Alternative protein industry and expertise

What is meant by the term?

Generally, alternative proteins are a diverse group of products that offer a more sustainable protein source than traditional meats and seafood. In addition to the popular plant-based burgers, other alternative proteins can be sourced from algae, fungi or from cultured animal cells. Numerous protein mixtures typically derived from animal sources may also now be produced recombinantly using “cellular agriculture”, a sub-section of the broader alternative proteins space.

What education and experience would you recommend to a client who was looking to hire an alternative protein expert?

Given the size of the alternative proteins sector, it is difficult for one person to be an expert across the board. Generally speaking though, an expert should have broad knowledge across several disciplines including cell biology, cell culture methods, bioprocessing, fermentation, food science and analytical chemistry techniques.

How could such an expert theoretically help companies?

An expert can help with many aspects of process and product development. Examples of services an expert can provide include technical and industry reviews, feasibility analyses, developing experimental plans and conducting lab-based research.