logo
'The future of food is sustainable, smart, and transformative': IFFCO Group's Rizwan Ahmed at Gulfood 2025

'The future of food is sustainable, smart, and transformative': IFFCO Group's Rizwan Ahmed at Gulfood 2025

Zawya21-02-2025
RELATED TOPICS
UAE
RELATED COMPANIES
IFFCO Tiffany & Co.
Highlights:
IFFCO Group celebrated three decades at Gulfood with a dynamic showcase, featuring an extensive array of products, from carbon-neutral oils to cutting-edge alternative proteins
IFFCO Group executives led discussions at the Food500 Summit on food trends and opportunities
Dubai, UAE: IFFCO Group, the multinational powerhouse headquartered in the UAE, continued to push the boundaries of innovation in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector at Gulfood 2025. Marking three decades of participation at one of the world's premier F&B events, the company showcased a diverse range of products, unveiled cutting-edge advancements in food science, and engaged in industry-shaping discussions to reinforce its leadership in the evolving food landscape.
In addition to a significant presence on the exhibition floor, IFFCO Group executives took centre stage at the Food500 Summit, which brought together business leaders, policymakers, investors, and innovators to address key issues including international trade, legislation, environmental aspirations, health and wellbeing and the socioeconomic transformations impacting global food security.
In a panel titled 'Trends and Opportunities in the F&B Space', Mohammed Itani, CEO of Oils & Fats, IFFCO Group (GCC and Levant), emphasised the growing consumer demand for ethically sourced, low-carbon-footprint food products.
"Consumers today are more conscious than ever, demanding food that is not only healthier but also ethically sourced and environmentally responsible. At IFFCO Group, we are committed to driving innovation – whether through plant-based alternatives, sustainable packaging, or reduced-carbon food production – to meet evolving consumer expectations and build a more sustainable food industry," said Itani.
He also highlighted a significant shift in GCC dining habits, noting a 61% surge in weekly dine-outs in Dubai alone.
'The shift in the GCC's dining culture, combined with the explosive growth of food delivery, is reshaping how consumers experience food – driving demand for convenience, premium dining, and innovative food solutions,' he added.
IFFCO Group's stand drew in thousands of visitors, offering an interactive journey through its product offerings across Impulse food, Oils & Fats, Culinary, Agri Business, and Beauty. The company also organised live product demonstrations and tastings of its high-quality, innovative food solutions.
Rizwan Ahmed, Executive Director of IFFCO Group said, 'The future of food is sustainable, smart, and transformative and Gulfood's landmark 30th edition is the ultimate platform for us to showcase this vision to the world. The excitement and engagement we have witnessed at our stand reflect the growing demand for high-quality, responsible, and forward-thinking food solutions. We remain committed to delivering impactful food innovation, while driving dialogues with decision-makers to shape the future of food in the UAE and beyond.'
IFFCO Group showcased its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and quality through the expansive line-up of products on display. Highlights included carbon-neutral olive oils under the Rahma brand, alternative proteins from Thryve, and a diverse range of premium food solutions designed for bakeries and restaurants.
About IFFCO Group:
Established in 1975, IFFCO is a leading multinational FMCG group headquartered in the UAE. Its leading FMCG brands, including London Dairy, Tiffany, Noor, Rahma, Al Baker, Hayat and Savannah, and a portfolio of industry solutions and services enrich the lives of millions of consumers and customers globally. The company has 95 operations in 50 Countries, supported by around 15,000 employees, and its 80+ brands are available in over 100 countries.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Summit Trading drives growth of Japanese food culture in the UAE and beyond
Summit Trading drives growth of Japanese food culture in the UAE and beyond

