EFISHient Protein has introduced its first prototype of a plant-based grouper fillet, replicating the texture and structure of the widely consumed white fish. The product is formulated from plant-derived ingredients, designed for commercial preparation and distribution, offering an alternative to traditional seafood without impacting marine ecosystems.
Bridging the gap
The company’s development of the plant-based fillet serves as an interim step in its research and development pipeline while progressing toward a cultivated grouper fillet. The future product will combine real grouper fish cells with cultivated seafood technology to replicate the sensory and nutritional profile of wild-caught grouper. EFISHient Protein’s cultivated fillet is intended to provide a protein-rich option free from antibiotics, mercury, and microplastics, issues commonly associated with conventional seafood.
Dana Levin, CEO of EFISHient Protein, stated, “Our vision is to empower large-scale food producers with innovative fish alternatives that are not only delicious and nutritious but also safe, traceable, and free from antibiotics, heavy metals, and microplastics.” Levin also described the plant-based grouper prototype as “a clear demonstration of our ability to bring real progress to the cultivated seafood sector and meet market needs.”
Building foundations for cultivated seafood
Previously, EFISHient Protein announced the establishment of a stable tilapia cell line and a prototype tilapia fillet, developments that support ongoing commercialization efforts in partnership with large-scale fish product manufacturers. The company is also creating a genetic cell bank, utilizing advanced technology to produce muscle and fat cells from fish species, including tilapia.
While EFISHient Protein continues development on its cultivated seafood products, including the grouper fillet derived from real fish cells, market entry for such cultivated items remains a longer-term prospect due to regulatory and production challenges. In contrast, the plant-based grouper fillet prototype could provide a more immediate option for commercial distribution and market availability.
