VIProtein

About the team

We are a passionate team of master students specializing in Food Technology and Biotechnology at Wageningen University & Research. Equipped with hands-on expertise in microbiology, protein extraction, and process design, combined with a solid scientific foundation, we are committed to transforming the future of food. Our mission is to revolutionize the global food system and pioneer solutions to sustain human life, both on Earth and in space, with the aim to ensure food security for all.

Our vision

It is expected that in 2050 the global demand for food will increase by 56% and the amount of animal protein consumed will be doubled. The animal protein industry represents 14.5% of the anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. In the last decades, plant proteins have arisen as an alternative protein source. However, to fulfil the protein requirements in 2050, the production of edible crops will need to be increased by 119%. Moreover, resources for animal and plant protein production, such as land, water and energy, are increasingly limited. On the other hand, there is a clear increase in environmentally conscious consumers who look for products made with more sustainable proteins. Accordingly, it is expected that the global alternative protein market size grow by 14.1% from 2025 to 2030. Therefore, it is necessary to produce more sustainable protein to fulfil the consumers demand, without causing more damage to our planet. As mentioned, existing solutions for sustainable proteins still utilize a considerable amount of non-renewable resources. Therefore, a new source of alternative protein that consumes fewer resources in its production is needed to fulfil the future supply of protein requirement and avoid shortages. In VIProtein, our vision is to create a future where everyone can be supplied with sustainable net-zero emissions protein, upcycling organic waste, anywhere and anytime, contributing to a healthier planet and a more secure protein supply.

Our solution

We provide a sustainable, nutritious, and competitive alternative protein. Using our innovative and eco-friendly process, we convert organic waste into a nutrient-rich culture medium to grow a specific strain of microalgae for protein extraction. Our protein is not only sustainable but also versatile, nutritious, and competitively priced. It offers food producers a powerful ingredient to enhance their current products and drive new innovations. This helps them meet the rising demand for accessible and environmentally conscious food. By focusing on companies committed to circularity, sustainability, and innovation, we aim to support a more resilient food system and reimagine the industry through practical, future-focused solutions. Looking ahead, we plan to miniaturize our production system into a compact device—similar to a trash bin—that can operate both on Earth and in space. This would enable anyone, including astronauts, to turn organic waste into a protein-rich powder on demand.

Our Artist impression

Social media pitch