In 2024, Solein, a yellow microbe-based protein powder created by Finnish startup, Solar Foods is set for commercial launch in Singapore after it gained regulatory approval from Singapore Food Agency (SFA) recently to sell its product here.
Solein is a protein made from single cell organism and common gases from the air. No further details were given on what the single cell organisms are, but they are fed with gases like hydrogen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide so that they can construct amino acids, carbohydrates, fats and vitamins that are fit for human consumption.
In what seems to be like a scientific marvel, the micro organisms will grow and react with the gases in bioreactors to make Solein. Once harvested, the mass will be dried into protein-rich powder. According to a reliable source, Solein contains 65-70% protein, 5-8% fat, 10-15% dietary fibres, and 3-5% mineral nutrients.
SFA has assessed Solein on its safety and production process and it had met the country’s food regulation standards.
Solar Foods’ first commercial plant is now under construction in southern Finland and will be ready by 2024. Once operational, Solein can be used as a protein source for alternative dairy and meat, and also can be used as a nutritional supplement to raise the protein content of snacks, drinks, breads and spreads.
According to Solar Foods, Solein is the ‘first ever’ novel food disconnected from the limits of traditional agriculture. The ingredient can be produced in harsh conditions such as deserts, cold Arctic regions and even in space. The production does not require animals or plants, thereby making Solein the most sustainable source of protein.
Singapore is the first country to approve the use of Solein in food products. Earlier this year, Solar Foods filed for novel food authorisation in the EU and UK. The company also plans to seek GRAS status assessment for Solein in the US.
As to whether Solein will be accepted by consumers as ingredients in their food products, only time will tell !
