SG's first shared facility for small-batch food production opens

The facility is expected to benefit at least 200 food manufacturers.

Singapore's first shared facility for small-batch food production, FoodPlant, has opened its doors to food manufacturers.

Through FoodPlant, at least 200 food manufacturers can gain access to a wide range of pilot-scale equipment, research and development (R&D) consultancy services, and upskilling courses which they can utilise to develop new, innovative food products.

Ahead of the launch, FoodPlant has already secured 17 membership sign-ups by companies and individuals.

Amongst the equipment available in the facility is a Twin-Screw Extrude which employs a High Moisture Extrusion Technology (HMET) to texturise plant-based protein into viable meat alternatives, and a Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) system for microbial inactivation, improved extraction, drying acceleration, amongst other advantages.

Meanwhile, upskilling courses which will be provided in FoodPlant include "High Moisture Extrusion Technology (HMET) for Meat Analogues," "Food and Feed Extrusion Technology," and "Retort Processing." 

Following its launch, the facility is expected to support the development of at least 400 new food products by 2026. Food products manufactured in the facility can be sold commercially.

FoodPlant is a 1,107 square metre facility located in JTC Food Hub @ Senoko. It was jointly launched by the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), Enterprise Singapore (Enterprise SG), and JTC; and licensed by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA).

SIT and FoodPlant also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Foodbowl New Zealand to collaborate on food innovation and manufacturing.