Leading the way in sustainable protein production through precision fermentation

With the help from microorganisms in a tank, Novonesis delivers the tools to produce new protein ingredients with a nutritional quality equivalent to the proteins in meat and milk. This technological advancement reduces carbon emissions, water consumption, and land use with 90% compared to animal-based protein.

29% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions stem from our food consumption. Still, the global demand for food is expected to double by 2050 due to population growth and rising incomes.

According to a study by Copenhagen Economics, replacing 10% of animal protein with alternative proteins globally, can potentially free up 900,000 km2 (347,491.94 square miles) of land and reduce 700 million tonnes of CO2.

Leading the way in sustainable protein solutions through biotechnology

In Denmark, pioneering research is developing a new source of low-carbon protein to meet this need. For decades, the biotech company Novonesis has produced functional enzymes for food and beverages, and the technology is now at the heart of the company’s advanced protein solutions.

By applying precision fermentation, Novonesis delivers the tools for new protein ingredients with a nutritional quality equivalent to the proteins in meat and milk.

In short, Novonesis utilises a traditional fermentation process incorporating encoded microorganisms, like yeast or fungi, to generate a specific protein. After being added to a large fermentation tank – similar to those used in brewing – these microorganisms initiate the fermentation process. The result is a protein source that is stable, scalable, and sustainable.

The strictly controlled process delivers a reliable protein supply, independent of climate change, harvest variations or zoonotic epidemics.

Carbon emissions are up to 90% lower

Because the proteins are produced by microorganisms in a tank based on sugar and water, carbon emissions are up to 90% lower compared to animal-based protein. Water consumption and land use are also reduced by 90%.

At the same time, the strictly controlled process delivers a reliable protein supply, independent of climate change, harvest variations or zoonotic epidemics. In addition, the new protein offers improved taste, texture, and nutritional value.

By creating proteins to meet numerous needs, Novonesis will be able to contribute to the next generation of health-enabling proteins through fermentation – in a sustainable and efficient way.