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Scaling-up nutritional proteins from alternative sources

This funding call aims to support the scaling-up of innovative processes for the extraction and production of nutritional proteins from alternative sources. The initiative falls under the EU’s Horizon Europe and Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU) and seeks to reinforce bio-based research, integrate circularity principles, and facilitate market uptake of sustainable protein alternatives.

The overarching objective is to ensure a resilient and sustainable food system by increasing the availability of alternative proteins. The call addresses the need to diversify protein sources and reduce dependency on imports. Research and innovation (R&I) efforts will focus on scaling up production while ensuring safety, affordability, and consumer acceptance.

Projects should develop efficient and cost-effective downstream separation and purification processes to improve the quality and stability of the extracted proteins. In addition, they should assess the nutritional adequacy of these proteins and their potential benefits, such as improved digestibility and reduced allergenic effects.

A key component of the call is the emphasis on resource efficiency and circularity. Proposals must ensure that neither pathogens nor contaminants are reintroduced into the food system, aligning with the EU’s sustainability goals. Regulatory compliance, toxicological safety, and consumer awareness strategies will be essential components of project activities.

Expected outcomes include increased production of sustainably sourced proteins, enhanced resilience of food systems, improved resource efficiency, and greater consumer acceptance of alternative proteins.

Opening: 04-04-2025
Deadline(s): 17-09-2025

Expected Outcome

▪ Increased availability of sustainably sourced nutritional proteins.
▪ Enhanced resilience of food systems through protein source diversification.
▪ Improved sustainability in food production within planetary boundaries.
▪ Greater consumer acceptance of proteins from alternative sources.
▪ Higher resource efficiency and circularity in protein production.
▪ Reduction of environmental impacts related to protein sourcing.
▪ Strengthened regulatory compliance and safety standards.
▪ Advanced technological solutions for alternative protein production.
▪ Increased EU competitiveness in bio-based industries.
▪ New market opportunities for bio-based protein products.

Scope

▪ Demonstrate innovative processes for extracting and producing nutritional proteins from alternative sources.
▪ Target feedstocks including plants, invertebrates, fungi, aquatic biomass, fermentation-based proteins, and biogenic gaseous carbon.
▪ Improve cost-effective downstream separation and purification processes for quality and stability.
▪ Validate the nutritional adequacy and health benefits of alternative proteins.
▪ Enhance resource efficiency and circular production models.
▪ Ensure compliance with EU regulatory frameworks and EFSA guidelines.
▪ Assess consumer acceptance and raise awareness through educational campaigns.
▪ Align with EU sustainability goals, including circular economy and climate neutrality.
▪ Address market integration challenges and economic feasibility.
▪ Avoid duplication with past or ongoing Horizon 2020/Europe and CBE JU projects.