Latest news with #BBG
Time of India
a day ago
- Science
- Time of India
Gelatin from goat skin offers non-bovine, non-pork alternative to food, pharma sectors
Hyderabad: A superior gelatin extracted from the skin of Black Bengal goats with likely use in pharma and food sectors has been identified by researchers. The study highlighted its potential as a halal alternative to the two sectors seeking non-bovine and non-porcine gelatin. According to the researchers, goat skin accounted for nearly 10% of the animal's live weight and is often underutilised. The study's findings supported its valorisation into high-value gelatin, promoting circular economy practices. The research by city-based ICAR-National Meat Research Institute in collaboration with the College of Veterinary Sciences, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupati, compared gelatin extracted from the skins of two indigenous Indian goat breeds – Black Bengal (BBG) and Native Deccani (NDG). The study aimed to optimise the gelatin extraction process under hot air and freeze drying conditions and assess its functionality across industrial applications. The freeze dried gelatin obtained from BBG skins displayed significantly better gel strength (453g) and viscosity compared to hot air dried counterparts and NDG samples. The study also reported higher hydroxyproline content, gel clarity, and instrumental texture properties, particularly hardness, in BBG-derived gelatin. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed compact, interwoven protein structures in BBG gelatin with no visible voids, indicating greater uniformity and strength. Fourier Transform Infrared analysis confirmed the presence of stable triple helical structures, with distinct Amide I and II peaks in freeze dried samples. These findings suggested that gelatin from BBG skin possessed enhanced stability and functionality. Mass spectrometry of the extracted protein bands confirmed the presence of collagen type I-α1 as the predominant chain in both goat breeds, the study said. Notably, unique peptides such as collagen type XXII-α1 and α-1(III) were observed only in BBG gelatin, suggesting breed-specific functional characteristics. A species-specific peptide found in both samples provided a molecular marker for goat-based gelatin authentication, researchers said. The study was published in the latest issue of Small Ruminant Research.
Zawya
26-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
RAKBANK wins Euromoney's prestigious award for UAE's Best Bank for SMEs
Bank achieved a 25% increase in customer onboarding in 2024. Notably, 92% of accounts were opened digitally. Bank has also sanctioned over AED 4.75 Bn in new financing in 2024. Dubai, United Arab Emirates – RAKBANK's Business Banking Group (BBG) has been honoured with the highly coveted title of UAE's Best Bank for SMEs at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025, marking a milestone in the institution's longstanding commitment to empowering small and medium enterprises across the UAE. Recognised as the gold standard in the global banking industry, the Euromoney Awards celebrate institutions that consistently demonstrate exceptional performance, innovation, and leadership within their respective fields. This recognition firmly cements RAKBANK's position as the country's leading bank for SMEs. Announced on May 20 at an elegant ceremony in Dubai, the award win highlights RAKBANK's pivotal role in driving the growth of the UAE's SME sector. With over 92,000 businesses benefiting from its comprehensive solutions in 2024 alone – including finance to 13,000 entrepreneurs last year – RAKBANK has cemented its reputation as a trusted and innovative partner for SMEs. Key achievements driving the win RAKBANK facilitated 7.5% growth in its business banking portfolio in 2024, reflecting a 9% increase in SME loans Community engagement initiatives, like the launch of Season 2 of the SMESouk Podcast, reached a milestone of 3.8 million impressions on social media. As the first bank in the GCC to issue a Social Finance Bond, RAKBANK directed proceeds to key sectors, including SMEs and healthcare, aligning with We the UAE 2031 vision. The Bank's SME Confidence Index for 2025 highlighted strong optimism across the UAE's SME landscape, despite global economic headwinds. Committed to empowering SMEs Dhiraj Kunwar, Managing Director of Business Banking at RAKBANK, celebrated the win, saying: 'Winning Euromoney's prestigious award for the UAE's Best Bank for SMEs is a defining moment for RAKBANK and showcases our relentless commitment to the SME community. Supporting SMEs is not just a business priority for us; it's part of our DNA as a financial institution dedicated to shaping the UAE's economic future. 