Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website. # The Good Food Institute: Plant-based and cultivated meat innovation | GFI ## Sitemaps [XML Sitemap](https://gfi.org/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages. ## Blog - [Building an alt protein community at Brown University and beyond](https://gfi.org/blog/building-an-alt-protein-community-at-brown-university-and-beyond/): Reflections from a graduating leader on what it means to create lasting change as a student and an alumni - [Germany’s High-Tech Agenda: innovation hub for alternative proteins could support economic growth ](https://gfi.org/blog/germanys-high-tech-agenda-innovation-hub-for-alternative-proteins-could-support-economic-growth/): GFI Europe welcomes the fact that the German federal government has firmly anchored alternative protein sources in its High-Tech Agenda. - [The future of food is being decided now](https://gfi.org/blog/the-future-of-food-is-being-decided-now/): Inside GFI’s work to fund science and shape the bioeconomy. - [Breaking down the boundaries: Meet the researchers working on a cross-border project to build Nordic alternative protein momentum ](https://gfi.org/blog/breaking-down-the-boundaries-meet-the-researchers-working-on-a-cross-border-project-to-build-nordic-alternative-protein-momentum/): An international network linking Nordic researchers seeks to provide collaborative opportunities often missing in alternative protein science. - [Plant-based mince and meatballs 33% cheaper than meat versions at UK’s largest retailer amid rising meat prices](https://gfi.org/blog/plant-based-mince-and-meatballs-33-cheaper-than-meat-versions-at-uks-largest-retailer-amid-rising-meat-prices/): The cost of making plant-based spaghetti bolognese and meatballs is now on average 33% cheaper at the UK’s biggest supermarket than making the same dishes with beef, lamb and pork mince. - [JUST IN: Major report unveils China’s protein playbook—a roadmap for other nations](https://gfi.org/blog/just-in-major-report-unveils-chinas-protein-playbook-a-roadmap-for-other-nations/): Moments ago, Systemiq, the systems change company, published an important new report titled China’s Food Future. Key findings were shared during a live webinar featuring renowned Columbia University historian Adam Tooze and agricultural policy expert Prof. Shenggen Fan of China Agricultural University. - [Alternative proteins: a strategic tool to adapt to climate change in Spain](https://gfi.org/blog/alternative-proteins-a-strategic-tool-to-adapt-to-climate-change-in-spain/): Droughts, epidemics, floods: climate change is already transforming Spain’s food system. Find out how alternative proteins can serve as a strategic tool to adapt to climate change and strengthen food security in Spain. - [Protein demand is straining supply chains. Diversification is opening doors for alt proteins.](https://gfi.org/blog/protein-demand-is-straining-supply-chains-diversification-is-opening-doors-for-alt-proteins/): Four developments redefining the protein landscape - [Ozempic Effect: Plant-based meats as allies of GLP-1 diets](https://gfi.org/blog/ozempic-effect-plant-based-meats-as-allies-of-glp-1-diets/): Foods rich in protein and fiber, and low in fat. How can the plant-based protein category support consumers seeking greater well-being? - [Research: Swapping processed with plant-based meat boosts fibre across whole diet by up to 7%](https://gfi.org/blog/research-swapping-processed-with-plant-based-meat-boosts-fibre-across-whole-diet-by-up-to-7/): The first study of its kind has found that swapping processed meat with popular plant-based options leads to meaningful dietary improvements. - [Feeding the future without feeding risk](https://gfi.org/blog/feeding-the-future-without-feeding-risk/): Scaling protein production in ways that protect antibiotics, prevent disease, and nourish a growing world. - [A decade of impact: Let’s imagine more](https://gfi.org/blog/a-decade-of-impact-lets-imagine-more/): Milestones on their own don’t mean much. It’s what they point toward that does. - [Food system innovation is inseparable from water policy](https://gfi.org/blog/food-system-innovation-is-inseparable-from-water-policy/): Protein diversification can be a bridge between the two. - [Closing the taste gap, growing the category](https://gfi.org/blog/closing-the-taste-gap-growing-the-category/): How sensory performance is driving sales in plant-based dairy - [An Exclusive Look Inside China’s “New Proteins” Sector](https://gfi.org/blog/an-exclusive-look-inside-chinas-new-proteins-sector/): As reported in this morning’s edition of The Straits Times, a team of GFI APAC staffers recently traveled across China to see with our own eyes what the country’s major biomanufacturing push means for Singapore and the future of Asia’s protein supply. - [Beyond the ultra-processed narrative](https://gfi.org/blog/beyond-the-ultra-processed-narrative/): Our latest research shows how nutrition and consumer perceptions alike put plant-based meat in a different category than candy, chips, and soda. - [Signals from the bioeconomy in February](https://gfi.org/blog/signals-from-the-bioeconomy-in-february/): From Brussels to Davos to rural Nebraska, protein diversification is on the agenda - [Fermentation-derived ingredients are powering the next wave of alternative protein innovation](https://gfi.org/blog/fermentation-derived-ingredients-are-powering-the-next-wave-of-alternative-protein-innovation/): If the future of meat is plant-based and cultivated, then fermentation is the stock that quietly adds a depth of flavour—holding the secret to the success of alternative proteins. - [Imagining more for our food system](https://gfi.org/blog/imagining-more-for-our-food-system/): Here is what ten alt protein leaders think we have to look forward to in 2026. - [The world is hungry for resilience](https://gfi.org/blog/the-world-is-hungry-for-resilience/): Pulses are a valuable protein diversification tool that can deliver for people and the planet. - [Fiber is taking center stage—and plant-based meat is ready](https://gfi.org/blog/fiber-is-taking-center-stage-and-plant-based-meat-is-ready/): Plant-based meat offers the protein people want, plus the fiber they need. - [A better protein package: How plant-based companies can capture the protein boom](https://gfi.org/blog/a-better-protein-package-how-plant-based-companies-can-capture-the-protein-boom/): Consumers want protein—but new data shows many don’t realize plant-based meat delivers it - [How the Alt Protein Project is growing a brighter food future in Argentina](https://gfi.org/blog/how-the-alt-protein-project-is-growing-a-brighter-food-future-in-argentina/): The UNSAM Alt Protein Project has emerged as a leading convener for alternative proteins in Argentina. - [Reimagining protein for a future under pressure](https://gfi.org/blog/reimagining-protein-for-a-future-under-pressure/): How alternative proteins can turn today’s food system challenges into solutions for people, the planet, and animals. - [Where knowledge flows, innovation grows](https://gfi.org/blog/where-knowledge-flows-innovation-grows/): Inside GFI’s 2025 Research Grant Program and the newest projects poised to shape the future of alt proteins. - [Inviting everyone to the table](https://gfi.org/blog/inviting-everyone-to-the-table/): Independent organizations recognize our impact on the global food system. - [Cultivated meat research just got a major boost. Here’s why it matters.](https://gfi.org/blog/cultivated-meat-research-just-got-a-major-boost-heres-why-it-matters/): GFI and Tufts University accelerate progress with new open-access cultivated meat cell lines and culture media formulations that can save researchers time and money. - [The Alt Protein Project keeps growing—and so does its impact](https://gfi.org/blog/the-alt-protein-project-keeps-growing-and-so-does-its-impact/): Thirteen new university groups join GFI’s Alt Protein Project, a global community of student leaders reimagining our food system. - [Meet Sneha Singh, GFI India’s Managing Director](https://gfi.org/blog/meet-sneha-singh-gfi-indias-managing-director/): This profile is part of our new "People you should know" series, spotlighting alternative protein innovators and champions around the world. - [Alt Protein Project Alumni: Where are they now?](https://gfi.org/blog/alt-protein-project-alumni-where-are-they-now/): Explore how Alt Protein Project alumni are building community, uplifting new ideas, and shaping their careers. - [Let’s do this: How core values can fuel progress in 2025 and beyond](https://gfi.org/blog/lets-do-this-how-core-values-can-fuel-progress-in-2025-and-beyond/): Our commitment to protein innovation keeps growing stronger, thanks to deep-rooted values and a global network driving change. - [Three themes that capture our 2024](https://gfi.org/blog/three-themes-that-capture-our-2024/): Going beyond the headlines to the people, places, and spaces advancing alternative proteins. - [Building the next generation of alternative protein innovators](https://gfi.org/blog/building-the-next-generation-of-alternative-protein-innovators/): We are excited to introduce our 2024 Research Grant Program outcomes, continuing our support for groundbreaking research in alternative proteins. - [The reality of securing investment to scale alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/blog/the-reality-of-securing-investment-to-scale-alternative-proteins/): The funding environment for alternative protein companies has shifted dramatically–but paths forward are emerging. - [Meet our new vice president of science and technology](https://gfi.org/blog/meet-our-new-vice-president-of-science-and-technology/): We sat down with Amanda Hildebrand for a podcast-style interview. - [Global alternative protein trends to watch](https://gfi.org/blog/global-alternative-protein-trends-to-watch/): Take a look at how alternative protein solutions are advancing around the world. - [Meet the Alt Protein Project’s latest cohort](https://gfi.org/blog/meet-the-alt-protein-projects-latest-cohort/): Now in its fifth year, the Alt Protein Project welcomes 21 new chapters into a passionate community of students transforming the global food system. - [Governments around the world remain invested in alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/blog/governments-around-the-world-remain-invested-in-alternative-proteins/): We’re excited about the state of global policy. Here are the top three reasons why. - [Survey finds European consumers want freedom to choose cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/blog/survey-finds-european-consumers-want-freedom-to-choose-cultivated-meat/): Surveys in 15 European countries find people believe food safety regulators should have the final say, despite moves to ban it in countries like Italy. - [Look closer: Plant-based innovators are joining forces](https://gfi.org/blog/look-closer-plant-based-innovators-are-joining-forces/): Across the entire supply chain, a diversity of people and partners are working together to deliver tasty, affordable, nutrient-rich, sustainable plant-based foods to more plates. - [Alternative proteins are a solution made for this moment](https://gfi.org/blog/alternative-proteins-are-a-solution-made-for-this-moment/): Global demand for meat is rising, and meat production is estimated to increase at least 50% by 2050. To meet this demand sustainably, we must reimagine protein. - [Challenges and breakthroughs: contextualizing alternative protein progress](https://gfi.org/blog/contextualizing-alternative-protein-progress/): It was a difficult year for alternative proteins in 2023, but progress in farm fields, research labs, manufacturing facilities, and government forums tells a story of persistence and innovation. - [Alumni of the Alt Protein Project: cultivating key skills beyond the classroom](https://gfi.org/blog/alumni-of-the-alt-protein-project-cultivating-key-skills-beyond-the-classroom/): How an engineer and a food scientist built practical skills through experiential learning opportunities. - [Expo West unveils cutting-edge alternative protein innovations](https://gfi.org/blog/expo-west-unveils-cutting-edge-alternative-protein-innovations/): Explore how alt proteins are showing up at the food industry’s biggest week of the year. - [Taking the long view on alternative protein financing](https://gfi.org/blog/taking-the-long-view-on-alternative-protein-financing/): Our experts weigh in on the state of alternative protein funding and the opportunity for creative financing in the sector. - [Students are building Brazil’s alternative protein ecosystem from all sides](https://gfi.org/blog/students-are-building-brazils-alternative-protein-ecosystem-from-all-sides/): The UFMG Alt Protein Project is introducing innovative alt protein solutions to diverse audiences across Brazil, from faculty researchers to eager middle schoolers. - [Women and the vital role they play in revolutionizing alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/blog/women-and-the-vital-role-they-play-in-revolutionizing-alternative-proteins/): Meet four women paving the way for innovations in alternative protein science. - [9 thought leaders reflect on what alternative protein trends to look forward to this year](https://gfi.org/blog/nine-thought-leaders-reflect-on-what-alternative-protein-trends-to-look-forward-to-this-year/): There are exciting milestones and innovations on the horizon for alternative proteins. Our experts reflect on what may be in store for 2024. - [Our top 23 of 2023](https://gfi.org/blog/our-top-23-of-2023/): Our global community grew alternative protein progress from the ground up this year. Check out the top highlights. - [The top climate moments of this year and what they mean for alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/blog/the-top-climate-moments-of-this-year-and-what-they-mean-for-alternative-proteins/): Our food system and climate are inextricably linked. The climate community is starting to take notice, zeroing in on protein. - [Plant protein for a regenerative food system](https://gfi.org/blog/plant-protein-for-a-regenerative-food-system/): The vital connection between legumes and soil health in our food system. - [Alumni of the Alt Protein Project: where are they now?](https://gfi.org/blog/alumni-of-the-alt-protein-project-where-are-they-now/): Discover the journeys of two emerging scientists, their entry into a cutting-edge field, and what helped them get there. - [Alternative proteins have never looked so good](https://gfi.org/blog/alternative-proteins-have-never-looked-so-good/): Check out our favorite good food moments from one of the biggest alternative protein gatherings in the industry. - [A critical ingredient in the alternative protein industry that’s never in short supply](https://gfi.org/blog/a-critical-ingredient-in-the-alternative-protein-industry-thats-never-in-short-supply/): We all want a brighter food future. Collaboration is the key to getting us there. - [A boost for the blue economy: The essentialism of alternative seafood](https://gfi.org/blog/the-essentialism-of-alternative-seafood/): Scaling plant-based and cultivated seafood could help satisfy growing global demand while creating resilient jobs and livelihoods that minimize the climate and biodiversity impacts of seafood consumption. If you’re seeking blue food solutions, alt seafood is quite a catch. - [The State of the Science on Alternative Proteins: May through August 2023](https://gfi.org/blog/the-state-of-the-science-on-alternative-proteins-may-through-august-2023/): Alternative proteins offer some of the most game-changing research opportunities around the world. Here are the latest developments in the scientific ecosystem. - [Meet the next generation of alternative protein startups](https://gfi.org/blog/meet-the-next-generation-of-alternative-protein-startups/): Learn about six innovative startups building a more sustainable food system and how they are doing it. - [6 companies walking the alt protein path to 2030](https://gfi.org/blog/six-companies-walking-the-alt-protein-path-to-2030/): These companies aren’t just talking the talk when it comes to building a brighter food future, they are walking the walk. - [Introducing the 2023 Alt Protein Project cohort: expanding our global footprint](https://gfi.org/blog/introducing-the-2023-alt-protein-project-cohort/): Meet the 24 new student groups transforming their campuses into hubs for alternative protein development. - [Novel ingredients: the expanding toolkit of crops shaping the future of food](https://gfi.org/blog/expanding-toolkit-of-crops-and-approaches-building-the-future-of-food/): Developing new supply chains and processing innovations for underutilized crops like jackfruit can support farmer livelihoods while building the next generation of alt protein products. - [Navigating uncharted waters: mapping the future of cultivated seafood](https://gfi.org/blog/mapping-the-future-of-cultivated-seafood/): Scaling the cultivated fish industry remains challenging. GFI is collaborating with researchers to address that. - [So you want to start an alternative protein business](https://gfi.org/blog/so-you-want-to-start-an-alternative-protein-business/): An inside look at the early challenges associated with founding an alternative protein startup and our resources designed to set startups up for success. - [The State of the Science on Alternative Proteins: January through May 2023](https://gfi.org/blog/the-state-of-the-science-on-alternative-proteins-january-through-may-2023/): Our top highlights from a busy four months for alt protein science. - [Seizing the moment: The 10-point story of alternative proteins not being told](https://gfi.org/blog/the-10-point-alternative-protein-story-not-being-told/): Headlines focused on short-term struggles reveal a major blindspot—scientists, policymakers, and industry innovators around the world are making real, on-the-ground progress on bringing delicious, affordable alternative proteins to more plates. - [2023 outlook: The state of the plant-based meat category](https://gfi.org/blog/2023-outlook-the-state-of-the-plant-based-meat-category/): Plant-based meat is a significant growth opportunity for U.S. and global retail and foodservice. We cover 2022 plant-based meat sales and ways to improve consumer engagement. - [Alternative protein startups underscore the need for scientific and engineering talent](https://gfi.org/blog/alternative-protein-startups-underscore-the-need-for-scientific-and-engineering-talent/): The alternative protein sector is hungry for scientists and engineers — but major investments are needed to build a robust alternative protein workforce. - [Let’s solve it together: preserving our world’s oceans and waterways with the help of alternative seafood](https://gfi.org/blog/lets-solve-it-together-preserving-our-worlds-oceans-alternative-seafood/): GFI’s Senior Corporate Engagement Specialist reflects on a conversation with chef and owner of Fishtown Seafood and the future of alternative seafood. - [Bringing alt protein entrepreneurs together to build a better food future](https://gfi.org/blog/bringing-alt-protein-entrepreneurs-together/): The GFI Mentor Program is supporting the next wave of alternative protein experts. - [A deeper dive into alternative protein investments in 2022: The case for optimism](https://gfi.org/blog/alternative-protein-investments-update-and-outlook/): New investment data and GFI analysis shows that the long-term outlook for alternative protein investment is strong, despite volatile market conditions. - [Bringing diverse voices to the alternative protein table](https://gfi.org/blog/bringing-diverse-voices-to-the-alternative-protein-table/): Alt proteins can not only transform our food system, they can also address the gender gap within STEM fields. - [The State of the Science on Alternative Proteins: September through December 2022](https://gfi.org/blog/the-state-of-the-science-on-alternative-proteins-september-through-december-2022/): 2022 ended with a bang for the alt protein sector! Here are three promising themes that rounded out an already historic year. - [Let’s solve it together: The X-factor impact of alt proteins on the biggest challenges of our time](https://gfi.org/blog/lets-solve-it-together/): Inspiring organizations and individuals around the world are reducing emissions, saving lands and waters, protecting public health, and increasing food security. Yet threats still mount. Alt proteins are essential for winning on every front. - [The top 7 alternative protein trends fueling optimism in 2023](https://gfi.org/blog/the-top-7-alternative-protein-trends-fueling-optimism-in-2023/): The alternative protein industry today shows signs of resilience despite challenges across the macroeconomic landscape, geopolitical dynamics, and talent, funding, and infrastructure constraints. GFI experts predict the industry trends that will drive the next wave of developments toward mass adoption. - [Our top 22 of 2022](https://gfi.org/blog/our-top-22-of-2022/): GFI’s community of supporters sparked unprecedented innovation and growth for the alternative protein ecosystem in 2022—check out our highlights from the past year. - [Why did the cultivated chicken cross the road? Because it had the green light](https://gfi.org/blog/why-did-the-cultivated-chicken-cross-the-road-because-it-had-the-green-light/): The U.S. Food and Drug Administration gave the go-ahead to a cultivated meat product for the first time, prompting questions about this novel production method and the future of meat. We answer the top six. - [Charting the course toward an alt protein economy](https://gfi.org/blog/charting-the-course-toward-an-alt-protein-economy/): Learn how GFI is connecting food system change makers around the world - [A rare glimpse into the global regulatory landscape for alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/blog/a-rare-glimpse-into-the-global-regulatory-landscape-for-alternative-proteins/): Countries are sharing updates on the regulatory frameworks that can help scale the alt protein industry around the world - [COP27 photo essay: Reflections on the world’s largest climate conference, and what’s next](https://gfi.org/blog/cop27-photo-essay-reflections-on-the-worlds-largest-climate-conference-and-whats-next/): Food, agriculture, and alternative proteins seized the spotlight at the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. Here’s our top 20 (+1 bonus) moments, milestones, and mission-critical next steps. - [Doing the most good we can](https://gfi.org/blog/doing-the-most-good-we-can/): We focus our time and resources where they will make the biggest difference. That’s why we’re honored to be recognized by two independent charity evaluators who have named GFI one of their top-rated charities. - [Engaging governments to lead on food system transformation](https://gfi.org/blog/engaging-governments-to-lead-on-food-system-transformation/): Learn how GFI is making inroads for alternative proteins at the highest levels of government. - [Rooted in science, growing exponential impact](https://gfi.org/blog/rooted-in-science-growing-exponential-impact/): Scientists are using GFI funding to create the next wave of plant-based and cultivated meat. - [Student leaders create bold new pathways for alt proteins](https://gfi.org/blog/student-leaders-create-bold-new-pathways-for-alt-proteins/): Learn how students are putting alt proteins on the map in this GFI impact piece. - [Cultivating a future where antibiotics still work](https://gfi.org/blog/cultivating-a-future-where-antibiotics-still-work/): Learn why GFI expects the future of cultivated meat to be largely antibiotic-free, and what that means for global health. - [Fall 2022 reflections from GFI founder and president Bruce Friedrich](https://gfi.org/blog/fall-2022-reflections-from-gfi-founder-and-president-bruce-friedrich/): GFI’s Bruce Friedrich takes a beat to riff and reflect, share some recent team news, and set his sights on the road ahead - [The State of the Science on Alternative Proteins: May through August 2022](https://gfi.org/blog/the-state-of-the-science-on-alternative-proteins-may-through-august-2022/): It’s been a busy four months in the world of alt protein science. Here are the breakthroughs you may have missed. - [GFI welcomes twenty new student groups into the Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/blog/gfi-welcomes-twenty-new-student-groups-into-the-alt-protein-project/): Meet the crop of visionary new student groups transforming their universities into alternative protein hubs from the inside-out. - [GFI and FAIRR launch new, gap-filling ESG frameworks for the alternative protein industry](https://gfi.org/blog/esg-frameworks/): First-of-their-kind frameworks raise the bar on sustainability reporting, increasing transparency of the environmental and social impacts of alt proteins and enabling direct comparisons with animal protein products. - [Global perspectives: what do consumers think about alternative seafood around the world?](https://gfi.org/blog/what-do-consumers-think-about-alternative-seafood-around-the-world/): Comparing new consumer research from Japan, Thailand, Singapore, and South Korea to the U.S. - [Meet Genesis Butler, founder of Youth Climate Save](https://gfi.org/blog/meet-genesis-butler-founder-of-youth-climate-save/): GFI is shining the spotlight on this influential young woman who is helping transform our global food system and empowering youth to advocate for food system change. - [Rethinking Meat: Helping students find their place in the alternative protein space](https://gfi.org/blog/rethinking-meat-helping-students-find-their-place-in-the-alternative-protein-space/): Students from the Stanford Alt Protein Project reflect on their experience breaking ground on alternative protein education at their university. - [Research on animal-free fats presents un-fat-homable possibilities for meat alternatives](https://gfi.org/blog/research-on-animal-free-fats-presents-un-fat-homable-possibilities-for-meat-alternatives/): GFI's new grantees aim to improve in-fat-uation with plant-based meat by creating the next generation of tasty, sustainable, and healthy animal-free fats. - [GFI commends California’s landmark $5 million investment in the future of protein](https://gfi.org/blog/gfi-commends-californias-landmark-5-million-investment-in-the-future-of-protein/): California budget bill signed on June 30th will direct $5 million over the next year to advance alternative protein research at three University of California campuses. - [A plant-based summer menu to save the planet](https://gfi.org/blog/a-plant-based-summer-menu-to-save-the-planet/): Delicious meat-free recipes just in time for the holiday weekend - [The State of the Science on Alternative Proteins: January through April, 2022](https://gfi.org/blog/the-state-of-the-science-on-alternative-proteins/): A new resource series covering alt protein technology and developments in the broader scientific ecosystem - [Proud at GFI: Diversity equals resilience](https://gfi.org/blog/proud-at-gfi-diversity-equals-resilience/): GFI’s creative manager Heather Mount recaps the first year of the Proud at GFI affinity group, GFI’s ongoing internal and external DEI efforts, and explores the strength diversity weaves into all aspects of life — including our mission to make alternative proteins no longer alternative. - [From marshes to meat: Reflections from a career in conservation](https://gfi.org/blog/from-marshes-to-meat-reflections-from-a-career-in-conservation/): In recognition of the U.N.’s International Day of Biological Diversity, a GFI staffer shares her path to this moment and the people and places that have shaped her along the way. - [Agriculture is at a climate crossroads. Alternative proteins are a global solution.](https://gfi.org/blog/agriculture-is-at-a-climate-crossroads-alternative-proteins-are-a-global-solution/): Learn how GFI is advocating for the inclusion of alternative proteins as a climate solution in federal policy and bringing increased visibility to what governments around the world are doing to get us to a better food future. - [Vanessa Haley-Benjamin is laying the groundwork for cultivated mollusks](https://gfi.org/blog/vanessa-haley-benjamin-is-laying-the-groundwork-for-cultivated-mollusks/): A conversation about alternative seafood, ocean conservation, and the importance of inclusion in building up the alt protein industry. - [Three takeaways from a record-setting year for alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/blog/three-takeaways-from-a-record-setting-year-for-alternative-proteins/): 2021 was the most active year to date for alternative protein company and brand launches, private investments, and retail sales, signaling a climate-forward shift from business-as-usual. - [The most urgent white spaces in alternative protein product development](https://gfi.org/blog/the-most-urgent-white-spaces-in-alternative-protein-product-development/): Plant-based, cultivated, and fermentation-derived meat, egg, and dairy products have the potential to transform our food system for the better. Here are a few of the most important new products we’re anticipating! ## Pages - [Deep dive: Fermentation protein ingredients and food functionality](https://gfi.org/science/the-science-of-fermentation/deep-dive-fermentation-protein-ingredients-and-food-functionality/): Explore the functionality of fermentation-derived food ingredients conferred by the production method, preparation, and microbe. - [Education and workforce development](https://gfi.org/education-and-workforce-development/): Explore alternative protein careers, training, and education to grow the future food workforce. - [Reimagine meat. Reimagine the future of food.](https://gfi.org/reimagine-the-future-of-food/): Be part of a global community reimagining meat and creating a food system that benefits people, animals, and the planet. - [Deep dive: Fermentation metabolism and feedstocks](https://gfi.org/science/the-science-of-fermentation/deep-dive-fermentation-metabolism-and-feedstocks/): Explore how microbial metabolism converts feedstock to protein. - [Consumer insights](https://gfi.org/industry/consumer-insights/): Understand alternative protein consumer segments, demographics, adoption, motivations, and perceptions. - [Home](https://gfi.org/): The Good Food Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit think tank working to make the global food system better for