Project news ALEHOOP project shows innovative advances in algae and legume protein research

The field of sustainable protein innovation has reached important milestones in the four-year ALEHOOP research and development project. ALEHOOP (Biorefineries for the valorization of macroalgae residues and legume processing by-products) aims to revolutionize the production of affordable alternative proteins for high-value food and feed applications. This project is essential to respond to market demand for sustainable protein solutions and to reduce Europe's dependence on traditional plant proteins such as soy.

Recent achievements include the successful completion of multiple tasks and the establishment of a new research focus on red seaweed. Modifications to the lupin extraction process have effectively solved previous problems with bitterness in protein extracts. These improvements have enabled successful trials of lupin powder in cereal bars, shakes, meat substitutes made possible, highlighting the potential of these plant-based proteins for various sustainable food applications.

In addition, significant progress has been made in the validation of macroalgae proteins for animal nutrition. Several scenarios have been explored, leading to the selection of optimal approaches for the integration of seaweed-derived proteins into animal nutrition. At the same time, the nutritional benefits of lupin have been highlighted, including improved removal of anti-nutrients, improved water solubility, and promising properties as an emulsifier within the food industry. Consumer trials will begin in late August 2024, with a focus on high-protein, nutritious products derived from algae and legumes. These tests aim to refine product formulations and ensure they meet consumer expectations. Upcoming products include meat analogs, meal replacement shakes, high-calorie instant mashed potatoes and healthy snacks.

In the areas of regulatory compliance and market access, ALEHOOP has achieved important milestones. Testing has confirmed that protein extracts meet strict safety standards, including concentrations of heavy metals below the limits set by Codex Alimentarius and the absence of pathogens. Additional studies have shown no genotoxicity or cytotoxic effects, ensuring the safety of the products for consumers. Ongoing tasks include further regulatory approvals and market readiness assessments to facilitate commercialization of the products.

Active collaborations with other projects focused on sustainable protein sources highlight ALEHOOP's commitment to expanding knowledge within the industry and promoting collective impact. Increasing public awareness and disseminating research results through extensive partner networks is key to increasing project visibility and influence.

Looking forward, the focus is on finalizing critical delivery targets and continuing to refine exploitation and intellectual property strategies. The upcoming final General Assembly of the consortium promises to foster further collaboration and dissemination efforts.

About the project: ALEHOOP is an EU-funded project, launched in June 2020, consisting of a consortium of 16 partners, including ILVO, from 6 different countries: Spain, Germany, Belgium, Norway, Ireland and the Czech Republic. It is an Innovation Action that received funding from the BBI-JU. The project will run until February 2025.

About BBI-JU: The Bio-Based Industries Joint Undertaking (BBI-JU), now known as Circular Bio-Based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE-JU), is a partnership between the European Union and the Bio-Based Industries Consortium (BIC) to fund projects that promote competitive circular bio-based industries in Europe.

More information:

ALEHOOP Coordination team: alehoop@contactica.es

Irene Benito (Communication): irene.benito@contactica.es

(ILVO) Sofie De Man Sofie.deman@ilvo.vlaanderen.be