BRF and HPDC announce creation of halal food innovation center at Jeddah plant

As another step toward consolidating its strategic presence in Saudi Arabia, BRF, one of the world’s largest food companies and owner of the brands Sadia, Perdigão, Qualy, and Banvit, and Halal Products Development Company (HPDC), a Public Investment Fund (PIF) company, has announced the creation of an innovation center at their processed food plant in Jeddah, the Kingdom’s second-largest city.

The laboratory complex is being designed with a focus on innovation, safety, and excellence in quality, meeting strict regulatory requirements and catering to the expectations of the local market. Following the construction of a new processed food plant announced in April this year, this investment reflects the commitment of both companies to invest in the Kingdom’s local halal food supply and innovation, aligned with Vision 2030.

In parallel, BRF and HPDC have officialized the establishment of a Center of Excellence responsible for information and data management, connecting, adapting, and implementing best practices to optimize the processes and maximize the operations.

“The investment in establishing an Innovation Center in Jeddah is a strategic step in consolidating our local presence in Saudi Arabia. The integration of research, cutting-edge technology, and local talent enables us to increase operational efficiency and better adapt to the specific needs of the local consumers,” said Marquinhos Molina, CEO of BRF Arabia.

The innovation center will feature a state-of-the-art laboratory divided into three specialized areas: a Physicochemical Laboratory focused on technical specifications and quality control; a Microbiological Laboratory ensuring biosafety and preventing food contamination; and a Sensory Laboratory that evaluates whether the flavor, aroma, texture, and appearance meet the specific demands of the local consumer market.

Skilled workforce

The Jeddah plant is expected to generate over 500 direct jobs in the region, including specialized professionals who will work in the innovation center. These professionals will be responsible for standardizing and optimizing manufacturing processes, ensuring excellence in quality and strict compliance with food safety protocols. This aligns with national workforce development priorities and reinforces the localization of knowledge-intensive jobs in the Kingdom.

“The innovation center marks a significant step forward in HPDC’s mission to build a world-class halal ecosystem and position the Kingdom as a global halal hub. It underscores our commitment to strengthening local manufacturing capabilities, promoting self-sufficiency, and creating high-value job opportunities, all of which are essential to achieving the sustainability and economic diversification goals outlined in Vision 2030. The Center will serve as a launchpad for future halal product innovations, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global reference point in this sector,” emphasized Fahad Alnuhait, CEO of HPDC.

Jeddah plant

Announced in April of this year, the new plant dedicated to processed foods will have an estimated annual production capacity of 40,000 tons and an investment of $160 million in its initial phase. Production will serve the Saudi market, with the potential for exports to other countries in the region. Operations are scheduled to begin in mid-2026.

Presence in the Middle East

BRF has been operating in the Middle East for over 50 years and leads the market with its Sadia brand, exporting to more than 14 countries in the region. In 2025, the company, through BRF Arabia – its joint venture with HPDC – officially entered the halal poultry production sector in Saudi Arabia with the acquisition of a 26 percent stake in Addoha Poultry Company, a well-established player in the Saudi market, marking its official entry into the halal poultry production sector in the Kingdom. As a result of this acquisition, Sadia products are now also being produced locally at Addoha’s facility.

About BRF Arabia

In August 2023, BRF announced the creation of a joint venture with Halal Products Development Company (HPDC), a Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) company. The joint venture, BRF Arabia, was established on December 10, 2023, with BRF holding a 70 percent stake and HPDC holding the remaining 30 percent.

About HPDC

Halal Products Development Company (HPDC), established in October 2022, is a PIF company dedicated to advancing Saudi Arabia’s halal products sector. Focusing on key segments such as food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, HPDC plays a pivotal role in developing a globally competitive halal ecosystem through strategic investments, innovation, and international partnerships. In line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, HPDC seeks to position the Kingdom as a global halal hub, while enhancing food security, supporting economic diversification, and driving the export of high-quality halal offerings to markets worldwide.