Jawaher Darweish AlYammahi - العربية

Dr. Jawaher Al Yamahi innovation is a sustainable model for producing halal meat by combining Sharia-compliant cell sources with scaffolding derived from locally available biomass.

Her idea was inspired by the growing global need for sustainable protein sources and the clear gap in Sharia-compliant solutions, particularly in line with the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051.

The process begins by isolating stem cells from animals slaughtered according to halal guidelines. Subsequently, the cells are cultured to ensure religious compliance and avoid prohibited components. A key unique element is the scaffolding, which provides the structural framework for muscle tissue.

Instead of expensive imported biomaterials, her approach utilizes locally available biomass such as date pomace, duckweed, and halophytic plants.

These materials are processed into lignocellulose biomaterials suitable for supporting muscle and fat tissue formation, thus contributing to the UAE’s circular economy goals.

This innovation is distinguished by its integration of compliance with Islamic Sharia standards, tissue engineering, and circular economy principles to create a regionally designed and scalable model that mimics the texture, color, and flavor of traditional meats, thus helping to bridge a critical gap in global protein innovation.