the planet, people, and animals. - [2026 State of the Industry series](https://gfi.org/state-of-the-industry-series/): Explore our State of the Industry series for insights into the rapidly evolving alternative protein landscape. - [Deep dive: Fermentation upstream bioprocess design](https://gfi.org/science/the-science-of-fermentation/deep-dive-fermentation-upstream-bioprocess-design/): Explore the processes, equipment, and bioreactors critical for commercial fermentation-derived ingredient production. - [Alternative proteins are a global food security solution](https://gfi.org/initiatives/food-security/): Alternative proteins reduce supply chain risks, diversify the protein supply, and increase efficiencies of global food production. - [Climate solutions](https://gfi.org/initiatives/climate/): Alternative proteins play an essential role in meeting global climate goals. Learn more about what you can do to help change how meat is made. - [Plant-based meat](https://gfi.org/plant-based/): This is your guide to plant-based meat. Explore our tools, resources, and expert analysis of this field, from science to policy and markets. - [The Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/the-alt-protein-project/): Students play a pivotal role in building the alternative protein ecosystem. Explore how you can start a student group at your university to accelerate the global transition to the future of food. - [Global health benefits of alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/initiatives/global-health/): Alternative proteins can address global health challenges while also offering diverse, healthy food options for consumers. Discover how alternative proteins can create a healthier future for all. - [Foodservice resources](https://gfi.org/foodservice/): Explore research and strategies to help foodservice operators meet consumer demand for plant-based meat, dairy, and eggs. - [Connecting the dots](https://gfi.org/connecting-the-dots/): Join changemakers from around the globe who are reimagining our food system. Together, you’re helping to build a brighter future for people, animals, and the planet. - [Technical analyses and reports](https://gfi.org/science/technical-analyses-and-reports/): Our technical analyses and reports identify solutions for alternative protein taste, price, scale parity, and improved environmental sustainability. - [Alternative proteins are a biodiversity solution](https://gfi.org/initiatives/biodiversity/): Shifting toward alternative proteins addresses the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss by slashing agricultural emissions, reversing deforestation, and enabling restoration of critical ecosystems. - [Impact stories of the Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/alt-protein-project-impact/): Explore the global impact of the Alt Protein Project (APP) through compelling data and inspiring stories from APP groups around the world. - [Audit](https://gfi.org/audit/) - [Science](https://gfi.org/science/): We cultivate a strong scientific ecosystem and develop open-access research and resources. - [Korean language resources](https://gfi.org/korean-language-resources/): Compelling Korean-language research and reports focusing on alternative proteins from the Good Food Institute. - [Year in Review 2023](https://gfi.org/year-in-review-2023/): In 2023, GFI unlocked funding for plant-based and cultivated meat research, hosted our largest in-person Good Food Conference, and launched reports calling for governments to fund alternative protein innovation. - [Research Grant Program projects](https://gfi.org/grants/): Discover GFI research grant recipients breaking boundaries and spearheading global alternative protein innovation. - [Response on the state of cultivated meat innovation](https://gfi.org/response-on-the-state-of-cultivated-meat-innovation/): Cultivated meat—a transformative technology in its earliest days—is one of several solutions needed to sustainably feed a population nearing 10 billion. - [Cultivated meat image library submission form](https://gfi.org/cultivated-meat-library-submission-form/): Contribute delicious images of cultivated meat to our library. Your licensed CC-BY photos of cultivated meat help generate accurate, appealing press coverage. - [Generative AI and automated decision-making tools usage policy](https://gfi.org/ai-policy/): This policy provides guidance on the proper use of GenAI while working at the Good Food Institute (GFI). - [IRS Form 990s](https://gfi.org/about/irs-form-990s/): Below you will find our Forms 990, a U.S. IRS form that provides the public with financial information about a nonprofit organization. - [Year in Review](https://gfi.org/year-in-review/): Discover how we’re creating a global food system that’s good for all people, the planet, and animals. Dig into our latest and past annual reports. - [Future of Food: Alternative Protein Leaders Networking & Tasting Event](https://gfi.org/future-of-food-alternative-proteins-meetup/): Join us for an evening of food, fun, and networking in NYC hosted by Accenture, SOSV, and Big Idea Ventures. - [APP Map](https://gfi.org/app-map/) - [Addressing challenges of cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/cultivated/addressing-cultivated-meat-challenges/): Cultivated meat offers a sustainable option for genuine animal meat, but addressing key challenges through research is essential for its success. - [How will we feed a growing population in a warming world?](https://gfi.org/media/alternative-protein-media-insights/): Alternative proteins are a critical piece of the climate puzzle. Find resources and inspiration for future stories here. - [Careers at GFI](https://gfi.org/careers/): Explore career opportunities at GFI! We’re building a sustainable, secure, and just global food system with alternative proteins. - [Environmental benefits of alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/initiatives/climate/environmental-benefits-of-alt-proteins/): How eco-friendly are plant-based and cultivated meats? Explore their climate impacts and resource requirements relative to conventional meat. - [Deep dive: Cultivated meat end products](https://gfi.org/science/the-science-of-cultivated-meat/deep-dive-cultivated-meat-end-products/): Cultivated meat end products will have a lot in common with conventional meat. They also present opportunities for innovation and open-access research. - [Smart scaffolds for cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/smart-scaffolds-for-cultivated-meat/): Learn about Dr. Oded Shoseyov’s research to develop cost-effective “smart scaffolds” for the cultivated meat industry at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. - [Cultivated meat media kit & image library](https://gfi.org/media/cultivated-meat-media-kit/): How is cultivated meat made? Where can it be sold? Get answers to these questions, access product images, and more. - [Key alternative protein policy resources](https://gfi.org/policy/key-alternative-protein-policy-resources/): Learn more about alternative protein policy at the federal and state levels with our suite of resources. - [The good food future](https://gfi.org/the-good-food-future/): Your support powers our work in advancing alternative proteins as an essential solution to meet the world’s climate, global health, food security, and biodiversity goals. Let’s create the good food future, together. - [The Alt Protein Project Directory](https://gfi.org/the-alt-protein-project/directory/): Explore our database of Alt Protein Project student groups working to build the future of food at universities around the globe. - [Environmental, Social, and Governance framework](https://gfi.org/industry/esg-reporting/): GFI & FAIRR’s ESG frameworks supply investors and companies in the alternative proteins industry with tools to monitor, measure, and report on risks and opportunities. - [Defining alternative protein](https://gfi.org/defining-alternative-protein/): Given how essential alternative proteins are to a more resilient global food system, the term needs to be universally understood, on the tip of more tongues, and at the top of more agendas. - [Product photo library license and legal terms of submission](https://gfi.org/product-photo-library-license-and-legal-terms-of-submission/): LICENSE AND LEGAL TERMS OF SUBMISSION - [Apply to the Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/the-alt-protein-project/apply/): Interested in bringing the alternative protein field to your university? Apply to join our community of student movement-builders around the globe by 11:59 pm ET on March 27, 2026 - [Deep dive: Plant-based meat crop development](https://gfi.org/science/the-science-of-plant-based-meat/deep-dive-plant-based-meat-crop-development/): This explainer dives into the composition and properties of plant proteins, desirable ingredients for plant-based meat, and crop sources for these ingredients. Learn how advances in crop genetics benefit plant-based products in scale, cost, and organoleptic properties. - [Deep dive: Plant-based meat end product formulation and manufacturing](https://gfi.org/science/the-science-of-plant-based-meat/deep-dive-plant-based-meat-end-product-formulation-and-manufacturing/): This explainer focuses on crop-derived macromolecular ingredients, their applications in plant-based formulations, and protein texturization techniques. - [Deep dive: Plant-based meat ingredient optimization](https://gfi.org/science/the-science-of-plant-based-meat/deep-dive-plant-based-meat-ingredient-optimization/): This explainer surveys fractionation for extracting raw ingredients from crops, fractionation byproducts, and protein modification methods. - [Reducing cell culture media cost](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/reducing-cell-culture-media-cost/): Learn about Dr. Burridge’s research to produce low-cost animal skeletal muscle cells at Northwestern University. - [The alt protein student resource hub](https://gfi.org/the-alt-protein-project/resource-hub/): Use this repository of helpful tools, templates, tips, and tricks to turn your university into an engine for alternative protein innovation. - [Turning mushrooms into fish](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/turning-mushrooms-into-fish/): Learn about Dr. Olga Lucia Mondragon-Bernal’s research to biomimic fish fillets with fungal proteins at Federal University of Lavras (UFLA). - [Tissue-engineering whole-cut chicken](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/tissue-engineering-whole-cut-chicken/): Learn about Dr. Vivian Feddern’s research to tissue-engineer whole-cut chicken at Embrapa. - [Algae scaffolds for cultivated fish](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/algae-scaffolds-for-cultivated-fish/): Learn about Dr. Frederico Ferreira’s research to develop scaffolds for cultivated fish from algae and plant materials at University of Lisbon. - [Melt-spinning marbled meat](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/melt-spinning-marbled-meat/): Learn about Dr. Jay Park’s research on fiber melt spinning to biomimic intramuscular fat marbling in alternative proteins at UMass Lowell. - [Self-aggregating proteins](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/self-aggregating-proteins/): Learn about Dr. Lutz Grossmann’s research to use self-aggregating proteins to develop a low-energy extrusion process for whole-cut plant-based meats at UMass Amherst. - [Making fibrous cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/making-fibrous-cultivated-meat/): Learn about Dr. Mohamadmahdi Samandari’s research to integrate intramuscular fat and textural fibers into cultivated meat at University of Connecticut. - [Reducing the price of alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/reducing-the-price-of-alternative-proteins/): Along with taste and accessibility, price completes the trifecta of key drivers of consumer interest in alternative proteins. In order to compete with conventional products, alternative proteins must achieve levels of affordability that unlock the largest market—omnivores. Learn about the current price landscape, consumer insights on price, and pathways to price parity. - [Ace response](https://gfi.org/ace-response/): On Tuesday, November 23, Animal Charity Evaluators (ACE) released its recommended charities for 2021, and for the first time, GFI is not on the list.  - [GFI summary of the CE Delft TEA Corrigendum](https://gfi.org/cm-tea-corrigendum/): GFI's overview of CE Delft's TEA Corrigendum, which corrects an error in the initial report and re-analyzes cost projections. - [Preliminary review of technical assumptions within the Humbird analysis](https://gfi.org/cultivated/preliminary-review-of-humbird-report/): GFI scientists expand on the limitations of single studies for assessing the full range of technological possibilities - [Statement addressing TEA analyses](https://gfi.org/cultivated/tea-statement/): Techno-economic models are fundamental tools for exploring and prioritizing areas that warrant further research. - [Stacking plant protein sheets](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/stacking-plant-protein-sheets/): Learn about Dr. Hanry Yu’s research to recreate the texture of thick animal meats by stacking layers of plant protein sheets at A*STAR. - [Connective tissue from plant fibers](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/connective-tissue-from-plant-fibers/): Learn about Dr. Xiaonan Sui’s research to engineer connective tissues from plants at the Northeast Agricultural University in China. - [3D Printing pulses into fish](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/3d-printing-pulses-into-fish/): Learn about Dr. Luciano Paulino Silva’s research on 3D printing whole-cut fish and seafood from pulses at Embrapa. - [Electrospinning plant protein fibers](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/electrospinning-plant-protein-fibers/): Learn about Dr. Fabiana Perrechil Bonsanto’s research at Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP) to create whole cuts of plant-based meat from electrospinning. - [Controlling texture of filamentous fungi](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/controlling-texture-of-filamentous-fungi/): Learn about Dr. Leonie Johanna Jahn’s research to control the texture of filamentous fungi for mycelium-based whole-cut meats at DTU Biosustain. - [3D fiber scaffolds for shrimp](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/3d-fiber-scaffolds-for-shrimp/): Learn about Dr. Nataraja Yadavalli’s research to develop edible nanofiber scaffolds for Pacific white shrimp at CytoNest. - [Diversifying cultivated meats](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/diversifying-cultivated-meats/): Learn about Dr. Kelly Schultz’s research to develop hybrid scaffolds for cultivated meat structuring, nutrient sensing, and scaleup at Lehigh University. - [Low-cost differentiation medium for seafood culture](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/low-cost-differentiation-medium-for-seafood-culture/): Learn about Dr. Rees’s research to develop low-cost differentiation media for cultivated seafood at Defined Bioscience. - [Biomanufacturing scaffold-free cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/biomanufacturing-scaffold-free-cultivated-meat/): Learn about Dr. Yuguo Lei’s research to develop an integrated solution for biomanufacturing large-volume cultivated meat at Penn State. - [Differentiation and cell lines for cultivated carp](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/differentiation-and-cell-lines-for-cultivated-carp/): Learn about Dr. Mukunda Goswami’s research to develop cell lines from carp and characterize their differentiation at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. - [Hybrid scaffolds for cultivated chicken](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/hybrid-scaffolds-for-cultivated-chicken/): Learn about Dr. Aline Bruna da Silva’s research on hybrid scaffolds to create 3D cultivated chicken at the Federal Center for Technological Education of Minas Gerais (CEFET-MG). - [Assembling organoids into meat](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/assembling-organoids-into-meat/): Learn about Dr. Iftach Nachman’s research to assemble skeletal muscle organoid building blocks into thick whole-cuts at Tel Aviv University. - [Take the dive](https://gfi.org/take-the-dive/): Support our work charting the course to a sustainable, secure, and just protein supply! Your gift today creates an ocean of impact! - [Good Food Conference](https://gfi.org/good-food-conference/): The Good Food Conference brings together leaders from around the world working to advance global food system transformation. - [Dutch PBO](https://gfi.org/dutchpbo/): Institution Name: The Good Food Institute, Inc. - [SOTIR Multi-Signup Testing](https://gfi.org/sotir-multi-signup-testing/): Testing Gravity form for multi-event signup - [Cookie notice | GFI](https://gfi.org/cookie-notice/): This notice provides you with information about how and when we use cookies on our websites or web applications. Cookies, and any similar technologies change over time, so please refer to this notice at regular intervals to ensure you remain aware of how we use them. - [Newsletters](https://gfi.org/newsletters/): Our newsletters offer timely insights and expertly-curated resources on the alternative protein industry. Subscribe today to stay in the know. - [Form error](https://gfi.org/form-error/): Click the link below to download. - [Thank you](https://gfi.org/form-success/): Click the link below to download. - [Download page](https://gfi.org/download-page/): Click the link below to download. - [Deep dive: Cultivated meat cell culture media](https://gfi.org/science/the-science-of-cultivated-meat/deep-dive-cultivated-meat-cell-culture-media/): Learn more about cell culture media used in cultivated meat production. - [Exploring cassava leaf proteins](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/exploring-cassava-leaf-proteins/): GFI is exploring cassava leaf proteins with Dr. Ana Carla Kawazoe Sato at Brazil’s University of Campinas. - [Valorizing agricultural side streams](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/ac-crop-development-valorizing-agricultural-side-streams-wageningen-university/): GFI grantee Dr. Marieke Bruins at Wageningen University in the Netherlands is valorizing agricultural side streams for alternative proteins. - [Scaling cashew apple supply](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/cashew-apples-for-plant-based-meat/): GFI grantee Dr. Dionisio is researching cashew apples as a raw material for plant-based meat and solving scale-up challenges in the supply chain. - [Co-culturing cells](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/co-culturing-cells/): GFI grantee Dr. Mariana Petronela Hanga is researching culturing different cell types at the same time. - [Texturizing proteins and fiber](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/improving-textured-protein/): GFI grantee Dr. Girish Ganjyal at Washington State University is texturizing proteins and fiber to make better plant-based meat. - [Breeding peas and sorghum](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/breeding-peas-and-sorh/): Learn about Dr. Dil Thavarajah’s work at Clemson University to breed organic pulse and cereal crops for improved protein biofortification. - [Creating fiber-like structures](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/creating-fiber-like-structures/): Learn how GFI grantee Dr. David Julian McClements is developing an alternative to extrusion for producing plant-based meat at the University of Massachusetts. - [Integrating sensors into extrusion](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/integrating-sensors-into-extrusion/): Learn about Dr. Filiz Koksel’s work at the University of Manitoba to integrate sensors into plant-based meat extrusion. - [Identifying pea protein off flavors](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/identifying-pea-protein-off-flavors/): Learn about Dr. Jian Li’s work at Beijing Technology and Business University to identify off flavors in pea protein and improve plant-based meat. - [Designing cost-effective bioreactors](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/designing-cost-effective-bioreactors/): Learn about Dr. Marianne Ellis’s work at University of Bath to reduce the cost of bioreactors for cultivated meat production. - [3-D printing bioinks](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/3-d-printing-bioinks/): Learn about GFI grantee Dr. Sara Oliveira’s work 3D bioprinting scaffolds for cultivated meat the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory in Portugal. - [Fermenting flavor bases](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/fermenting-flavor-bases/): Learn about GFI research grantee BZ Goldberg’s work at The Mediterranean Food Lab to develop better flavors for plant-based meat using fermentation. - [Proteins under pressure](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/proteins-under-pressure/): Learn about Dr. Ciara McDonnell’s work to establish high-pressure processing and high-pressure thermal processing parameters for plant proteins. - [Functional protein fractions](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/functional-protein-fractions/): GFI grantee Ms. Miek Schlangen is making functional protein fractions for plant-based meat at Wageningen University in The Netherlands. - [Characterizing bean proteins](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/characterizing-bean-proteins/): Dr. Caroline Mellinger at The Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA) is exploring bean protein as ingredients for plant-based meat. - [Muscle-like structures from pulse proteins](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/grantee-page-process-improvement-muscle-like-structures-from-pulse-proteins-university-of-minnesota/): Learn about Dr. Zata Vickers’s research to develop muscle-like structures from pulse proteins to improve the texture of plant-based meat. - [Microstructure engineering](https://gfi.org/researchgrants/grantee-page-process-improvement-microstructure-engineering-university-of-guelph/): Learn about GFI grantee Dr. Mario Martinez’s work at the University of Guelph engineering microstructures for whole-muscle plant-based meat. - [Deep dive: Cultivated meat scaffolding](https://gfi.org/science/the-science-of-cultivated-meat/deep-dive-cultivated-meat-scaffolding/): Learn about scaffolding materials and methods for cultivated meat. ## APP Student Groups - [The UFRJ Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-ufrj-alt-protein-project/): The student leaders of The UFRJ Alt Protein Project work to grow their universities into hubs of alternative protein education, research, and innovation. - [The Alt Protein Project at UMich](https://gfi.org/directory/the-alt-protein-project-at-umich/): The student leaders of The Alt Protein Project at UMich work to grow their universities into hubs of alternative protein education, research, and innovation. - [The Howard University Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-howard-university-alt-protein-project/): The student leaders of The Howard University Alt Protein Project work to grow their universities into hubs of alternative protein education, research, and innovation. - [The Carnegie Mellon University Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-carnegie-mellon-university-alt-protein-project/): The student leaders of The Carnegie Mellon University Alt Protein Project work to grow their universities into hubs of alternative protein education, research, and innovation. - [The Amity Smart Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-amity-smart-protein-project/) - [The Monash Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-monash-alt-protein-project/): The student leaders of The Monash Alt Protein Project work to grow their universities into hubs of alternative protein education, research, and innovation. - [The University of Manitoba Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-university-of-manitoba-alt-protein-project/): The student leaders of The University of Manitoba Alt Protein Project work to grow their universities into hubs of alternative protein education, research, and innovation. - [The Reading Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-reading-alt-protein-project/): The student leaders of The Reading Alt Protein Project work to grow their universities into hubs of alternative protein education, research, and innovation. - [The Milan Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-milan-alt-protein-project/): The student leaders of The Milan Alt Protein Project work to grow their universities into hubs of alternative protein education, research, and innovation. - [The UFRPE Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-ufrpe-alt-protein-project/): The student leaders of The UFRPE Alt Protein Project work to grow their universities into hubs of alternative protein education, research, and innovation. - [The METU Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-metu-alt-protein-project/): The student leaders of The METU Alt Protein Project work to grow their universities into hubs of alternative protein education, research, and innovation. - [The CNPAT-UFC Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-cnpat-ufc-alt-protein-project/): The student leaders of The CNPAT-UFC Alt Protein Project. work to grow their universities into hubs of alternative protein education, research, and innovation. - [The University of Ibadan Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-university-of-ibadan-alt-protein-project/): The student leaders of The University of Ibadan Alt Protein Project work to grow their universities into hubs of alternative protein education, research, and innovation. - [The Ashoka Smart Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-ashoka-smart-protein-project/): The Ashoka Smart Protein Project pioneers student engagement in alternative proteins. - [The Vermont Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-vermont-alt-protein-project/): The Vermont Alt Protein Project pioneers research and innovation in alternative proteins. - [The USP Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-usp-alt-protein-project/): The USP Alt Protein Project leads research in alternative proteins at USP. - [The UNSAM Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-unsam-alt-protein-project/): The UNSAM Alt Protein Project positions UNSAM as a leader in protein innovation. - [The University of Toronto Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-university-of-toronto-alt-protein-project/): The University of Toronto Alt Protein Project raises awareness in alternative proteins. - [The UNESP Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-unesp-alt-protein-project/): The UNESP Alt Protein Project increases education and research in alternative proteins. - [The UMass Amherst Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-umass-amherst-alt-protein-project/): The UMass Alt Protein Project advances ethical and sustainable proteins. - [The UFSC Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-ufsc-alt-protein-project/): The Alt Protein Project at UFSC promotes research in alternative proteins, emphasizing excellence and sustainability in a leading university for innovation. - [The UFPR Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-ufpr-alt-protein-project/): The UFPR Alt Protein Project pioneers alternative protein development in Brazil. - [The UC Chile Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-uc-chile-alt-protein-project/): The UC Chile Alt Protein Project spearheads advancements in alternative proteins. - [The TUM Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-tum-alt-protein-project/): The TUM Alt Protein Project introduces students to alternative proteins. - [The SNU Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-snu-alt-protein-project/): The SNU Alt Protein Project builds a vibrant community for alternative proteins. - [The NYP Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-nyp-alt-protein-project/): The NYP Alt Protein Project creates awareness for alternative proteins. - [The IIT Bombay Smart Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-iit-bombay-smart-protein-project/): The Alt Protein Project at IIT Bombay accelerates sustainable food futures. - [The Basque Culinary Centre Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-basque-culinary-centre-alt-protein-project/): The Basque Alt Protein Project advances culinary innovation and sustainability. - [The ICT Mumbai Smart Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-ict-mumbai-smart-protein-project/): The ICT Mumbai Smart Protein Project leads research in alternative proteins. - [The Exeter Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-exeter-alt-protein-project/): The Exeter Alt Protein Project promotes sustainable food choices and addresses misconceptions. - [The NIFTEM Smart Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-niftem-smart-protein-project/): The Smart Protein Challenge at NIFTEM-K enhances food sustainability through education. - [The CSU Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-csu-alt-protein-project/): The CSU Alt Protein Project advances the development of alternative proteins. - [The BU Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-bu-alt-protein-project/): The BU Alt Protein Project connects students to improve future food systems. - [The Aston Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-aston-alt-protein-project/): The Aston Alt Protein Project inspires innovative solutions to global challenges. - [The App State Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-app-state-alt-protein-project/): The App state Alt Protein Project at Appalachian State promotes sustainable proteins through innovation. - [The Alt Protein Project at NC State](https://gfi.org/directory/the-alt-protein-project-at-nc-state/): The Alt Protein Project at NC State develops a dynamic ecosystem for alternative proteins. - [The Penn State Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-penn-state-alt-protein-project/) - [The Lisbon Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-lisbon-alt-protein-project/) - [The Imperial College London Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-imperial-college-london-alt-protein-project/) - [The