Good News! Abiochem Selected for MIIT's "Outstanding Innovative Case for Future Industrial Development"
Recently, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology released the "2024 Outstanding Cases for Future Industry Development." Abiochem's project "Biosynthesis and Formulation Technology of Natural Sweetener Steviol Glycosides" was selected as a future health exemplary case, establishing a benchmark for innovative application of synthetic biology in healthy foods.
Amid China's world-leading diabetic population (141 million in 2021 per IDF data) and sugar-restriction policies, steviol glycoside Reb M - a high-intensity, low-calorie natural sweetener faces limited adoption due to costly plant extraction. Abiochem pioneered an efficient enzymatic conversion method that drastically reduces costs while resolving application challenges like solubility and taste. Approved by China's National Health Commission in March 2024 as a novel food ingredient, this technology advances sugar-reduction lifestyles, providing core ingredients for traditional high-sugar products (e.g., dairy, beverages) and revolutionizing the food industry.
This recognition demonstrates high acclaim for Abiochem's comprehensive capabilities in synthetic biology. Abiochem has assembled an R&D team led by PhD and postdoctoral researchers from top global institutions, driving technological innovation through multiple national-level projects and accumulating profound expertise. With over 200 patent applications and 71 authorized invention patents, Abiochem has built eight major innovation platforms and established four core technological systems: high-performance enzyme development, biosynthetic pathway construction, microbial cell design, and scaled green biomanufacturing—laying a solid foundation for sustained innovation. Its steviol glycoside business is fully operated by its sub-brand Adorvia.
Moving forward, Abiochem will intensify R&D investment, deepen synergy between synthetic biology innovation and industry applications, expand diversified food ingredient uses, participate in industry standard-setting, and foster a high-level industrial ecosystem. By developing landmark products and expanding application scenarios, it will contribute to Shanghai's future industrial innovation hub, lead high-quality development in synthetic biology, and advance the "Healthy China" initiative with biomanufacturing excellence.