'Over the years, we have worked tirelessly to innovate and aid entrepreneurs in solving their challenges. Whether it's robust financing solutions, faster onboarding through digital platforms, or driving community engagement through initiatives like the SMESouk Podcast, we aim to empower SMEs at every stage of their growth. This award is proof of that success in providing service, technology, and impactful partnerships. We envision a future where every SME in the UAE feels empowered to thrive with RAKBANK as their trusted ally.' Through innovative thinking and an empathetic approach to business, RAKBANK has empowered SMEs to not just survive but thrive. From helping business owners in expanding their businesses through financing, to supporting larger enterprises in managing trade finances, the bank continues to lead with a customer-first philosophy. While RAKBANK are digitising their offerings, maintaining the personal touch is paramount for the bank, aligning with their strategic ambition to become the 'digital bank with a human touch'. About RAKBANK RAKBANK, also known as the National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah (P.S.C), is one of the UAE's oldest yet most dynamic banks. Since 1976, RAKBANK has been a market leader, offering a wide range of banking services across the UAE. We're a public joint stock company based in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, with our head office located in the RAKBANK Building on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. The Government of Ras Al Khaimah holds the majority of our shares, which are publicly traded on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX). RAKBANK stands out for its innovation and unwavering commitment to delivering awesome customer experiences. Our transformative digital journey aims to be a 'digital bank with a human touch,' accompanying you during key moments. With 21 branches and advanced Digital Banking solutions, we offer a wide range of Personal, Wholesale, and Business Banking services. Through our Islamic Banking unit, RAKislamic, we provide Sharia-compliant services to make your banking experience seamless, whether you visit us in person or online. For more information, please visit or contact the Call Centre on +9714 213 0000. Alternatively, you can connect with us on our social media platforms: For more information, please contact: Suzana Saoud Senior Account Manager Gambit Communications Suzana@
The Sun
15-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Price of popular beer hiked in supermarkets including Sainsbury's and Morrisons
DRINKERS are feeling the pinch as prices of the popular Spanish lager have shot up in supermarkets across the country. The price of your favourite San Miguel has been steadily increasing since Budweiser Brewing Group (BBG) took over its production in January. 1 Single bottles have been hit hardest, rising by an average of 34p to a hefty £2.55, according to an investigation by The Grocer. Sainsbury's shoppers have seen the biggest jump, with prices going up twice since January, from £1.99 to a whopping £2.75. Morrisons isn't far behind, with a bottle now costing £2.50, up from £2.20. Multipacks are also affected, with a four-pack of cans now costing around £5.94. Even larger packs have seen a slight increase. So, what's behind the price hike? BBG blames "government-imposed duties and new packaging taxes," which they say have increased production and distribution costs. The brewing and pub industry is dealing with a slew of financial pressure, including a rise in employee national insurance contributions and fresh charges on waste packaging, which have added £1 to the cost of a 12-pack of beers. This follows a 3.6% increase in duty rates introduced in February. This hated levy is charged on all drinks with an alcohol by volume (ABV) strength exceeding 1.2%, either at the point of production or upon importation. Sainsbury's and Morrisons say a variety of factors are impacting prices. Asda declined to comment. However, it