021, is projected to reach $2710.20 million by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 12.8 percent from 2022 to 2029.
Alternative protein companies are rapidly expanding, using disruptive technologies like synthetic biology, big data, AI, machine learning, robotics, and the Internet of Things to secure a market edge.
At A Glance * Middle East and Africa witness a shift in dietary preferences, with less demand for meat and more for alternative proteins. * Data Bridge Market Research predicts the alternative proteins market to reach $2710.20 million by 2029. * Disruptive technologies are propelling the growth of alternative protein companies. * The inaugural Healthy Innovation Conference in Dubai focuses on the future of food technology and alternative proteins. * Novel Foods Group introduces "brazzein," a natural sweet protein, as a sustainable sugar substitute. * The company plans UAE-based manufacturing facilities to produce sweet proteins for the global market.
At the inaugural Healthy Innovation Conference (HiConf) in Dubai, UAE, last week, participants from various countries, including the UAE, Germany, China, Korea, the Netherlands, Russia, and Singapore, delved into food technology and alternative proteins.
This conference aligns with a growing global demand for alternative animal protein products, with a Credit Suisse report predicting the alternative meat and dairy market could reach $1.4 trillion by 2050. Meanwhile, the global alternative sugar market is outpacing traditional sugar, growing approximately 5 percent yearly compared to 1 percent.
“From alternative and sweet proteins to the latest in food sustainability and cellular nutrition, we’re committed to promoting human and planetary health. The Healthy Innovation Conference aims to hasten the global transition to healthy and eco-conscious diets,” said Alaa Al Ali, Board Member at Novel Foods Group, an Abu Dhabi-based pioneer in the alternative proteins sector.
Al Ali introduced “brazzein,” a natural sweet protein that’s significantly sweeter than traditional sugar (sucrose) and represents a major innovation in sweet protein technology, offering a natural, sustainable alternative to conventional sugar substitutes.
Unlike artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols, Novel Foods’ sweet proteins deliver clean, natural sweetness suitable for any taste profile, with zero calories and no impact on blood glucose levels.
Additionally, these sweet proteins are derived from plant sources, making them a sustainable choice for conscious consumers. The commercial applications of brazzein span various sectors, including beverages, confectionery, bakery, and even dairy and ice cream.
“By harnessing the power of sweet proteins found in various plants, we’ve developed a range of products that deliver sweetness without the negative health effects associated with sugar consumption,” he said.
Novel Foods plans to establish manufacturing facilities in the UAE to produce sweet proteins for the global food market.
According to Al Ali, this strategic location allows them to leverage the region’s robust business and trade infrastructure and its commitment to supporting innovative enterprises’ rapid growth.
“By basing our operations in the UAE, we aim to position the Emirates as a global leader in sustainable food production and technology.”
Moreover, Novel Foods is committed to supporting the UAE’s vision of becoming a global hub for sustainable food production and innovation.
Al Ali stated that their investment in R&D, manufacturing facilities, and research initiatives, all based in the UAE, demonstrates their dedication to contributing to the country’s economic diversification, food security, and sustainability goals.
Regarding the potential impact of Novel Foods’ sweet proteins on the global food industry, Al Ali emphasized its revolutionary significance.
“Our technology offers a natural, healthier alternative to sugar, addressing concerns related to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues associated with excessive sugar consumption. Additionally, our products can play a key role in reducing the environmental footprint of food production by promoting sustainable practices,” he said.
Looking ahead, Novel Foods envisions a future where sweet proteins transform how people think about and consume sweeteners – and food in general. “Our technology has the potential to revolutionize the food industry, promote healthier lifestyles, and contribute to a more sustainable future,” he said.