Protein Pioneers: Leading the Way in Alternative Protein Project

Last Updated : 11 October 2024

[Brussels, 11th October 2024] – Ahead of World Algae Day (12th October),
the EU-Funded project InnoProtein will celebrate the occasion by launching the #ProteinPioneers initiative. Europe[GS1] faces a significant “protein gap,” importing 70% of its protein-rich crops and 85% of its soybeans for both animal and human consumption. With the global population expected to reach 10 billion by 2050, the demand for sustainable protein sources is more critical than ever. The Protein Pioneers initiative tackles the urgent demand for sustainable, high-quality protein sources by bringing together projects exploring untapped options to boost Europe's protein self-sufficiency and ensure food security.

InnoProtein focuses on advancing sustainable protein production by developing innovative food and feed products using Single Cell Proteins (SCPs) such as microalgae but also insects, as well as creating non-food biobased products from residual biomass. These efforts aim to enhance waste recycling and reduce environmental impact.

“The diversification of protein sources is an urgent need. For alternative proteins to become a reality, more research is needed and to raise consumer awareness about their consumption, said Dr. María Carmen Villarán, coordinator of INNOPROTEIN and director of Tecnalia. “The INNOPROTEIN project, led by Tecnalia and involving partners covering the entire value chain, from protein producers to consumers of the same for different applications, aims to contribute to overcoming this challenge.”

Sharing InnoProtein's mission, similar projects that adopt different protein sources and methods have come together to form the Protein Pioneers. INNOPROTEIN, CHEERS, CIRCALGAE, BIOSCHAMP, and LIKE-A-PRO are all projects that are working to bridge the protein gap.

Objectives
To share research findings and innovations, promote public awareness and understanding of the projects' impacts and engage with stakeholders and the broader community to foster a collaborative environment.

Joining Protein Pioneers
We invite all projects focused on alternative proteins and researchers interested in this field to join us in our efforts to drive innovation and sustainability. By becoming part of our initiative, you can collaborate with experts, share your research, and contribute to more sustainable protein production and consumption. For those looking to stay informed or participate, follow the conversation and the latest developments through the hashtag #ProteinPioneers.

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Background:

INNOPROTEIN

The INNOPROTEIN project aims to provide Single Cells Proteins (microalgae, bacteria and fungi) and entomological alternative high-quality protein, test new protein extraction techniques and adopt a circular and zero waste strategy. Along with food and feed applications, InnoProtein’s goal is to develop biofuels, bioplastics and biostimulants from residual biomass, to lower the environmental impact of future protein production.

CHEERS

CHEERS revalorizes brewing industry by-streams by converting them into five high-value bio-products, including insect-based protein drinks and SCPs for pet food. The project reduces resource use, environmental impact, and addresses broader concerns related to biodiversity and agricultural land use within the beer production chain.

CIRCALGAE

CIRCALGAE focuses on the underutilized potential of algal biomass, of which up to 95% becomes waste. Using a cascade biorefinery approach, it transforms this waste into high-value products, not only reducing waste, but also boosting the economic viability of algal industries.

BIOSCHAMP

The BIOSCHAMP project aims to develop an integrated approach to tackle the mushroom cultivation challenges: a sustainable low-peat casing for the mushroom industry, reducing pesticide use and improving the productivity, sustainability, and profitability of the European mushroom sector.

LIKE-A-PRO

The LIKE-A-PRO project aims to mainstream alternative proteins, making them more accessible, and acceptable for all population groups to promote sustainable diets. Through the development of 16 EU-based products from 7 protein sources with improved taste and texture, supported by a campaign for alternative proteins co-designed with citizens and communities across Europe.

TECNALIA

TECNALIA is the largest center of technological applied (R&D) in Spain and a member of the Basque Research and Technology Alliance. We work with an increasingly strategic business relationship model, our main services are smart manufacturing, digital transformation, energy transition, sustainable mobility, personalised health, urban ecosystem and circular economy.

Contacts:

For media inquiries and further information, please contact:

Giacomo Sini - giacomo.sini@eufic.org
Dina Levinson - dina.levinson@eufic.org