Renewable Energy-Powered Microbes Turning CO2 into Protein and Vitamins
Researchers in Germany have developed a technology that allows them to harvest protein and vitamin B9 from microbes using only hydrogen, oxygen, and CO2. This sustainable process, akin to brewing beer, uses renewable energy sources to create a nutrient-rich protein alternative that could potentially be a future food source.
The team at the University of Tübingen designed a bioreactor system that produces yeast enriched with protein and vitamin B9, essential for cell growth and metabolism. By feeding specific bacteria hydrogen and CO2, and then acetate to yeast, they were able to create a product that meets daily nutritional requirements.
The acetate-fed yeast not only produced vitamin B9 as effectively as sugar-fed yeast but also contained higher levels of protein than traditional sources like beef, pork, fish, and lentils. This technology addresses global challenges such as environmental conservation, Food Security, and public health by reducing carbon emissions, freeing up land for conservation, and providing a sustainable protein source.
While further optimization and scaling up production are needed before the product can be widely available, the researchers are hopeful that this vegetarian/vegan, non-GMO, and sustainable protein source will appeal to consumers. The project was supported by various organizations including the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and the Federal Ministry of Education and Research in Germany.
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Michael Thompson earned his degree in Agricultural Engineering from Purdue University in the USA, specializing in precision agriculture and smart farming technologies. His work revolves around the development of automated systems that increase farm efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Michael is now a senior engineer at a leading agri-tech company, where he designs innovative solutions for modern agriculture.