ISAAA Webinar Tackles Novel Foods for Sustainable Agriculture

ISAAA Inc., in collaboration with the Philippine Agriculture and Fisheries Biotechnology Program of the Department of Agriculture (DA Biotech Program Office), held a webinar titled Plate of the Future: Nutritious and Sustainable Novel Foods on January 30, 2025, via Zoom. This webinar provided information on the new and emerging applications of biotechnology to novel foods.

The webinar was attended by 365 participants representing the general public and various DA Biotech Program R&D constituents and centers. The participants were welcomed by Dr. Rhodora Romero-Aldemita, Executive Director of ISAAA Inc. Dr. Aldemita said that novel foods, although not a new concept, are still considered novel products in the market. Dr. Aldemita mentioned some examples of novel foods, such as quail-based cultured meat, rice with beef cells, Piggy Sooy, and probiotic guava leaf-based beverages, in her opening message.

Dir. Fides Marciana Z. Tambalo, Director of the Philippines Los Baños - National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (UPLB-BIOTECH), said that novel foods could reduce greenhouse gas emissions, offer high investment opportunities, and address global malnutrition and food scarcity by providing affordable and nutritious alternatives. Dir. Tambalo emphasized that strong regulatory frameworks, public awareness campaigns, and incentivizing research and innovation will greatly contribute to the advancement of novel foods in the Philippines.

Dr. Amit Dhingra, Chief Science Officer at Moolec, said that molecular farming is a cost-effective way to produce alternative proteins. Dr. Dhingra highlighted Piggy Sooy, a genetically engineered soybean that contains pig proteins to create a unique meat alternative with increased protein. He said that there is a need for sustainable solutions and diverse options for food production to meet the demands of a growing population.

Dr. Aldemita facilitated the interactive discussion among the resource persons and participants following the presentations of the speakers. Dr. Paul C. Limson, the Director of the DA Biotech Program Office, delivered the closing remarks through a recorded video, emphasizing the importance of the collective commitment of researchers, scientists, industry players, and policymakers to harness the power of biotechnology for the betterment of society. The event was moderated by Janine Cyren Escasura, Project Technical Assistant at ISAAA Inc.

Watch the recorded webinar on ISAAA webinars page and YouTube. For inquiries, email knowledgecenter@isaaa.org.