Last Updated on: 31st December 2024, 06:19 am
Dr Asli Samanci, a renowned food scientist, entrepreneur, and CEO of BEE&YOU, has been recognised with the prestigious Asia-Pacific Women Entrepreneur Award by the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CACCI). This award celebrates her exceptional contributions to sustainability, innovation, and ethical practices within the natural health sector.
A seasoned expert in food science, Dr Samanci holds a master’s degree and a doctorate in biology, with a specialisation in beekeeping and bee products. Over the past 20 years, she has authored numerous academic publications and books exploring the health benefits of bee products, their authenticity, and the development of natural supplements and skincare products. Her achievements also include managing European-level R&D projects and securing patents for her groundbreaking formulations in the natural health field.
The inception of BEE&YOU was inspired by a personal challenge. When Dr Samanci’s son was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition, a doctor recommended propolis to strengthen his immune system. However, the available options were either unauthentic or ineffective. Combining her extensive knowledge of bee products with her husband’s expertise in beekeeping, Dr Samanci set out to develop her own solution.
Raw propolis naturally contains beeswax, which renders it indigestible. Dr Samanci tackled this issue by inventing a unique extraction process in her laboratory, which eliminates beeswax while preserving essential bioactive compounds. This innovative method has since been patented and is the only patented propolis extraction process in the United States. The result is BEE&YOU Propolis Extract, celebrated for its unmatched purity, bioavailability, and efficacy.
Under Dr Samanci’s guidance, BEE&YOU has become an internationally trusted brand, producing a wide array of natural products in FDA-registered facilities. These facilities are further accredited with BRC, IFS, SEDEX, and Organic certifications, ensuring the highest standards for safety and quality in food, supplements, and cosmetics.
A cornerstone of BEE&YOU’s operations is its Contracted Beekeeping Model, which promotes sustainability and ethical sourcing. By partnering with more than 5,000 beekeepers managing 550,000 hives, the company provides hives, equipment, and training to encourage sustainable practices. This model enhances the livelihoods of beekeepers while protecting bees and their ecosystems for the future.
Currently, BEE&YOU’s products are sold in over 40 countries and have earned over 85 awards for their innovation and commitment to ethical business.
Dr Samanci’s recognition with the Asia-Pacific Women Entrepreneur Award highlights her extraordinary role in leading a company that champions sustainability, quality, and social responsibility. Her combination of scientific expertise and dedication to creating effective, natural products has firmly established BEE&YOU as an industry pioneer.
