Scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology (Fraunhofer CBP) have created a pioneering approach. This groundbreaking method uses a water-based process to obtain protein-rich concentrates from rapeseed. This innovation creates a compelling new alternative protein ingredient for meat-free products such as burger patties. It has proven to be a superior feed for animals, particularly poultry. By utilizing the natural properties of the rapeseed, the team was able to create an extraction meal that has more protein content compared to typical rapeseed extraction meals. This innovation offers a promising alternative in the booming market for plant-based proteins.
The $17 million project, led by the Maryland based nonprofit Future Harvest, illustrates rapeseed’s remarkable dual potential. Including about 20% protein, it’s most famous for its oil content, which accounts for about 40% of its total composition. Since then, scientists have developed a rapeseed kernel concentrate with a protein content of more than 50%. They were able to do this incredible thing using a new extraction method known as the EthaNa process. This innovation has the potential to greatly improve the nutritional content of many human foods and animal feeds.
The EthaNa Process
The EthaNa process is an exciting, new development in the extraction of plant proteins. Using ethanol as a green solvent, this innovative approach first fractionates the rapeseed kernels while maintaining their functional constituents. Gently cracked de-hulled rapeseed kernels yield a cream-like paste to separate a delicious, protein-rich concentrate. During this process, the residual oil content is maintained below 5%.
This new sustainable, economic approach increases the efficiency of extraction. It’s a natural match for global currents that increasingly emphasize sustainable modes of food production. American consumers are clamoring for more sustainable sources of protein. The EthaNa process is rising to the occasion, and the increasing demand for a peaceful death is overflowing.
The Fraunhofer CBP pilot plant has successfully been in operation for more than two years. Oregon doesn’t just talk about the technology, it actively tests the use of this creative extraction technology. The facility has already successfully produced some 40 kilograms of rapeseed concentrate for animal feeding trials. This accomplishment is a major success story of how our research is translating to practical real-world applications.
Nutritional Benefits of Rapeseed Protein
Rapeseed protein has emerged as a desirable option for consumers looking for plant-based protein. The specialty rapeseed kernel concentrate has a higher protein content than traditional rapeseed extraction meals. While those often only have just under 40% protein, this new concentrate equals the protein level found in soybean extraction meal. In addition to these great features, this resource is a goldmine for vegan products. It has a huge impact on increasing the nutritional value of animal feed.
This increasing demand for plant-based diets has accelerated a movement among consumers and manufacturers similarly to find alternative sources of protein. The rapeseed concentrate has a high protein level and very low levels of oil left. This texture has made it particularly popular for burgers and other meat alternatives, including vegan options. Its potential application in chicken feed offers poultry producers a nutritious supplement that could improve the overall health and productivity of their flocks.
Researchers at Fraunhofer CBP emphasize that this new concentrate can serve multiple sectors, addressing both food security and sustainability challenges while providing a nutritious alternative to animal-based proteins.
Implications for Sustainable Agriculture
It’s important to note that this research goes beyond potential food production. Plus, it touches on bigger themes around sustainable agriculture and food systems. Global demand for protein is skyrocketing. We do not have the time to waste on doing business as usual. We need to find new ways that lower the environmental footprint while increasing the nutritional yield.
In this way, the EthaNa process’s use of ethanol as a solvent exemplifies the direction toward more sustainable practices in protein extraction. Researchers are reducing the use of harmful chemical solvents. They’ve embraced the challenge to develop greener alternatives that resonate with consumer preferences and set them apart from regulatory requirements.
Creating high-quality protein from locally-sourced rapeseed can greatly invigorate rural agricultural economies. It gives farmers a new, additional route to generate their farm income. Interest in domestic sources of protein has never been greater. This breakthrough has great potential to increase local farming projects and further diversify our food supply chain.