Holista CollTech Limited (ASX:HCT) has partnered with Malaysian listed Kawan Food Berhad to develop a range of low-Glycemic Index (GI) Indian flatbreads.
The company will use its proprietary mix of ingredients, trademarked as GI Lite, to develop the flatbreads, which will be sold in Malaysia by April 2019.
Low GI version to address obesity
Holista managing director and CEO Rajen Manicka said: “We are excited to announce our partnership with Kawan Food, a home-grown producer and supplier of some of Malaysia’s favourite food.
“Our low GI versions of this popular staple food will help to address the growing problem of obesity and diabetes in Malaysia and abroad.”
40% lower blood sugar levels
The GI indicates the rate at which foods containing carbohydrates raise human blood sugar levels, with a lower score decreasing links to diabetes and heart disease and indicating healthier food.
Holista aims to produce the same results with the new GI Lite range that it has previously achieved with flatbread, with levels being around 40% lower than the current global average of 70.
Research and product trials are planned to begin later this month with the testing completed at the University of Sydney as per international standards for Glycemic Index.
All natural formula
A breakfast favourite and staple food in Malaysia, roti canai contains significant amounts of calories and fats and increases the already existing problem of obesity in the country.
However, Holista’s all-natural formula, which comprises a blend of okra, barley, lentils and fenugreek, lowers the GI reading of the final product when mixed with white flour.
New niche in food ingredients sector
Kawan Food managing director Timothy Tan said: “We are proud to work with Holista to be the first in the world to offer healthy flatbreads such as roti canai, effectively carving out a new niche in the food ingredients sector in Malaysia and beyond.”
- Jessica Cummins