Due: November 14, 2025

Abstract

A global food manufacturer seeks enzymatic technologies to convert maltose in solution into a non-sugar alternative for use in food products while maintaining clean labels.

Background

Maltose is a common, versatile component in modern food production. Consumers, however, seek food products with reduced sugar content while maintaining taste and texture. Consequently, TechConnect’s client, a multi-billion-dollar leader in the snack food industry, is interested in an enzymatic process by which maltose is converted into a non-sugar ingredient such as fiber or oligosaccharides. Such a conversion would improve nutritional values while maintaining consumer experience.

The client intends to convert part of the maltose content of sugar syrups to a non-sugar alternative prior to utilizing it in the production process.

All enzymatic processes and technologies are of interest. The client is exclusively interested in solutions which are approaching or have achieved commercial availability: early-stage solutions are not of interest, at this time. Pilot plant-scale evaluations are expected to be conducted by the end of Q1 2026 with full-scale implementation desired by the end of Q3 2026.

This effort will initially be applied to snack bars but has the potential to be expanded to other food categories in the future. If successful, this effort will also be introduced to other manufacturing plants globally.

The client is not interested in alternatives to converting maltose or non-enzymatic processing technologies.

Proposed technologies and approaches should permit the client to maintain clean labeling on packaging.

The client is primarily interested in establishing a supplier relationship with organizations with effective technologies but will also consider alternatives upon discussion with select respondents.

The goal of this sprint is to facilitate contact and interactions between the Sprint sponsor and commercial entities (including startups) or technology developers in this space.

Requirements

TechConnect encourages solvers to highlight capabilities in their submission that meet criteria including:

• Overview of Approach
• Technical Maturity and Availability of Samples
• Regulatory Approvals
• Preferred Business Relationship
• Highlights of Prior Implementation
• Experience with Commercial-Scale Supply

Business Opportunity for Solvers

TechConnect will include all complete and eligible entries in an exclusive innovation opportunity report for our client. TechConnect or its client may contact solvers with well-matched capabilities to discuss potential partnership opportunities, including – but not limited to – demonstrations, consulting, contract research, licensing, and more. TechConnect may also invite top-rated entries to register or participate in an upcoming event or pitch program.