The research team led by Associate Professor Yu Xi from the Food and Nutritional Sciences programme at the Macau University of Science and Technology (MUST) Faculty of Medicine, in collaboration with Macau Uniwin Biotechnology Co., Ltd., has made positive progress in the joint research, development, and market research of plant-based meat products. This collaboration project was recently featured in a special report by Teledifusão de Macau (TDM), which showcased the team's research process and interim results. The collaboration aims to develop plant-based foods that better meet consumer needs, promote healthy and sustainable food technology development, and contribute to the diversification of Macau's local industries.
Mr. Marco Li, Founder of Macau Uniwin Biotechnology Co., Ltd. (4th from left), Associate Professor Yu Xi (4th from right), and her research team
Associate Professor Yu Xi explained that the research team focuses on developing innovative plant-based materials. By analysing the interactions between plant protein molecules, they are uncovering the mechanisms behind macroscopic properties such as elasticity, hardness, and fibrous texture, thereby creating plant-based materials that more closely mimic the taste and texture of real meat. This research holds significant academic value and provides a scientific basis for subsequent product development.
As part of this collaboration, the team and Macau Uniwin Biotechnology Co., Ltd. conducted consumer preference research on plant-based meat products. The findings indicate a high level of acceptance among local consumers for plant-based meat products with Chinese culinary flavours, suggesting broad market prospects for such items. Research team member Lu Yushi pointed out that future efforts will focus on further developing new products that align with market demands based on these survey results and promoting their commercialisation.
Research team members demonstrating the preparation process of plant-based meat products
Raw materials (top) and finished plant-based meat products (bottom) on display
The founder of Macau Uniwin Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Mr. Marco Li, expressed optimism about the market prospects for plant-based meat products. He emphasised that translating high-quality R&D achievements into new products will inject fresh momentum into the company's sustainable development. Mr. Li also looks forward to the enhanced competitiveness of Macau's technology industry and the deepening of industry-academia collaboration following the completion of the Science and Technology Industrial Park.
The team during the TDM interview
This research collaboration not only advances the plant-based meat industry but also achieves a close integration of academic research innovation and industrial needs, providing substantial support for promoting the appropriate diversification of Macau's economy. The coverage by TDM has further increased public awareness and attention regarding plant-based food technology.
