North Jeolla Province, Dutch Embassy sign MOU on alternative proteins

North Jeolla Province signed a memorandum of understanding with the Embassy of the Netherlands in Seoul on Tuesday to collaborate on developing alternative proteins, a move aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in the growing food-tech sector. The agreement was signed at the North Jeolla provincial government office during Dutch Ambassador to Korea Peter van der Vliet’s first official visit to the province since assuming his post. Under the agreement, the two sides will conduct a joint analysis of the alternative protein industry, promote exchanges between delegations, foster partnerships between companies and research institutes and explore joint participation in “Horizon Europe” — the European Union’s largest multinational research and innovation program. Alternative proteins, derived from sources such as soy, wheat and yeast, are considered a sustainable solution to the environmental challenges posed by conventional meat production. Provincial officials expressed hope that the agreement would serve as a catalyst for increased technology exchange and collaborative rese