EPFL Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-epfl-alt-protein-project/) - [The UChicago Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-uchicago-alt-protein-project/) - [The USM Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-usm-alt-protein-project/) - [The Columbia Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-columbia-alt-protein-project/) - [The UNICAMP Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-unicamp-alt-protein-project/) - [The UPenn Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-upenn-alt-protein-project/) - [The McMaster Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-mcmaster-alt-protein-project/) - [The UNSW Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-unsw-alt-protein-project/) - [The UCL Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-ucl-alt-protein-project/) - [The UFMG Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-ufmg-alt-protein-project/) - [The Warwick Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-warwick-alt-protein-project/) - [The Mines Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-mines-alt-protein-project/) - [The IIT Madras Smart Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-iit-madras-smart-protein-project/) - [The Alt Protein Project at UW-Madison](https://gfi.org/directory/the-alt-protein-project-at-uw-madison/) - [The Austin Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-austin-alt-protein-project/): The Austin Alt Protein Project is a student initiative focusing on growing alternative proteins awareness, education, community, and research opportunities. - [The TAMU Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-tamu-alt-protein-project/) - [The Alt Protein Project at UCLA](https://gfi.org/directory/the-alt-protein-project-at-ucla/) - [The Tokyo Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-tokyo-alt-protein-project/) - [The ETH Zürich Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-eth-zurich-alt-protein-project/) - [The Yeditepe Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-yeditepe-alt-protein-project/) - [The Duke Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-duke-alt-protein-project/): The Duke Alt Protein Project serves as a platform to educate students about alternative proteins and prepare them to apply their skills to advance the field. - [The Johns Hopkins Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-johns-hopkins-alt-protein-project/): The JHU Alt Protein Project is a group that aims to advance alternative protein technology via education, research, and business. - [The Chapel Hill Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-chapel-hill-alt-protein-project/): Chapel Hill Alt Protein Project strives to build a better food system through a vibrant and robust community for alternative protein research and innovation. - [The Davis Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-davis-alt-protein-project/): The Davis Alt Protein Project is a multidisciplinary team of graduate and undergraduate students aiming to advance the field of alternative proteins. - [The Stanford Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-stanford-alt-protein-project/): The Stanford Alt Protein Project is a diverse, inclusive, and impact-driven community striving to build a healthy, sustainable, and ethical food system. - [The Cambridge Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-cambridge-alt-protein-project/): The Cambridge Alt Protein Project raises awareness of alt proteins in their community and establishes a pipeline for talented students to enter the field. - [The Sherbrooke Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-sherbrooke-alt-protein-project/): The Sherbrooke Alt Protein Project is a student initiative focusing on reducing the environmental impact of the food we eat. - [The Alt Protein Project at EIT Food](https://gfi.org/directory/the-alt-protein-project-at-eit-food/): The EIT Food Alt Protein Project’s mission is to build a future-fit food system that produces healthy and sustainable food. - [The Waterloo Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-waterloo-alt-protein-project/): The Waterloo Alt Protein Project is one of the first chapters in Canada and works towards the future of food through research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. - [The DTU Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-dtu-alt-protein-project/): The DTU Alt Protein Project’s goals are to establish a reputable network in Denmark composed of people interested in alternative proteins and field experts. - [The Bayreuth-Kulmbach Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-bayreuth-kulmbach-alt-protein-project/): The Bayreuth-Kulmbach Alt Protein Project conducts research and teaches about alternative proteins at the intersection of the natural and social science divide. - [The University of Delhi Smart Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-university-of-delhi-smart-protein-project/): The University of Delhi Smart Protein Project is established by students of the University of Delhi and will branch out into a secretariat format. - [The University of Nigeria Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-university-of-nigeria-alt-protein-project/): The University of Nigeria Alt Protein Project seeks to promote and build the concept of a healthy, sustainable and just food system. - [The NMBU Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-nmbu-alt-protein-project/): The NMBU Alt Protein Project aims to build a healthy, sustainable, and just food system with a community for alternative protein education and innovation. - [The NTNU Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-ntnu-alt-protein-project/): The NTNU Alt Protein Project's main objective is to increase the presence and awareness of alternative protein knowledge among students. - [The NTU Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-ntu-alt-protein-project/): The NTU Alternative Protein Project serves as an inclusive forum for students and academics to exchange ideas and advance the field of alternative proteins. - [The NUS Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-nus-alt-protein-project/): The NUS Alt Protein Project focuses on generating excitement in the local alternative protein field and encouraging related interdisciplinary studies. - [The Utrecht Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-utrecht-alt-protein-project/): The Alt Protein Project at Utrecht strives to enable a sustainable and animal-free food supply through their alternative protein research and development hub. - [The Oxford Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-oxford-alt-protein-project/): The Oxford Alt Protein Project connects Oxford's research expertise, ambitious young minds, innovation, research, and education of alternative proteins. - [The Tufts Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-tufts-alt-protein-project/): Tufts University Alt Protein Project is a group of passionate students working to advance the alternative protein field. - [The Alt Protein Project at Berkeley](https://gfi.org/directory/the-berkeley-alt-protein-project/): The Berkeley Alt Protein Project group acts as a miniature think tank, catapulting its members to the forefront of the alternative protein movement. - [The Boulder Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-boulder-alt-protein-project/): The Boulder Alt Protein Project is an interdisciplinary team of passionate students creating a community interested in alternative protein research. - [The Melbourne Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-university-of-melbourne-alt-protein-project/): The University of Melbourne Alternative Protein Project aims to facilitate connections between students, researchers, and the alternative protein industry. - [The BioSense Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-biosense-alt-protein-project/): The BioSense Alt Protein Project strives to unite students and researchers who desire to create a sustainable and ethical alternative food system. - [The Wageningen Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-wageningen-alt-protein-project/): The Wageningen Alt Protein Project's mission is to help fellow students learn more about the amazing opportunities in this field by providing resources regarding alternative proteins. - [The Tel Aviv Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-tel-aviv-alt-protein-project/): The Tel Aviv Alt Protein Project aims to stimulate alternative protein research and to create a community passionate about changing the future of food. - [The Leuven Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-leuven-alt-protein-project/): The Leuven Alt Protein Project is actively building a community on campus for students and academics. - [The Cornell Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-cornell-alt-protein-project/): The Cornell Alt Protein Project is focused on spreading awareness of alternative proteins on campus to inspire future innovation. - [The Illinois Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-illinois-alt-protein-project/): The Illinois Alt Protein Project is inspiring the next generation of scientists and entrepreneurs to build healthy, sustainable, and just food systems. - [The Brown Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-brown-alt-protein-project/): The Brown Alt Protein Project gets students and faculty thinking about inefficiencies and injustices of our food system and their roles in improving it. - [The Berlin Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-berlin-alt-protein-project/): The Berlin Alt Protein Project strives to support the development of a better food system by creating an alternative protein community at Berlin universities. - [The Regensburg Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-regensburg-alt-protein-project/): The Regensburg Alt Protein Project is a student initiative that is hungry to advance the future of food by promoting alternative proteins in Germany. - [The San Diego State Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/the-san-diego-state-alt-protein-project/): The San Diego State Alt Protein Project provides a inclusive space for students to examine how their skills and interests intersect with alternative proteins. - [The Alt Protein Project at Virginia Tech](https://gfi.org/directory/the-alt-protein-project-at-virginia-tech/): The Alt Protein Project at Virginia Tech strives to bring together diverse expertise by building an inspiring community of students and faculty. - [The NYU Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/directory/nyu-alt-protein-project/): The NYU Alt Protein Project's main objective is to create change within the NYU community and the city that encapsulates and houses them. ## Series - [The Pulse Chain: From Growers to Global Protein Markets](https://gfi.org/series/the-pulse-chain-from-growers-to-global-protein-markets/) - [Building Your Alt Protein Career](https://gfi.org/series/building-your-alt-protein-career/) - [Ask GFI: Alt Protein Careers](https://gfi.org/series/ask-gfi-alt-protein-careers-5/) - [Ask GFI: Alt. Protein Careers](https://gfi.org/series/ask-gfi-alt-protein-careers-4/) - [Ask GFI: Alt. Protein Careers](https://gfi.org/series/ask-gfi-alt-protein-careers-2/) - [Ask GFI: Alt Protein Careers](https://gfi.org/series/ask-gfi-alt-protein-careers/) ## Comment Letters - [To FDA on labeling of plant-based meat, eggs, and dairy](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/to-fda-on-labeling-of-plant-based-meat-eggs-and-dairy/): GFI advocates for clear and simple labeling that would allow for the use of nomenclature consumers like and understand. - [To FDA on labeling of plant-based milk alternatives and voluntary nutrient statements](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/to-fda-on-labeling-of-plant-based-milk-alternatives-and-voluntary-nutrient-statements/): GFI urges FDA to treat plant-based milks fairly and avoid any labeling scheme that would unfairly burden one class of products in the marketplace. - [To HHS and USDA regarding the Scientific Report of the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/to-hhs-and-usda-regarding-the-scientific-report-of-the-2025-dietary-guidelines-advisory-committee/): GFI urges the Departments to adopt the Committee’s recommended “Eat Healthy Your Way” dietary pattern in the 2025-2030 DGA, which builds on previous iterations of the DGA by encouraging people to consume more plant-based proteins while allowing for greater flexibility to meet the needs of American families. - [To the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee on the benefits of alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/to-the-dietary-guidelines-advisory-committee-on-the-benefits-of-alternative-proteins/): GFI asks the DGAC to consider the unique health, environmental, and societal benefits of alternative proteins that make it inappropriate to classify them with other UPFs. - [To the Department of Energy on alternative proteins and biotechnology-enabled food production](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/to-the-department-of-energy-on-alternative-proteins-and-biotechnology-enabled-food-production/): GFI recommends that the DOE identify alternative proteins as high-value and high-priority decarbonization technologies within the food/beverage subsector. - [Response to Defense Production Act Investments Program request for information](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/response-to-defense-production-act-investments-program-request-for-information/): GFI recommends investment in alternative proteins under the Defense Production Act to unlock a diverse array of national security, economic, and social benefits. - [To USDA in response to their Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on cultivated meat labeling](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/to-usda-anpr-on-cultivated-meat-labeling/): GFI submitted comments in response to the USDA’s Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR) regarding cultivated meat labeling. GFI advocates for a clear, practical, and flexible regulatory pathway to market for these products and recommends that USDA-FSIS create a regulatory framework that treats cultivated products and conventional products fairly and equally. - [Comment to NOAA on alternative seafood and climate change](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/comment-to-noaa-on-alternative-seafood-and-climate-change/): GFI submitted a comment to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) urging the agency to prioritize open-access research on alternative seafood as a central component of NOAA’s climate change agenda. - [Comment to FDA re Request for Information on Cultivated Seafood Labeling](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/comment-to-fda-re-request-for-information-on-cultivated-seafood-labeling/): GFI's comment supports a cautious and flexible approach towards labeling as cultivated seafood comes to market. Learn why we support regulatory flexibility for cultivated seafood. - [Letter to Congress advocating alternative protein R&D funding](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/congress-alternative-protein-rd-funding/): In March 2021, The Good Food Institute, along with 60 nonprofits, trade associations, and companies, asked Congress to fund alternative protein research and development in the FY22 budget for the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Science Foundation. - [Re: food standards; general principles and food standards modernization](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/re-food-standards-general-principles-and-food-standards-modernization/): GFI urges FDA to establish principles for modernizing food standards that account for all foods. Learn why doing so is vital to FDA’s goal of supporting innovation. - [To the Senate Democrats’ Special Committee on the climate crisis on impact of climate change on agricultural economy](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/to-the-senate-democrats-special-committee-on-the-climate-crisis-on-impact-of-climate-change-on-agricultural-economy/): GFI’s comment requests that the Committee work to establish an interagency Alternative Protein Initiative. Learn why doing so would support rural America. - [To the House Science, Space & Technology Committee on Covid-19 stimulus package](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/to-the-house-science-space-technology-committee-on-covid-19-stimulus-package/): GFI’s comment urges the Committee to dedicate stimulus funds to support alternative proteins. Learn why doing so would help create a resilient and sustainable food supply. - [Second Supplement to Citizen Petition to FDA re naming conventions](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/second-supplement-to-citizen-petition-to-fda-re-naming-conventions/): GFI’s supplement highlights market developments since submitting its Citizen Petition. Learn why the developments demonstrate a need for clarity from FDA. - [To the House Select Committee on the climate crisis on carbon pollution and economic stimulus](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/to-the-house-select-committee-on-the-climate-crisis-on-carbon-pollution-and-economic-stimulus/): GFI’s comment urges the Committee to propose legislation to establish and fund an interagency Alternative Protein Initiative. Learn why doing so would achieve a climate-friendly food supply. - [To the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on research funding](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/to-the-office-of-management-and-budget-omb-on-research-funding/): GFI encourages the Administration to engage in research that will benefit alternative proteins. Learn more about our recommendations. - [Re: horizontal approaches to food standards of identity modernization](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/re-horizontal-approaches-to-food-standards-of-identity-modernization/): GFI’s comment encourages FDA to clarify that new foods may be named by reference to the names of other foods. Learn why doing so supports FDA’s goal of promoting innovation. - [On NOAA’s Research & Development Plan for 2020-2026](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/on-noaas-research-development-plan-for-2020-2026/): GFI’s comment recommends that NOAA expands R&D plan to include plant-based and cultivated seafood. Learn why doing so would lead to healthier ecosystems. - [Supplement to Citizen Petition to FDA re naming conventions](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/supplement-to-citizen-petition-to-fda-re-naming-conventions/): GFI’s supplement highlights two new legal developments since submitting its Citizen Petition. Learn why the developments demonstrate a need for clarity from FDA. - [Citizen Petition to FDA re naming conventions](https://gfi.org/comment-letters/citizen-petition-to-the-fda-re-naming-conventions/): GFI’s petition requests FDA to clarify that new foods may be named by reference to the names of other foods. Learn why doing so would be in line with consumer understanding. ## Press - [OPINION: Rethinking India’s food system for a low-emissions future](https://gfi.org/press/opinion-rethinking-indias-food-system-for-a-low-emissions-future/): GFI India's Sneha Singh explains in The Week's op-ed that by diversifying protein sources, India can enhance food security and contribute to its net-zero targets. - [Lab meat: Will Canada get left behind?](https://gfi.org/press/lab-meat-will-canada-get-left-behind/): CBC News’ Johanna Wagstaffe looks into the science behind cellular agriculture and the regulatory framework that novel foods must navigate before hitting Canadian shelves. - [India’s Orphan Crops Could Unlock a New Plant Protein Supply Chain, GFI India Argues](https://gfi.org/press/gfi-india-report-seeks-focus-on-underutilized-crop-varieties/): GFI India's latest whitepaper explores how India’s indigenous and underutilized crops can be leveraged to build a stronger domestic ingredient ecosystem for alternative protein applications. - [Germany prioritises alt-protein growth with High-Tech Agenda](https://gfi.org/press/germany-backs-alt-proteins-in-national-biotech-roadmap/): GFI Europe welcomed Germany’s decision to include alternative proteins in its biotech roadmap, highlighting plans for a national innovation hub by 2027 while urging stronger funding and regulatory support to accelerate cultivated meat and precision fermentation commercialization. - [GFI announces leadership transition, names Interim CEO](https://gfi.org/press/gfi-announces-leadership-transition-names-interim-ceo/): The Good Food Institute names Rachel Lichte as Interim CEO. - [Most Agree Fungi-Based Food Is A Greener, Meat-Like Protein](https://gfi.org/press/most-agree-fungi-based-food-is-a-greener-meat-like-protein/): GFI's Lucas Eastham shared insights on consumer familiarity with fungi as food and the environmental benefits of mycoprotein. - [Lab-grown meat could still be a long way from widespread availability when SD’s new ban expires](https://gfi.org/press/lab-grown-meat-could-still-be-a-long-way-from-widespread-availability-when-sds-new-ban-expires/): GFI's Tamar Lieberman and Elliot Swartz shed light on the benefits of cultivated meat, including meeting a growing demand for protein without further straining finite planetary resources. - [Taste testing lab-grown salmon with Kara Swisher](https://gfi.org/press/taste-testing-lab-grown-salmon-with-kara-swisher/): CNN visits Wildtype, a food startup based in a repurposed brewery in San Francisco, to see the process of creating lab-cultivated salmon, to explore its potential impact on sustainability and longevity. - [I ate lab-grown salmon. It was nothing like I expected](https://gfi.org/press/i-ate-lab-grown-salmon-it-was-nothing-like-i-expected/): Profile of Wildtype, the company behind the world’s first FDA approved cultivated salmon. - [China wants to dominate the future of food. And it might succeed.](https://gfi.org/press/china-wants-to-dominate-the-future-of-food-and-it-might-succeed/): GFI APAC's Ryan Huling penned an op-ed covering how China is leveraging alternative proteins to accomplish its plan for food security. - [Opinion: People can decide for themselves what they’d like to eat](https://gfi.org/press/opinion-people-can-decide-for-themselves-what-theyd-like-to-eat/): The Washington Post’s Editorial Board weighs in on protectionist state-led cultivated meat bans. - [India needs to bridge tech gaps to become global mfg hub for plant-based protein](https://gfi.org/press/india-needs-to-bridge-tech-gaps-to-become-global-mfg-hub-for-plant-based-protein/): The Economic Times covered a report released by the Good Food Institute India and the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management, Thanjavur, which identified India as a potential global manufacturing hub for plant-based protein processing equipment if critical technological shortfalls are addressed. - [Berkeley Bowl dishes up meat banned in red states](https://gfi.org/press/berkeley-bowl-dishes-up-meat-banned-in-red-states/): GFI’s Daniel Gertner's insights were included in SF Gate's coverage of the Mission Barns cultivated meat tasting event at Berkeley Bowl West in Berkeley, CA. - [The steak of the future may be growing in a Woburn office park](https://gfi.org/press/the-steak-of-the-future-may-be-growing-in-a-woburn-office-park/): Boston’s NPR station cited GFI’s data on the environmental benefits of cultivated meat in their coverage of EdiMembre, an engineering company creating high-protein strands to produce cultivated meat. - [Science Talk: China’s big bet on ‘new proteins’ is a win for Singapore](https://gfi.org/press/science-talk-chinas-big-bet-on-new-proteins-is-a-win-for-singapore/): China's 'new proteins' bet: A win for Singapore. Authored by GFI APAC's Ryan Huling. - [Why are Europeans eating more plant-based meat than Americans? It’s not why you think](https://gfi.org/press/why-are-europeans-eating-more-plant-based-meat-than-americans-its-not-why-you-think/): GFI's Jody Kirchner and Abby Sewell offer their insights on the plant-based meat industry for this Fast Company piece. - [New GFI Report Identifies Critical Skill Gaps in India’s Plant-Based and Cultivated Meat Value Chains](https://gfi.org/press/new-gfi-report-identifies-critical-skill-gaps-in-indias-plant-based-and-cultivated-meat-value-chains/): GFI India has released an analysis of India’s smart protein talent landscape, revealing a mismatch between the country’s educational output and the industry’s current and future workforce needs. - [New book ‘Meat’ explores how the next food revolution could transform meat consumption](https://gfi.org/press/new-book-meat-explores-how-the-next-food-revolution-could-transform-meat-consumption/): In his new book “Meat,” GFI's founder Bruce Friedrich argues that the way we produce meat is unsustainable — for the climate, the planet and public health — and that the solution isn’t eating less of it, but making it differently. - [GFI APAC’s 2025 Report Card + 6 Things to Watch in 2026](https://gfi.org/press/gfi-apacs-2025-report-card-6-things-to-watch-in-2026/): A mere 12 months ago, our experts published a look ahead at 2025 and outlined five reasons to be hopeful about APAC’s alternative protein sector, based on changes we expected to see over the course of the year. - [Research finds alternative proteins could boost EU economy by €111 billion by 2040](https://gfi.org/press/research-finds-alternative-proteins-could-boost-eu-economy-by-e111-billion-by-2040/): Alternative proteins could add €111 billion a year to the EU’s economy by 2040 if treated as a strategic priority, new research shows. - [Letters to the Editor: Alternative proteins could help farmers and fight our water shortages](https://gfi.org/press/letters-to-the-editor-alternative-proteins-could-help-farmers-and-fight-our-water-shortages/): In an LTE addressed to the LA Times, GFI's Matt Hotze explains how alternative proteins can alleviate water shortages in the Colorado River Basin. - [The alternative protein boom didn’t end. It just moved to Illinois.](https://gfi.org/press/the-alternative-protein-boom-didnt-end-it-just-moved-to-illinois/): GFI's Daniel Gertner offered his expertise in this Crain's Chicago Business piece on the alternative protein boom in Illinois. - [Why Good Food Institute’s release of SciFi Foods’ cell lines matters as cultivated meat scales](https://gfi.org/press/why-good-food-institutes-release-of-scifi-foods-cell-lines-matters-as-cultivated-meat-scales/): GFI's Elliot Swartz spoke with Food Navigator-USA about GFI's recent SciFi cell line acquisition and plans for its open-access usage. - [The next trillion-dollar food opportunity: GFI India on India’s smart protein ecosystem](https://gfi.org/press/the-next-trillion-dollar-food-opportunity-gfi-india-on-indias-smart-protein-ecosystem/): Sneha Singh of GFI India discusses the infrastructure, regulatory clarity, supply chain localization, and consumer trends shaping India's smart protein sector and its impact on climate and nutrition. - [COP30 advances the climate agenda, but keeps food systems and protein diversification out of the center of decisions](https://gfi.org/press/cop30-advances-the-climate-agenda-but-keeps-food-systems-and-protein-diversification-out-of-the-center-of-decisions/): The formal outcomes of COP30, compiled in the Belém Package and the so-called Global Task Force Decision, reinforced important commitments to climate finance, adaptation, and forest preservation. - [Want to fight climate change effectively? Here’s where to donate your money.](https://gfi.org/press/want-to-fight-climate-change-effectively-heres-where-to-donate-your-money/): Vox listed GFI as one of the top ten high-impact climate organizations to donate to for Giving Tuesday. - [Bridging the uncanny valley of lab-grown meat](https://gfi.org/press/bridging-the-uncanny-valley-of-lab-grown-meat/): "How We Survive," podcast host Amy Scott visits a lab at Columbia University where researchers are figuring out how to make a more convincing and enjoyable meat alternative. - [There’s no elephant in the alt protein room, says GFI CEO Nigel Sizer, but change takes time and money](https://gfi.org/press/theres-no-elephant-in-the-alt-protein-room-says-gfi-ceo-nigel-sizer-but-change-takes-time-and-money/): Elaine Watson interviewed GFI's newly appointed CEO Nigel Sizer, with a focus on the plant-based meat consumer demand and the pace of scientific innovation. - [Exclusive: Open-source moment for cultivated meat as GFI releases SCiFi Foods’ cell lines to academia](https://gfi.org/press/exclusive-open-source-moment-for-cultivated-meat-as-gfi-releases-scifi-foods-cell-lines-to-academia/): AgFunder broke the news of GFI's Sci-Fi cell lines acquisition to make them freely available to the cultivated meat industry. - [Cultivated meat cell lines freed up for use by entire sector, enabling the field to leapfrog years of R&D](https://gfi.org/press/cultivated-meat-cell-lines-freed-up-for-use-by-entire-sector-enabling-field-to-leapfrog-years-of-research-and-development/): In an unprecedented move by a nonprofit, the Good Food Institute acquired cell lines and growth media developed by SCiFi Foods, and granted them to Tufts University to be made available for public use. The move marks the first cultivated-meat suspension cell lines to become available for industry and academic researchers around the world. - [Protein for a crowded planet: An interview with the Good Food Institute’s Nigel Sizer](https://gfi.org/press/protein-for-a-crowded-planet-an-interview-with-the-good-food-institutes-nigel-sizer/): Read this Q&A between GFI's newly appointed CEO Nigel Sizer and Mongabay founder Rhett Ayers Butler. - [Former Rainforest Alliance head, globally renowned nature-climate expert, and public health champion Nigel Sizer joins nonprofit GFI as CEO](https://gfi.org/press/former-rainforest-alliance-head-nigel-sizer-joins-nonprofit-gfi-as-new-ceo/): Nigel Sizer will join as CEO on August 26, to help lead GFI’s strategic programming and operations in the U.S. and around the world, working closely with GFI teams in Asia Pacific, Brazil, Europe, Japan, India, and Israel. - [Will we still eat beef in 50 years?](https://gfi.org/press/will-we-still-eat-beef-in-50-years/): GFI's Daniel Gertner was quoted in this Mongabay piece highlighting alternative proteins as a way to