DUBAI: Strong commitment to its 2022 business strategy, where innovation excellence is key, has led to two major awards for Global Food Industries (GFI), a leading world-class value-added frozen food manufacturing company that is part of Albatha Holding, one of the largest conglomerates in the UAE. The company received this year’s topmost award as the ‘4 Star Winner’ of the UAE Innovation Awards, as well as a special award for ‘Spreading innovation culture throughout UAE private sector’, excelling in – the ‘Innovation Drivers’ criteria. This is the second consecutive year GFI has been given accolade, earning the company a total of three prestigious awards and the only one across all sectors to achieve such recognition for exerting rigorous efforts in employing innovation in its business
The UAE Innovation Award recognizes participating companies based on score performance achieved. This year, GFI is the only company in food & beverage industry that has achieved the highest rating of 4 stars, which was assessed based on the overall innovation maturity level of private sector companies. Joining the award is in line with GFI’s continuing commitment to promote food innovation that contribute to healthier lifestyle choices in the UAE while enjoying convenient, nutritious and delicious food options. It targets to reach 2 million consumers with its innovative healthy range of products.
The UAE Innovation Award was held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman & Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group and being hosted by Dubai Quality Group. The 2nd cycle of UAE Innovation Award this year, saw increased participation from the private sector to engage in innovation, and announced the winners during a special ceremony on February 27, 2019, in line with the celebration of UAE Innovation Month.
The Award focused on three main criteria: innovation capability, innovation drivers, and innovation results.
Jacek Plewa, General Manager, GFI, on winning the awards said: “It is a great honor for GFI to gain the highest Innovation award this year and the Special Innovation award at the UAE Innovation Awards and we deeply appreciate the organizers for recognizing our efforts to spread the culture of innovation in the UAE and the region. We are elated to receive these awards, which are in line with our mission to improve the quality of life of our people, customers and society by bringing innovative, quality and trusted products to the consumers, in line with their health and wellness needs.”
He added that GFI, continues to innovate with a range of products, including the recent launch of its revolutionary ‘Never from meat’ plant-based pea protein burgers under its Healthy Farm brand. The new products are offering a number of health benefits and present a healthy alternative that endeavor to match or even surpass the taste of animal meat counterparts. Market studies reveal that in the UAE, 40 per cent of consumers are open to choosing meat alternatives for health, animal welfare, and environmental reasons. ‘Never from meat’ products, which include superfoods such as kale and quinoa, contain 20 per cent more protein, 40 per cent less calories, 50 per cent less fat, 40 per cent less carbs, 60 per cent less sodium, 70 per cent more calcium, and 60 per cent more iron than ordinary chicken burgers.
“Following our ‘Nothing to hide, the choice is yours’ principle, it is part of our commitment to provide nutritious food for healthier and happier communities in the UAE. After winning 3 top Innovation Awards in last and this year’s UAE Innovation Awards, we are inspired to work harder and do more for the society and the country, whose interests are growing towards healthier and more sustainable options. GFI’s consistent efforts and business growth strategy through innovation and brand building have proven to be successful once again and we are delighted that the jury has appreciated our initiatives, not once but twice this year”, he concluded.
GFI has also launched its ‘My Pledge’ initiative recently which targets to reformulate its products and reduce the amount of salt, fats, sugar, and other additives from its range of food offerings, starting with Healthy Farm
Earlier this month, Global Food Industries also received the ‘Most Innovative Halal Food’ category at the Gulfood Innovation Awards for the Healthy Farm plant-based pea protein burgers. Participating in the UAE Innovation award is also part of GFI’s efforts to support the UAE Innovation Month and drive the spirit of creativity in local markets and raise the level of interest towards innovative practices among the private sector, thereby strengthening the UAE’s vision to create sustainable and innovation-based economy. News Desk
