New Dutch Consortium for Developing Protein-Rich Foods

Global human population is growing and the world demand for protein-rich food is increasing. Protein is crucial in a balanced, healthy diet. In addition, different types of consumers, such as the elderly, hospital patients and athletes, need food that is especially rich in protein. These needs can be addressed by combining plant- and animal-based proteins and by using the available protein more effectively and efficiently. The TAPAS consortium will develop innovative solutions to this end.

 

The four companies will bring knowledge and expertise from different angles. NIZO food research has in-depth knowledge of proteins and the interactions between products and processes. Dairy expertise will come from Royal FrieslandCampina, which has several production sites in Gelderland and Overijssel  and an innovation center in Wageningen. Ruitenberg will bring its knowledge in the field of plant-based proteins for the vegetarian industry, and SONAC will contribute with its expertise in functional proteins – developed on animal by-products - for the meat industry. The partners expect their collaboration to speed up the development of food products and reduce time to market.

 

Joint innovation
The TAPAS consortium is financially supported by “Operationeel Programma Oost-Nederland” (Operational Program Eastern Netherlands), a joint program of the provinces of Overijssel and Gelderland, the city networks Zwolle, Kampen, Apeldoorn, Deventer, Zutphen, and Arnhem-Nijmegen, and the regional networks in Twente and The Valley. The program covers activities that are co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund.