02 November 2021

Fermentation has been used in the production of many foods that we consume now for decades. Fermentation is at the heart of all of these processes, from beer to wine. But have you ever considered whether fermentation can provide both a sustainable and healthful protein?

Solar Foods is the first company of its kind to create food using CO2 gathered from the atmosphere. Because air and electricity are employed as raw materials in the creation of Solein, it has the potential to transform the food sector. Solein is a high-protein source that is not reliant on climate, weather, or agriculture for its production.

How is it made?

Solein is produced from the air by single-celled organisms that mix the nutrients and flavours of animal and plant proteins. A single microbe is extracted and fermented to develop in this method. Unlike traditional agriculture, this bioprocess feeds the microbe with air and electricity rather than fertilizer, water, or sunlight.

The procedure, according to the business, is 20 times more efficient than photosynthesis. In contrast to traditional meat processing, making 1kg of Solein requires only a small amount of water from the air. To feed the bacteria with CO2, the entire fermentation process for Solein employs small water molecules collected from the air. Other nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen are also included.

These nutrients are obtained from the soil by plants through their roots in traditional agriculture. Microorganisms that develop and reproduce in the bioprocess are dried up after the process, leaving us with nutrient-rich powder in Solein manufacturing.

The impact on agriculture

Solein production is unaffected by elements such as constant access to water and sunlight, as well as supplements such as fertilizers, which are otherwise required for growing crops in traditional agriculture. Solein has a macronutrient profile similar to algae or dry soy, with 65-70 percent protein.

This new type of harvest has the potential to alter the face of food production. Solein will never run out because of its reliance on raw ingredients, which are always available. This protein that appears out of thin air is better for the environment and saves vital resources from being exploited.

Solein in Food

Solein is a high-protein, flexible ingredient that may be used in practically any meal. It's an excellent meat substitute that, whether used in meat-like or vegan dishes, will taste just like real meat. Solein is an excellent choice for vegans and anyone who lead an active lifestyle because it is naturally gluten-free and cruelty-free. Because it is naturally low in fat and has a neutral taste and smooth texture, it may also be used to make snacks and beverages. Solein can also be used to make spreads and toppings, as well as noodles and spaghetti, as it is a great dairy substitute.

Solein for a better tomorrow

Because Solein is created from thin air, the company refers to it as the purest form of protein. Solein's all-natural fermentation process is similar to that of fermenting yeast, but it yields the cleanest and most long-lasting form of protein.

It has a neutral flavor and appearance, so you won't even notice it's in the cuisine. It does, however, preserve the proteins by keeping the nutritious value. Solein has the ability to provide a limitless supply of food to everyone on the planet. Furthermore, it encourages customers to choose healthy and environmentally friendly food choices.

All images are sourced from Solar Foods and Solein

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