BIONEST

About the team

Our team of four VinUniversity students envisions building a prototype that showcases not only our capabilities but also Vietnam’s innovation potential. Participating in this challenge allows us to network with ambitious global students and deepen our understanding of agriculture-focused biotechnology. Though young, we are driven by a shared passion for learning and creating solutions that can make a real-world impact, aspiring to leave a legacy for both science and our community.

Our vision

Edible bird nests are valued not only for their cultural significance but also for their exceptional nutritional benefits. These nests are rich in protein relative to their mass and contain complex biological compounds with proven health benefits. Widely used as a medicinal supplement and a vital nutrient for patients and the elderly, edible bird nests represent both a luxury item and a health necessity. However, the current industry faces environmental, quality, and accessibility challenges. Beyond addressing these issues, our long-term vision includes leveraging space technology, such as laboratory experiments conducted in zero gravity. Space-based research has proven to accelerate biogenerative advancements, enabling better control over cellular growth and structural replication. By integrating such cutting-edge methods, we aim to set a global benchmark for sustainable food innovation, ensuring that this natural treasure remains accessible, affordable, and of consistent quality for future generations.

Our solution

Our solution, Bionest, uses biogenerative technology to replicate edible bird nests in a lab environment. This method surpasses alternative protein sources like insect protein and lab-grown meat in niche appeal and cultural resonance. While insect protein is sustainable, it lacks widespread acceptance due to cultural biases. Similarly, lab-grown meat focuses on bulk protein production but does not cater to medicinal or luxury markets. By contrast, biogenerative edible bird nests retain their cultural and nutritional value while addressing sustainability concerns. One inspiration is Pembient, a Seattle-based biotech startup tackling rhino poaching by 3D-printing rhino horns from keratin. This case demonstrates how biogeneration can undercut exploitative markets by offering ethical, lab-created alternatives. Similarly, Bionest uses advanced technology to create edible bird nests that are identical in structure and function to the natural product. Scalability is a core advantage. Lab-controlled environments enable consistent, fast production with sensors and automated systems ensuring precise quality. Whether for medicinal use or mass-market consumption, this technology guarantees stability, making edible bird nests accessible to a broader audience while retaining premium quality.