Prototyping by upscaling precision fermentation of dairy proteins in novel bioreactor

Important results from the project

The objective was to deliver a validated prototype of a food-grade bioreactor system capable of producing dairy proteins through precision fermentation, paving the way for sustainable, animal-free dairy. All the process steps were validated, confirming equipment functionality and performance - thus demonstrating the successful scale-up of complex fermentation regimes. Market success depends on stability and process control, regulatory compliance, and cost parity to traditional dairy proteins.

Expected long term effects

Sweden can increase its innovation capacity and become a leader in biotechnology innovation. This project could strengthen food security, create jobs, and reduce environmental impact by enabling plant-based alternatives, better use of side streams, and less reliance on fossil resources. The novel biomanufacturing system represents a sustainable pathway for future food production. By enabling controlled, scalable, and resource-efficient processes, it reduces reliance on agriculture.

Approach and implementation

The project was successfully conducted within the time plan through a cross-functional effort where a new bioreactor system was validated by scaling up precision fermentation of casein. The process began by making microorganisms express casein at lab scale. The expression levels were confirmed and the fermentation parameters were fine-tuned and then moved into an industry representative pilot run in the novel bioreactor system. The results were validated by a German dairy company.