The Government of Sharjah’s Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL), through its commercial arm Ektifa, is set to enhance sustainability practices at its Meliha Dairy Factory. The first-of-its-kind organic dairy farm in the UAE will adopt Tetra Pak’s advanced processing and filling solutions.
A high-profile delegation led by H.E. Dr. Eng. Khalifa Musabah Al Teneiji, Chairman of the Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Ektifa, recently visited Tetra Pak’s main production facility in Lund, Sweden. The visit aimed to explore advanced technologies in sustainable dairy production and packaging. The delegation included Niels Hougaard, Managing Director of Tetra Pak Arabia Area.
During the visit, two significant agreements were signed. The first, worth USD 3.5 million, involves installing the Tetra Top Filling Line at the Meliha Dairy Factory. This innovative line will enable the use of Tetra Top® packaging for all dairy products, offering a sustainable and recyclable solution. The second agreement, valued at USD 8 million, focuses on utilities generation and distribution, ensuring the factory’s processing equipment and filling machines are efficiently supported with steam, air, and chilled and processed water.
H.E. Dr. Eng. Khalifa Musabah Al Teneiji expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are excited to partner with the leading innovator in food and beverages packaging and processing. Tetra Pak’s cutting-edge technology and commitment to sustainability align perfectly with our vision to provide organic, locally produced dairy products to the people of the UAE. This agreement is a significant step forward for both entities. With Tetra Pak’s advanced technology, we are confident in achieving enhanced production efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and superior product quality.”
Niels Hougaard echoed this sentiment, stating: “We are honoured to be the chosen partner by DAL and Ektifa for the Meliha Dairy Plant. Hosting the high-level delegation at our main production facility in Lund underlines our commitment to sharing advanced technological know-how in sustainable dairy production and packaging. Our strength lies in providing end-to-end solutions, ensuring consumers have access to fresh produce while minimizing environmental footprint through sustainable packaging.”
The new agreements build on an earlier deal signed in January, furthering the implementation of Tetra Pak’s technology at the processing facility. The Meliha Dairy Factory’s adoption of Tetra Pak’s solutions highlights Sharjah’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the dairy industry.