Projects with DARPA grant – Grups Operatius 2023

Participants: BOADAS 1880, S.A (Leader), ESTEBAN ESPUÑA,S.A. (beneficiary), INNOVACC (coordinator), EURECAT (OPI).

Project summary

With the growth of the global population, a higher demand for proteins is expected, especially from animal sources, but its production has a significant environmental impact. The reduction in meat consumption, driven by growing awareness of sustainability and animal welfare, is a growing trend in many developed countries. These factors, along with the rise in production costs due to global causes, are driving the search for more sustainable and cost-effective alternative protein sources.

In this context, insect farming emerges as a viable option, as it requires fewer natural resources and has a lower environmental impact. Although insect consumption is already common in some parts of the world, its acceptance in the West is just beginning. The PISA project seeks to address this growing demand for alternative proteins, aligning with FAO and UN recommendations to explore more sustainable and efficient solutions in food production.

The main objective of the project is to study and evaluate insect-derived ingredients as an emerging source of protein, both animal and plant-based, for the development of new hybrid meat products. The goal is to advance knowledge of these ingredients' properties and their applicability in different food matrices.

This research will enable participating companies, once the protection period currently limiting its use has passed, to possess the knowledge needed to offer alternative protein solutions to the market quickly and efficiently.

Action of the CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027 co-financed by: