We mainly collected problems through the questionnaire, which showed a general result of people lacking knowledge about papain, looking forward to trying papain products. Two-thirds of the responses indicated that the respondents had no idea at all what papain was (problem 1). At the same time, only 10% of the respondents are considered familiar with papain and only 8 out of 400 people have done research on papain. To address this issue, Dr. Liu suggested us to expand the reputation of the papain by educating consumers about the papain’s benefits and enhancing brand presence. Professor Han and Dr. Liu both recommended celebrity endorsements. Even though most people did not notice the effect of papain-containing skincare products, 70% of the respondents kept a wait-and-see attitude about papain and its application. With, 38 out of 89 says that the product is suitable for sensitive skin, 50% of the responses answered that the product is safe, a solid market foundation for papain-infused skincare solutions.

Our results demonstrated that consumers value “natural and safe ingredients” (47.75%) over “brand reputation” (8.79%) when selecting products, while companies prefer lower cost over efficacy. We concluded that MEIZHONG BIOTECHNOLOGY has the best solution for this problem, which is selling products themselves instead of selling the enzyme to other companies. However, since our marketing method for now is B2B, it’s important to keep the price low. Professor Han pointed out that isozymes are already cheaper than high-performance variants. He recommended us to use yeast instead of E. coli because yeast can feed on inorganic materials which saves costs. Current E. coli systems are costly due to protein-rich media, making yeast or Bacillus systems (using inorganic nutrients) is more viable for mass production. Dr. Liu gave us a more complicated solution of using SMEs to reduce global costs by testing markets via cross-border e-commerce trials, obtaining international certifications, integrating diverse requirements during research and development.

During our field research at the China (Shanghai) International Beauty Expo, our in-depth consumer interviews revealed three major pain points in the current skincare market: First, the imbalance between price and efficacy - premium products are prohibitively expensive while affordable alternatives underperform, particularly for papain-based products where traditional plant extraction methods result in high costs. Second, products demonstrate singular and unstable efficacy, with claimed antioxidant and anti-aging benefits proving ineffective and often leading to tolerance with prolonged use. Some consumers with sensitive skin specifically requested gentler yet effective skincare solutions.

Figure 2 Trip to China (Shanghai) International Beauty Expo

Figure 3 Interview with Dr. Liu

To further enhance the quality of our product, Dr. Liu suggested us to carry out regular batch testing and adverse reaction monitoring. He pointed out that the EU has placed emphasis on the requirement of robust in vivo data when warranting claims about effects our product may have, but we have not done so due to safety and ethical concerns. He also recommended invention patents to protect our new papain processes/applications. For raw materials, contracts must define quality standards (activity, purity, microbes), and ensure timely delivery.

Does our product have a competitive position in the market? According to Dr. Liu, to navigate regulatory differences, target emerging markets with lenient rules (e.g., India via cost-cutting) and developed markets with patented tech/clinical data. The papain market is projected to grow 5% annually. Our survey results showed that industry professionals recognize papain’s transformative potential in skincare innovation. Notably, 41.67% believe it will “definitely promote”. Besides, think tank data forecasts the global natural papain market to grow from $15 million in 2024 to $2.0325 billion by 2035. Amid the clean beauty trend, papain’s multi-functional, gentle properties give it an edge over chemical alternatives. Ingredient blending unlocks further innovation. With strong market growth and regulatory fit, this project offers high - value research and commercial potential.

After identifying those problems mentioned above, we adapted it into our practical experiment. In the interview, Professor Han suggest using websites created by experienced scientists, search engines with large databases like and some Al tools. So we use NCBI Blast to select the best 4 isoenzymes of papain by choosing the highest 4 percentage identity isoenzymes. Then we predicted protein structures using AlphaFold. We also realized that apart from low prices, the catalytic activity and the safety of our enzyme are also important. In order to ensure our enzymes are stable and effective, we did a few functional tests like the FN1 test and ELISA test. Both experiments test the hydrolytic activity of enzymes which is especially important in the development of skincare product.

Figure 4 Interview with Professor Han

Apart from that, Professor Han claimed that it is important test enzymes with different ingredients to find out which works best on skin, because what we found that worked best in lab might not work as well on skin. We should find out whether the enzymes can tolerate the main ingredient in skincare products such as hyaluronic acid glycerin. We can also add a highlight on our project by testing the effects of different types of detergents and different concentrations of detergent on enzyme activity. This is also mentioned by Mr. Zhang.

Potential Customer

Our B2B model targets affordable skincare brands and manufacturers seeking cost-effective, high-performance ingredients. These customers prioritise balancing efficacy with low production costs. And the isoenzyme of papain that we found through synthetic biology significantly reduced cost (compared with the traditional plant extraction of papain), making it their ideal choice. The skincare industry is shifting from harsh acids to gentler enzymes for exfoliation and antioxidant benefits, aligning with our product’s value proposition. We offer a competitively priced enzyme that meets demand for mild yet effective formulations. This positions us well in the growing market for enzyme-based skincare, where brands need affordable, innovative ingredients to cater to price-sensitive consumers.

Business Model and Commercialization Route

At the Beauty Expo, we learned that MEIZHONG BIOTECHNOLOGY specializes in supplying high-end skincare ingredients derived from natural components. They collaborate with mid-to-high-end skincare brands like Simpcare and are renowned for aligning their natural ingredients and scientific research with market demands. We observed that the ingredients they produce are similar to papain, which inspired us to adopt a B2B business model.

Figure 5 Talk with MEIZHONG BIOTECHNOLOGY's Manager

Market Entry & Positioning and Consumer Preferences

Professor Han highlighted that papain can gently exfoliate keratin and has antioxidant and anti-aging effects. Given the current market shift from acids to enzymes, there is strong global demand for this enzyme.

Questionnaire results showed that 50.75% of respondents prefer cosmetics priced below 200 yuan, indicating a strong market preference for affordable skincare products. Nearly half (47.75%) of consumers prioritize "natural and safe ingredients" when selecting products, while brand reputation ranked the lowest (8.79%). This suggests that consumers value efficacy over marketing hype. These findings demonstrate the significant commercial potential of high-cost-performance, natural, and safe papain-based products. Papain's natural origin, proven skincare benefits (keratin removal, brightening, and anti-aging effects), and its ability to be mass-produced at low cost through synthetic biology techniques (such as E. coli protein synthesis) perfectly align with market demands. As a result, affordable skincare manufacturers are increasingly seeking this ingredient.

Figure 6 Pie Chart Analysis

During our interview with Mr. Zhang, for new product adoption risks, he proposed defensive funding strategies and multi-platform marketing (e.g., Rednote, TikTok) to boost exposure. Celebrity endorsements and trial activities were suggested to accelerate consumer acceptance.

Figure 7 Interview with Mr. Zhang

At the Beauty Expo, during an interview with a manager from MEIZHONG BIOTECHNOLOGY, we learned that in recent years, due to increased late-night habits among young people, the demand for early anti-aging solutions has risen. Consumers aged 20 and above have begun paying attention to anti-aging ingredient products, driving market growth in this segment. Additionally, the manager mentioned that MEIZHONG BIOTECHNOLOGY’s customer repurchase rate reached 97.5%, further validating market recognition for such products. According to their research, when balancing price, safety, and effectiveness, safety and efficacy are the core attractions for consumers, with price being the least prioritized factor.

Cost Control

However, Professor Han pointed out that cost control is the core challenge in commercialization, as companies often opt for cheaper isoenzymes rather than those with optimal performance. Although there is strong global market demand for papain, its actual economic viability depends on production cost control. The current limiting factor lies in the expression system—E. coli expression systems, which require protein cultivation, result in excessively high costs and are more suitable for research purposes. In contrast, expression systems such as yeast and Bacillus, which can utilize inorganic nutrients, are better suited for industrial-scale production.

Professor Han particularly emphasized that maintaining product competitiveness requires continuous technological upgrades and phasing out inefficient, high-cost production processes.

At the Beauty Expo, we learned that the MEIZHONG BIOTECHNOLOGY offers customized services compliant with National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) regulations, but at a relatively higher cost. Therefore, we concluded that due to the need for cost control, it would be difficult for us to provide such customized services.

To address papain import costs, Mr. Zhang suggested localizing production in Guangxi and refrigerating raw materials to preserve enzyme activity. Patent strategies should target production technology, trademarks, and formulations. For funding shortages, equity investment and phased production were recommended.

Overseas Expansion

Fully knowledge of regulations in both the EU and China is indispensable because this determines whether our product can appear on the national and international market. Both caution against enzymes exceeding 5% in leave-on products due to allergy risks, China mandates this limit under GB 1803-93, whereas the EU offers non-binding guidance referencing FCC/IUBMB standards. For efficacy claims, the EU strictly requires human clinical data, while China accepts lab or human data; non-compliance faces penalties in both markets. Ongoing obligations include raw material compliance, batch testing, and adverse reaction monitoring.

