What are Fermentation-Enabled Proteins?

The alternative protein industry can be split into 3 key pillars: 

  Plant-based alternative proteins 
  Cell-based alternative proteins
  Fermentation-based alternative proteins 

 

When we refer to "fermentation-enabled alternative proteins" we mean using microbial organisms such as yeast, algae or fungi as a bioproduction platform. These microbes can produce functional ingredients such as flavourings, enzymes or other food processing ingredients. They can also produce large quantities of protein biomass which can be harnessed in the production of alternative meat and dairy products.  

The alternative protein industry uses fermentation in three main ways: 

Traditional fermentation

Using microorganisms to process ingredients derived from plants which can result in products with unique flavours or textures

Biomass fermentation

Using the high protein content of microorganisms to produce large quantities of protein which act as the main ingredient of alterative protein food products

Precision fermentation

Using microbes to producfunctional ingredients that are incorporated into alternative protein food products at lower levels, improving sensory attributes of the product

Biomass & Precision Fermentation will be discussed at the Fermentation Enabled Alternative Proteins Summit Europe

For an in-depth look on the Fermentation-Enabled Protein landscape, check out GFIs Fermentation report here.