By Sun Weizhe & Halo Xu

Sun Weizhe

Product Manager, European Division, Angel Yeast Co., Ltd.

Since earning his Ph.D. in 2023, Sun Weizhe has been with Angel Yeast, where he leads comprehensive strategic planning and market development for microbial protein products, with a primary focus on yeast protein solutions. Leveraging his solid expertise in food science and keen industry acumen, he has been instrumental in advancing microbial protein from laboratory research to commercial applications.

"Upon joining, I immediately recognized Angel's strategic foresight in sustainability, global operations and technological innovation," Sun Weizhe noted. "Yeast protein transcends being merely an innovation - it's positioned to become a fundamental pillar of tomorrow's food sector."

Industry Opportunities and Challenges

Driven by China's "Dual Carbon" policy, tightening global protein resources, and the growing momentum of sustainable development, yeast protein is emerging as a next-generation sustainable protein with increasingly strategic significance. It is rapidly transitioning from a "supplementary protein" to a "core protein" in the global food system. Facing this pivotal transformation for the future of food systems, Sun Weizhe stated, "I am deeply aware of the responsibility on my shoulders, yet also profoundly inspired to be part of it."

Brand Collaboration and Promotion

As the project leader, Sun Weizhe is working closely with the team to advance the Yeast Protein Brand Enhancement Initiative. The project has driven comprehensive collaboration across multiple dimensions—including market research, customer feedback, product optimization, brand communication, and sales support—continuously refining both product positioning and market strategy.  Under Sun's leadership, the European Division achieved robust revenue growth in yeast protein sales in 2024, laying a solid foundation for the company's competitive edge in the sustainable protein sector.

In retrospect, Sun remarked: "To me, this project was more than a professional assignment—it was an unforgettable journey of teamwork. Throughout the process, I witnessed firsthand Angel's culture of collaboration and trust. Colleagues from marketing, R&D, and production all contributed with openness and expertise to drive progress." It was this united, results-driven environment that enabled Sun to quickly integrate into the team and reinforced his commitment to grow alongside Angel.

Scientific Cooperation and Innovation

Relying upon Angel's extensive expertise in food technology, Sun has actively contributed to the company's collaborative projects with leading European universities and research institutions.  These initiatives focus on three key areas: functional development of yeast protein, diversification of product applications, and process optimization. "Bridging the gap between science and industry has not only extended my research pursuits but also provided invaluable cross-cultural and interdisciplinary learning opportunities," Sun reflected. "I truly cherish and take pride in this unique role in supporting the company's global expansion efforts."

Personal Growth and Future Prospects

Sun Weizhe deeply attributes his professional development to Angel's supportive ecosystem. "Angel is a company driven by mission—one that champions both technological innovation and employee growth," said the product manager. "Here, I've immersed myself in a culture of continuous learning, witnessed genuine investment in young talent, and experienced firsthand how leadership mentors new team members. This environment has not only sharpened my expertise but also given me profound fulfillment and a true sense of belonging."

Looking forward, Sun aspires to continue collaborating with his team to push the boundaries of microbial protein applications in global markets. "Together, we'll contribute our expertise to advance the food industry's green transition and sustainable future," he stated with conviction.