NEWS 10 Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2024 Scientists at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) announced that they have devised new techniques that can produce nutritious microalgae in industrial volumes, which could interest countries looking to diversify themselves off imported feed products and promote domestic food security. Algae is recognized as a superfood that can be grown cheaply with just sunshine, carbon dioxide and water. However, cultivation at scale is difficult, meaning its potential has yet to be realized. Scientists working at KAUST’s new Saudi Center for Algal Biotechnology Development and Aquaculture, have developed their own Spirulina and Chlorella strains of algae which is uniquely adapted to seawater. Scientists state that the innovation dispenses with the need for freshwater and make the production of livestock feed cultivated from algae sustainable and economically viable. Saudi Arabia currently imports most of the raw materials it needs for livestock feed – protein, lipids, and carbohydrates – from countries like Brazil and USA. KAUST’s groundbreaking research means locally produced microalgae could ultimately become a substitute for the 13 million tons of imported feed materials that it is predicted the Kingdom will require annually by 2030. According to KAUST’s statement, the Kingdom’s plan for algal cultivation on an industrial scale aligns with its Vision 2030 goals. These include increasing its domestic food security and decreasing its dependency on imported feed and raw food materials. Read more>> KAUST scientists develop new techniques for industrial microalgae production Protix to construct new production plant in Poland The European Investment Bank (EIB) has committed to supporting Protix in the expansion of its sustainable protein production. The signing of the loan agreement marks a significant milestone, providing Protix, a producer of sustainable protein used for animal feed and pet food, with up to €37 million in additional funds for its international rollout. This agreement is in line with the InvestEU objective of a Sustainable Bioeconomy and Circular Economy and was made possible with the support of the InvestEU programme, which aims to trigger more than €372 billion in additional investment in the European Union over the period 2021-27. EIB Vice President Teresa Czerwińska said: “Supporting innovative solutions is one of the priorities of the European Investment Bank, and we are pleased to start collaborating with Protix. This financing is supported by the InvestEU programme and will enable the company to expand its activities and to apply its technologies, which contribute to the sustainable development of solutions within the bioeconomy sector.” Protix CFO Lynn De Proft said: “We are thrilled about this agreement with the EIB, not only for the opportunities it brings for further expansion but also as a resounding affirmation. This support reinforces the fact that our industry is not just here to stay but is poised for significant growth. Following our expansion to the United States and now our ability to do the same in Poland, we are excited to accelerate our mission to bring the food system back in balance with nature." Read more>>
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