Abstract
A structural transformation of our food system is needed to sustainably feed the global population and meet the increasing demand for protein sources. However, conventional animal production relies much on arable land and fossil fuels, calling for a protein transition. Microbial biomass can be produced without arable land, on renewable sources. One original approach is to produce added-value purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) using H2 for electrons, CO2 for carbon, and light for energy. Today, exploration of photoautohydrogenotrophic PNSB production is limited to promising flask tests. The objective of RhodoMeal is to pioneer in producing nutritious protein meal from Rhodobacter capsulatus in a new photobioreactor on H2 and CO2. The first aim is to understand how the choice of wavelength(s) can tune the protein content and composition. Then, a two-compartment reactor with operational strategy will be developed that is efficient, productive and scalable. After batch production also cost-saving continuous operation will be examined. Finally, for the first time, food-relevant functional properties (foaming, emulsification, gelation) of PNSB products will be mapped. The effect of pre-harvest modifications on these properties will be studied, as well as their behavior in conditions relevant in food systems. RhodoMeal closely aligns with the sustainable H2 and CO2-based economy and aims at a nutritionally and functionally attractive protein ingredient for the food industry.
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