address the harms of present-day beef production. - [The science behind cultivated salmon — and where you can try it](https://gfi.org/press/the-science-behind-cultivated-salmon-and-where-you-can-try-it/): GFI's Claire Bomkamp was a featured guest on Soundside on their coverage of Wildtype's cultivated salmon and its launch in Seattle-based restaurant the Walrus and the Carpenter. - [Beyond Meat’s Next Dish Won’t Imitate Beef, Pork, or Chicken](https://gfi.org/press/beyond-meats-next-dish-wont-imitate-beef-pork-or-chicken/): GFI's Jody Kirchner is quoted in Inc.'s piece on Beyond Meat’s new product and overall challenges for the plant-based meat industry - [Want to try lab-grown salmon? The US just approved it.](https://gfi.org/press/want-to-try-lab-grown-salmon-the-us-just-approved-it/): GFI's Maddie Cohen was included in Grist's piece about WildType's FDA approval and the climate benefits of cultivated seafood. - [Bird flu is a recurring risk. It’s time food companies planned for it.](https://gfi.org/press/bird-flu-is-a-recurring-risk-its-time-food-companies-planned-for-it/): As egg prices remain volatile, businesses should think about embracing alternatives to the protein, writes Emma Ignaszewski of the Good Food Institute. - [GFI CEO Ilya Sheyman announces departure; SVP of Policy Jessica Almy to serve as Interim CEO; GFI to launch national search for next CEO](https://gfi.org/press/leadership-news/): The Good Food Institute will experience a leadership transition this summer, as CEO Ilya Sheyman announces his departure effective June 2nd. GFI’s longtime senior vice president of policy and government relations Jessica Almy will serve as interim CEO while the organization conducts a nationwide search for its next CEO. - [These vegan meat brands taste almost as good as the real thing. Taste tests prove it.](https://gfi.org/press/these-vegan-meat-brands-taste-almost-as-good-as-the-real-thing-taste-tests-prove-it/): GFI's Abby Sewell emphasized that taste is one of the key motivators for consumers' eating behaviors in Grist's coverage of NECTAR’s Taste of the Industry Report. - [Who’s Afraid of Lab-Grown Meat?](https://gfi.org/press/whos-afraid-of-lab-grown-meat/): GFI's Madeline Cohen spoke on the unconstitutionality of cultivated meat bans in this NYT piece about state-level cultivated meat bans and why some ranchers, red states, and meat industry members oppose them. - [Free trade over fear: Meat industry challenges cultivated meat bans](https://gfi.org/press/free-trade-over-fear-meat-industry-challenges-cultivated-meat-bans/): GFI's Pepin Tuma and Bruce Friedrich spoke on the meat industry’s efforts to ban cultivated meat in this Food Nav-USA piece highlighting the need for fair regulations and the potential benefits of alt proteins. - [Lab-grown meat rebrands itself to woo Trump — and RFK Jr.](https://gfi.org/press/lab-grown-meat-rebrands-itself-to-woo-trump-and-rfk-jr/): Maille O'Donnell spoke to Grist on the importance of federal investment in alternative proteins for their piece on the cultivated meat industry as it navigates the new administration. - [Seeking New Foods, Scientists Look To Bacteria, Algae, and More](https://gfi.org/press/seeking-new-foods-scientists-look-to-bacteria-algae-and-more/): Adam Leman spoke to MIT-affiliated magazine Undark on alternative proteins made from fermentation that are currently on the market. - [Yes, Imitation Meat Is Processed. Can It Also Be Healthy?](https://gfi.org/press/yes-imitation-meat-is-processed-can-it-also-be-healthy/): Emma Ignaszewski speaks to the New York Times on the potential growth of the plant-based sector based on consumer trends in their piece on plant-based meat companies' product reformulations. - [Seafood without a catch: N.S. startups and scientists investigate plant-based fish](https://gfi.org/press/seafood-without-a-catch-n-s-startups-and-scientists-investigate-plant-based-fish/): Claire Bomkamp offered her insights on a CBC story about the challenges and opportunities of plant-based seafood innovation. - [Would you eat dried microbes? This company hopes so.](https://gfi.org/press/would-you-eat-dried-microbes-this-company-hopes-so/): Adam Leman spoke with MIT Technology Review on the regulatory hurdles and the applications of biomass fermentation in their piece on LanzaTech’s microbe-based foods. - [The Colorado River is drying up. Farmers can help revive it](https://gfi.org/press/the-colorado-river-is-drying-up-farmers-can-help-revive-it/): GFI's Dr. Matt Hotze penned an op-ed on the rising drought crisis in the Colorado River Basin and how farmers can save the land using drought-resistant crops. - [Taking on Food Emissions at Their Origin and Consumption](https://gfi.org/press/taking-on-food-emissions-at-their-origin-and-consumption/): Bruce Friedrich was profiled in The New York Times for the Climate Forward Changemaker Lunch at New York Climate Week. - [Here’s how much cropland could be freed up if Americans ate half as much meat](https://gfi.org/press/heres-how-much-cropland-cuuld-be-freed-up-if-americans-ate-half-as-much-meat/): Grist included Dr. Priera Panescu Scott's insights on soy production in their coverage of GFI’s land use analysis report. - [American government built the meat industry. Now can it build a better food system?](https://gfi.org/press/american-government-built-the-meat-industry-now-can-it-build-a-better-food-system/): GFI's Sr. Vice President of Policy Jessica Almy spoke to Vox about the need for governmental funding for plant-based proteins. - [Seafood cultivated in a lab could help mitigate the next pandemic](https://gfi.org/press/seafood-cultivated-in-a-lab-could-help-mitigate-the-next-pandemic/): GFI's Dr. Faraz Harsini spoke with PRX on the scalability of cultivated meat as meat demand and pandemic risks grow. - [Slaughter-free meat hits the grocery shelf](https://gfi.org/press/slaughter-free-meat-hits-the-grocery-shelf/): GFI's Curt Chaffin, Bruce Friedrich, and Dr. Elliot Schwartz shared their insights with Nature on the role government funding can play in supporting the scalability and sustainability of the cultivated meat industry. - [Plant-based meat needs government support to scale up, but a culture war stands in the way](https://gfi.org/press/plant-based-meat-needs-government-support-to-scale-up-but-a-culture-war-stands-in-the-way/): Emma Ignaszewski spoke to Grist about the recent BCG report and the need for public investment in alternative proteins, comparing alternative proteins to electric cars. - [The climate case for mock meats is clear. But who can afford them?](https://gfi.org/press/the-climate-case-for-mock-meats-is-clear-but-who-can-afford-them/): GFI's Business Analyst Daniel Gertner discussed the ways in which plant-based companies operate to maintain their working infrastructure. - [Has the plant-based meat revolution fizzled out?](https://gfi.org/press/has-the-plant-based-meat-revolution-fizzled-out/): GFI's Emma Ignaszewski comments on the prospective consumer base for the plant-based meat industry. - [We taste-tested 9 fake bacons. Here’s how they compare to the real thing.](https://gfi.org/press/we-taste-tested-9-fake-bacons-heres-how-they-compare-to-the-real-thing/): Dr. Nikhita Mansukhani Kogar spoke with the Washington Post on what will get consumers to purchase plant-based bacon in the future. - [Sell Lab-Grown Meat in Alabama and You Could Go to Jail](https://gfi.org/press/sell-lab-grown-meat-in-alabama-and-you-could-go-to-jail/): GFI's Legislative Director Pepin Andrew Tuma spoke with WIRED on the implications of cultivated meat bans cropping up in states such as Alabama and Florida. - [Everything Can Be Meat](https://gfi.org/press/everything-can-be-meat/): GFI's Dr. Claire Bomkamp spoke with The Atlantic about the various ways cultivated meat might show up on consumers' plates. - [How cultivated fat can boost plant-based meat](https://gfi.org/press/your-plant-based-meat-could-soon-have-animal-fat/): Dr. Priera Panescu Scott and Dr. Faraz Harsini speak on cultivated fat’s role in plant-based meat. - [Dunkin’ faces a moo-ving class-action suit from the lactose intolerant](https://gfi.org/press/dunkin-faces-a-moo-ving-class-action-suit-from-the-lactose-intolerant/): GFI's Ben Pierce offers insights on the lawsuit against Dunkin’ Donuts for upcharging on alternative dairy options. - [Which proteins contain the most microplastics?](https://gfi.org/press/which-proteins-contain-the-most-microplastics/): GFI’s Bianca Datta comments on the study that found microplastics in most proteins. - [Alternative seafoods: The omega-3 opportunity](https://gfi.org/press/alternative-seafoods-the-omega-3-opportunity/): There’s a lot of opportunity for sustainable omega-3 suppliers in the seafood alternatives arena as the world searches for ways to feed a population of 10 billion by the year 2050. - [U.S. Government Should Support Alt Proteins](https://gfi.org/press/us-government-should-support-alt-proteins/): GFI president Bruce Friedrich: Alternative proteins pay dividends for food & water security, economic & national security, farmers & consumer choice. - [Will lab-grown meat ever make it onto supermarket shelves?](https://gfi.org/press/will-lab-grown-meat-ever-make-it-onto-supermarket-shelves/): GFI's Dr. Elliot Swartz and Emma Ignaszewsk discuss the technology and challenges facing cultivated meat. - [How age-old food science could make fake meat taste better](https://gfi.org/press/how-age-old-food-science-could-make-fake-meat-taste-better/): GFI's Dr. Adam Leman and Shayna Fertig offer their insights in this Washington Post piece on fermentation. - [The world now has a roadmap for food and climate. But it’s missing a few things.](https://gfi.org/press/the-world-now-has-a-roadmap-for-food-and-climate-but-its-missing-a-few-things/): GFI's Shayna Fertig speaks on the FAO roadmap released at COP28. - [GFI’s Bruce Friedrich on the Bi-Partisan Support of Alt Proteins](https://gfi.org/press/gfis-bruce-friedrich-on-the-bi-partisan-support-of-alt-proteins/): Bruce Friedrich speaks on Left, Right and Center's podcast on the benefits of alternative protein. - [I’ve Always Wondered…Why does oat milk cost more than dairy milk? ](https://gfi.org/press/ive-always-wondered-why-does-oat-milk-cost-more-than-dairy-milk/): GFI's Daniel Gertner was featured in the Marketplace about the price of oat milk vs. conventional cow’s milk. - [The Protein Problem](https://gfi.org/press/the-protein-problem/): The Associated Press published “The Protein Problem”, a multimedia series featuring articles on plant-based and cultivated meat, and includes GFI's Bruce Friedrich. - [What would happen if the world cut meat and milk consumption in half?](https://gfi.org/press/what-would-happen-if-the-world-cut-meat-and-milk-consumption-in-half/): GFI's Emma Ignaszewski's expertise is included in this Grist piece which found that replacing half of the world's meat and milk consumption with plant-based alternatives could effectively halt deforestation associated with animal agriculture and make a significant dent in agricultural GHG emissions. - [How Eco-Friendly Is Cultivated Meat?](https://gfi.org/press/how-eco-friendly-is-cultivated-meat/): Food Technology Magazine features GFI's Dr. Elliot Swartz on the strides the cultivated meat industry has made to cater to consumers. - [What is cultivated meat?](https://gfi.org/press/what-is-cultivated-meat-2/): NPR's 1A podcast interviewed Dr. Liz Specht on the long-term benefits and science behind cultivated meat. - [Outrage + Optimism: Hungry for Alternatives](https://gfi.org/press/outrage-optimism-hungry-for-alternatives/): GFI's Bruce Friedrich unpacks the positive impact that alternative proteins can have on tackling the climate crisis, public health, and nature restoration. - [What is cultivated meat?](https://gfi.org/press/what-is-cultivated-meat/): NPR's 1A podcast interviewed Dr. Liz Specht on the long-term benefits and science behind cultivated meat. - [Hungry For Alternatives](https://gfi.org/press/hungry-for-alternatives/): GFI's Bruce Friedrich is interviewed by Andy Jarvis from the Bezos Earth Fund, as they both unpack the outsized positive impact that alternative proteins can have not only on tackling the climate crisis, but also our health, animal well-being and nature restoration. - [The Sticky, Pricey Process of Making Lab-Grown Meat](https://gfi.org/press/the-sticky-pricey-process-of-making-lab-grown-meat/): Wall Street Journal consulted GFI's scientists Dr. Elliot Swartz and Dr. Claire Bomkamp on this visualization explainer on cultivated meat. GFI's Emma Ignaszewski is also quoted. - [Governments have put $1 billion toward making better meat alternatives. A lot more is needed.](https://gfi.org/press/governments-have-put-1-billion-toward-making-better-meat-alternatives-a-lot-more-is-needed/): Vox featured GFI’s State of Global Policy Report, which highlights the need for increased government investment in alternative proteins. - [After years of promise, cell-based meat is moving from the lab to dinner plates](https://gfi.org/press/after-years-of-promise-cell-based-meat-is-moving-from-the-lab-to-dinner-plates/): GFI's Dr. Elliot Swartz speaks on the role regulatory bodies played in strides the cultivated meat industry recently made. - [What Kitchen Appliances Will Look Like in 50 Years](https://gfi.org/press/what-kitchen-appliances-will-look-like-in-50-years/): An exploration of the possible futures of kitchen appliances, including an in-home cultivated meat bioreactor. - [From prediction to production: A timeline of cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/press/from-prediction-to-production-a-timeline-of-cultivated-meat/): A timeline of progress in the cultivated meat industry, from 2002 to mid-2023. - [What exactly is lab-grown meat? Here’s what you need to know.](https://gfi.org/press/what-exactly-is-lab-grown-meat-heres-what-you-need-to-know/): Dr. Claire Bomkamp, GFI's Lead Scientist, talks to the National Geographic about the global benefits of cultivated meat. - [Cultivated meat: Lab-grown meat without killing animals](https://gfi.org/press/cultivated-meat-lab-grown-meat-without-killing-animals/): GFI's Bruce Friedrich speaks with Allison Aubrey about the many benefits of cultivated meat. - [San Francisco Restaurant Bar Crenn Is Now Serving the First Dish of Cultivated Chicken in the U.S.](https://gfi.org/press/san-francisco-restaurant-bar-crenn-is-now-serving-the-first-dish-of-cultivated-chicken-in-the-u-s/): GFI's Sr. Vice President of Policy, Jessica Almy, discusses the regulatory and industry implications for USDA's grant of inspection of cultivated meat. - [What Is Lab-Grown Meat, And Is It Safe To Eat?](https://gfi.org/press/what-is-lab-grown-meat-and-is-it-safe-to-eat/): Dr. Elliot Swartz shares his expertise on all things cultivated meat. - [How meat grown from animal cells could help tackle climate change](https://gfi.org/press/how-meat-grown-from-animal-cells-could-help-tackle-climate-change/): GFI's Jessica Almy discusses landmark decision of the USDA's approval of cultivated meat and its climate benefits. - [GOOD Meat and UPSIDE Foods approved to sell cultivated chicken following landmark USDA action](https://gfi.org/press/good-meat-and-upside-foods-approved-to-sell-cultivated-chicken-following-landmark-usda-action/): UPSIDE Foods and GOOD Meat received landmark grants of inspection from the USDA, allowing them to sell their cultivated chicken products in the U.S., marking a decisive moment in the history of food and agriculture. - [‘No kill’ meat, grown from animal cells, is now approved for sale in the U.S.](https://gfi.org/press/no-kill-meat-grown-from-animal-cells-is-now-approved-for-sale-in-the-u-s/): GFI's Bruce Friedrich celebrates USDA's grant of inspection for UPSIDE Foods and Good Meat. - [U.S. Approves the Sale of Lab-Grown Chicken](https://gfi.org/press/u-s-approves-the-sale-of-lab-grown-chicken/): GFI's Bruce Friedrich on the global significance of the USDA's grant of inspection for cultivated chicken. - [Lab-grown meat can be environmentally sound](https://gfi.org/press/lab-grown-meat-can-be-environmentally-sound/): Read GFI's Dr. Liz Specht's letter to the editor regarding cultivated meat's potential to lower carbon emissions. - [Were the Impossible and Beyond burgers a fad, or is plant-based meat here to stay?](https://gfi.org/press/were-the-impossible-and-beyond-burgers-a-fad-or-is-plant-based-meat-here-to-stay/): GFI's Audrey Gyr and Dr. Priera Panescu Scott discuss the opportunities, and challenges, facing the plant-based meat industry. - [Why this startup is adding real meat to its plant-based product](https://gfi.org/press/why-this-startup-is-adding-real-meat-to-its-plant-based-product/): GFI's Audrey Gyr offers insight and predictions into the trend of blended meat products. - [New GFI State of the Industry reports highlight untold stories and transformative potential of alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/press/new-state-of-the-industry-reports-highlight-transformative-potential-of-alternative-proteins/): 2022 saw a record number of new companies join the fold, unprecedented government support, and a continued expansion of alternative protein products hitting the market. - [How we’ll eat in 2050](https://gfi.org/press/how-well-eat-in-2050/): GFI's Dr. Liz Specht talks to CNN about the major role alternative proteins play in the future of food. - [Cultivated meat is on the horizon, but has long way to go before it hits grocery shelves](https://gfi.org/press/cultivated-meat-is-on-the-horizon-but-has-long-way-to-go-before-it-hits-grocery-shelves/): GFI's Dr. Elliot Swartz is featured in a segment about cultivated meat's entry into the U.S. market. - [FDA gives 2nd safety nod to cultivated meat, produced without slaughtering animals](https://gfi.org/press/fda-gives-2nd-safety-nod-to-cultivated-meat-produced-without-slaughtering-animals/): GFI's Bruce Friedrich celebrates FDA's greenlight of GOOD Meat's cultivated chicken. - [GFI celebrates FDA’s second greenlight to a cultivated meat company in a matter of months](https://gfi.org/press/gfi-celebrates-fdas-second-greenlight-to-a-cultivated-meat-company-in-a-matter-of-months/): GFI experts respond to FDAs “no questions” letter issued to GOOD Meat, marking the first time a cultivated meat product has received regulatory approval on multiple continents. - [FDA proposes new rules for plant-based milks](https://gfi.org/press/fda-proposes-new-rules-for-plant-based-milks/): GFI's Madeline Cohen summarizes FDA's draft guidance on plant-based milk labeling, and explains why consumers aren't confused when purchasing these dairy alternatives. - [The Secret Ingredient That Could Save Fake Meat](https://gfi.org/press/the-secret-ingredient-that-could-save-fake-meat/): GFI's Audrey Gyr talks about the potential opportunity of cultivated fat to play a role in developing plant-based meat products. - [Soy, Oat and Almond Drinks Can Be Called Milk, F.D.A. Says](https://gfi.org/press/soy-oat-and-almond-drinks-can-be-called-milk-f-d-a-says/): GFI's Madeline Cohen offers insight into FDA's draft guidance on plant-based milk labeling, and its impact on consumers. - [Oat, almond and other plant-based drinks can be labeled ‘milk,’ FDA proposes](https://gfi.org/press/oat-almond-and-other-plant-based-drinks-can-be-labeled-milk-fda-proposes/): GFI responds to FDA's draft guidance on plant-based milk labeling in the U.S. ## Resources - [SciTech Manager](https://gfi.org/resource/scitech-manager/): The Good Food Institute APAC is hiring a SciTech Manager to serve as its regional scientific lead on alternative proteins, providing strategic insight into R&D, regulatory trends, and emerging technologies across plant-based, fermentation, and cultivated protein systems. - [Associate Director of Philanthropy ](https://gfi.org/resource/associate-director-philanthropy/): We are looking for an Associate Director of Philanthropy to drive GFI’s fundraising efforts in Asia Pacific. - [Policy Specialist (Senior to Principal level) ](https://gfi.org/resource/policy-specialist-senior-to-principal-level/): Korea is home to world-class research institutions, drives funding of technological advancements, and has the potential to lead the global revolution in alternative proteins. The Policy Specialist will spearhead GFI Korea’s work with the Korean government. - [How we’re funded](https://gfi.org/resource/how-we-are-funded/): GFI is a nonprofit think tank supported by a global community of donors dedicated to making food systems better for the planet, people, and animals. - [Train the trainer: high school educator program](https://gfi.org/resource/train-the-trainer-high-school-educator-program/): Explore the science, tools, and training needed to teach alternative proteins and food innovation in STEM classrooms. - [Communications Associate](https://gfi.org/resource/communications-associate/): Your work will help GFI APAC more effectively reach and engage scientists, policymakers, investors, and companies online and in-person, inspiring and empowering them to accelerate alternative protein progress across Asia Pacific. - [State of the Industry downloads](https://gfi.org/resource/state-of-the-industry-downloads/): Download one or all of our State of the Industry reports for expert analysis of the latest trends in cultivated, fermentation-derived, and plant-based meat. - [Year in Review 2025](https://gfi.org/resource/year-in-review-2025/): Dig into our 2025 annual report, a special edition that also celebrates our 10 years of donor-powered impact benefitting people, animals, and the planet. - [Where cultivated meat can be sold](https://gfi.org/resource/where-cultivated-meat-can-be-sold/): Explore an updated tracker of all the countries where cultivated meat can be sold, along with a list of companies and product formats. - [How alternative protein companies can work with U.S. National Laboratories](https://gfi.org/resource/guide-to-working-with-us-national-labs/): Learn how alternative protein companies can leverage U.S. National Laboratory expertise and infrastructure to accelerate R&D and de-risk commercialization. - [Minnesota state programs](https://gfi.org/resource/minnesota-state-programs/): These Minnesota state grants, loan programs, and tax credits are likely relevant to the alternative protein industry. Companies should assess their own eligibility for programs of interest. - [UNEP Global Environment Outlook 7](https://gfi.org/resource/unep-global-environment-outlook-7/): UNEP’s GEO-7, the most comprehensive scientific environmental assessment ever conducted, highlights the importance of alternative proteins. - [How to explain cultivated meat to U.S. consumers](https://gfi.org/resource/explaining-cultivated-meat-to-us-consumers/): GFI surveyed 3,500 U.S. consumers to discover how strategic messaging can ​grow consumer understanding ​of and interest in cultivated meat​. - [Alternative protein production facilities database](https://gfi.org/resource/alternative-protein-production-facilities-database/): Use our database to explore the landscape of alternative protein production facilities, including plant-based, cultivated, and fermentation-derived alternative proteins. - [Sensory evaluation guide for alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/resource/sensory-evaluation-guide-for-alternative-proteins/): Explore practical sensory science best practices that connect alternative protein product development with consumer insight. - [Illinois Alternative Protein Innovation Task Force Final Report](https://gfi.org/resource/illinois-alternative-protein-task-force-report/): The first-in-the-nation Task Force, established in 2023, explored how the state can become a national hub for plant-based, fermentation-derived, and cultivated proteins. - [How health perceptions shape plant-based meat choices](https://gfi.org/resource/how-health-perceptions-shape-plant-based-meat-choices/): Uncover U.S. attitudes on plant-based meat health, nutrition, and what drives purchase decisions. - [Amino acid cost and supply chain analysis for cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/resource/amino-acid-cost-and-supply-chain-analysis-for-cultivated-meat/): This white paper explores how to make amino acids affordable for cultivated meat, offering research and supply chain paths for industry growth. - [Research priorities for plant-based and fermentation-enabled protein ingredients](https://gfi.org/resource/research-priorities-for-plant-based-and-fermentation-enabled-protein-ingredients/): This joint report from GFI and FFAR identifies funding priorities and research opportunities for protein ingredient optimization. - [What startups need to know about partnering with corporates](https://gfi.org/resource/what-startups-need-to-know-about-partnering-with-corporates/): Discover key takeaways for startups looking to form resilient and mutually beneficial partnerships with corporates. - [Developing continuous cell lines for cultivated seafood](https://gfi.org/resource/developing-continuous-cell-lines-for-cultivated-seafood/): Our guide offers practical advice to overcoming common technical challenges, based on survey results and interviews with industry and academic researchers. - [Cell growth modeling review for cultivated meat production](https://gfi.org/resource/cell-growth-modeling-review-for-cultivated-meat-production/): This report reviews cell growth modeling for cultivated meat, identifying critical data gaps and offering recommendations to improve techno-economic models for scalable, cost-effective production. - [Suspension-adapted bovine cell lines](https://gfi.org/resource/suspension-adapted-bovine-cell-lines/): GFI has acquired multiple bovine cell lines and media formulations previously developed by the company SCiFi Foods. - [Plant-based and fermentation-enabled innovations for egg substitutes](https://gfi.org/resource/plant-based-and-fermentation-enabled-innovations-for-egg-substitutes/): Learn about innovations in egg substitutes and ingredients that offer reliable, cost-stable, and sustainable solutions for food companies. - [Fermentation-derived ingredient techno-economics: policy insights](https://gfi.org/resource/fermentation-derived-ingredient-techno-economics-policy-insights/): Protein made via fermentation provides an opportunity to enhance food system resilience. Policy mechanisms can drive down costs and scale production. - [Mentors of the Alt Protein Project](https://gfi.org/resource/mentors-of-the-alt-protein-project/): Meet the expert mentors behind the Alt Protein Project. Each student group receives personalized 1:1 guidance from leaders in alternative protein research and innovation. - [Massachusetts state programs](https://gfi.org/resource/massachusetts-state-programs/): These Massachusetts state grants, loan programs, and tax credits are likely relevant to the alternative protein industry. Companies should assess their eligibility for programs of interest. - [The nutritional profile of plant-based meat: strengths and opportunities](https://gfi.org/resource/the-nutritional-profile-of-plant-based-meat/): Explore our white paper for an overview of the nutritional profile of plant-based meat as a category, including areas of strength and opportunities for improvement, relative to conventional meat products. - [Request access: Investor directory for companies](https://gfi.org/resource/request-access-investor-directory-for-companies/): Request access to GFI’s directory of investors interested in funding alternative protein companies. - [Access our investor directory for funds](https://gfi.org/resource/access-our-investor-directory-for-funds/): Request access to our directory of investors interested in funding alternative protein funds. - [Our role in contributing to Codex standards for alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/resource/our-role-in-contributing-to-codex-standards-for-alternative-proteins/): The Codex Alimentarius is a collection of international food standards and related texts developed by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. We participate in the development of Codex standards and texts related to alternative proteins. - [Join our Investor Directory](https://gfi.org/resource/join-our-investor-directory/): Are you an accredited investor interested in funding alternative protein startups or funds? Fill out this form to be added to our investor directory. - [Give us feedback on our report](https://gfi.org/resource/give-us-feedback-on-our-report/): We want your input! Use this form to submit feedback, corrections, additional insights, data, and your thoughts on our report. - [U.S. loan and guarantee programs for scaling alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/resource/us-government-loan-programs-for-alternative-protein-companies/): Discover federal loan and loan guarantee programs that may be used to support alternative protein manufacturing and investment. - [California state programs](https://gfi.org/resource/california-state-programs/): These California state grants, loan programs, and tax credits are likely relevant to the alternative protein industry. Companies should assess their eligibility for programs of interest. - [Gift acceptance policy](https://gfi.org/resource/gift-acceptance-policy/): Our gift acceptance policy outlines our commitment to ethical, transparent, and mission-aligned philanthropy. - [Techno-economic insights on fermentation ingredients](https://gfi.org/resource/techno-economic-insights-on-fermentation-ingredients/): This report analyzes the competitiveness and key cost drivers of fermentation-derived ingredients, and identifies critical data gaps. - [Illinois state programs](https://gfi.org/resource/illinois-state-programs/): These Illinois state grants, loan programs, and tax credits may be accessible to the alternative protein industry. - [California: Sustainable protein innovation](https://gfi.org/resource/california-sustainable-protein-innovation/): Explore our fact sheet to learn about the state of sustainable protein production in California, including recent industry and research developments. - [Insights and opportunities in whole-cut meat alternatives](https://gfi.org/resource/insights-and-opportunities-in-whole-cut-meat-alternatives/): Dive into a category overview and insights for plant-based and fermentation-enabled steaks, filets, chicken breasts, and other whole-cut products. - [Policy brief: CDMOs for Food and Agriculture Biotechnology Development](https://gfi.org/resource/policy-brief-cdmos-for-food-and-agriculture-biotechnology-development/): CDMOs