Sustainable Requirement for Unconventional Proteins

In this deliverable, the InnoProtein consortium provides an in-depth review of the current state-of the art relating to the sustainable requirements for the social, market, environmental and regulatory aspects of the project.

The social requirements of the project were examined and highlighted the health and nutritional needs of the general population at various life stages, as well as, discussing these requirements with regards to pigs, poultry, and trout.
Additionally, the social requirements highlight the need of InnoProtein proteins to comply with the toxicological safety limits and states that they must meet specific sensory, physical, and nutritional requirements to ensure their suitability for use in different food and feed applications.

With regards to the market requirements this review has found that the insect protein market currently holds the greatest market value, while it is anticipated that there will be significant growth in the microalgae market. The review has also highlighted that the high cost of production is the InnoProtein projects greatest barrier to market entry.

Our current protein production practices are now beginning to negatively impact the environment as a result of intensive agriculture and unsustainable food production methods. The utilisation of SCPs and insects as alternative protein sources have a number of sustainable and environmentally friendly benefits. However, protein recovery from these sources can be challenging and traditional extraction methods are no longer sustainable. A move to greener extraction techniques will enable a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to protein recovery from these sources. An extensive inventory of regulations, standards, and guidelines for the InnoProtein project has been developed from national, European, and international databases. The purpose of which is to provide guidance for the InnoProtein partners and enabling them to conduct their tasks in compliance with the legislation.

Check the report here!