PROSCALE · Scalable microbial protein ingredients for appealing nutritious foods

PROSCALE aims to increase the availability of sustainably sourced, nutritional alternative proteins by scaling up the production of single-cell proteins (SCP) for food use. The project advances the TRL from 5 to 7 in three continuous biomass fermentation processes which yield three multipurpose SCP ingredients (≥50% protein); mycoprotein, bacterial SCP, and yeast SCP. The processes also include innovative downstream processing concepts to ensure not only safety but also functionality in diverse food applications. PROSCALE also focuses on design of 2nd generation fermentation substrates derived from food industry side-streams. By integrating a cutting-edge Digital Twin platform, PROSCALE enables real-time process optimization, resource efficiency, and sustainability assessment across the value chain from cradle to grave.The consortium of 16 partners from academia, industry, and non-profits applies a multi-actor approach to co-create solutions supporting SCP market uptake, to engage stakeholders, and to foster societal acceptance. PROSCALE targets significant reductions in production costs (15–30%), climate change impact (≥40%), and waste generation, while demonstrating at least in 5 innovative food prototypes and circular valorisation of 4 fermentation co-products. The project addresses key challenges in scalability, cost, regulatory compliance, and consumer acceptance, supporting the EU Bioeconomy Strategy, Protein Strategy, Farm to Fork, and the Circular Economy Action Plan.Through interdisciplinary collaboration, PROSCALE will deliver high-quality, safe, and appealing SCP ingredients for diverse food applications, enhance circularity, and strengthen Europe’s resilience and competitiveness in sustainable protein production. The outcomes will accelerate the shift towards healthier, climate-friendly diets and a more robust, circular bioeconomy