in biotechnology for food production create jobs, boost the bioeconomy, and provide outsized support to American farmers, innovators, and consumers. - [Retail point-of-purchase motivators for plant-based foods](https://gfi.org/resource/retail-point-of-purchase-motivators-for-plant-based-foods/): Explore tactics to increase consumers’ purchase intent for plant-based products at retail, optimal category descriptors for plant-based food, and more. - [Foodservice communication guide](https://gfi.org/resource/foodservice-communication-guide/): Explore how to effectively engage chefs and foodservice operators to get alternative proteins on menus. - [State of the Industry: Brazil](https://gfi.org/resource/state-of-the-industry-brazil/): Get the latest insights on Brazilian consumer behavior, the role of animal meat in consumers' diet, and how plant-based meats are perceived in the context of everyday food. - [State of the Industry: Fermentation for meat, seafood, eggs, dairy, and ingredients](https://gfi.org/resource/fermentation-meat-seafood-eggs-dairy-and-ingredients-state-of-the-industry/): This report details the commercial landscape, investments, regulatory developments, and scientific progress in the fermentation for alternative proteins industry. - [State of the Industry: Cultivated meat, seafood, and ingredients](https://gfi.org/resource/cultivated-meat-seafood-and-ingredients-state-of-the-industry/): This report details the commercial landscape, investments, regulatory developments, and scientific progress in the cultivated meat and seafood industry. - [State of the Industry: Plant-based meat, seafood, eggs, dairy, and ingredients](https://gfi.org/resource/plant-based-meat-eggs-and-dairy-state-of-the-industry/): This report details the commercial landscape, sales, investments, innovation trends, and regulatory developments in the plant-based meat, seafood, eggs, dairy, and ingredients industry. - [Nomenclature and messaging for precision fermentation](https://gfi.org/resource/nomenclature-and-messaging-for-precision-fermentation-consumer-research-findings-from-france-germany-spain-the-uk-and-the-united-states/): Precision fermentation has the potential to help meet the growing global demand for animal products like eggs and dairy, but with a fraction of the land, pollution and climate emissions that would come with expanding industrial animal agriculture. - [Serum-free media for cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/resource/serum-free-media-for-cultivated-meat/): A summary of the development of serum-free media in cultivated meat research and manufacturing. - [State of the Industry: Israel](https://gfi.org/resource/state-of-the-industry-israel/): Everything you need to know about the alternative protein ecosystem in Israel. - [State of the Industry Report: India](https://gfi.org/resource/state-of-the-industry-report-india/): Get current insights into the state of India’s smart protein industry including commercial landscape, consumer and investment insights, technical advancements, and regulatory updates. - [State of the Industry: Germany](https://gfi.org/resource/state-of-the-industry-germany/): Explore recent developments surrounding plant-based, cultivated, and fermentation-made proteins, investments, the scientific landscape, consumer research, and policy recommendations for Germany. - [State of the Industry: Asia Pacific](https://gfi.org/resource/state-of-the-industry-asia-pacific/): GFI APAC’s inaugural report on the alternative proteins sector in APAC features a deep dive into public and private funding, the R&D ecosystem, and sector progress from ideation to product commercialization and market growth. - [Year in Review 2024](https://gfi.org/resource/year-in-review-2024/): In 2024, we championed public support for alternative proteins, grew the scientific ecosystem, and highlighted good food solutions at global events. - [Americans understand plant-based meat labeling](https://gfi.org/resource/americans-understand-plant-based-meat-labeling/): Research shows that a large majority of American adults understand what plant-based meat products are based on current labeling. - [Plant-based meat consumer segmentation](https://gfi.org/resource/plant-based-meat-consumer-segmentation/): Explore key consumer segments who are open to plant-based meat, including their demographics, attitudes, needs, and behaviors. - [Public investment database](https://gfi.org/resource/public-investment-database/): Explore public investments in alternative protein science and commercialization from governments around the world. - [A global perspective on alternative seafood](https://gfi.org/resource/a-global-perspective-on-alternative-seafood/): Explore a first-of-its-kind survey showing what would motivate consumers in Singapore, Thailand, Japan, and South Korea to leave fish in the sea and choose plant-based or cultivated seafood instead. - [From labels to composition: A nutritional analysis of plant-based meat and egg products in India](https://gfi.org/resource/from-labels-to-composition-a-nutritional-analysis-of-plant-based-meat-and-egg-products-in-india/): This nutritional analysis is the outcome of a two-part study comparing the nutritional labels of plant-based meat and egg products with their animal-derived counterparts and assessing the nutritional quality of their protein and fat constituents. - [Study of national plant proteins with potential for applications in plant-based products](https://gfi.org/resource/study-of-national-plant-proteins-with-potential-for-applications-in-plant-based-products/): A 2024 analysis of the potential of Brazilian crops and sidestreams for use in plant-based products. - [Methodology for analyzing investments in alternative protein companies](https://gfi.org/resource/investment-methodology/): Curious about how we categorize investments across plant-based, cultivated, and fermentation sectors? Explore our methodology for analyzing alternative protein funding, including company inclusion criteria, funding categorization, and data sources to provide a comprehensive view of investment patterns. - [U.S. consumer snapshot of alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/resource/alternative-protein-consumer-snapshot/): Explore key insights into consumer needs, perceptions, and demand for alternative proteins, highlighting trends and shifting preferences in the U.S. market. - [Alternative protein network database](https://gfi.org/resource/alternative-protein-network-database/): Find trade associations, professional networks, and other communities of practice dedicated to collaborating in plant-based, fermentation, cultivated meat, and related fields. - [Plant-based meat pricing and promotion insights in U.S. retail](https://gfi.org/resource/plant-based-meat-pricing-and-promotion-insights-in-us-retail/): This fact sheet examines the relationship between plant-based meat prices and sales volume and identifies potential pricing and promotional strategies for the market. - [Promoting plant-based items on menus](https://gfi.org/resource/promoting-plant-based-items-on-menus/): Learn best practices for marketing and promoting plant-based meat, egg, and dairy items on foodservice and restaurant menus. - [Plant Protein Primer](https://gfi.org/resource/plant-protein-primer/): Find information on nutrition, functionality, price, sourcing, and consumer perceptions of plant protein sources for plant-based meat. - [Share a cell line](https://gfi.org/resource/share-a-cell-line/): Want to share a cell line with the research community or know of a cell line that should be included? Get in touch with us! - [Get updates on new cell lines](https://gfi.org/resource/get-updates-on-new-cell-lines/): Can’t find a cell line that meets your needs? Let us know what you’re looking for, and we’ll send you an update if and when something similar becomes available. - [Research supports the term “cultivated meat”](https://gfi.org/resource/research-supports-the-term-cultivated-meat/): Research conducted in December 2022 validates the use of “cultivated meat” over “cell-cultured meat” and other terms. Learn more in our fact sheet. - [Consumer attitudes toward alternative seafood](https://gfi.org/resource/consumer-attitudes-toward-alternative-seafood/): Alternative seafood is a clear market opportunity. To date, little research has been conducted in this area. To fill this gap and strengthen the alternative seafood innovation ecosystem, GFI partnered with consumer insights and brand strategy firm, Kelton Global. This resource outlines the key findings. - [Category update on blended meat](https://gfi.org/resource/category-update-on-blended-meat/): An analysis of the current U.S. market, consumer research, and key challenges, opportunities, and open questions for blended meat. - [Recommendations for President Trump: Building an innovative agricultural bioeconomy](https://gfi.org/resource/recommendations-for-president-trump-building-an-innovative-agricultural-bioeconomy/): The United States must restore its leadership in biotechnology and biomanufacturing. Investment in food biomanufacturing R&D will bolster agricultural innovation. - [Plant-based meat life cycle assessment for food system sustainability](https://gfi.org/resource/plant-based-meat-life-cycle-assessment-for-food-system-sustainability/): This life cycle assessment by GFI and EarthShift Global compares the environmental impacts of animal-based meat to plant-based meat made with different methods and ingredients. - [How alternative proteins expand opportunities for farmers and agriculture](https://gfi.org/resource/alternative-proteins-for-farmers-and-agriculture/): Explore our fact sheet to learn how alternative proteins support farmers, expand opportunities for agricultural livelihoods, and help create a healthy, resilient agriculture sector. - [Omega-3 ingredient use in alternative meat and seafood products](https://gfi.org/resource/omega-3-ingredient-use-in-alternative-meat-and-seafood-products/): Discover our report summarizing 2023 survey results on omega-3 ingredient use and future plant-based meat and seafood production needs. - [U.S. household shopper insights for plant-based meat](https://gfi.org/resource/us-household-shopper-insights-for-plant-based-meat/): Discover key insights on U.S. households buying plant-based meat. Explore data on demographics, purchase habits, motivations, barriers, and more. - [Alternative protein innovation bolsters national security](https://gfi.org/resource/alternative-protein-innovation-bolsters-national-security/): Alternative protein technologies produce meat with high efficiency, providing fortification for our food system and defense against growing threats. - [Funding the build](https://gfi.org/resource/funding-the-build/): A review of the funding landscape for alternative protein scale-up and commercial manufacturing. - [What will shape the future of alternative proteins?](https://gfi.org/resource/what-will-shape-the-future-of-alternative-proteins/): In this video, Dr. Liz Specht reflects on 2024's achievements and shares her vision for the future of alternative proteins. - [Federal research grants for alternative protein companies](https://gfi.org/resource/federal-research-grants-for-alternative-protein-companies/): Explore our overview of the SBIR and STTR programs, which provide grants to U.S.-based small businesses to support the commercialization of scientific research and innovation. - [U.S. consumer health perceptions of plant-based meat](https://gfi.org/resource/us-consumer-health-perceptions-of-plant-based-meat-summary-of-recent-research/): This factsheet summarizes recent research about U.S. consumer health perceptions of plant-based meat. - [Land use analysis for alternative proteins and U.S. climate goals](https://gfi.org/resource/land-use-analysis-for-alternative-proteins-and-us-climate-goals/): The land use analysis by GFI and Highland Economics describes land use and land restoration opportunities of increasing alternative proteins in the American food system to help achieve U.S. climate and biodiversity goals. - [Public funding for alternative protein commercialization](https://gfi.org/resource/public-funding-for-alternative-protein-commercialization/): By joining our email list, you’ll receive notifications of new U.S.-based public funding opportunities for alternative protein companies. - [Fundraising database](https://gfi.org/resource/fundraising-database/): Use the fundraising database to discover alternative protein companies currently engaged in a fundraising round. Sort companies by deal and and company characteristics. - [Alternative protein food industry survey: Startups](https://gfi.org/resource/alternative-protein-food-industry-survey-startups/): Discover key insights from our 2024 survey on the alternative protein food industry. This summary highlights crucial findings from manufacturers, investors, retailers, and more, providing strategic considerations for navigating the evolving landscape of alternative protein. - [Plant molecular farming fact sheet](https://gfi.org/resource/plant-molecular-farming-facts/): Plant molecular farming enables the production of animal proteins in plants. Learn more about this innovative technique in our latest fact sheet. - [Alternative proteins ensure American competitiveness](https://gfi.org/resource/alternative-proteins-ensure-american-competitiveness/): Plant based foods have gained momentum and notable market share. Read our report explaining why the U.S. should build up a domestic alternative protein industry. - [The Grazer](https://gfi.org/resource/the-grazer/): Get our bi-monthly newsletter curated for the scientific research community to learn the latest on research, funding opportunities, and events. - [Alternative proteins are a global food security solution](https://gfi.org/resource/alternative-proteins-are-a-global-food-security-solution/): Amid a global grain shortage and skyrocketing food prices, alternative proteins can make the global food system more efficient and resilient. - [Plant-based foods in U.S. foodservice](https://gfi.org/resource/us-foodservice-market-insights-for-plant-based-foods/): Explore the latest foodservice market data for plant-based proteins and dairy in the United States to uncover valuable insights and opportunities. - [Recipe for a livable planet](https://gfi.org/resource/recipe-for-a-livable-planet/): The World Bank’s latest report on reducing food system emissions highlights alternative proteins as a top climate change mitigation solution. - [Trends in cultivated meat scale-up and bioprocessing](https://gfi.org/resource/trends-in-cultivated-meat-scale-up-and-bioprocessing/): This report presents findings from a 2022-2023 survey of 30 cultivated meat industry stakeholders and covers current capabilities, future needs, bioprocessing, facilities, equipment costs, and food safety practices. - [Analyzing plant-based meat & seafood sales](https://gfi.org/resource/analyzing-plant-based-meat-and-seafood-sales/): Dive deep into sales and consumer data for plant-based meat and seafood. Find key category insights, size, sales growth drivers, purchase dynamics, and consumer insights. - [Global Innovation Needs Assessment: Protein Diversity](https://gfi.org/resource/global-innovation-needs-assessment-protein-diversity/): ClimateWorks Foundation and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office find that alternative proteins can yield significant environmental and economic benefits—but only with sufficient public investment. - [The alternative protein ecosystem](https://gfi.org/resource/the-alternative-protein-ecosystem/): Discover global hubs of alternative protein innovation with our interactive map. - [Kremer Innovation Commission’s Case for Alternative Proteins](https://gfi.org/resource/kremer-innovation-commissions-case-for-alternative-proteins/): In their brief launched at COP28, the Innovation Commission for Climate Change, Food Security, and Agriculture shared that alternative protein innovation has the potential to contribute to climate mitigation, relieve food insecurity, and help address malnutrition. ## Solutions Databases - [High-performance oxygen carriers for cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/solutions/cultivated-meat-oxygen-carriers/): Mammalian cell culture performance can be limited by oxygen and carbon dioxide levels or by shear stress associated with sparging and mixing. The use of protein-based oxygen carriers could help to address these issues in the context of a cultivated meat bioprocess. - [Directed evolution using Raman activated cell sorting](https://gfi.org/solutions/raman-flow-cytometry/): The combination of flow cytometry—which allows single cell analysis and sorting—with Raman spectroscopy—which allows crude biochemical analysis of cells—can be used to develop new strains of microorganisms with enriched protein, fat, or iron compounds. - [Consumer and sensory research to guide alternative fish R&D](https://gfi.org/solutions/consumer-sensory-alt-fish/): Consumer and sensory research can help companies and academic researchers better understand seafood consumers' needs and desires. Understanding consumers' needs will allow alternative fish researchers to ask and prioritize the correct biological and technical questions. Appropriate and thoughtful prioritization can avoid unnecessarily diluting resources in the short term and ensure that the expanding product landscape in the long term is well-matched to customer expectations. - [Catalog of animal meat flavors](https://gfi.org/solutions/animal-flavor-catalog/): Creating a catalog of molecules responsible for the characteristic flavor of a species will enable alternative protein product manufacturers to create products that more accurately replicate the sensory experience of animal meats, removing a major barrier to their widespread adoption. - [Synergistic climate and biodiversity benefits of alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/solutions/climate-biodiversity-synergies/): The direct climate and biodiversity benefits of alternative proteins are well understood by the alternative protein community, but the synergistic benefits of alternative proteins with other solutions—for example, clean energy and reforestation efforts—are often underappreciated. Leaning into these synergistic benefits can help efforts to build community with climate and conservation organizations and to drive engagement with policymakers. - [Developing scalable, fit-for-purpose bioreactor and bioprocessing technologies for cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/solutions/novel-bioreactor-technologies/): Optimizing bioreactor and bioprocessing technologies for the needs of the cultivated meat industry has the potential to substantially reduce the cost of cultivated meat production. Innovations in cultivated meat bioprocessing can be broadly classified into strategies focused on food-grade operation, process intensification, and the exploration of novel bioreactor geometries. - [Naturally adhesive and edible non-animal scaffolding materials](https://gfi.org/solutions/naturally-adhesive-and-edible-non-animal-scaffolding-materials/): There is a limited number of edible non-animal scaffold materials that are naturally adhesive for use in cultivated meat production. Identifying a larger and more diverse set of these materials, which tend to be inexpensive and accessible, and characterizing their industrial scalability, environmental impact, and effects on food properties supports progress towards cultivated meat price parity. - [Cell line development from food-relevant aquatic species](https://gfi.org/solutions/food-relevant-aquatic-cell-lines/): A lack of publicly-available cell lines from relevant species and cell types continues to be a challenge for the field of cultivated seafood. Addressing this challenge will require further investigation into the basic biology of aquatic species, development of optimized cell isolation procedures, and sharing of cell lines via existing and new repositories. - [Cultivated, fermentation-derived, or hybrid surimi](https://gfi.org/solutions/cultivated-fermentation-hybrid-surimi/): There has been little publicly announced R&D and commercial effort to develop cultivated, fermentation-derived, or hybrid surimi. Compared to other meat products, surimi is likely to be by far one of the easiest to replicate well. - [Optimizing fat profiles for nutritional and sensory properties](https://gfi.org/solutions/optimizing-fat-nutrition-sensory/): Because alternative meat's fat content and fatty acid profile can be more easily controlled than conventional meat's, there is an opportunity to alter fat content for nutritional benefits. Additional research is needed to understand the sensory consequences of such manipulations, potentially allowing alternative meat producers to produce "nutritionally enhanced" products without compromising on sensory quality. - [Mapping animal cell metabolism to optimize media formulation](https://gfi.org/solutions/mapping-animal-cell-metabolism/): The cost and environmental impact of cultivated meat are driven by the cell culture media formulation and its conversion efficiency into meat. Metabolic modeling and engineering techniques can aid media formulation and ensure its optimal use. Targeted optimization will improve the cost-competitiveness and sustainability of cultivated meat production. - [Consumer education on the food safety of cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/solutions/consumer-education-food-safety-cultivated-meat/): Consumer education on the food safety of cultivated meat can positively impact consumer acceptance when sufficient information is provided. Additional research and efforts to increase transparent science communication on the food safety benefits of cultivated meat are needed. - [Ensuring appropriate food safety controls for cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/solutions/cultivated-meat-food-safety-controls/): Sterilization guidelines from well-established biomedical and food industries can act as helpful templates for safe cultivated meat production. However, more research is needed to identify potentially novel production hazards for regulators to understand the unique requirements for cultivated meat. - [Incorporating growth factors into scaffolds to reduce costs and introduce spatial heterogeneity](https://gfi.org/solutions/scaffolds-with-growth-factors/): Growth factors (GFs) can be incorporated into scaffolds as a strategy for both reducing costs and improving product quality of cultivated meat. Open-access research is needed to test the feasibility of this strategy and determine the most appropriate methods. - [Scaffolds and structural approaches to optimize fat distribution and content in cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/solutions/scaffolds-fat-marbled-meat/): The inclusion of fat and marbling in cultivated meat is likely to increase its flavor, texture, and consumer appeal. Structural approaches using edible microcarriers, hydrogels, and 3D bioprinting present promising options to support fat cell growth and reduce buoyancy in culture for integrating fat into cuts of meat, but more research is needed to optimize conditions.  - [Promoting stemness and proliferation in fish cell cultures](https://gfi.org/solutions/fish-cell-proliferation/): Efficient and cost-effective cultivated fish production will require precise optimization to encourage fast proliferation and highly efficient use of inputs while preventing premature differentiation. A variety of strategies can be employed to adjust various factors that contribute to these properties, including optimizing the starting cell line, improving the composition of the proliferation medium, and exploring the possibility of transdifferentiating easy-to-grow cell lines like fibroblasts into myogenic and adipogenic lineages. - [Hybrid products to optimize nutrition, taste, cost, and sustainability](https://gfi.org/solutions/hybrids-blends-nutrition-taste-cost-sustainability/): Hybrid products are a promising means to introduce cost-competitive versions of cultivated meat to the market while improving the taste of plant proteins. Promoting the health benefits of hybrids may facilitate consumer acceptance, but more research is needed to identify the optimal ratios between plant-based and cultivated ingredients to increase nutrition without compromising flavor. - [Cost-effective sterility controls for cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/solutions/cost-sterility-controls-cultivated-meat/): Meticulous attention to sterility controls throughout cultivated meat production is essential to optimize food safety, but the cost of biopharmaceutical-based sterility—the current standard for cell-based processes—is incongruent with large-scale food production. Research to identify alternative sterility processes with lower costs is needed for cultivated meat to scale successfully. - [Scientist / engineer outreach and education](https://gfi.org/solutions/scientist-engineer-outreach-education/): To expand the technical talent pipeline, various players in the alternative protein field should reach out to scientists and engineers in relevant disciplines (e.g., biotech, biopharma, and food science) to inform them of opportunities to apply their existing expertise to this field. Efforts should target students and seasoned professionals. - [B2B media development company](https://gfi.org/solutions/b2b-media-development-company/): The cultivated meat industry needs dedicated suppliers of low-cost, food-grade cell culture media to reduce cultivated meat production costs. Close collaboration between the customer and supplier will be required in many cases due to the need for formulations to be optimized for specific cell lines. - [Life Cycle Assessment for alternative seafood relative to conventional fishing and aquaculture](https://gfi.org/solutions/seafood-lca/): To date, no robust environmental assessments have been conducted to compare alternative seafood to its conventional counterparts. An open-access, quantitative analysis of the relative environmental impacts of alternative seafood will help garner support for the industry from policymakers, nonprofit organizations, consumers, investors, foodservice outlets, and retailers. - [Plant-based scaffolds to improve cultivated meat nutrition](https://gfi.org/solutions/plant-based-scaffolds-nutrition/): A variety of plant-based scaffolds present the opportunity to combine the natural nutritional and structural benefits of plants with the taste and high protein of cultivated meat. Bacterial nanocellulose from coconut water is a particularly promising scaffold material with its FDA approval status and beneficial nutritional and cell adhesion properties. - [Animal-free, non-recombinant albumin and transferrin for cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/solutions/non-recombinant-homologues-albumin-transferrin/): The identification of non-animal, non-recombinant proteins with similar functionality to serum albumin and transferrin will lead to major cost reductions in cell culture media development, facilitating progress toward achieving price parity with cultivated meat. - [Semi-continuous bioprocess for whole cut cultivated meat using simultaneous perfusion and stretch](https://gfi.org/solutions/simultaneous-perfusion-and-stretch/): Stretching of engineered muscle constructs has been previously demonstrated to induce alignment and maturation of muscle fibers, which is desirable for whole cut cultivated meat. Stretch stimuli could also be incorporated into a semi-continuous bioprocess in which a piece of tissue is expanded over time and portions of the tissue periodically harvested. The large amount of meat produced could offset the high initial cost of fabricating a construct capable of continuous growth. - [Incorporating omega-3s into cultivated seafood](https://gfi.org/solutions/incorporating-omega-3s-into-cultivated-seafood/): Cultivated seafood will need to be supplemented with long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids to be nutritionally equivalent or superior to conventional seafood. However, how these compounds can best be incorporated has not been determined, and there are several potentially-viable strategies. Further research is needed to determine which strategies are most cost-effective and scalable and whether there are appreciable differences between methods in the quality of the final product. - [Repurposing and retrofitting facilities for use in alternative protein manufacturing](https://gfi.org/solutions/retrofitting-facilities/): The manufacturing capacity for rapid and cost-effective scale-up of alternative protein production is a current constraint on the growth of the industry. Repurposing and retrofitting stranded or underutilized assets such as shuttered bioethanol plants can help mitigate some of the financial hurdles and shorten the amount of time required for companies to expand production. - [Plant-based category marketing](https://gfi.org/solutions/category-marketing/): Interest in plant-based products is growing, but many consumers still express skepticism about plant protein foods, or simply lack familiarity with the category. Category marketing campaigns to promote plant-based and alt protein products, independent of specific brands, can engender familiarity and showcase recent innovations. Campaigns can emphasize flavor, convenience, familiarity, nutrition, and other positive attributes. Category marketing can help expand existing markets, increase demand, and promote alternative proteins for new markets and use cases. - [Facilitating import and export of alternative protein products](https://gfi.org/solutions/import-export-facilitation/): Many alternative protein companies are interested in exporting their products or ingredients, and this is matched by interest from businesses in many countries eager to import exciting products. But import/export is a complex endeavor with many legal, logistical, and administrative challenges. There are many opportunities for brokers, directories, legal firms, and service providers to facilitate global trade in alternative proteins, including consulting services on regulatory compliance, facilitating introductions to in-country distribution partners, and aggregating listings of government support programs and trade contacts. - [Animal ingredient substitution](https://gfi.org/solutions/animal-ingredient-substitution/): Enabling