Singapore to trial protein made of ‘thin air’ that could solve world’s food problem
- The golden powdered protein, that looks a little like turmeric and is said to have a delicate umami flavour, is made of air, microbes and solar energy
- Singapore will be the first country to approve the sale of products with Solein, which is an alternative to meat and provides a basis for milk, soy or lentils
Regulators in Singapore have approved a powder made from microbes that could launch a food revolution in the quest for meat substitutes. Made by a start-up from Finland that calls it “food out of thin air”, it’s said to be delicious and is set to hit plates in the city state soon.
The golden powder that is generating hopes of a revolution looks a little like turmeric.
The protein, said to have a delicate umami flavour, is made of air, microbes and solar energy and is made by Finnish company Solar Foods.
Called Solein, it contains protein, dietary fibre, fat and mineral nutrients along with iron, vitamins and other micronutrients and is set to provide a basis for meat alternatives, milk, soy or lentils.
“The process does not require animals or photosynthetic plants, making Solein the world’s most sustainable protein,” Solar Foods’ website says.
Singapore will be the first country in the world to approve the sale of products containing Solein, which is to be commercially launched in 2024.