Israeli biotech start-up ReaGenics has made a breakthrough in alt-protein technology by using plant cell culture to develop potato biomass with a protein content of 31%.

Traditionally, potatoes tend to contain around 2% protein and are not typically considered a protein source. However, ReaGenics’ believes its approach could change that, turning potatoes into a valuable plant-based protein option.

ReaGenics grows plant cells in bioreactors, where they are provided with a balanced mix of sugars, vitamins, minerals and nutrients, ensuring a consistent supply of plant compounds.

Michael Kagan, co-founder and chairman of ReaGenics, said: “We’ve refined the process to boost the protein content in potato cells significantly. Our protein is non-GMO, includes all essential amino acids and is highly digestible with a protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) of 0.99, making it suitable for many food products.”

Market potential

ReaGenics hopes to capture a significant share of the global dairy alternatives market with its plant-based protein. Its functional properties, such as solubility, gelling, foaming and emulsification, make it appealing to food developers.

Beyond the dairy alternatives market, F&B companies are already exploring the potential of the start-up's potato protein in various products, from plant-based meats to high-protein snacks. ReaGenics sees potential for its potato biomass to address acute malnutrition by providing protein and carbohydrates without common allergens like peanuts and whey.

Scalability

ReaGenics' production system supports bioreactor volumes ranging from 4,000 to 10,000 litres, utilising proprietary developed plastic and stainless-steel bioreactors. The company plans to license its technology to those interested in large-scale production.

The biotech firm is also working on increasing the protein concentration in its potato biomass and developing other plant-based ingredients, such as cannabinoids, coffee, resveratrol and anthocyanins from purple maize.

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