Fermentation is a process by which microorganisms break down organic compounds in the absence of oxygen. During fermentation, these microorganisms convert sugars and other organic molecules into other compounds, such as lactic acid or ethanol.

In the context of alternative proteins, fermentation can be used in three main ways:

1. Traditional fermentation: Microorganisms are used to improve the flavour and functionality of meat alternatives.

2. Biomass fermentation: Microorganisms are the main ingredient in the meat alternative.

3. Precision fermentation: Microorganisms are genetically engineered to produce specific proteins that are similar in structure to animal proteins, such as those found in meat or dairy products. They can also produce other molecules with different functions like vitamins, fats, and pigments.

Fermentation-based alternative protein production can be more sustainable and environmentally friendly than traditional animal agriculture. For example, it requires significantly less land, water, in its production, and can produce less greenhouse gas emissions and waste than traditional animal agriculture.

Fermentation-based alternative proteins can have similar nutritional profiles to traditional animal products, but without the ethical or environmental concerns associated with animal agriculture.

For more robust introductions to fermentation…

https://www.proteinreport.org/ has sections on microbial, fungi, and algae

https://gfi.org/fermentation/ is a good overall introduction

https://gfi.org/resource/fermentation-state-of-the-industry-report/

Current Research Articles

• Recycling carbon for sustainable protein production using gas fermentation

• Fermentation for future food systems

• Cultured meat production fuelled by fermentation

• Microbial cell factories for the sustainable manufacturing of B vitamins

• Industrial-scale fermentation

Future Alt. Protein Events

To be updated!

GFI Job Board

https://gfi.org/vocation/

Bioinformatics Resources

To be updated!

Fermented Meat Companies

In Ontario, Canada:

• https://livenproteins.ca/ (yeast)

• https://www.biofectinnovations.com/

• https://www.noblegen.com/

Here are some other ones around the world

• https://www.bettermeat.co/ (fungus)

• https://www.quorn.us/ (fungus)

• https://www.airprotein.com/ (bacteria)

• https://theeverycompany.com/ (yeast)

The full database of fermentation companies is here.