2021 saw the inaugural Asia Pacific “Alternative Protein & Food Technology Show (APS)” held in Singapore during August 25th-27th. Having heard that the event had a unique significance for each of the ecosystem players in the alternative protein sector, we spoke to Ms. Ribella Lee of Toyo Seikan Group Holdings, who is also a member of One&Co, about the event and its significance to her company.
Toyo Seikan Group (TSKG) is an integrated packaging manufacturer based in Japan that supplies metal cans, glass bottles, PET bottles and paper containers. Two years ago, the group launched an initiative called the “OPENUP! Project” which aims to resolve social issues so as to ensure a sustainable future along with the utilisation of Toyo Seikan technologies that have led the industry for over a century, focusing on collaborations and investments into companies and start-ups. One of Toyo Seikan Group’s recent investments was with Shiok Meats.
―― First of all, could you tell us what APS is about, including its features and purposes?
Ribella: Following previous events held in Amsterdam and San Francisco by KindEarth.Tech (KET), a US non-profit organization, Shiok Meats*, the first cell culture-based alternative protein company in Southeast Asia, joined the partnership for the first time with SciGlo, the event company, to make this event a reality.
The purpose of the event is to bring stakeholders together to discuss the future role of alternative proteins in the food industry. On top of being able to listen to experts from their respective fields, exhibitors’ booths also showcased the latest updates in food technology. There was also a “futuristic” bento box with Asian and local dishes made with products from plant-based meat start-ups, ranging from vegan cheese to meat.
One of the features of this event would be its high-quality networking sessions. The event consisted of presentations, pitches, panel discussions, workshops including culinary demonstrations, exhibitions, etc whereby attendees were free to choose and participate in individual sessions according to their interests and roles, as opposed to the usual full participation style. The event was also a great opportunity not only for stakeholders, but also for students and the general public to get a glimpse and experience the new exciting world of alternative proteins.
―― We understand that TSKG is one of the investors of Shiok Meats, who is the co-organiser of this event. What do you think this event means for these women who are engaged in alternative protein start-up space?
Ribella: As of now, in my opinion, I can see three main significance brought about by this event.
Firstly, it would be the building of brand recognition. As a co-organizer, Shiok Meats will be able to use this event as a platform to re-enforce its brand awareness among the attendees in the food ecosystem. Particularly since this event is the first of its kind in the Asia Pacific region, Shiok Meats will also be able to gain a positive image and reputation as a pioneer in organizing such events. If the event is successful, it will attract media and public attention, raising the company’s profile and potentially leading to significant long-term benefits, including entry into overseas markets.
Next, it would be the creation of business value for ecosystem players. By holding seminars and panel discussions with prominent leaders and experts, Shiok Meats will be able to establish itself not only as a research and development start-up, but also as a promoter of new ideas and collaborations, and as a platform to promote and connect the activities of various alternative protein ecosystem players. This will allow Shiok Meats to position itself as a valuable corporate platform that will contribute to accelerating the development of the alternative protein industry.
Lastly, it would be the strengthening of network community and establishment of trust. As an organizer, Shiok Meats will engage directly with the audience in terms of event planning and networking to deepen connections and gain trust, which in turn will strengthen the networking community among organisations and start-ups. This leads to the creation of opportunities and possibilities for future business collaborations.
―― What is the significance of this event for TSKG?
Ribella: First of all, we believe that we can serve as a bridge for building regulations on alternative proteins between Japan and Singapore. As a member of the Japan Cellular Agriculture Research Group, TSKG was able to participate in the panel discussion and provide insights into the progress of the alternative protein regulations in Japan. We hope that this will open new doors for attendees who are interested in working with TSKG to enter the Japanese alternative protein market.
―― We see that your company is playing an important role in accelerating the alternative protein market in Japan. It seems that you can have a positive impact on investment returns and future growth. Please tell us about your future business opportunities and collaborations plans.
Ribella: The attendees of this event consist of various ecosystem players in the field of alternative proteins, playing a role in various stages from research to commercialization. We had a booth at the event and aimed to raise awareness of the Toyo Seikan Group brand in both traditional and non-traditional businesses. We hope that this will lead to future business opportunities and potential collaborations that will bring about long-term benefits.
―― What are some of the insights you have gained through the first alternative protein and food tech event in the Asia Pacific region?
Ribella: While it was clear to me that this event has different meanings and possibilities for the alternative protein ecosystem players, all of us have a common goal, which is to contribute and accelerate the growth of the alternative protein industry. This makes me really excited, and I feel that with the various ecosystem players working towards a common goal, the day where alternative protein foods are no longer called “alternative” may not be so far away after all!
＊Shiok Meats：Founded in August 2018, Singapore-based Shiok Meats is the first cell-based alternative protein start-up in Southeast Asia, with a mission to deliver delicious, clean, and healthy seafood by harvesting from cells instead of animals. Currently, the company is still in the research and development phase and targets to commercialise in 2022.
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