Biotechnology research has seen rapid growth in recent years, with innovations increasingly directed toward generating beneficial and sustainable applications for broader markets. One of the current trends in the industry is the development of novel foods, alternative and sustainable food solutions designed to meet global nutritional demands.
Professor Sri Raharjo, Head of the Center for Food and Nutrition Studies at Universitas Gadjah Mada (PSPG UGM), stated that several factors are driving consumer interest in novel foods, with health and nutritional value among the most significant.
“Consumers are now more inclined toward foods that promote health and offer high nutritional value, such as low cholesterol and high protein content,” Professor Raharjo explained at a seminar titled ‘Catalyzing and Protecting Biotech Innovation for a Sustainable Future: Protecting Creativity and Catalyzing Innovation’, held in conjunction with the Future Deeptech Forum 2025 at the UGM Innovation and Creativity Hub (GIK UGM) on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
Another key driver, according to Professor Raharjo, is the sustainability aspect of novel foods, particularly their lower carbon footprint.
Ethical considerations, such as more humane treatment of livestock, also play a role.
Moreover, affordability and accessibility are influencing consumers’ shift to novel food options.
He noted that emerging products in this market include nutrition-enhanced milk for the elderly and electrolyte-infused beverages.
Professor Raharjo mentioned that PSPG UGM is currently focused on developing probiotic-based foods and supplements, which are gaining popularity among Indonesian consumers.
PSPG UGM has collected probiotic strains that are both safe and well-suited to the digestive systems of Indonesians, offering various health benefits.
One such product is Ken’s Pro, a plant-based probiotic cereal beverage.
“In the future, PSPG UGM will also collaborate with the industry to develop a broader range of probiotic products,” he added.
Dr. Rantih Asmana Ningrum, a researcher from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), emphasized that biotechnology is a critical pillar in ensuring food security amidst the challenges posed by climate change and resource scarcity.
“Biotechnology is our frontline defense that can transform science into a shield against future crises, including pandemics,” she said.
BRIN serves as both a research hub and a bridge for collaboration between academia and industry in biotechnology applications.
Dr. Ningrum believes BRIN can become a driving force for translating laboratory innovations into market-ready solutions.
“Ultimately, BRIN’s goal is to enhance the competencies and capabilities of Indonesian scientists in the field of biotechnology,” she explained.
UGM Director of Business Development and Incubation, Dr. Hargo Utomo, remarked that novel food development through biotechnology innovation presents an opportunity for stronger collaboration between academia and industry.
“This initiative can serve as a bridge for building robust partnerships and fostering innovation-driven cooperation,” he concluded.
Author: Lazuardi
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna
Photographer Donnie Trisfian