$3m project is using AI to help upcycle protein at scale
Researchers at CSIRO have joined forces with the University of Leeds to develop an AI-powered tool that calculates optimal fermentation conditions to produce microbial protein powder as a food ingredient for human or animal consumption.
Running over the next two years, the $3m project will look at three different waste products:
- Vegetable crops that have been damaged or not picked
- Grain by-products such as canola or brewer’s spent grain
- By-products from cheesemaking
The aim is to make upcycled protein at scale that is competitive with conventional protein alternatives.
CSIRO Project Lead Dr Kai Knoerzer said, “Working with our colleagues internationally, this project will combine AI, fermentation science and real case studies to support industry to turn that waste into sustainable protein at scale.”
Fermentation has been used for thousands of years, originally as a way to preserve food such as bread, cheese and wine.
Knoerzer said in the 21st century it had the potential to play a much larger role in strengthening global food security.
“When fermented using yeast, for example, food waste can be transformed into valuable products within the framework of a circular bioeconomy,” Knoerzer said.
University of Leeds Professor of Artificial Intelligence in Food Dr Nicholas Watson said to truly impact global food security, upcycled protein couldn’t just be a niche alternative — it had to compete on price with what is already on the supermarket shelf.
“We are excited to work with CSIRO and partners across the globe to bridge that gap, launching an AI platform to support the fermentation of agri-food waste,” Watson said.
Dr Amen Ra Mashariki, Director of AI and Data Strategies at the Bezos Earth Fund, which has supported the project, said the project showed how AI, when developed responsibly and guided by science and local knowledge, could strengthen environmental action and ensure that its overall impact on the planet is positive.
Roma Foods celebrates over 70 years of Australian manufacturing
Producing over 20 million serves of pasta each year, Australian-owned and family-run Roma Foods...
Beef industry's sustainability achievements and next benchmark
Good waste reduction achievements in the beef processing sector have been highlighted in the...
How will Australia's new climate targets impact manufacturing?
The Australian Government has announced more ambitious climate targets together with a new $5bn...
