MFL starts corn sugar production

KARACHI: Matco Foods Limited (MFL) has begun producing dextrose monohydrate, a type of corn sugar, at a new plant in Karachi, the company said on Monday.

The plant, which has an annual capacity of 4,000 metric tonnes, started commercial operations on Dec. 4, it said in a statement to the Pakistan Stock Exchange. The project was completed in 14 months after breaking ground in 2022.

“Matco Foods Limited is pleased to announce the successful commissioning and commercial operations of its new 4,000 MT (metric tons) per year Dextrose Monohydrate plant,” the company's filing said. “The plant underwent extensive testing and thorough inspection before commissioning; therefore, the Commercial Operations Date (COD) is marked as December 4, 2023.”

Dextrose monohydrate is a natural carbohydrate that is used as a sweetener, thickener and bulking agent in food and beverage products, according to the company. The plant is located on company-owned land at Super Highway Industrial Area in Karachi, the country's largest city and commercial hub. The project has created new direct and indirect jobs, provided economic opportunities and will earn foreign exchange through exports, the company said. “We are committed to diversifying the industrial base and providing value addition for our stakeholders and Pakistan’s economy.”