Al Ain Farms Group (AAFG), the UAE’s largest national provider of protein and beverages, has entered a landmark partnership with Finnish food-tech innovator FoodIQ, marking a significant leap forward for the region’s food manufacturing sector. The strategic joint development agreement, announced in June 2025, will see AAFG become the first company globally to implement FoodIQ’s patented Multi-Layer Cooker (MLC) technology on an industrial scale outside Finland. This move positions the UAE as a trailblazer in adopting advanced, clean-label food production technologies, supporting the nation’s ambitions to become a global hub for sustainable food-tech innovation.
The MLC platform is a smart, modular system that enables flexible-batch production of high-viscosity foods such as yogurt, plant-based milk, cheese, and protein smoothies. Unlike traditional manufacturing methods, the MLC preserves the nutritional value of real ingredients without the need for additives or preservatives. It also significantly reduces energy and water usage, as well as production waste, aligning with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 and Food Security Strategy 2051 goals. This technology, already trusted by leading Nordic food companies, will now empower AAFG to locally produce a new generation of natural, high-protein foods that meet the growing demand for healthier choices in the region.
The partnership is set to rapidly accelerate product development and support local manufacturing, with three clean-label product ranges expected to launch within six months. AAFG’s adoption of the MLC technology is expected to drive broader expansion into both dairy and plant-based categories, reinforcing the group’s role as a regional leader in research and development of functional, natural foods. The collaboration also underscores the strong bilateral ties between the UAE and Finland, with the agreement signing attended by representatives from both countries, including Business Finland.
Leaders from both organizations have emphasized the transformative potential of this collaboration. “This partnership not only puts the UAE on the global map for food-tech adoption—it also empowers us to rapidly meet growing consumer demand for healthier choices while using local ingredients,” stated Hassan Safi, Group CEO of AAFG. Robert Savikko, CEO of FoodIQ, added, “Together with AAFG, we’re setting a new benchmark for clean-label, sustainable food manufacturing built on quality, transparency, and innovation.” As the UAE continues to prioritize food security, sustainability, and advanced technology, the AAFG-FoodIQ alliance stands as a milestone in the nation’s journey toward a healthier and more resilient food future.
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(Source: Zawya | Gulf Business | Dairy Industries International)