easy animal ingredient substitutions in a wide range of food products. - [B2B growth factors for proliferation](https://gfi.org/solutions/b2b-growth-factors-proliferation/): There is a need for a supplier of low-cost growth factors produced without the use of animals to support the proliferation phase of cultivated meat production. The cost of growth factor production will need to be brought down significantly as cultivated meat production is scaled up. - [Plant-based protein makerspaces](https://gfi.org/solutions/plant-based-protein-makerspaces/): Plant-based protein makerspaces would be publicly available spaces where interested members of the public could learn, experiment, and work collaboratively on projects related to plant-based proteins. They could offer access to the physical equipment necessary to conduct projects as well as technical assistance to inform them. The aim would be to encourage more interaction between the public and the alternative protein industry, thus stimulating the exploration and development of more ideas. Makerspaces may also be able to increase positive consumer perception of the technology by increasing familiarity with the relevant production processes. The logistics of the makerspace should be done in such a way to maximize democratization and inclusion of a large segment of the public. - [Cultivated meat makerspaces to promote public engagement](https://gfi.org/solutions/cultivated-meat-makerspaces/): Both the cultivated meat industry and interested members of the general public would benefit from the creation of makerspaces focused on cultivated meat. These would be publicly available spaces where community members can learn, experiment, and work collaboratively on projects related to cultivated meat. Here, they would have access to the physical equipment necessary to conduct projects as well as technical assistance to inform them. The aim of this project is to encourage more interaction between the public and the alternative protein industry, thus stimulating the exploration and development of more ideas. Makerspaces could also promote greater understanding of and openness to cultivated meat among future consumers of the product. - [Alternative protein high school summer program](https://gfi.org/solutions/alternative-protein-hs-summer-program/): There is currently a lack of resources for high school students interested in alternative proteins. Students interested in entering this field would benefit from the creation of summer courses that provide motivated high school students with the theoretical background, hands on experience, and a network of peers to help foster their interest in alternative proteins. The aim of initiating such a program is to encourage students to pursue self-directed learning in this area, thus stimulating growth in the alternative protein community. - [Co-cultured support cells for cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/solutions/co-cultured-support-cells-for-cultivated-meat/): Cultivated meat research focuses primarily on muscle fibers and fat cells. However, other cell types serve functions that are often under appreciated in their relevance to cultivated meat. Co-culture methods with various support cells could solve a variety of challenges on the road to developing affordable, high-quality cultivated meat. - [B2B bioreactor technology company](https://gfi.org/solutions/b2b-bioreactor-technology-company/): Alternative protein companies would benefit from the availability of off-the-shelf or customizable bioreactors for cultivated meat and fermentation-derived products. This need could be filled by increased investment in and support of existing companies (see "Related Efforts"), creation of new companies, or strategic pivots by companies currently producing bioreactor technology for other applications. - [Biomaterials for scaffolding](https://gfi.org/solutions/biomaterials-for-scaffolding/): A handful of companies and researchers are developing scaffold materials for use in various steps of the cultivated meat production process, but to date the topic of scaffolding has been largely overshadowed by the challenge of producing cell mass at scale. This is a topic in need of much more research and development as the industry matures in order to enable the development of products that have meat-like structure and texture, which will be more appealing to consumers than unstructured meat products. - [Metabolic modeling for cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/solutions/metabolic-modeling-for-cultivated-meat/): Academic researchers or consortia consisting of several cultivated meat companies should undertake research aimed at understanding metabolic pathways and fluxes within cultivated meat-relevant cell types. The outputs of this research could be used to improve the efficiency of media optimization efforts and to enhance the organoleptic and nutritional properties of cultivated meat products. - [Affordable animal-free omega-3 ingredients for alternative seafood and other alternative protein applications](https://gfi.org/solutions/omega-3-ingredients/): In order to appeal to health-conscious consumers, alternative seafood products should contain similar omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA and EPA, content to conventional seafood. Animal-free omega-3 ingredients can be expensive and supply can be inconsistent. Scaling up animal-free omega-3 production is critical to the success of the global alternative seafood market, which is seeing increased attention and promising growth. Adding omega-3 to other alternative protein products could also provide a great point of differentiation while improving health appeal. - [Novel methods for long-chain omega-3 fatty acid production](https://gfi.org/solutions/omega-3-novel-methods/): As the alternative seafood industry scales up, a low-cost and abundant source of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids will become necessary. Several means of producing these compounds have been investigated and commercialized, but additional innovation is needed to build a robust and scalable supply chain. Methods that would benefit from additional research include precision fermentation and cell-free systems. - [Preventing oxidation of omega-3 fatty acids before and after addition to alternative seafood products](https://gfi.org/solutions/preventing-oxidation-of-omega-3-fatty-acids/): Deeper fundamental knowledge of the causes and prevention of oxidation of omega-3 fatty acids before, during, and after addition to alternative seafood products is needed to improve their nutritional and organoleptic properties. While several approaches to prevent oxidation of unsaturated lipids in conventional seafood products have been developed, antioxidation methods must be tailored to the formulations and processing of alternative seafood products, or perhaps new methods must be developed altogether. - [Understanding uptake and interconversion of omega-3 fatty acids by cultivated fish cells](https://gfi.org/solutions/understanding-uptake-and-interconversion-of-omega-3-fatty-acids-by-cultivated-fish-cells/): Although fish are one of the best dietary sources of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (FAs), these compounds are mostly bioaccumulated from a fish’s diet rather than synthesized de novo. Consistent with this, studies have found evidence of reduced omega-3 content in fish as a result of replacing fish-based feed with plant-based feed. Therefore, for cultivated fish to compete with conventionally-produced products, it will be necessary to identify cost-effective strategies for increasing the content of nutritionally-important omega-3 FAs in cultivated fish. - [Scaffolding development for culinary and biomechanical requirements of cultivated seafood](https://gfi.org/solutions/scaffolding-development-for-culinary-and-biomechanical-requirements-of-cultivated-seafood/): A number of published studies have focused on scaffolds for cultivated meat (see Related Efforts) yet, to our knowledge, no studies have specifically attempted to formulate scaffolds for fish or tested growth of fish cells on scaffolds developed for terrestrial meat. Because fish uniquely differ from terrestrial meat in structure, research aimed specifically at developing and testing scaffolds for fish products would advance the industry. Both scaffolding materials as well as methods for achieving the correct three-dimensional structure should be investigated. - [Build alternative protein sessions into scientific conferences](https://gfi.org/solutions/build-alternative-protein-sessions-into-scientific-conferences/): Elevating the visibility and credibility of the field at scientific conferences will expand the technical talent pipeline and amplify collaboration and funding efforts. - [Building interdisciplinary university research centers of excellence](https://gfi.org/solutions/building-interdisciplinary-university-research-centers-of-excellence/): Interdisciplinary research is essential for tackling many of the complex problems facing today’s world. Though the number of research projects advancing alternative protein science has increased in recent years, this research has been conducted in a largely disjointed fashion with few centralized hubs for coordination. The field would benefit from dedicated interdisciplinary research centers to drive the science and technology needed to address our unsustainable food and agriculture system. University centers of excellence are essential to rallying researchers and industry partners to tackle complex questions facing the alternative protein field today. - [Building alternative protein programs and majors at universities](https://gfi.org/solutions/building-alternative-protein-programs-and-majors-at-universities/): To ensure a strong talent pipeline, there is a need to launch robust university programming, ranging from certificate programs to short multi-course modules, centered around alternative protein. Full majors would include food science and other enabling sciences that help propel alternative protein food technology forward, as well as interdisciplinary coursework providing historical, economic, and philosophical context for food technology. Shorter multi-course modules and non-major certificate programs (like minors) could focus on enabling sciences, interdisciplinary background subjects, and/or business strategies for transforming our food system. - [Increasing the number, quality, and diversity of alternative protein-relevant university courses](https://gfi.org/solutions/increasing-the-number-quality-and-diversity-of-alternative-protein-relevant-university-courses/): There is a significant and urgent need to launch and support university and online courses in order to build and extend the talent pipeline of students going into the alternative protein industry. Coursework can range from introductory to highly specialized, and will ideally be focused specifically on alternative proteins, but support for degree programs in enabling sciences will also be useful to the industry. A platform for sharing curriculum across institutions will empower new entrants to more easily build their own alternative protein courses. - [Fiber spinning innovations for improved plant protein texturization](https://gfi.org/solutions/fiber-spinning-innovations-for-improved-plant-protein-texturization/): Fibers from non-traditional texturization techniques like electrospinning, jet spinning, or blow spinning could impart texture throughout a product even if they don’t comprise the bulk of the end product, which may render these approaches economically viable for enhancing texture within a bulk product even at a relatively small scale. - [Coordination among investors with alternative protein industry-specific expertise](https://gfi.org/solutions/coordination-among-investors-with-alternative-protein-industry-specific-expertise/): Investors specializing in alternative proteins should be leveraged to educate the broader investment community through coalitions, syndicated deals, and co-investments with industry-agnostic investors, and spearhead efforts to facilitate later-stage funding like debt and inventory financing. - [Improving efficiency and assessment of adaptation to suspension growth](https://gfi.org/solutions/improving-efficiency-and-assessment-of-adaptation-to-suspension-growth/): Improving methods for adapting cells to suspension culture can facilitate cell line development and bioprocess design for cultivated meat. - [Establishing student groups at key universities](https://gfi.org/solutions/establishing-student-groups-at-key-universities/): Universities are epicenters for creative problem-solving and cutting-edge research advancements, and they can serve as engines for interdisciplinary innovation. However, this potential is not being tapped fully by the alternative protein industry. University student groups at key universities can foster robust, in-person communities for students and researchers interested in elevating the profile of alternative proteins within the academy. This will generate a talent pipeline of informed and empowered young people poised to enter the sector after their education while simultaneously spurring greater awareness and involvement among established faculty members. - [Species-specific genomic studies enabling assay development for regulatory standards and cell line optimization](https://gfi.org/solutions/species-specific-genomic-studies-enabling-assay-development-for-regulatory-standards-and-cell-line-optimization/): A suite of assays and genomic knowledge exists for humans and commonly used laboratory species such as mice or fruit flies. However, the same species-specific infrastructure does not exist equally across the species used in cultivated meat, with an especially large gap in seafood species. Commercialized, standardized assays for species identification such as Short Tandem Repeat (STR) or Cytochrome C Oxidase I (COI) assays are needed. Additionally, richer genetic datasets, including thorough genome annotations that facilitate identification of safe harbor loci, can broadly accelerate cell line optimization studies. - [Guidelines for cultivated meat starter cell selection](https://gfi.org/solutions/guidelines-for-cultivated-meat-starter-cell-selection/): Improving our understanding of the relative advantages and disadvantages of different cell types for cultivated meat would enable companies to make these decisions more effectively with less duplicative effort. - [Mapping the secretome of animal myoblasts, adipocytes, and other cells used in cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/solutions/mapping-the-secretome-of-animal-myoblasts-adipocytes-and-other-cells-used-in-cultivated-meat/): Stem cells secrete a variety of signaling factors that can influence the behavior of surrounding cells, known as paracrine signals. In high-density bioprocesses, these secreted factors can accumulate to concentrations that can dramatically influence productivity and behavior of neighboring cells. By mapping the secretome of animal myoblasts, adipocytes, and other stem cells used for cultivated meat, a better understanding of which factors influence proliferation, differentiation, and other cellular traits can be obtained. Mapping efforts will inform how to best leverage this knowledge to improve cultivated meat production. - [“Rainbow roll 2.0” showcase for cultivated seafood](https://gfi.org/solutions/rainbow-roll-2-0-as-a-showcase-product-for-cultivated-seafood/): Given the nascent market for cultivated meats, especially for cultivated seafood, a “Rainbow Roll 2.0” product could be an attractive market-entry commercial product. - [Microbial strain-development contract research organizations for alternative protein applications](https://gfi.org/solutions/microbial-strain-development-contract-research-organizations/): While emerging fermentation-derived ingredient companies often optimize their strain’s productivity in-house, it may be more efficacious for startups to engage contract research organizations with both deep microbial strain development expertise and also intimate familiarity with the unique considerations of the alternative protein sector. - [Guaranteed offtake contracts for products and ingredients](https://gfi.org/solutions/guaranteed-offtake-contracts/): Guaranteed offtake agreements, where buyers commit to purchase a volume of product, can help secure loans for infrastructure and other high-cost projects. - [Open-access product formulation specification sheets](https://gfi.org/solutions/open-access-product-formulation-specification-sheets/): Open-access product formulation specifications could provide clear metrics and objectives for product developers on attributes like taste, price, nutrition, and ingredient ratios. - [Expanding private label plant-based offerings](https://gfi.org/solutions/expanding-private-label-plant-based-offerings/): Brands, dedicated private labelers, and co-manufacturers can take advantage of the private labeling opportunity, and would benefit from developing a wide range of products to fit every category and access to R&D to meet unique needs of customers. - [Plants as a recombinant protein expression platform](https://gfi.org/solutions/plants-as-a-recombinant-protein-expression-platform-for-functional-food-ingredients/): Plants can serve as expression platforms similar to microorganisms used as recombinant protein hosts. This may require minimal processing into value-added ingredients, such as egg and dairy functional proteins. Plants offer scalability with less need for expensive downstream purification to isolate proteins of interest from inedible or undesirable hosts. - [Dedicated broker or exchange for plant-based B2B sales](https://gfi.org/solutions/dedicated-broker-or-exchange-for-plant-based-b2b-sales/): Opportunity exists for a broker, marketplace, directory, or other exchange platform to facilitate B2B sales of plant-based foods as ingredients to manufacturers of frozen and prepared foods. - [Next-generation plant-based turkey products](https://gfi.org/solutions/next-generation-plant-based-turkey-products/): There has been little in the way of publicly-announced R&D or commercial efforts to develop the next generation of tasty and affordable plant-based turkey products. There is room for innovation toward different formats and more complex products with higher fidelity to conventional turkey. - [Expanded product development in plant-based meat snacks](https://gfi.org/solutions/expanded-product-development-in-plant-based-meat-snacks/): Plant-based meat snacks could tap into underlying trends in snacks replacing meals and increased consumer interest in high-protein, low-sugar foods. Product innovation is needed to match the taste, price, and availability of animal options. - [Forging product development partnerships among ingredient suppliers and manufacturers](https://gfi.org/solutions/forging-product-development-partnerships/): Opportunities exist to coordinate product development partnerships between ingredient suppliers, strategic partners, and product manufacturers to directly engage more holistically on product formulation. - [Species-specific research toolkits for cultivated meat-relevant species](https://gfi.org/solutions/species-specific-research-toolkits/): Coordinated efforts to develop standardized, comprehensive research toolkits of meat-relevant species would exponentially accelerate cultivated meat research. - [Developing open-access model production facility blueprints](https://gfi.org/solutions/developing-open-access-model-production-facility-blueprints/): Open-access blueprints would provide a head start on facility design and allow equipment manufacturers and engineering companies to address standard industry needs. - [Systematic investigation of growth factor needs and effects](https://gfi.org/solutions/systematic-investigation-of-growth-factor-needs-and-effects/): Open-access research into growth factors required for proliferation, maintenance, and differentiation of cell types relevant to cultivated meat will support both academic and industry research efforts. This research could include screening of species-specific growth factors under a variety of conditions and in a variety of cell types to characterize cross-species compatibility, which informs commercial efforts to scale production of the most widely used growth factors. Research should also seek to define optimal concentrations of individual growth factors and cocktails for achieving various cell states or behaviors, as well as understanding interactions between growth factors. - [Comprehensive microbial screening to identify new protein production candidate strains](https://gfi.org/solutions/microbial-screening-protein-production-strains/): Metabolic and physiological characteristics of microbial strains define the commercial potential of any fermentative process, but only a minimal number of strains have been scaled up for commercial production of alternative protein. To broaden the spectrum of available microorganisms, systematic investigation into the physiology of novel microbial strains is needed to identify strains suitable for fermentation. - [Development and industry-wide adoption of standards for meat characterization](https://gfi.org/solutions/development-and-industry-wide-adoption-of-standards-for-meat-characterization/): A more comprehensive understanding of the processes, structures, and molecular constituents governing meat's organoleptic properties will inform the production of alternative proteins. - [Computational models of perfusion flow through scaffolds](https://gfi.org/solutions/computational-models-of-perfusion-flow-through-scaffolds/): For tissue-structured cultivated meat production, the transition from the proliferation phase to differentiation phase may involve seeding cells onto a prefabricated scaffold within a perfusion bioreactor. Medium is then perfused through the cell-laden scaffold, providing nutrients and oxygen as cells differentiate and mature. Computational models are needed to describe fluid flow through scaffolds to better understand mass transfer and shear forces. These models will inform considerations for scaffold materials, geometries, dimensions, fabrication methods, and bioprocess design as well as considerations for the composition and viscosity of the medium. - [Expand capacity for demonstration-scale and mid-scale co-manufacturing](https://gfi.org/solutions/expand-capacity-for-demonstration-scale-and-mid-scale-co-manufacturing/): Companies entering the alt protein space often struggle to secure line time at demonstration-scale and mid-scale commercial production facilities. Greater availability of mid-scale contract capacity would reduce capital outlays and facilitate scaling, allowing alt protein companies to maintain greater control over their equity and exercise more influence within the supply chain. Contracting production allows for a more modular supply chain, with participants achieving gains from specialization, allowing for better financial and organizational structuring around core competencies. - [Landscape/directory of major players in foodservice, retail, and distribution](https://gfi.org/solutions/landscape-directory-of-major-players-in-foodservice-retail-and-distribution/): Resources and services that make it easier to locate, filter, and prioritize sales and partnership efforts would ease transactional burdens for startups and add value to existing companies looking for new partners, customers, and trends. - [Establishing intellectual property pooling frameworks](https://gfi.org/solutions/establishing-intellectual-property-pooling-frameworks/): Intellectual property pools and patent pledges can help member companies contribute to a suite of patents that can be licensed within the pool. - [Platform for facilitating matchmaking between funders and funding-seekers](https://gfi.org/solutions/platform-for-facilitating-matchmaking-between-funders-and-funding-seekers/): It can be challenging and time-intensive for startups and researchers to find funders that are interested in their technology area, technological maturity level, fundraising stage, location, type of funding sought, and other factors. Lists of investors, lenders, and grant-making institutions with specific information on interest areas and point of contact can significantly reduce friction in fundraising. Likewise, it can be difficult for funders to find out about these opportunities, so centralized listings of all companies and researchers actively seeking funding can facilitate deal flow. - [Infrastructure loan fund](https://gfi.org/solutions/infrastructure-loan-fund/): The success of early-days products has demonstrated strong consumer interest, but investment is needed to enable alternative protein supply chain companies to build out the infrastructure needed to capitalize on this opportunity. In particular, there is a need for debt-based financing that can be structured to support large infrastructure projects. - [Infrastructure and equipment leasing fund](https://gfi.org/solutions/infrastructure-and-equipment-leasing-fund/): Infrastructure leasing for production and processing facilities as well as capital equipment would enable alternative protein companies to rapidly expand capacity without large upfront capital investments. Having leasing funds and leasing companies with an alternative protein focus could entice corporate players who otherwise would not have considered alternative proteins to enter the space. They could also spare many smaller alternative protein startups from undertaking relatively expensive, equity-backed capital raises early in their expansion. - [Industry workshops, courses, and training programs](https://gfi.org/solutions/industry-workshops-courses-and-training-programs/): The alternative protein industry has a significant need for workers and innovators with specialized knowledge spanning multiple traditional disciplines. However, since few universities offer alternative protein majors or dedicated subject matter, most alternative protein knowledge has to be learned on the job. The alternative protein industry needs educational programming that can cover the depth and complexity of knowledge, experience, and skills required within the context of traditional academic institutions as well as post-graduate professional development and training opportunities. - [Growth factors from conditioned cell culture media](https://gfi.org/solutions/growth-factors-from-conditioned-cell-culture-media/): Rather than relying on recombinant growth factors, cultivated meat companies could use conditioned media from animal cells producing high levels of these molecules. - [Investor conference for LPs, funds of funds, corporate VCs, family offices, and money managers](https://gfi.org/solutions/investor-events-and-conferences/): Events targeted at promoting opportunities in alternative protein investment via specialized funds could facilitate and diversify investment. - [Catalyzing academic-industry collaboration](https://gfi.org/solutions/catalyzing-academic-industry-collaboration/): More frameworks for academic-industry collaboration could help build talent pipelines, create research commercialization pathways, and drive alignment on research priorities. - [Producing animal-like fats through microbial fermentation](https://gfi.org/solutions/animal-like-fats-through-fermentation/): Microbial fermentation provides an efficient method for generating lipid molecules that are chemically identical to those produced by animals. Research efforts are needed to expand current knowledge about the process of engineering the appropriate metabolic pathways for the synthesis of animal lipids into microbial organisms well-suited for large-scale fermentation. - [Fat and moisture encapsulation for alternative protein products](https://gfi.org/solutions/fat-and-moisture-encapsulation-techniques-for-alternative-protein-applications/): Fat and moisture retention are critical to the organoleptic properties of meat and must be perfected across all alternative protein platforms. Solutions for encapsulating fat and moisture are necessary to ensure that these components are protected from damage or loss throughout manufacturing, storage, cooking, and mastication. - [Options for factoring financing for alternative proteins](https://gfi.org/solutions/options-for-factoring-financing-for-alternative-proteins/): Increased access to factoring financing instruments would help alternative protein companies improve their cash conversion cycle. - [Expanding alternative protein accelerator programs](https://gfi.org/solutions/expanding-alternative-protein-accelerator-programs/): More alternative protein capacity—different geographies, expertise, and programming—is needed in the incubator and accelerator landscape to de-risk venture capital investment. - [Expanding corporate investment capabilities within strategic industry partners](https://gfi.org/solutions/expanding-corporate-investment-capabilities/): Corporations can build out venture capital arms—including building dedicated incubators and opening their facilities—to facilitate strategic partnerships. - [Expanding options for food-safe genetic selection markers](https://gfi.org/solutions/food-safe-genetic-selection-markers/): In strain development, many of the selectable markers confer traits like antibiotic or herbicide resistance. While some auxotrophic selection markers exist, these are often not orthogonal and thus not amenable to stacking for multi-trait selection. - [Directories of contract manufacturers for plant-based production, fermentation, and animal cell culture](https://gfi.org/solutions/directory-of-contract-manufacturers-for-plant-based-production-fermentation-and-animal-cell-culture/): The alt protein industry would benefit from better open-access directories of co-manufacturers interested in producing alternative proteins, including more detail on their equipment and capabilities. - [Deal flow and fundraising platform for investors beyond the impact investment community](https://gfi.org/solutions/deal-flow-and-fundraising-platform-for-investors-beyond-the-impact-investment-community/): Investment platforms are needed for deal flow and coordinating hand-offs from pre-seed (angels and accelerators), seed/early-stage, and growth/later-stage investors and acquirers. - [Database of facility engineering, design, and construction firms](https://gfi.org/solutions/database-of-facility-engineering-design-construction-firms/): Dedicated brokers, consultants, directories, and other matching mechanisms could help connect alternative protein companies to engineering/design/construction firms with relevant experience and interest in the alternative protein sector. - [Data lake for aggregating process data and informing process improvements](https://gfi.org/solutions/data-lake/): An alternative protein data lake could contain anonymized data from processing runs across many manufacturers, informing processing improvements and aiding process failure troubleshooting. - [Building workforce capacity through vocational programs](https://gfi.org/solutions/building-workforce-capacity-through-vocational-programs/): Given the strong and persistent growth in alternative protein production, the industry has a pressing need for a trained workforce. Technical colleges should establish programs to help train the next generation of alternative protein workforces and build a talent pipeline for the industry. - [Post-harvest processes and end product characterization for cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/solutions/post-harvest-processes-and-end-product-characterization-for-cultivated-meat/): A number of cellular processes occurring after slaughter are known to affect the quality and sensory properties of conventional meat. Cultivated meat will offer unprecedented control over these parameters and therefore over the quality of the final product, but it is critical to understand exactly how post-harvest processes for cultivated meat can or should differ from post-slaughter processes in conventional meat. This research can enable subsequent innovations in bioprocess design, media formulation, cell line development, or harvesting techniques to confer consistently high levels of meat quality from cultivated meat processes. - [Establishment of cell line repositories and standardized isolation protocols](https://gfi.org/solutions/establishment-of-cell-line-repositories-and-standardized-isolation-protocols/): Development of humanely-sourced and thoroughly documented and characterized cell lines from a variety of common food species—together with a mechanism for licensing and distributing these lines to researchers and companies—will remove a key barrier to entry into the field of cultivated meat. In addition, development of open-access, standardized protocols for performing cell isolation from a variety of source tissues and establishing robust cell lines will streamline the processes for those who do end up needing to perform their own isolation and cell line establishment. - [Plant-based ingredient analytical and characterization service](https://gfi.org/solutions/plant-protein-characterization-service/): Plant-based food manufacturers often struggle with batch-to-batch ingredient inconsistency and variability between suppliers. Better analytical tools for predicting plant-based ingredient performance could improve manufacturing efficiency and create more transparent ingredient markets. Tools are needed to predict how ingredients will perform after various processing methods and in end-product applications like plant-based meat and dairy. - [Biological processing methods for isolating protein ingredients](https://gfi.org/solutions/biological-processing-methods/): Processing crops into flours, isolates, and concentrates often relies on chemical and mechanical methods. Biological processing techniques may impart the desired composition and molecular structure for optimal functionality with increased precision, lower cost, and greater suitability for small-scale processing. Biological processing techniques include using enzymes to fine-tune functional properties like solubility, gelling capacity, and fat- and water-binding capacity or using microbial fermentation to convert plant protein feedstocks into more functional forms. - [Pooled procurement/group purchasing for ingredients and inputs](https://gfi.org/solutions/pooled-procurement-group-purchasing-for-ingredients-and-inputs/): Many alternative protein companies use similar inputs, but individually lack the purchasing power to negotiate favorable contract terms. A pooled procurement/group purchasing mechanism for ingredients, inputs (growth factors, media, etc.), and feedstocks would help reduce costs and increase industry leverage. - [Cultivated meat co-product valorization](https://gfi.org/solutions/cultivated-meat-co-product-valorization/): Animal cell metabolism within cultivators can produce useful co-product side streams that provide monetary value to the manufacturer while creating a novel source of inputs for other industries. Potential side streams should be identified and analyzed for their utility and economic viability, in addition to developing methods for efficient side stream capture. - [Techno-economic models to inform product and process development](https://gfi.org/solutions/techno-economic-models/): Techno-economic models are critical for process design and cost of goods projections. Open-access models based on generalized or exemplar processes with standardized unit operations and designs can form the foundation for individual companies’ work, reducing duplicative effort. Furthermore, techno-economic models can identify key cost drivers and opportunities for process improvements to guide future research efforts. The independent research consultancy CE Delft recently published a cultivated meat techno-economic analysis. However, similar efforts are needed for fermentation-derived  and plant-based meat production. - [Biosynthetic pathway discovery for fermentation-produced molecules](https://gfi.org/solutions/biosynthetic-pathway-discovery-fermentation/): After identifying specific target molecules or desired functionalities in animal-derived foods, scientists can work backward, mining microbial sequences for candidate molecules in the microbial realm that might provide similar functionality. This process can also elucidate the pathways that produce these molecules and inform strategies for designing microbial strains that produce these molecules at scale. - [Protein sequence, structure, and functionality database](https://gfi.org/solutions/protein-database/): There is a need for deeper fundamental research on the relationships between protein sequence, structure, functionality, and ultimately performance in plant-based food products. While several plant-based companies have claimed a competitive advantage from building databases of functional properties and applying machine learning to inform protein selection and formulation, these capabilities remain proprietary and the efforts duplicative. An open-access database could provide functional and characterization data using standardized methods to facilitate direct performance comparisons among proteins and train predictive algorithms. - [Open-access formulations & optimization methods for cell culture media and growth factor cocktails](https://gfi.org/solutions/open-access-formulation-for-cell-culture-media/): The availability of more open-access formulations will provide a foundation to enable both academic researchers and startup companies to develop their own customized formulations with far less effort and cost. ## Team - [Michael Jamros](https://gfi.org/team/michael-jamros/): Michael brings hands-on experience across the plant-based protein value chain to GFI, where he analyzes the landscape to identify critical research gaps and direct scientific investment toward the highest-impact opportunities in crop development, ingredient processing, and supply chain. Areas of expertise: Plant protein chemistry and functionality, Crop-to-ingredient pipeline development, Ingredient characterization, Process development and scale-up - [Abhi Kumar](https://gfi.org/team/abhi-kumar/): Abhi Kumar is an Associate Program Officer at Coefficient Giving, where he focuses on identifying the most promising opportunities to support the development and commercialization of alternatives to animal products. Previously, he worked as a researcher studying the cost structure of meat alternatives, and prior to that on the investment teams at venture capital funds Lever VC and Ahimsa VC. He holds an MMS from Yale School of Management & HEC Paris and a BSocSc from Singapore Management University. - [Olivia Gerth, JD](https://gfi.org/team/olivia-gerth-jd/): Olivia Gerth provides strategic legal support and guidance to advance GFI’s mission of accelerating alternative proteins. Areas of expertise: nonprofit compliance, legal counsel, contract negotiation, programmatic and operational support - [Kristin McKee](https://gfi.org/team/kristin-mckee/): Kristin McKee helps foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture where employees feel supported, engaged, and connected to GFI’s values and mission. Areas of expertise: People operations, organizational culture, employee experience and engagement, learning and development - [Paul Bradley](https://gfi.org/team/paul-bradley/): Paul Bradley leads the Development Operations team in advancing the systems and strategy that power the organization’s fundraising efforts Areas of expertise: nonprofit revenue operations and strategy, fundraising analytics and pipeline management, cross-functional systems alignment, and development process design - [Simon Bakke](https://gfi.org/team/simon-bakke/): Simon Bakke works across GFI's teams to support fundraising efforts, engage donors, and enhance GFI's global stewardship strategy. Areas of expertise: Nonprofit development, multimedia communications, content creation, project management - [Nigel Sizer](https://gfi.org/team/nigel-sizer/) - [Tina Rodousakis ](https://gfi.org/team/tina-rodousakis/): Tina and her team create and implement strategies to advance GFI's policy and legislative priorities at the federal and state level, leveraging direct advocacy, effective coalition building, advocacy content creation, legislative targeting, and stakeholder engagement. Areas of expertise: Federal and state government relations, policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, strategic communications, public affairs strategy, coalition building, and nonprofit management. - [Eleni K. Chalmers](https://gfi.org/team/eleni-k-chalmers/): Eleni K. Chalmers is responsible for analysis of retail and foodservice market data to identify actionable insights to support GFI's work and educate the alternative protein industry. Areas of expertise: consumer insights, food innovation, market analytics, food science - [Tim Carey, JD](https://gfi.org/team/tim-carey-jd/): Tim Carey advances GFI's legislative, and regulatory strategies by operating at the intersection of public health research, law, and policy. Areas of expertise: Regulatory and legislative drafting, stakeholder engagement and education, public health policy strategy and advocacy, and constitutional law. - [Dante Toppo](https://gfi.org/team/dante-toppo/): Dante and his team lead GFI’s strategy for policy innovations that unlock opportunities for alternative proteins in the U.S. and around the world. Areas of expertise: Policy advocacy and strategy; Diplomacy; Coalition-building - [Amylark Lorwood, MPH](https://gfi.org/team/amylark-lorwood-mph/): Amylark Lorwood supports strategy and donor engagement on the U.S. Philanthropy team to expand funding for GFI’s mission. Areas of expertise: Fundraising strategy, grant writing, nonprofit management, government relations, policy & research - [Elisha Reichling, MS, RDN, LDN](https://gfi.org/team/elisha-reichling/): Elisha manages GFI's global Research Grant Program's request for proposals and grantee portfolio. Areas of expertise: research funding, non-profit leadership, application and review software, process improvement - [Elizabeth Pearson](https://gfi.org/team/elizabeth-pearson/): Elizabeth Pearson drives impact on the Corporate Engagement team by supporting operations and optimizing workflows. Areas of expertise: administration, marketing and communications, project management, research and analysis, market-based solutions - [Aminnah Ferguson](https://gfi.org/team/aminnah-ferguson/): Aminnah Ferguson facilitates the planning and execution of events and engagement activities at GFI, creating opportunities to connect stakeholders, amplify GFI’s mission, and drive positive change in the alternative protein sector. Areas of expertise: program and event management, community building and engagement, sustainable project management, strategic partnerships, and leadership and coaching. - [Jen McWilliams](https://gfi.org/team/jen-mcwilliams/): Jen helps build GFI’s brand equity by providing creative operations support for the US Communications team. Areas of expertise: creative operations, project and resource management, workflow optimization, and relationship building - [Janie Butler](https://gfi.org/team/janie-butler/): Janie Butler develops dynamic educational programs and workforce solutions to cultivate talent in the growing alternative protein sector. Areas of expertise: workforce development, community-building, educational program design, instructional design, cross-disciplinary strategy - [Pat McAuley](https://gfi.org/team/pat-mcauley/): Pat McAuley works with the Corporate Engagement team, serving as the primary contact for alternative protein entrepreneurs and startups. Areas of expertise: entrepreneurship, startups, fundraising, consumer brands, brand strategy - [Rachel Lichte](https://gfi.org/team/rachel-lichte/): Rachel works with GFI's U.S. and global affiliate leadership to promote cross-functional teamwork and strengthen collaboration across our global network in order to maximize GFI's impact. Areas of expertise: strategic planning, communication, program management - [Sarah Backer](https://gfi.org/team/sarah-backer/): Sarah Backer supports the Policy team by researching policy opportunities and using persuasive writing to engage decision-makers, partner organizations, and the public to advance alternative proteins. Areas of expertise: Research and analysis, content creation, environmental policy - [Tamar Lieberman](https://gfi.org/team/tamar-lieberman/): Tamar Lieberman leads the Policy Department’s state legislative efforts and campaigns for public research to accelerate progress on alternative proteins. Areas of expertise: policy advocacy campaigns, coalition building, state legislation - [Aimee Pelletier](https://gfi.org/team/aimee-pelletier/) - [Emily Hennegan](https://gfi.org/team/emily-hennegan/): Emily Hennegan drives creative campaign initiatives to communicate GFI's key messages and elevate GFI's brand. Areas of expertise: branding, web and print design, illustration, motion graphics, video - [Chelsea Hammersmith](https://gfi.org/team/chelsea-hammersmith/): Chelsea Hammersmith develops industry narratives and deliverables with actionable insights to accelerate progress on alternative proteins. Areas of expertise: strategic communications, content development, storytelling - [Maria Mercado SPHR, SHRM-SCP](https://gfi.org/team/maria-mercado/): Maria manages People Operations, benefits, payroll, compliance, and employee life cycle changes to ensure everything runs smoothly, which allows GFI team members to focus on their work with the confidence that their needs are well taken care of, while also enhancing the overall employee experience. Areas of expertise: People Operations, benefits, employee experience, payroll, and compliance - [Brandi Bangle](https://gfi.org/team/brandi-bangle/): Brandi Bangle facilitates GFI's Research Grants Program, manages stakeholder communications, and supports the RFP cycle processes. Areas of expertise: research administration, program coordination, process improvement - [Nicholas Goldsmith, PhD](https://gfi.org/team/nicholas-goldsmith-phd/): Nicholas Goldsmith supports GFI's partnerships with research funders in the US. Areas of expertise: research funding, science policy, grantmaking, merit review, research - [Kaitlyn Gilioli](https://gfi.org/team/kaitlyn-gilioli/): Kaitlyn Gilioli coordinates IT projects and initiatives and serves as the liaison between the IT team and internal clients. Areas of expertise: collaboration, organization, project management, process development - [Julia Nemon](https://gfi.org/team/julia-nemon/): Julia Nemon is GFI's Director of Finance and Operations. Areas of expertise: financial planning and analysis, grants and contract management, non-profit operations - [Laura Henry](https://gfi.org/team/laura-henry/): Laura Henry supports GFI's financial reporting by serving as administrator of the team's expense application and assisting the Finance Team with corporate credit card tasks that impact transaction processing. Areas of expertise: nonprofit finance, administration, data entry, application training and support - [Jody Kirchner](https://gfi.org/team/jody-kirchner/): Jody Kirchner leads GFI’s market and consumer insights team, delivering data-driven analysis to educate industry leaders and key stakeholders on the opportunities around alternative proteins. Areas of expertise: consumer insights, market research & analysis, growth strategy, innovation, food industry - [David Nunez](https://gfi.org/team/david-nunez/): David Nunez manages all aspects of fundraising from foundation donors in the areas of global health, food security, and animal welfare. Areas of expertise: Identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding foundation donors. - [Jeremy Eltz, PhD](https://gfi.org/team/jeremy-eltz-phd/) - [Pollard Sorquist](https://gfi.org/team/pollard-sorquist/) - [Amanda Hildebrand, PhD](https://gfi.org/team/amanda-hildebrand-phd/): Amanda Hildebrand oversees GFI’s Science and Technology department to build a roadmap for accelerating alternative protein research while empowering scientists to execute on this vision. Areas of expertise: bioprocess development and commercialization, project and team leadership, fermentation, kinetic modeling - [Abby Sewell](https://gfi.org/team/abby-sewell/): Abby serves as GFI’s Senior Corporate Engagement Manager, supporting food manufacturers, meat companies, and retailers to inspire and accelerate their shift toward alternative protein. Areas of expertise: CPG marketing, consumer insights, brand strategy, strategic partnerships, social impact - [Pepin Andrew Tuma, JD](https://gfi.org/team/pepin-tuma-jd/): Pepin Andrew Tuma leads GFI’s policy team in advancing state and federal initiatives that remove hurdles and leverage resources to catalyze progress on alternative proteins. Areas of expertise: legislative advocacy, food and nutrition policy, coalition building, campaign strategy - [Bianca Datta, PhD](https://gfi.org/team/bianca-datta-phd/): Bianca leads our efforts to mobilize and energize the alternative protein research community. Areas of expertise: material science & engineering, scientific community-building, public speaking, universities, colleges - [Jessica Colley Clarke](https://gfi.org/team/jessica-colley-clarke/): Jessica Colley Clarke crafts stories that resonate with readers and inspire action to rethink our global food system. Areas of expertise: storytelling and content creation, thought leadership, media engagement, strategic messaging, persuasive writing - [Emma Adkisson](https://gfi.org/team/emma-adkisson/): Emma serves as central support for donor engagement projects and events, aiding GFI's fundraising initiatives for maximum impact. Areas of expertise: event planning, donor communications, project management - [Kelsey Favret](https://gfi.org/team/kelsey-favret/): Kelsey Favret sets strategy and works directly with GFI's Leadership donors in securing philanthropic contributions to support our work in transforming the global food system. Areas of expertise: individual giving, stewardship, event planning and coordination - [Amy Sacco](https://gfi.org/team/amy-sacco/): Amy Sacco works with GFI’s fundraisers to build strong donor relationships and advance the organization’s philanthropic mission through strategic research, pipeline development and actionable donor insights. Areas of expertise: prospect research, moves management, development strategy and writing/editing - [Joan Gass](https://gfi.org/team/joan-gass/): Joan graduated with a BA from Yale University, a Masters in Public Administration from the Harvard Kennedy School, and a Masters in Business Administration from Stanford Business School. Joan specializes in helping organizations scale their impact. She currently serves as Co-Founder and Managing Director of the Horizon Institute for Public Service, a non-profit that builds pathways into public service careers for emerging technology experts. Some of her previous work includes co-founding an education non-profit in Uganda and helping Bain and Company launch their office in Nigeria. She is passionate about the ways biotech can be harnessed to create a positive social impact. Joan lives in Washington DC where she can be found jogging with friends and playing strategy board games. - [Sarah Hanneken, JD](https://gfi.org/team/sarah-hanneken-jd/): Sarah Hanneken provides strategic legal guidance to support GFI’s mission of accelerating alternative protein solutions. - [Anand Gopal](https://gfi.org/team/anand-gopal/): Dr. Anand R. Gopal is the Founding Executive Director of Global Grids Catalyst, a strategic hub that modernizes and expands power grids around the world to deliver affordable, secure and reliable electricity. He is also the Founder and CEO of Elar Strategies LLC, a firm focused on providing strategic advise and services on clean energy, transportation, industry and food systems. - [Taylor Leet-Otley](https://gfi.org/team/taylor-leet-otley/): Taylor Leet-Otley oversees GFI's consumer research, keeping the organization and the industry in touch with consumers' needs & beliefs in the fast-moving alternative protein category. Areas of Expertise: Consumer insights, market strategy, branding & marketing - [Mackenzie Battle, JD](https://gfi.org/team/mackenzie-battle-jd/): Mackenzie Battle supports GFI's litigation efforts and works on regulatory and policy issues affecting alternative proteins. Areas of expertise: U.S. and global regulations, lobbying compliance, and legal research - [Leah MacRaild](https://gfi.org/team/leah-macraild/): Leah MacRaild leads the U.S. Philanthropy team in its work to generate vital philanthropic support for GFI's pioneering work. Areas of expertise: philanthropic giving, nonprofit management, major gifts, strategic planning, prospect research - [Nikhita Mansukhani Kogar, PhD](https://gfi.org/team/nikhita-mansukhani-kogar-phd/): Nikhita is focused on the technical landscape of plant-based proteins and how to expand their impact and adoption. Areas of expertise: plant-based product development, materials science, physicochemical characterization, food chemistry - [Kimberly Taylor](https://gfi.org/team/kimberly-taylor/) - [Enakshi Ganguly](https://gfi.org/team/enakshi-ganguly/): Enakshi Ganguly helps develop and execute GFI's media strategy, helping position GFI as the go-to resource for influential journalists across the country. Areas of expertise: media engagement, communication strategy, creative storytelling, and thought leadership - [Jill Lauson](https://gfi.org/team/jill-lauson/) - [Alex Mayers](https://gfi.org/team/alex-mayers/): Alex directs GFI Europe’s strategic planning and coordinates all areas of our work. Areas of expertise: GFI Europe’s work across the board, leadership, strategy, management - [Valerie Burton](https://gfi.org/team/valerie-burton/): Valerie contributes to many exciting policy initiatives by providing research assistance, coordinating weekly and monthly reporting, assisting advocacy and outreach, and keeping the DC office running smoothly. Areas of expertise: administrative and logistical support, proofreading/copyediting - [Ava Kuser](https://gfi.org/team/ava-kuser/): Ava Kuser serves as the Senior People Operations Coordinator for GFI's Collaborative Assistance Team, specifically supporting the areas of Payroll and Human Resources. Areas of expertise: Human Resources, Employee Engagement, Onboarding, Payroll, Administrative Support - [Lena Hamelin](https://gfi.org/team/lena-hamelin/): Lena provides high-level project and administrative support to the Vice President of Development and the rest of GFI's Development team. Areas of expertise: project coordination, admin support, research and analysis, animal welfare - [Margaret Badding](https://gfi.org/team/margaret-badding/): Margaret works with the Policy and Government Relations team to advance policies supporting the alternative protein sector. Margaret researches policy opportunities, conducts outreach to decision makers in the executive and legislative branches, and writes policy briefs, comments, and other content focused on alternative proteins. Areas of expertise: Research and analysis, stakeholder engagement, content creation, environmental policy. - [Gabriela Diaz Sidron](https://gfi.org/team/gabriela-diaz-sidron/): Gabriela Diaz is responsible for growing the annual fund membership base, renewing and upgrading member support, and strengthening donor relationships. Areas of expertise: fundraising and strategy, CRM Management, stewardship. - [Heather Deal](https://gfi.org/team/heather-deal/): Heather Deal leads the web content production and web publishing processes for GFI. Areas of expertise: web design, graphic design, web content management, project management - [Sharon Lee](https://gfi.org/team/sharon-lee/): Sharon Lee provides expertise in analyzing data for the Science and Technology department. Areas of expertise: quantitative analysis, writing - [Sandra Takamine](https://gfi.org/team/sandra-takamine/): Sandra connects GFI’s generous community of supporters with the vital work to innovate and transform the food ecosystem, accelerating progress toward a sustainable and just future. Areas of expertise: individual giving, donor relations, stewardship, fundraising - [Ashish Sharma](https://gfi.org/team/ashish-sharma/): Ashish Sharma works on the U.S. Philanthropy team to secure funds for GFI by working with donors throughout the Northeast. Areas of expertise: fundraising, donor relations, regional development - [Marco Pelloni](https://gfi.org/team/marco-pelloni/): Marco Pelloni leads the web development team to help provide GFI's online web experience. Areas of expertise: web strategy, web development, user experience - [Saira Weinzimmer](https://gfi.org/team/saira-weinzimmer/) - [Sneha Singh](https://gfi.org/team/sneha-singh/): Sneha is a visionary strategist, overseeing and coordinating all our work with a keen focus on maximizing impact in India’s smart protein sector. Areas of expertise: organizational leadership, strategic planning, people management, philanthropy - [Lauren Wollin-Ramirez](https://gfi.org/team/lauren-wollin-ramirez/): Lauren supports GFI to achieve its mission by ensuring GFI’s culture supports team members in creating a world where alternative proteins are no longer alternative. Areas of expertise: People Operations, culture, employee experience and engagement, employee relations, performance management, training and development, and DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) - [Brittaney Benson-Townsend](https://gfi.org/team/brittaney-benson-townsend/) - [Tessa Hale](https://gfi.org/team/tessa-hale/) - [Samantha Riches](https://gfi.org/team/samantha-riches/): Samantha is responsible for leading the SciTech research funding team. Areas of expertise: research funding, global network building, program management - [Marcelo Aspiras](https://gfi.org/team/marcelo-aspiras/) - [Mary Ellen Shoup](https://gfi.org/team/mary-ellen-shoup/): Mary Ellen supports the development and growth of GFI’s online audience and optimizes content for maximum impact and engagement. Areas of expertise: content creation and strategy, social media management, newsletter content, copywriting and editing, stakeholder outreach - [Nathan Ahlgrim](https://gfi.org/team/nathan-ahlgrim/): Nathan manages the Alt Protein Project, in which he empowers student groups around the globe to build the alternative protein field at their university. Areas of expertise: community-building, program operations, early career coaching, education, psychology, neuroscience - [Shayna Fertig](https://gfi.org/team/shayna-fertig/): Shayna Fertig is our Senior Advisor to the President, working to build out GFI’s high level relationships. Areas of expertise: strategy development, project management, data analytics, food industry - [Amanda Bess](https://gfi.org/team/amanda-bess/): Amanda leads SciTech's technical analyses and supports strategic planning of future research focused on the tractability and sustainability of alternative protein technologies. Areas of expertise: environmental science, critical analysis, program management, strategic planning - [Daniel Gertner](https://gfi.org/team/daniel-gertner/): Daniel analyzes the alternative protein industry landscape and identifies gaps and opportunities in the sector. Areas of expertise: alternative protein market landscape, research and analysis, food and agricultural economics - [Lucas Eastham](https://gfi.org/team/lucas-eastham/): Lucas Eastham is focused on analyzing fermentation technologies, and progressing their applications in the alternative protein industry. Areas of expertise: microbial biotechnology, upstream strain and process development, downstream process development, bioprocess product commercialization - [Adam Leman, PhD](https://gfi.org/team/adam-leman-phd/): Adam is focused on engineering a new paradigm in food production. Areas of expertise: microbial fermentation, precision fermentation, molecular biology - [Nabiha Basathia](https://gfi.org/team/nabiha-basathia/): Nabiha graduated from the University of Chicago with a BA in Economics. She began her career in investment banking at J.P. Morgan and Goldman Sachs and she has also provided strategic and financial consulting for ethical and sustainable businesses in the food and next-gen materials space. Nabiha owned and operated a plant-based restaurant called The Gray Zebra that provided accessible meals, rich with alternative sources of protein. She is a passionate advocate for health & wellness, sustainability, and an ethical food system. Nabiha lives with her husband and three sons in Los Angeles, where she enjoys an active lifestyle, including playing pickleball and playing basketball in a women’s league. - [Matt Hotze, PhD](https://gfi.org/team/matt-hotze-phd/): Matt oversees GFI's Science and Technology Department operations