Japanese food giant Ajinomoto has introduced a new line of ice cream in Singapore made with Solein, a protein created from carbon dioxide and electricity by Finnish startup Solar Foods. Protein “out of thin air”, so to speak.
According to FoodBev Media, the protein is produced through a fermentation process similar to brewing, but instead of relying on traditional agricultural ingredients, it uses air and renewable energy. The new ice cream marks one of the first commercial food products in Asia to feature Solein.
Ajinomoto’s launch in Singapore is part of a collaboration with Solar Foods to explore sustainable food alternatives. Singapore was chosen as the test market due to its openness to food innovation and its established regulatory framework for novel foods.
The product is being offered under Ajinomoto’s wellness brand and is aimed at environmentally conscious consumers. The ice cream comes in a range of flavours and is currently available at select locations across Singapore.
The companies aim to expand to other markets in the future, following consumer feedback and regulatory approvals.
