Scalable co2-based precision fermentation for functional food ingredients

FERM4FOOD aims to revolutionise the production of functional food ingredients by demonstrating the first integrated, scalable EU platform that converts industrial CO2 emissions into high-value, food-grade ingredients through precision fermentation with genetically engineered microorganisms. Targeting lactic acid, single cell protein, and microbial oils, FERM4FOOD addresses the urgent need to decarbonise the European food sector and reduce dependence on fossil and agricultural resources. At demonstration scale (TRL7), real CO2 emissions captured from a brewery will be converted via advanced fermentation and downstream processing routes, ensuring food-grade purity, safety, and regulatory compliance. The resulting ingredients will be validated by their formulation into two innovative vegan consumer products—a protein-rich barista beverage and a functional beauty food pouch—demonstrating nutritional, functional, and market acceptance (through consumer panels). The FERM4FOOD approach integrates advanced digital twin, life cycle (LCSA) and techno-economic assessment (TEA) to ensure process efficiency, and regulatory compliance, while supporting scale-up and replication. Digital twins will enable real-time process optimisation and modelling, while integrated LCSA and TEA will provide robust data on sustainability, resource use, and economic viability, guiding decision-making for industrial deployment and replication across diverse food sector settings. FERM4FOOD unites partners from research and industry to deliver new circular business models and an open-access digital platform for broader adoption. The project directly supports the objectives of the Horizon Europe Farm2Fork Work Programme by enabling climate-neutral, resource-efficient, and resilient food systems, contributing to EU leadership in sustainable biomanufacturing and the transition to a circular bioeconomy.