and advises on both U.S. and global strategy for developing the ideas, people, and funding we need to cultivate for alternative protein success. Areas of expertise: environmental impacts of the food system, nanotechnology, water treatment, science team building and leadership - [Liz Fathman](https://gfi.org/team/liz-fathman/): Liz leads the editorial and engagement team within Comms to steward and strengthen GFI’s owned and social channels, earned media work, and events and community engagement. Areas of expertise: strategic communications, content creation and storytelling, publishing, ethnography, small-scale agriculture, regional food production - [Faraz Harsini, M.Sc., Ph.D., DipACLM](https://gfi.org/team/faraz-harsini/) - [Chethana Biliyar](https://gfi.org/team/chethana-biliyar/) - [Curt Chaffin, JD](https://gfi.org/team/curt-chaffin-jd/): Curt shapes the role of innovative food and agriculture in the growing bio-based economies around the world. Areas of expertise: food and agriculture policy, coalition building, strategic development, regional growth, biotechnology and biomanufacturing - [Evelina Erickson](https://gfi.org/team/evelina-erickson/) - [Mike Dixon](https://gfi.org/team/mike-dixon/): Mike supports financial oversight to ensure accuracy, transparency, and mission viability. Areas of expertise: financial reporting and budgeting, QuickBooks, accounting - [Jennifer Tourkin](https://gfi.org/team/jennifer-tourkin/) - [Penny Eastman](https://gfi.org/team/penny-eastman/): Penny helps to create a sustainable, secure, and just food system by advancing alternative proteins in Congress. Areas of expertise: government relations, lobbying, legislation - [Dominic Scicchitano](https://gfi.org/team/dominic-scicchitano/): Dominic provides administrative and project management support for the Communications team’s thought leadership, messaging, and multi-sector engagement efforts. Areas of expertise: writing and editing, project management, community-based and participatory research, communications and engagement rooted in diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice - [Hanna Barlow](https://gfi.org/team/hanna-barlow/): Hanna works with GFI’s university innovation team to support The Alt Protein Project. Areas of expertise: food systems and justice, environment, community-building, curriculum development, and improvisation - [Matt Spence](https://gfi.org/team/matt-spence/): Matt Spence is a Managing Director at Guggenheim Partners, where he leads the firm’s venture capital coverage and food technology investment banking practices. He focuses on the intersection of national security and technology, emerging technologies, and sustainability-relatedcompanies. He was previously a partner at the venture capital firm, Andreessen Horowtiz, based in Silicon Valley. - [Drake Jamali](https://gfi.org/team/drake-jamali/) - [Asia Sheehab](https://gfi.org/team/asia-sheehab/): Asia works with GFI’s university innovation team to support The Alt Protein Project. Areas of expertise: program coordination and operations, mentoring, food systems, nutrition research, community-building - [Emily Giroux](https://gfi.org/team/emily-giroux/): Emily manages projects that inform and catalyze the alternative protein field while ensuring the effective operation of the GFI U.S. communications team. Areas of expertise: project management, communications, and operations - [John Seber, J.D.](https://gfi.org/team/john-seber-j-d/) - [Ben Pierce](https://gfi.org/team/ben-pierce/) - [Simone Costa, PhD](https://gfi.org/team/simone-costa-phd/): Simone Costa oversees SciTech's technical solutions team to evaluate and advance technological readiness across alternative protein platforms. Areas of expertise: biomolecular and protein engineering, fermentation, cell biology, strategic planning - [Kyle Sossi](https://gfi.org/team/kyle-sossi/) - [Michael Carter](https://gfi.org/team/michael-carter/): Michael supports the Policy and Government Relations team by providing original writing and analysis in support of alternative protein development and deployment. Areas of expertise: research and analysis, original writing, multilateral fora, global public investment - [Sally Chapman](https://gfi.org/team/sally-chapman/): Sally Chapman guides GFI’s foundations team and oversees its grant-seeking program. Areas of expertise: development strategy, grants management, writing, nonprofit governance - [Ilya Sheyman](https://gfi.org/team/ilya-sheyman/) ## Grants - [Faba–koji hybrid protein systems](https://gfi.org/grants/faba-koji-hybrid-protein-systems/): This project seeks to improve plant-based meat fiber formation and structure by co-extrusion of faba and koji. - [Scalable, accessible bovine fat cells](https://gfi.org/grants/scalable-accessible-bovine-fat-cells/): This project engineers immortalized bovine fat cells for single-cell suspension growth and reduced metabolic waste in long-term serum-free cultures. - [Natural meat color with yeast](https://gfi.org/grants/natural-meat-color-with-yeast/): This project will develop red-coloured yeast cells used to make plant-based products mimic whole-cut meat products (e.g., steak). - [Single-cell protein from coconut meal](https://gfi.org/grants/single-cell-protein-from-coconut-meal/): This project will develop plant-based sausages using a protein-rich yeast biomass to improve taste, texture, nutrition, and overall quality. - [Meaty taste = mushrooms + alliums](https://gfi.org/grants/meaty-taste-mushrooms-alliums/): This project uses mushrooms to brew natural flavors, making plant-based foods savory. - [Enhanced scalable bovine cell line](https://gfi.org/grants/enhanced-scalable-bovine-cell-line/): This project combines a naturally muscle-enhancing bovine cell line with an engineered growth switch to make cultivated meat scalable and affordable. - [On-chip lobster cell immortalization](https://gfi.org/grants/on-chip-lobster-cell-immortalization/): This project uses microfluidic chips and chaotic bioprinting to develop cell lines for safe, cruelty-free, and sustainable cultivated lobster meat. - [Plug-and-play cell engineering](https://gfi.org/grants/plug-and-play-cell-engineering/): This project creates a new engineering system to add useful genes to cow cells, enabling cheaper, large-scale cultivated meat production. - [Removing metabolites for high-density cell growth](https://gfi.org/grants/removing-metabolites-for-high-density-cell-growth/): This project will engineer a cow cell line that does not produce lactate and ammonia, the main growth inhibitory compounds produced by animal cells. - [Southern flounder muscle cell line](https://gfi.org/grants/southern-flounder-muscle-cell-line/): This project will develop a southern flounder muscle cell line for cultivated seafood, optimized for suspension culture and serum-free media. - [Advanced Atlantic halibut cell lines](https://gfi.org/grants/advanced-atlantic-halibut-cell-lines/): This project creates commercially-relevant halibut cell lines that are serum-free and suspension-adapted, supported by AI-guided media optimization. - [Upcycled bacterial cellulose](https://gfi.org/grants/upcycled-bacterial-cellulose/): This project optimizes bacterial cellulose production and formulation for plant-based protein foods. - [Growing meat from plants](https://gfi.org/grants/growing-meat-from-plants/): This project will use plant-based materials to create cost-effective cell culture media for growing cultivated meat. - [Sunflower byproducts for sustainable food](https://gfi.org/grants/sunflower-byproducts-for-sustainable-food/): This project uses sustainable processing to transform sunflower meal into a protein-rich, eco-friendly ingredient for human food. - [Seaweed proteins for cultivated meat (SeaToMeat)](https://gfi.org/grants/seaweed-proteins-for-cultivated-meat/): This project generates low-cost, high-performance hydrolysates from seaweed proteins for cell culture media to support cultivated meat production. - [Cell culture media from yeast](https://gfi.org/grants/cell-culture-media-from-yeast/): This project creates a cost-effective nutrient source for cultivated meat production from sustainably growing lipid-rich yeast on lupin waste. - [Upcycling wheat bran for fermentation](https://gfi.org/grants/upcycling-wheat-bran-for-fermentation/): This project called Wheat-UP will upcycle wheat bran into new ingredients for hybrid foods using oils from yeast and mycelium protein biomass. - [Microalgae for sustainable cultivated meat](https://gfi.org/grants/microalgae-for-sustainable-cultivated-meat/): This project uses microalgae to recycle mammalian cell culture media and create amino acids for growth supplements for cultivated meat production. - [Agricultural sidestreams for culture media](https://gfi.org/grants/agricultural-sidestreams-for-culture-media/): This project will assess the functionality of various agricultural sidestream derived cell culture media components. - [Green downstream processing](https://gfi.org/grants/green-downstream-processing/): This research project intends to develop an innovative approach for downstream processing of precision fermentation biomasses. - [Upcycling of side streams](https://gfi.org/grants/upcycling-of-side-streams/): Over 20% of plant protein is underutilized. This project addresses that challenge by developing more efficient protein recovery. - [Reimagining soy: flavor and function](https://gfi.org/grants/reimagining-soy-flavor-and-function/): This project upcycles non-GMO soybean meals into premium ingredients with improved flavor and function through innovative processing. - [Cost-effective meat-like protein production](https://gfi.org/grants/cost-effective-meat-like-protein-production/): New protein extraction processes will be developed for yeast-based meat proteins to reduce costs and negative environmental impact. - [Extrusion-assisted canola protein extraction](https://gfi.org/grants/extrusion-assisted-canola-protein-extraction/): Canola meal will be processed by extrusion to extract protein that will be concentrated and dried to form a high-quality protein ingredient. - [Low-cost cell culture media](https://gfi.org/grants/low-cost-cell-culture-media/): This project aims to develop efficient and cost-effective cell culture media from optimized bioprocesses for industrial-scale cultivated meat production. - [Low-cost protein purification](https://gfi.org/grants/low-cost-protein-purification/): A biotech solution is designed and evaluated to eliminate the need for expensive equipment and large amounts of energy in protein purification. - [Conversion of fish fibroblasts to muscle cells](https://gfi.org/grants/conversion-fish-fibroblasts-muscle-cells/): Utilize bioinformatics to characterize cell populations in fish muscles, employing this data to directly convert fish fibroblasts into muscle cells. - [Model-guided optimization of alt protein](https://gfi.org/grants/model-guided-alt-protein-optimization/): This project will develop and optimize low-cost serum-free culture media for cultivated chicken meat, using metabolic modeling and spent media analysis. - [Multi-omic profiling for cultivated seafood](https://gfi.org/grants/multi-omic-profiling-cultivated-seafood/): This project will leverage multi-omic data to analyze several fish species in depth. - [Sustainable proteins from agave bagasse fermentation](https://gfi.org/grants/agave-bagasse-fermentation-proteins/): This project proposes a two-stage process using agave bagasse and tortilla industry effluents to produce single-cell proteins through fermentation processes. - [Plant-based marbled meats](https://gfi.org/grants/plant-based-marbled-meats/): This project aims to address a critical gap in the production of meat alternatives by developing marbled plant-based meats. - [Understanding cooling die scalability and protein texturization](https://gfi.org/grants/cooling-die-scalability-protein-texturization/): The project aims to design practical variations of extruder cooling dies and study the impacts of cooling gradient, die dimensions, and mass flow rates. - [Optimizing growth media for bovine cells](https://gfi.org/grants/optimizing-growth-media-bovine-cells/): Dr. Betenbaugh is developing a model-based approach to optimize media to reduce the cost of cultivated meat and improve product yield and quality. - [TRANSFORM ‘Waste-to-Microbial Protein’](https://gfi.org/grants/transform-waste-to-microbial-protein/): This project will develop new tools and knowledge on optimized, scalable, and sustainable fermentation-derived protein based on low-cost, food-grade carbon sourced from waste. - [Sustainable chicken mushroom mycelia production technology](https://gfi.org/grants/chicken-mushroom-mycelia-production/): Development of sustainable production technology for the manufacturing of high-quality chicken mushroom mycelium as a future meat substitute. - [Genome-scale metabolic model of porcine cells](https://gfi.org/grants/gem-porcine-cells/): A genome-scale metabolic model of porcine cells will be constructed and validated to identify the most efficient way to feed porcine cells. - [CulFish](https://gfi.org/grants/low-cost-fish-cell-media/): This project will produce an animal-free source of nutrients from upcycled waste streams for fish cells, enabling reductions in the cost of cultivated fish. - [Plant proteins: Structuring through processing](https://gfi.org/grants/plant-proteins-structuring-through-processing/): Integrating high-moisture extrusion and post-structuring technologies for improved textures from plant proteins. - [Neutron scattering during extrusion of meat analogs](https://gfi.org/grants/neutron-scattering-extrusion-meat-analogs/): With neutron scattering, this project aims to understand how plant protein melts solidify into fiber-like meat analogs during extrusion processes. - [Developing cell lines for cultivated seafood](https://gfi.org/grants/developing-cell-lines-for-cultivated-seafood/): Learn about Dr. Kevan Main and Dr. Cathy Walsh’s work at Mote Marine Laboratory to develop cell lines and methodology for cultivated seafood. - [The Frozen Farmyard: A cell line repository](https://gfi.org/grants/the-frozen-farmyard-a-cell-line-repository/): Learn about Dr. Gareth Sullivan’s work to develop a “frozen farmyard” cell line repository for cultivated meat. - [Macroalgae and Maillard-derived seafood flavor](https://gfi.org/grants/macroalgae-and-maillard-derived-seafood-flavor/): This project will generate ingredients from byproducts of algae polysaccharide extraction to improve the flavor of alternative seafood products. - [Enzymatic treatment of hemp ingredient](https://gfi.org/grants/enzymatic-treatment-of-hemp-ingredient/): Dr. Simsek aims to provide value-adding strategies through enzyme modification for hemp processing by-products. This project will develop hemp-based protein ingredients with functional dietary fiber and reduced antinutrients. - [Enzymatic reactive pea protein extrusion](https://gfi.org/grants/enzymatic-reactive-pea-protein-extrusion/): Dr. Chen and his team will use a green, fast, and large-volume processing approach, enzymatic reaction extrusion (eREX), to modify hydrolyzed pea proteins for improved texturization capacity and bioavailability. - [Antioxidants in oil-in-protein matrix](https://gfi.org/grants/antioxidants-in-oil-in-protein-matrix/): This project investigates dynamic antioxidant combination behaviors in plant-based fat tissue. Antioxidants with different mechanisms and polarities will be combined in oil or protein gel phases in different-sized particles to demonstrate interaction effects and evaluate lipid oxidation. - [Reproducing salmon aroma](https://gfi.org/grants/reproducing-salmon-aroma/): This project aims to determine the key molecules that contribute to cooked salmon’s odor and flavor and recreate these with optimal plant, fungal, and algal oils. The proposed solutions’ oxidative stability will be determined and possibilities for shelf-life extension provided.  - [Alternative seafood flavors in storage](https://gfi.org/grants/alternative-seafood-flavors-in-storage/): In this project the role of food matrix components in modulating the flavor profiles, nutritional/chemical properties, and oxidative stability of plant-based seafood formulations during processing and storage will be investigated. Lexicon to accurately describe seafood flavor(s) will also be developed. - [Alternative plant-based seafood flavors](https://gfi.org/grants/alternative-plant-based-seafood-flavors/): Dr Frank and his team are working to create more desirable plant-based seafood flavors. They will apply natural flavor chemistry pathways knowledge and sensory techniques to identify the most suitable flavor precursors for a range of plant-based seafood products. - [Mycelium fermentation](https://gfi.org/grants/mycelium-fermentation/): This project aims to use the immense diversity in mushroom-producing, new-to-food fungi to create improved fermented products. If the mycelium (the root network) has the same characteristics as the mushroom (the fruiting body), they can create tasteful and healthy products. - [Byproducts-to-lipids: techno-economic analysis](https://gfi.org/grants/byproducts-to-lipids-techno-economic-analysis/): The project will publish an open-access techno-economic analysis (TEA) investigating a two-stage byproducts-to-lipids production system and modeling production choice trade-offs. The wet lab work will analyze organism lipid profiles under various growth conditions to inform the TEA. - [A novel media recycling system](https://gfi.org/grants/a-novel-media-recycling-system/): The project aims to develop a sustainable toolbox of edible fungi strains to obtain intact RuBisCO from green tea. It bridges fungi fermentation with leaf protein production from waste streams, generating two promising alternative proteins in a single system. - [Seafood flavors from fungal fermentation](https://gfi.org/grants/seafood-flavors-from-fungal-fermentation/): Poor and inauthentic flavors of current seafood alternatives are a barrier to consumers’ acceptance. To address this shortcoming, the precision fermentation startup Nectariss plans to develop realistic seafood flavors based on the fermentation of mycelial fungi. - [Peanut meal solid state fermentation](https://gfi.org/grants/peanut-meal-solid-state-fermentation/): Dr. Speranza’s project explores solid-state fermentation to develop a protein ingredient with enhanced functionality and nutrition from peanut meal, an underutilized, high-volume by-product. The ingredient will be used to produce meat analogues with a desirable fibrous texture. - [Modeling cells and bioreactor hydrodynamics](https://gfi.org/grants/modeling-cells-and-bioreactor-hydrodynamics/): This project will optimize large-scale fermenter design and operating conditions. The team will model cell growth, fluid dynamics, and cell viability during scale up. Simultaneously, they will use flow chambers to understand cells’ reaction to physical and chemical stresses. - [Glucose metabolism-guided culture optimization](https://gfi.org/grants/glucose-metabolism-guided-culture-optimization/): The Brodsky-Hanga collaboration will define an intracellular pathway in porcine muscle responsible for the uptake of glucose. The goal is to exploit this understanding to nourish cultured muscle cells for cultivated meat production. - [Bioreactor fluid dynamics and techno-economics](https://gfi.org/grants/bioreactor-fluid-dynamics-and-techno-economics/): This project will incorporate computational fluid dynamics and genome-scale metabolic models into techno-economic analyses. This detailed model of bioreactor performance and cell behavior will enable assessment and optimization of novel bioreactor designs more cost effectively than building and testing prototypes. - [Antinutrient-free plant albumin](https://gfi.org/grants/antinutrient-free-plant-albumin/): This project aims to identify affordable plant albumins for culture media. Dr. Richards and his team will characterize at least six plant albumins that support fish cell growth. - [Algal extracts for cell media](https://gfi.org/grants/algal-extracts-for-cell-media/): Dr. Minic and his team will screen algal strains to produce extracts for cell media, focusing on albumin replacements. This project will produce inexpensive algal extracts with high potency to replace albumin in fetal bovine serum, significantly lowering media cost. - [Fish culture microcarrier nutrient delivery](https://gfi.org/grants/fish-culture-microcarrier-nutrient-delivery/): This project will develop novel edible and bioactive microcarriers for scalable, efficient, and reproducible cultivated fish production. These microcarriers will allow in vitro cultivation of fish embryonic stem cells and controlled delivery of essential molecules for cell growth. - [Plant-based transferrin media substitutes](https://gfi.org/grants/plant-based-transferrin-media-substitutes/): Dr. Stogios’ project will uncover plant-based additives for cellular agriculture media. The team will determine whether transferrin, an expensive but key component of serum-free cell culture media, can be replaced by proteins from legumes (like beans, lentils or chickpeas). ## Venues - [Marché Bonsecours](https://gfi.org/venue/marche-bonsecours/) - [Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library](https://gfi.org/venue/martin-luther-king-jr-memorial-library/) - [Carnegie Endowment for International Peace](https://gfi.org/venue/carnegie-endowment-for-international-peace/) - [Northwestern Pritzker School of Law](https://gfi.org/venue/northwestern-pritzker-school-of-law/) - [Case Western Reserve University](https://gfi.org/venue/case-western-reserve-university/) - [Bahen Centre for Information Technology](https://gfi.org/venue/bahen-centre-for-information-technology/) - [NC State University](https://gfi.org/venue/nc-state-university/) - [Johns Hopkins University](https://gfi.org/venue/johns-hopkins-university/) - [Politics and Prose at The Wharf](https://gfi.org/venue/politics-and-prose-at-the-wharf/) - [Marriott](https://gfi.org/venue/marriott/) - [San Francisco Marriott Marquis](https://gfi.org/venue/san-francisco-marriott-marquis-3/) - [Georgetown University](https://gfi.org/venue/georgetown-university/) - [Joyce Cummings Center](https://gfi.org/venue/joyce-cummings-center/) - [California State University, Stanislaus](https://gfi.org/venue/california-state-university-stanislaus/) - [Tuskegee University](https://gfi.org/venue/tuskegee-university/) - [North Carolina State University](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Parque da Cidade](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Dirksen Senate Office Building](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Indiana Convention Center](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Grand Farm](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [McNamara Alumni Center](https://gfi.org/venue/__trashed-3/) - [UC Davis Conference Center](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [The Diamond](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [9Zero Climate Innovation Hub](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Halcyon House](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Imagine Center](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Boundary Stone Partners Office](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Washington, DC](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [University of Wisconsin-Madison](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [James H. Clark Center Auditorium](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Seeds of Hope](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Monument](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [US Navy Memorial Burke Auditorium](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Harvard University](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Oregon Convention Center](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Omni Tempe Hotel at ASU](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Arizona State University](https://gfi.org/venue/__trashed/) - [Meadowlands Exposition Center](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Medical Sciences Building, University of Toronto](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Marina Bay Sands Singapore](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Grand Hyatt San Francisco](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Baku Stadium](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [The Shirley & Joe Swinbank ’74 AgriLife Center](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Campus Club of the University of Minnesota – Coffman Memorial Union](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Mandalay Bay](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Town and Country Resort](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Minneapolis, MN](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [The Hutton House](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Instituto Superior Técnico – Taguspark](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [The Westin Seattle](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Rutgers University College Avenue Student Center](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Phoenix Convention Center](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Hilton Boston Back Bay](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Embassy Suites by Hilton Boulder](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Sheraton Raleigh Hotel](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Grand Hyatt Washington](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Kiln](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Swan Dive](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [UCLA Meyer and Renee Luskin Conference Center](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [San Francisco Marriott Marquis](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Marriott Boston Quincy](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [The Clift Royal Sonesta San Francisco](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Crystal Gateway Marriott](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Tufts University](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [University of Warwick, The Slate](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Hyatt Regency Barcelona Tower](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Grand Hyatt At SFO](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Madinat Jumeirah Conference Centre](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Expo City Dubai](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [ExCeL London](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Museum of The Future](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [Donald E. Stephens Convention Center Chicago](https://gfi.org/venue/) - [The Marquette Hotel](https://gfi.org/venue/the-marquette-hotel/) - [InterContinental London](https://gfi.org/venue/intercontinental-london/) - [The Forum, Columbia University](https://gfi.org/venue/the-forum-columbia-university/) - [Fort Mason Center](https://gfi.org/venue/fort-mason-center/) - [Javits Center](https://gfi.org/venue/javits-center-2/) - [San Jose McEnery Convention Center](https://gfi.org/venue/san-jose-mcenery-convention-center-2/) - [Center for Strategic and International Studies](https://gfi.org/venue/center-for-strategic-and-international-studies/) - [JW Marriott](https://gfi.org/venue/jw-marriott/) - [Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business](https://gfi.org/venue/duke-universitys-fuqua-school-of-business/) - [Colorado Convention Center](https://gfi.org/venue/colorado-convention-center/) - [Hilton Chicago](https://gfi.org/venue/hilton-chicago/) - [99 Scott Studio](https://gfi.org/venue/99-scott-studio/) - [New York Mariott Marquis](https://gfi.org/venue/new-york-mariott-marquis/) - [Jaharis Cafe](https://gfi.org/venue/jaharis-cafe/) - [Kresge Building](https://gfi.org/venue/kresge-building/) - [Hotel Palace Berlin](https://gfi.org/venue/hotel-palace-berlin/) - [San Francisco Marriott Marquis](https://gfi.org/venue/san-francisco-marriott-marquis-2/) - [Grand Hyatt at SFO](https://gfi.org/venue/grand-hyatt-at-sfo/) - [The Metropolitan Club](https://gfi.org/venue/the-metropolitan-club/) - [Charles Bronfman Auditorium, Tel Aviv Culture Center](https://gfi.org/venue/charles-bronfman-auditorium-tel-aviv-culture-center/) - [Bespoke Events](https://gfi.org/venue/bespoke-events/) - [San Jose McEnery Convention Center](https://gfi.org/venue/san-jose-mcenery-convention-center/) - [Sands Expo & Convention Centre](https://gfi.org/venue/sands-expo-convention-centre/) - [Sharm El Sheikh International Convention Centre](https://gfi.org/venue/sharm-el-sheikh-international-convention-centre/) ## Organizers - [Test organizer](https://gfi.org/organizer/test-organizer/): Test description ## Events - [The Science of Alt Protein: Bridging functionality gaps through hybrid food design](https://gfi.org/event/the-science-of-alt-protein-bridging-functionality-gaps-through-hybrid-food-design/): Join us to learn how plant proteins, microbial biomass, and precision-fermentation-derived ingredients can be integrated to create next-generation food products. - [Business of Alt Protein: The Importance of Sensory Science for Alternative Proteins](https://gfi.org/event/business-of-alt-protein-the-importance-of-sensory-science-for-alternative-proteins/): Join us on June 30 for a Business of Alt Protein webinar on the importance of sensory science for alternative proteins. - [Developing continuous cell lines for cultivated seafood](https://gfi.org/event/developing-continuous-cell-lines-for-cultivated-seafood/): Dive into GFI’s new guide for practical solutions to overcoming shared challenges in fish and crustacean cell line development. - [Fish & CHIPS: Collaborative Huddle for Ideation & Problem Solving](https://gfi.org/event/fish-and-chips-collaborative-huddle-for-ideation-problem-solving-sept-2026-am/): Calling all cultivated seafood researchers and innovators! Join us for our next collaborative huddle on September 29th at 11:30 am ET. - [Fish & CHIPS: Collaborative Huddle for Ideation & Problem Solving](https://gfi.org/event/fish-and-chips-collaborative-huddle-for-ideation-problem-solving-sept-2026-pm/): Calling all cultivated seafood researchers and innovators! Join us for our next collaborative huddle on September 29th at 10:30 pm ET.