Malaysian companies advance halal functional food and biotechnology

Malaysian companies are advancing the halal functional food and beverage sector through biotechnology and integrated manufacturing.

Pharm-D Health Science Berhad, in partnership with Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and Biotenova, has brought a patented halal postbiotic innovation to market. Derived from local bioresources such as cabbage and Musang King durians, the innovation includes proprietary ingredients like LASSICA K014®, ACASEI™, and PLANTACT®. The technology has received several accolades, including a Silver Award at the SOBA 2025 and a Gold Medal at ITEX 2026.

Separately, EMZI Health Science Sdn. Bhd., part of the EMZI Group, operates an integrated manufacturing facility at Kedah Halal Park. Established in 2020 to improve supply chain resilience following pandemic-related disruptions, the company focuses on producing health supplements and functional food and beverage products under strict Halal, GMP, HACCP, and ISO 22000 standards.