BioZein Technology clinches win at Hong Kong Business Technology Excellence Awards 2025 for patented production technology

Its innovation advances sustainable materials with scalable Zein production – a promising sustainable natural raw material alternative to be used in many applications.

Biotechnology manufacturing company BioZein Technology emerged victorious at the coveted Hong Kong Business Technology Excellence Awards 2025 with the win in the Biotechnology - Manufacturing Technology category for successfully launching a scalable, patented production technology for commercial-grade zein as a response to the urgent global demand for sustainable alternatives to fossil-based plastics.

Zein is a biodegradable and renewable protein polymer derived from corn and has only been traditionally available in limited volumes and at high cost. BioZein’s innovation enables the production of consistent, high-quality zein at scale, making it a commercially viable and environmentally sound alternative for a wide range of industries, including packaging, food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and coatings.

This proprietary technology ensures a scalable, efficient, and environmentally friendly production process that drastically reduces manufacturing costs, standardises quality, and reducing reliance on traditional chemical solvents and improving process consistency. It is a closed-loop process that aligns with ESG goals and the circular economy, allowing companies to transition to natural solutions without compromising on performance or commercial viability.

The company launched one of the largest scalable commercial-scale zein facilities in March this year, further establishing Hong Kong as a hub of innovation in sustainable materials. The facility can produce multiple customised zein grades that ensure compatibility across sectors. Additionally, the facility can produce different zein grades to be used across various sectors depending on particular application requirements. Zein is opening doors for new product development and R&D.

BioZein has mentioned that beyond its product, its vision of making sustainability accessible sets it apart from its competitors, with its technology empowering manufacturers and brands to painlessly move from fossil-based materials to natural alternatives without a trade-off in quality or efficiency.

“This alignment of performance, scalability, and sustainability positions BioZein as a game-changer in the global materials industry. We believe our innovation is a breakthrough for the planet and for industry, and this award would help shine a light on Hong Kong’s role in leading green technology on the global stage,” it said.

Hong Kong Business Technology Excellence Awards honours outstanding companies and solutions that have made exceptional contributions in pursuit of technological innovation within Hong Kong’s dynamic tech landscape.

The Hong Kong Business Technology Excellence Awards is presented by Hong Kong Business Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2026 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's outstanding contributions in pursuit of technological innovation, please contact Julie Anne Nuñez-Difuntorum at [email protected].