PLENITUDE addresses the protein challenge by integrating two established processes into a flagship, large-scale, first-of-its-kind, biorefinery producing bioethanol and sustainable food protein in an integrated process.
PLENITUDE brings together 10 key players in the bioeconomy spanning 5 EU member states and representing every link in the value chain. This includes expertise in primary processing and industrial operations (Cargill), biotechnology (3F BIO Limited, ENOUGH BV), product development and applications (International Flavors & Fragrances I.F.F. B.V) primary research and protein expertise (Wageningen University) a specialist consultants covering marketing and sustainability (Bridge 2 Food, Life Cycle Engineering Srl), and three end-users covering food categories (Mosa Meat, Vivera, ABP) as well as one end-user covering bio-plastics (Lactips).
The global consumption of “meat” protein currently totals around 500 million tonnes per year, with less than 1% derived from non-animal sources. Experts including the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) predict that the demand for non-animal proteins may increase to account for 10-20% of the growing total demand, which would create a need for 100-200 million tonnes of plant protein by 2050.
With initial output capacity of 10k tonnes per annum, this flagship project will increase the availability of sustainable, high-quality food protein. The collaboration between the biorefinery operator, food producers and technology providers will create new cross-sector interconnections, new bio-based value chains, and new bio-based ‘consumer’ products.
The project includes a full assessment of the environmental, economic, health and social impacts of the developed products or processes, using LCA/LCC/S-LCA methodologies based on available standards to validate the sustainability and food safety of the products and value chain. Based on a target to produce 1 million tonnes of protein by 2030, it is estimated that this could equate to a reduction of >5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.
Within the 3rd reporting period, the majority of activity relates to the completion of the flagship plant construction and initial continuous operation (MS6) This included testing and engineering project handover (MS7) and characterisation and confirmation of regulatory equivalence (MS8). Studies about mycoprotein and its commercialisation were progressed using plant material and will accelerate with product availability.