As an SME, Dr. Liu recommended testing the market via cross-border e-commerce, obtaining international certifications, integrating diverse needs during R&D, and leveraging celebrity endorsements to reduce global costs. To navigate regulatory differences, we should target emerging markets with more lenient regulations (e.g., entering India through cost-cutting strategies) and developed markets where patented technology/clinical data provides an advantage.

Additionally, we could explore trial sales through cross-border e-commerce or secure international certifications to enter the EU/US markets while adapting to increasingly stringent global regulations on papain usage in cosmetics.

Suggestions on Laws and Regulations

Apart from pursuing the ultimate performance of our product, we should also get to know all the regulations from multiple areas. To fully understand enzyme preparation compliance, legitimacy, and risks, we interviewed Dr. Liu, a Senior Researcher at Mongols Think Tank and a Senior Member of the China Behavioral Law Society. His insights highlight key focuses for papain product operations: clarify contractual responsibilities on quality, delivery, and activity guarantees with suppliers and OEMs, pursue invention patents and design patents with international filing, enter EU/US markets via cross-border e-commerce trial sales or international certifications and adapt to tightening global cosmetics regulations on papain use.

Professor Liu emphasized that Supply chain and IP strategies require strengthening. Then he gives us some suggestions and standards that we need to establish: Raw material procurement contracts must specify enzyme activity units, purity thresholds, microbial limits, and supplier liability for quality breaches and recall costs. OEM agreements should include confidentiality clauses, quality control, and potential exclusivity terms. He also mentioned that patent protection is critical because it can secure 20-year invention patents for new papain processes, applications, and design patents globally.

Through interviews, crucial aspects such as crafting detailed supplier contracts to ensure quality and manage risks, and strategically patenting new applications, became clearer. These discussions also provided insights into setting precise standards for raw materials, like enzyme activity units and purity levels, which directly informed and improved experimental design and gave us a clear view of how we should cooperate with other companies to produce products with the highest quality and less risk.

Thanks to Dr Liu, we have a clear view of how we should optimize our product and cooperate to adapt to the changes in regulations.

Future Outlook

Dr. Liu predicts that over the next three years, China’s cosmetics regulations will focus on improving standards for natural products, strengthening claim supervision, and standardizing enzyme-based ingredients. For papain-based skincare products to succeed commercially, companies must stay ahead of evolving natural cosmetics policies by streamlining R&D, establishing end-to-end raw material traceability, and closely monitoring enzyme-related regulations.

Potential risks in commercialization include cross-border technology and raw material infringement, as well as clinical data compliance issues. To mitigate legal risks, companies should implement comprehensive intellectual property management, conduct thorough patent searches, and ensure strict adherence to clinical data requirements.

Once these fundamentals are addressed, leveraging the clean beauty trend becomes crucial. By innovating with ingredient formulations, educating consumers on the benefits of papain, and enhancing brand awareness, companies can drive demand and establish a strong competitive edge in the market.

Good performance of products is not the only goal that we want to achieve but also pursuing sustainable development. To explore how the papain industry aligns with SDGs, product promotion, and business strategies, we interviewed Ms. Muro. As a top ESG blogger, founder of Inno ESG, and a key figure in international environmental youth activities with experience in 20+ listed company ESG projects, Miss Muro noted that papain may offer environmental benefits but requires third-party verification. She advised using a public-centric approach for social media promotion, obtaining international certifications for global credibility, and investing upfront to effectively communicate product sustainability for SDG integration.

Figure 8 Interview with Ms. Muro

How Papain Aligns with the SDGs

We first interviewed Ms. Muro about the standard understanding of the fusion of papain and SDG, she told us from the SDG environmental perspective, the papain industry can cut carbon via production optimization, plant-based extraction, and green packaging. To back SDG environmental claims, focus on product lifecycle resource management and green supply chains, supported by third-party certifications. For promoting "enzyme-based pollution reduction" on Bilibili and Red Note, advertising rules are lax; the key is to use popular angles and check for banned words.