Web Release

time6 days ago

  • Web Release

Summit Trading drives growth of Japanese food culture in the UAE and beyond

For nearly fifty years, Summit Trading has been at the forefront of delivering authentic Japanese food to the UAE and the wider Middle East. The company now supplies approximately 70 per cent of all Japanese food distributed in the UAE, strengthening the country's position as a strategic gateway for Japanese ingredients and cuisine throughout the region. At the heart of this transformation is Mr. Shiro Ohkubo, a long-time UAE resident and the region's first Japanese Food Goodwill Ambassador. Under his leadership at Summit Trading, Japanese food and agricultural imports into the UAE have increased from 400 million yen to over 2.6 billion yen over the past decade. This growth reflects not only rising demand but also a deepening cultural appreciation for Japanese cuisine across various communities. 'The UAE is fast becoming a global centre for food logistics, and Summit Trading has worked to ensure the UAE is seen as the key entry point for Japanese food into the Middle East,' said Mr. Ohkubo. A legacy built on logistics and trust Established in the UAE over 47 years ago, Summit Trading imports around 80 per cent of its products from Japan, sourcing directly from food manufacturers, cooperatives, and wholesale distributors. With logistics hubs in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the company supplies more than 2,000 clients across the GCC, including national airlines, five-star hotels, high-end restaurants, embassies, celebrity chefs, and major supermarkets. Summit also distributes to over 10 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman. It was the first to bring halal-certified Japanese wagyu beef to Dubai in 2014, to Qatar in 2015, and to Saudi Arabia in 2023. The company introduced regular air freight services to deliver fresh Japanese seafood, a category previously limited to frozen options in the region. Promoting Japanese food and culture Summit Trading's impact goes beyond its supply chain. The company regularly participates in flagship food exhibitions such as Gulfood and the Saudi Food Show, offering logistical and promotional support to Japanese producers seeking to enter the region. Collaborations with local chefs and restaurants help showcase regional specialities, while fairs and tasting events introduce new audiences to the diversity of Japanese cuisine. In 2022, Mr. Ohkubo hosted a live-streamed Japanese cooking session in the UAE, with support from Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries. He also launched a trilingual website featuring over 20 recipes in Japanese, English, and Arabic, many of which blend Japanese and Middle Eastern flavours. His contributions were most visible during Expo 2020 Dubai, where Summit Trading managed all food logistics for the Japan Pavilion restaurant, Sushiro. The operation encompassed over 500 product categories, resulting in Sushiro achieving its highest monthly sales among its 64 international branches in March 2022. E-Commerce and everyday access Recognising growing local interest in Japanese home dining, Summit launched Hinomaru Shokudo in Abu Dhabi. The restaurant, which expanded in June 2024, offers bento boxes, sushi, ramen, and a variety of Japanese dishes using authentic ingredients. To support home chefs, the company created the Summit WEB Store, an e-commerce platform with more than 2,000 products available for delivery. The platform includes a mobile app, online payment options, and the first Arabic-language Japanese food site in the region. Its customer base now includes a broad mix of UAE nationals, Westerners, Filipinos, Indians, and Arabs. Supporting the community and global events Summit Trading has supported major international events by supplying Japanese food products, including the FIFA World Cup 2022, the World Judo Championships, and the AFC Asian Cup 2024. It also played a key role in diplomatic events and national celebrations, including the Emperor's Birthday reception hosted by the Japanese Embassy and the official luncheon for Prime Minister Kishida's visit to the UAE in 2023. The company has actively collaborated with UAE institutions as well. In March 2024, under the ne'ma food security strategy, Mr. Ohkubo conducted a food waste awareness session for schoolchildren and held a cooking workshop using Japanese and Middle Eastern ingredients. 'Our mission has always been to go beyond just importing food. We are here to introduce the heart of Japanese culture through its cuisine, and to build lasting bridges between Japan and the Middle East through trust, quality, and shared experiences,' said Mr. Ohkubo. Awards and recognition For his contributions to cultural diplomacy and trade, Mr. Ohkubo received the UAE Golden Visa in 2023, recognising his status as a key contributor to the nation's business and cultural landscape. Summit Trading has also received multiple recognitions from JETRO for its efforts in e-commerce and food service, including being the first wholesaler and restaurant in the Middle East certified as 'Japanese Food Supporters.' With over 500 Japanese restaurants now operating in the UAE, compared to just 140 in 2013, Summit Trading's role in shaping this culinary transformation is clear. Through logistics, advocacy, and a passion for cultural exchange, the company continues to deepen the UAE's ties with Japan and redefine what it means to bring a culture to the table. Driving restaurant growth and culinary confidence Mr. Ohkubo has played a pivotal role in supporting the rapid growth of Japanese restaurants across the region. Through lectures, workshops, and promotional events, he continues to raise awareness of authentic Japanese ingredients and cooking techniques, helping demystify the cuisine for both entrepreneurs and consumers. His hands-on guidance has been instrumental for companies seeking to open Japanese restaurants in the Middle East, offering practical insights drawn from decades of operational experience. This has helped lower barriers to market entry and instilled greater confidence in overseas expansion. Beyond the initial setup, Summit Trading ensures these establishments are set up for long-term success, providing reliable logistics, consistent quality control, and access to a comprehensive range of imported Japanese ingredients. Mr. Ohkubo also regularly leads delegations of local chefs to visit farms and production sites in Japan, fostering deeper understanding of the craft and culture behind the cuisine. Through these initiatives, Summit Trading continues to shape not only the availability but the authenticity and appreciation of Japanese food in the region.