seems San Miguel has been struggling to keep its head above water. Sales have dipped since BBG took over, falling by a hefty 13.3% to £216.3million. Despite the price increases, BBG is trying to keep the Spanish spirit alive with a big marketing campaign, promising a "Spanish Summer – No Matter, Where," complete with TV ads, social media buzz, and pub giveaways. A BBG spokesperson said: "San Miguel remains a consumer favourite, and we look forward to activating it this year with exciting marketing and trade campaigns." Other popular beer brands have opted to reduce alcohol content as a way to minimise the impact of rising costs and avoid price increases. What brands have slashed alcohol content? Coors is dropping the alcohol level of its lager from 4% to 3.4% in the coming weeks, joining a growing list of brands watering down their booze. Earlier this year, Heineken dropped the alcohol level of its SOL brand drinks from 4.2% to 3.4%. Grolsch was cut from 4% to 3.4% last year, leaving fans furious. The beer, relaunched by Asahi in 2020 after being scrapped the year before, was previously sold at 5% ABV. Kronenbourg saw its alcohol content drop from 5% to 4.6%, with Carlsberg Marston's insisting it could still 'deliver great taste and quality' despite the change. Hophead, brewed by Asahi-owned Dark Star, also fell from 3.8% to 3.4% last year as part of a major revamp across the range. Banks Amber Ale was reduced from 3.8% to 3.4% in mid-2023 as part of a move to encourage 'moderation' among drinkers. John Smith's Extra Smooth, the UK's No.1 keg ale, had its ABV trimmed from 3.6% to 3.4% to support healthier drinking habits according to Heineken. Fosters, the Aussie-themed lager, had its alcohol level cut from 4% to 3.7% back in 2022 as part of Heineken's drive to meet demand for lower-alcohol drinks. What's happening at pubs? Last week, the boss of Wetherspoons warned the price of a pint will go up by 20p in the coming days as breweries are already pushing through hikes on the back of costs pressures from Labour's tax hikes. The pub industry had already faced demands for higher prices from breweries, which had increased their prices by around 7p per pint in the past week, Sir Tim Martin revealed. "It means pints in pubs are going to go up by on average 15p to 20p this month", he said. Despite this, Sir Tim said he won't be raising prices at his own pubs. The British Beer and Pub Association recently warned that the price of a pint is expected to exceed the £5 mark, up from the current average of £4.80. Simon Dodd, chief executive of Young's, announced plans to raise the chain's prices by 2.5% to 3%. Similarly, Stonegate Group, which owns popular pubs like Slug & Lettuce, Walkabout, and Popworld, increased prices by 4% for its leased and tenanted pubs on May 2. Meanwhile Heineken increased the price of its draught beer by an average of 2.97% for pubs in February. In January, Wetherspoons raised the prices of some drinks and meal deals by up to 30p. How can I save money at Wetherspoons? FREE refills - Buy a £1.50 tea, coffee or hot chocolate and you can get free refills. The deal is available all day, every day. Check a map - Prices can vary from one location the next, even those close to each other. So if you're planning a pint at a Spoons, it's worth popping in nearby pubs to see if you're settling in at the cheapest. Choose your day - Each night the pub chain runs certain food theme nights. For instance, every Thursday night is curry club, where diners can get a main meal and a drink for a set price cheaper than usual. Pick-up vouchers - Students can often pick up voucher books in their local near universities, which offer discounts on food and drink, so keep your eyes peeled. Get appy - The Wetherspoons app allows you to order and pay for your drink and food from your table - but you don't need to be in the pub to use it. Taking full advantage of this, cheeky customers have used social media to ask their friends and family to order them drinks. The app is free to download on the App Store or Google Play. Check the date - Every year, Spoons holds its Tax Equality Day to highlight the benefits of a permanently reduced tax bill for the pub industry. It usually takes place in September, and last year it fell on Thursday, September 14. As well as its 12-day Real Ale Festival every Autumn, Wetherspoons also holds a Spring Festival.
