The Protein Brewery has reached a milestone in its efforts to introduce its innovative food ingredient, Fermotein®, to the European market. The company announced today that the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has issued a positive scientific opinion on Fermotein®, a novel food ingredient derived from fermented fungal biomass.
“This is a groundbreaking achievement, not just for The Protein Brewery, but also for the European food industry”
Fermotein®, a mycoprotein powder, is produced using the Rhizomucor pusillus strain. It is rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, positioning it as a sustainable alternative to traditional protein sources. The ingredient is designed for use in a range of food and beverage products, including supplements and meal replacers.
“This is a groundbreaking achievement, not just for The Protein Brewery, but also for the European food industry. Fermotein® is the first-ever fungal biomass to go through the novel food system, and the EFSA opinion is a validation of the product’s safety and potential,” stated Dr. Yvonne Dommels, the company’s Director of Nutrition and Regulatory Affairs.
EFSA’s stamp of safety
EFSA’s opinion affirms the safety of Fermotein® under the proposed conditions of use, stating that the data on the production process, composition, and stability are sufficient, with no safety concerns raised. The assessment also indicated that the likelihood of the ingredient causing allergic reactions is low and that it does not present genotoxicity risks. This opinion paves the way for the European Commission and member states to grant final approval, allowing Fermotein® to be added to the EU’s list of novel foods.
Founded in 2020, The Protein Brewery has already secured regulatory approvals in other markets, including the United States, where Fermotein® holds self-affirmed Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status, and Singapore, where it gained approval in 2024. The recent EFSA approval marks a significant step toward expanding its European presence. The approval also comes on the heels of The Protein Brewery’s €30 million Series B funding round, which is expected to support its expansion efforts.
“As we move forward with the commercialization of Fermotein®, we see vast opportunities to enhance the nutritional profile of everyday food choices. This ingredient is designed to meet the needs of both consumers and the planet, offering a sustainable, whole-food solution with a complete amino acid profile,” Bosch added.
Anticipating further market approvals
The Protein Brewery is also advancing its production capabilities to meet increasing demand in the United States and is anticipating further approvals in other markets, including the United Kingdom. With its growing portfolio of regulatory successes, the company is poised to play a significant role in the global shift toward more sustainable food systems.
Fermotein® will be showcased at the Food Ingredients Europe event in Paris this week, where The Protein Brewery will discuss the ingredient’s potential with partners and customers.