To capitalize on these insights, we should prioritize streamlining papain production methods, opting for sustainable extraction and eco-friendly packaging to maximize carbon savings. Rigorous documentation of resource efficiency and waste reduction throughout the product lifecycle is essential, alongside pursuing recognized third-party certifications to validate our SDG contributions. When marketing enzyme technology, we must creatively tie it to consumer interests, ensuring content complies with platform guidelines. This strategic approach will enhance our environmental impact, credibility, and market reach.

Sustainable Practices and Trust Building Through Certification

However, we have no idea what kind of third-party certifications should be obtained. Ms. Muro indicated that in cosmetics, COSMOS and Cruelty-Free are prioritized, with the latter key for exports due to domestic animal testing rules.

Ms. Muro suggested that ESG, ensure transparency, mainly for listed firms. Precisely quantify resource use, visualize data, and use third-party certifications and auditor-validated data to build consumer trust with tangible metrics.

For future planning of our team, we can benefit from choosing the right certification for different regions. Consumers favor real actions about eco more than basic ISO. Methods such as quantifying resource use, 3rd - party audits, and ESG moves cultivate trust with consumers, making papain products more competitive.

Navigate Regulatory Priorities and Sustainable Opportunities

We have a clearer view of what standard we should achieve, but we are also confused about how we should integrate sustainability into our operations. Mr Muro indicated that integrating SDGs into our operations will be challenging in the early stages because sustainability requires financial investment. However, sustainability can become a strong selling point, making it an economical investment. Ms. Muro suggests that since our product features a plant-based identity, we can deepen the connection with consumers by emphasizing its natural and sustainable qualities. Ms. Muro also suggests making collaborations with other companies that prospect sustainable development. For financing, many Chinese banks have obligatory quotas for sustainable project loans, and the growing trend of ESG investing presents opportunities for early-stage initiatives. Ms. Muro advises approaching banks subject to these policies to gain an edge in securing funding.

Luckily, the raw materials for our product are derived from natural sources and can be duplicated easily through PCR, making our processes innately sustainable without much interference. So Ms. Muro’s advice on obtaining finances can be tied to her advice on integrating sustainable practices and have both been adopted.

Our primary end users are B2B clients, specifically affordable skincare brands and manufacturers seeking cost-effective, high-performance, and natural ingredients. These brands target price-conscious consumers who prioritize product efficacy, naturalness, and safety over brand reputation. They require innovative ingredients like our papain isoenzyme to develop gentle yet effective formulations (e.g., for exfoliation, antioxidant, anti-aging benefits) that align with the clean beauty trend and market demands, while maintaining low production costs.

We envision skincare manufacturers integrating our papain isoenzyme as a key active ingredient in their product formulations, such as exfoliating toners, serums, creams, and masks. They would utilize its enzymatic properties to gently hydrolyze keratin, brighten skin, and provide antioxidant effects. Our B2B clients would leverage the cost advantage and performance of our synthetically produced enzyme to enhance their product offerings, catering to consumers seeking affordable, natural, and effective skincare solutions. Ultimately, end consumers would use the final skincare products containing our enzyme for their daily skincare routines.

Production & Scaling

Initially, we will utilize a cost-effective yeast or Bacillus expression system (as advised by Prof. Han) for pilot production, avoiding costly E. coli systems. We will prioritize optimizing production processes for high yield, stability, and low cost, potentially localizing raw material sourcing.

Quality Assurance & Compliance

Rigorous batch testing (activity, purity, microbes) and adverse reaction monitoring systems will be established. We will ensure compliance with relevant regulations (e.g., China’s NMPA, EU requirements), adhering to usage limits (e.g., <5% in leave-on products) and preparing necessary data for efficacy claims based on market requirements (lab data for China, clinical data for EU ambitions).

Business Development & Partnerships

We will adopt a B2B model, partnering with OEM/ODM manufacturers (with clear quality contracts) and targeting skincare brands similar to MEIZHONG BIOTECHNOLOGY’s clients. Cost control remains paramount to ensure competitive pricing.

Market Entry & Expansion

Initially focusing on domestic (China) and other emerging markets (e.g., India) with relatively lenient regulations, using cost-advantage strategies. For developed markets (EU/US), we will pursue necessary international certifications and consider cross-border e-commerce trials.

IP Protection & Sustainability

We will file invention patents for our unique processes/applications and design patents internationally. Gradually integrating sustainable practices (sustainable sourcing, green packaging) and obtaining relevant certifications will be prioritized to enhance brand value and align with SDGs, potentially aiding in securing financing.