Track III: Optimizing Protein Production
- Track III Welcome & Opening - Dr. Myriam Loeffler, KU Leuven
- Emerging Technologies for Optimizing Protein Production - Dr. Alexander Mathys, ETHZ
As the demand for more sustainable protein sources rises, optimizing production methods becomes critical to achieving high-quality, functional, and nutritionally superior proteins. This session will explore cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of protein processing, from raw material optimization to advanced purification and texturization.
Key topics include:
- Technology Landscape – A short dive into mechanical, thermal, electromagnetic, chemical, and biotech-driven innovations.
- Structure-Process-Property Principles – Understanding the interplay between protein structure, processing techniques, and functional outcomes.
- Optimizing Protein Quality & Functionality – New quantification methods, nutritional value assessment (digestion, bioaccessibility, and bioavailability), and functionality testing across the value chain.
- Case Studies in Emerging Protein Processing Technologies:
- Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) for Biomass Stimulation & Disintegration – Enhancing plant and single-cell protein production through gentle electromagnetic and biotechnological approaches.
- NADES-Based Protein Purification – Exploring novel, environmentally friendly separation techniques for improved purity and functionality.
- Advanced High-Moisture Extrusion & Foaming – Innovations in mechanical and thermal processing for superior texturization of plant and microbial proteins.
- From Lab to Table, Scaling up Bioprocesses for New Food - Rafael Barros, Tetra Pak
Tetra Pak is excited to showcase their efforts in the New Food industry. They will share their possibilities, innovative knowledge, and experience in the food industry and expertise in aseptic engineering. Tetra Pak can support customers from pilot trials to full-scale production. In addition to the usual technological and regulatory hurdles, operational challenges are often underestimated, especially when scaling up. Tetra Pak is looking forward to present how to contribute to these challenges, add value and also how to support at larger scale, like factory robustness, reliability and food safety.
