Abu Dhabi has recently opened its first state-of-the-art plant-based meat production facility in KEZAD, marking a significant milestone in the country’s food security, sustainability, and climate action efforts. The 20,000-square-foot facility will start producing vegan and halal-certified food products, including kebab, kafta, sujuk, minced meat, and burger patties from May 1, which are 100% free of GMO, soy, allergens, and gluten.
The new facility’s opening is timely, coinciding with the Year of Sustainability and Abu Dhabi’s preparations to host the COP28 climate change conference. Plant-based meat is considered to generate significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions than conventional meat, creating a more sustainable food supply. In addition, the facility embodies the spirit of public-private collaboration and ingenuity necessary to achieve food security and climate action objectives.
By opening the plant-based meat production facility, Abu Dhabi has taken a significant step towards reducing the country’s carbon footprint, creating a more sustainable food supply, and promoting food security. The production of plant-based meat products aligns with the UAE’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint and promoting a sustainable future for the region. In addition, this state-of-the-art facility is an excellent example of public-private partnerships and innovative technology’s role in promoting a more sustainable and climate-friendly food supply.
The Covid-19 pandemic has increased demand for plant-based meat products as people seek healthier and more sustainable alternatives to conventional meat. According to PwC, 71% of consumers in the Middle East adopted a healthier lifestyle six months after the pandemic outbreak. This trend towards healthier lifestyles has driven the region’s demand for plant-based meat products, with consumers seeking nutritious and environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional meat. The pandemic has highlighted the importance of food security and sustainability. Plant-based meat has emerged as a critical player in the move towards more sustainable and secure food systems.
Photo by Imtiyaz Ali on Unsplash
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