Feasting on our favourite treats while maintaining a healthy weight - a common dilemma for foodies. PolyU researchers have developed a novel innovation that could be the solution: AkkMore™, a fungus-based fat replacer that not only prevents obesity and enhances gut health, but also modulates immune response and relieves anxiety.

AkkMore™: an award-winning breakthrough

Developed by a research team led by Dr Gail Chang, Core Member of RiFood and Research Assistant Professor of the Department of Food Science and Nutrition (FSN); and Dr Amber Chiou, Associate Director and Associate Professor of RiFood, and Associate Head of FSN, AkkMore™ has already garnered international recognition, winning a Silver Medal at the 2022 International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva. 

AkkMore™ is a fungus-based fat replacer extracted from natural fungus. When combined with traditional cream, the AkkMore™-based Cream Mate formulation reduces fat and calories while preserving taste and texture, and even extends the shelf life of cream-based products. Through three phases of animal experiments, the researchers have demonstrated the effectiveness of the AkkMore™ formula. In the long term, it can reduce dairy consumption and food waste, providing innovative ESG solutions in the food industry. 

A testament to successful translation of a research outcome

Moving forward, the research team at PolyU is committed to exploring the application of AkkMore™ in innovative health foods. They will also focus on identifying mushroom strains with better functions and standardising the cultivation process. 

Dr Gail Chang's entrepreneurial journey, supported by the PolyU GBA Startup Postdoc Programme, the PolyU Micro Fund, and the Incu-Tech Programme of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, exemplifies the university's dedication to translating research outcomes into real-world solutions.

Eager to experience the magic of AkkMore™?

The research team has collaborated with GREEN of Hotel ICON, PolyU’s teaching and research hotel, to introduce the new limited time "ForestFit Afternoon Tea with Japanese Fruit And Akkmore™", featuring reduced-fat soft serve and desserts infused with the innovative formula. 

Hotel ICON’s “ForestFit Afternoon Tea With Japanese Fruit And Akkmore™”

Laboratory tests have confirmed that the soft serve with AkkMore™ Cream Mate contains less than 3% total fat and has reduced total energy by more than half compared to regular soft serve. This collaboration highlights the practical application of AkkMore™ in creating healthier and environmentally sustainable food options.

Book your spot and be one of the first to savour PolyU's mouth-watering breakthrough: https://bit.ly/44QgrF0