Scottish Sun
15-05-2025
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Price of popular beer hiked in supermarkets including Sainsbury's and Morrisons
Other brands are cutting alcohol content to avoid hiking prices BEER WE GO Price of popular beer hiked in supermarkets including Sainsbury's and Morrisons Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) DRINKERS are feeling the pinch as prices of the popular Spanish lager have shot up in supermarkets across the country. The price of your favourite San Miguel has been steadily increasing since Budweiser Brewing Group (BBG) took over its production in January. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 BBG blames "government-imposed duties and new packaging taxes," which they say have increased production and distribution costs Credit: Gary Stone Single bottles have been hit hardest, rising by an average of 34p to a hefty £2.55, according to an investigation by The Grocer. Sainsbury's shoppers have seen the biggest jump, with prices going up twice since January, from £1.99 to a whopping £2.75. Morrisons isn't far behind, with a bottle now costing £2.50, up from £2.20. Multipacks are also affected, with a four-pack of cans now costing around £5.94. Even larger packs have seen a slight increase. So, what's behind the price hike? BBG blames "government-imposed duties and new packaging taxes," which they say have increased production and distribution costs. The brewing and pub industry is dealing with a slew of financial pressure, including a rise in employee national insurance contributions and fresh charges on waste packaging, which have added £1 to the cost of a 12-pack of beers. This follows a 3.6% increase in duty rates introduced in February. This hated levy is charged on all drinks with an alcohol by volume (ABV) strength exceeding 1.2%, either at the point of production or upon importation. Sainsbury's and Morrisons say a variety of factors are impacting prices. The Sun tries Wetherspoons' new menu Asda declined to comment. However, it seems San Miguel has been struggling to keep its head above water. Sales have dipped since BBG took over, falling by a hefty 13.3% to £216.3million. Despite the price increases, BBG is trying to keep the Spanish spirit alive with a big marketing campaign, promising a "Spanish Summer – No Matter, Where," complete with TV ads, social media buzz, and pub giveaways. A BBG spokesperson said: "San Miguel remains a consumer favourite, and we look forward to activating it this year with exciting marketing and trade campaigns." Other popular beer brands have opted to reduce alcohol content as a way to minimise the impact of rising costs and avoid price increases. What brands have slashed alcohol content? Coors is dropping the alcohol level of its lager from 4% to 3.4% in the coming weeks, joining a growing list of brands watering down their booze. Earlier this year, Heineken dropped the alcohol level of its SOL brand drinks from 4.2% to 3.4%. Grolsch was cut from 4% to 3.4% last year, leaving fans furious. The beer, relaunched by Asahi in 2020 after being scrapped the year before, was previously sold at 5% ABV. Kronenbourg saw its alcohol content drop from 5% to 4.6%, with Carlsberg Marston's insisting it could still 'deliver great taste and quality' despite the change. Hophead, brewed by Asahi-owned Dark Star, also fell from 3.8% to 3.4% last year as part of a major revamp across the range. Banks Amber Ale was reduced from 3.8% to 3.4% in mid-2023 as part of a move to encourage 'moderation' among drinkers. John Smith's Extra Smooth, the UK's No.1 keg ale, had its ABV trimmed from 3.6% to 3.4% to support healthier drinking habits according to Heineken. Fosters, the Aussie-themed lager, had its alcohol level cut from 4% to 3.7% back in 2022 as part of Heineken's drive to meet demand for lower-alcohol drinks. What's happening at pubs? Last week, the boss of Wetherspoons warned the price of a pint will go up by 20p in the coming days as breweries are already pushing through hikes on the back of costs pressures from Labour's tax hikes. The pub industry had already faced demands for higher prices from breweries, which had increased their prices by around 7p per pint in the past week, Sir Tim Martin revealed. "It means pints in pubs are going to go up by on average 15p to 20p this month", he said. Despite this, Sir Tim said he won't be raising prices at his own pubs. The British Beer and Pub Association recently warned that the price of a pint is expected to exceed the £5 mark, up from the current average of £4.80. Simon Dodd, chief executive of Young's, announced plans to raise the chain's prices by 2.5% to 3%. Similarly, Stonegate Group, which owns popular pubs like Slug & Lettuce, Walkabout, and Popworld, increased prices by 4% for its leased and tenanted pubs on May 2. Meanwhile Heineken increased the price of its draught beer by an average of 2.97% for pubs in February. In January, Wetherspoons raised the prices of some drinks and meal deals by up to 30p.