Tasteology & Co. Announces Strategic Expansion and Opens Doors to New Clean-Label CPG Partnerships for Q4 2025 Launches
Tasteology & Co. Announces Strategic Expansion and Opens Doors to New Clean-Label CPG Partnerships for Q4 2025 Launches

Web Release

time02-08-2025

  • Web Release

Tasteology & Co. Announces Strategic Expansion and Opens Doors to New Clean-Label CPG Partnerships for Q4 2025 Launches

Tasteology & Co. Announces Strategic Expansion and Opens Doors to New Clean-Label CPG Partnerships for Q4 2025 Launches Tasteology & Co., a premium food science lab and formulation studio established in 2017, today announced its strategic expansion and the opening of limited client onboarding for clean-label CPG brands launching in late 2025 and early 2026. This marks a significant growth milestone as the Miami-based firm, backed by scientists from Harvard, Stanford, the University of Wisconsin, University of Phoenix, and Leipzig University in Germany, continues reshaping the future of functional foods and beverages. Now operating in 27 locations worldwide, Tasteology blends scientific rigor with culinary creativity to help brands develop innovative, shelf-stable functional beverages, fermented protein systems, and clean-label nutritional formulas, all tailored for the booming wellness market. 'Our work starts with data, not guesswork,' said Charbel Aoun, Managing Partner of Tasteology & Co. 'We develop products for the next wave of health-conscious consumers—where bioavailability, label simplicity, and premium flavor must all coexist.' Tasteology operates under strict non-disclosure agreements, collaborating with clients across North America, Europe, Australia, and the MENA region, with products often hitting shelves at high-growth wellness retailers like Erewhon and Whole Foods. Despite maintaining a discreet operating model, Tasteology has been spotlighted by Digital Journal, NBC News, ABC, and The Chronicle Journal for its unique approach: an in-house R&D team that combines biotech-level confidentiality with consumer goods agility. Science-Led Formulation Without Compromise Tasteology's expertise spans nutritional biochemistry, fermentation science, and food-grade chemistry to create products that are: · Chemical Preservative-Free · Low- or No-Sugar · Shelf-Stable · Small-Format and High-Performance (e.g., 60–100ml RTDs) The company recently expanded its team to include PhDs and specialists in postbiotic fermentation, thermal stabilization, and next-gen sweeteners. 'We don't just white-label formulations,' said Claudia Armor, Chief R&D Officer and Co-Managing Partner. 'We help our clients solve scientific challenges that most co-manufacturers can't even diagnose.' Strategic Growth and Select Client Onboarding Tasteology is now selectively onboarding a limited number of brands planning clean-label product launches for Q4 2025 or Q1 2026. The company works best with founders and teams who prioritize ingredient integrity, deep science, and long-term brand growth.

Co-Production Salon returns to MIPCOM Cannes for second year
Co-Production Salon returns to MIPCOM Cannes for second year

Broadcast Pro

time01-08-2025

  • Broadcast Pro

Co-Production Salon returns to MIPCOM Cannes for second year

Co-Production Salon will debut the 2025 MENA Co-Production Guidebook, host curated in-person and virtual networking sessions, and launch a year-round Virtual Networking Lounge to connect Arabic producers with global partners and showcase key industry insights and projects. Co-Production Salon, a platform dedicated to nurturing co-production partnerships and investment channels involving the Arab world, is set to return to MIPCOM Cannes for the second year in a row. Scheduled to run from October 13 to 16, 2025, at the Palais des Festivals, the initiative will feature an upgraded presence at the MIP Creative Hub, strategically positioned along the Cannes beachfront. The event underscores Co-Production Salon's growing role in linking Arabic content creators and investors with international distributors, broadcasters, and financiers to develop globally marketable content. Heba Korayem, Founder of Co-Production Salon, said: 'CoProduction Salon was created to bridge worlds — bringing Arabic production houses and investors together with international partners to create meaningful, marketable content. MIPCOM gives us the stage to make more of those connections happen.' A recent Omdia report predicts the region's VOD market will grow fivefold to reach $8.4bn by 2029, while Parrot Analytics data points to a dramatic rise in demand for Arabic content — up 400% in Saudi Arabia, 300% in Morocco, and 200% in Iraq since 2020. Since its inception, Co-Production Salon has facilitated over $12m in partnership deals. For 2025, the platform is introducing several new initiatives aimed at deepening engagement and insight. These include the launch of the MENA Co-Production Guidebook (2025 Edition), offering in-depth analysis of market trends and investment opportunities, and a Networking Power Hour, designed to foster real-time, curated meetings between Arabic and international stakeholders. Additionally, a Virtual Networking Lounge will provide continuous access to industry data, professional connections, and project highlights throughout the year. The initiative invites participation from a wide array of industry players, from production companies and distributors to investors, broadcasters, OTT platforms, and advertising agencies, all seeking to tap into one of the fastest-growing, youth-driven content markets in the world. Participants will gain access to premium projects, vetted partnerships, and curated networking opportunities. The Virtual Lounge already features over 200 verified profiles from top-tier MENA content entities, including Saudi Broadcast Authority, Thamaniya, Sadaf Media Production, Rise Studios, Cedars Art and Pixitoon. The physical lounge at MIPCOM will serve as a key venue for face-to-face engagement with these and other leading industry names. With its enhanced presence and expanded programming, Co-Production Salon is positioning itself as a central force in the internationalisation of Arabic content. Visitors can connect with the team at PALAIS C12 HUB 6, explore ongoing projects, or join high-level networking events at MIPCOM. 'Our goal is to make those partnerships not just possible but profitable,' added Heba Korayem.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store