Awarding the best concept for a future-proof protein supply

The award is given out to companies presenting the best concepts for a future-proof protein supply, derived from algae, bacteria, cell-cultured meat, insects, new crops or even from CO₂ and solar energy. 6 new protein products from 4 different countries are nominated for the first edition of the award. The winners will be announced at the REFAB conference in Cologne, Germany on 1 and 2 October 2018.

Major companies and start-ups are involved

Michael Carus, CEO of the nova-Institute, who is very keen in emerging new protein products and sustainability, says: “It is very exciting to know that novel options to produce innovative protein products in the food and biotech industry exist. I am convinced that the future of the global food and feed market depends on these alternative protein sources, considering the rising global warming and increased demand for food. It is exciting to see that not only major companies are part of the food innovation but also many emerging start-ups in this field are well-known and innovating on their own. The future of food is changing and we are eagerly looking forward to it!”

The nominees are…

The 6 candidates for the award” are from Finland, France, Germany and UK/South Africa:

AgriProtein – high quality, low cost protein for feed (ZA, UK)

MagMeal from AgriProtein Holdings UK Ltd is a blend of essential amino acids and naturally infused Lauric acid, which is the core of infant animal nutrition in the nature. AgriProtein uses organic waste and fly larvae to create high quality, low cost protein.

BAFA Neu – concentrated hemp protein powder (DE)

The Hemp Protein Powder from BAFA Neu GmbH contains over 70% complete protein and has an amazing nutty yet mild taste and white colour. This protein is available in both the organic certified and 100% natural version. Hemp Protein Powder is an ideal protein supplement for sporty vegetarians and vegans and can be used in delicious recipes.

Hempro International – a healthy addition for food products (DE)

Hempro International GmbH & Co. KG has just brought its new Hemp Protein Powder 70 on the market. It is an outstanding alternative to artificial protein powders and, made of 100% hemp, a natural source of essential ingredients such as omegas and iron. Its light nutty taste makes it a delicious supplement to smoothies, bread and pastries or mueslis. It can also be applied in food procession, e.g. for increasing the protein content in meat products or as an addition to health products.

Solar Foods Oy – protein from air and renewable electricity (FI)

Solar Foods Oy produces an entirely new kind of nutrient-rich protein using only air and renewable electricity as the main resources to produce sustainable feed by bacteria. This protein product redefines the basics of food production, as it is not dependent on agriculture, weather, or climate. The goal of the company is to start commercial production of this protein in 2021.

SWARM – the insect bar (DE)

SWARM Nutrition GmbH develops sports nutrition with high-quality and sustainable protein from insects. The SWARM Insect Bar ideally suits the needs of athletes who demand functional sports nutrition and also follow a sustainable lifestyle. It is made of high value insect protein and contains loads of micronutrients.

Ÿnsect – for farmed fish (FR)

The ŸnMealTM is a highly digestible, natural course of premium protein, prepared from defatted larvae, with more than 70% protein concentrate. This feed from Ÿnsect is mainly aimed at farmed fish and crustaceans and is claimed to have improved performance in shrimp and trout.