Why all the fuss with protein?

When you hear protein, what comes to your mind first? I am sure your answer will be different depending on who you are and what you do with protein because protein means different things to other people. Even in the development community, there is a growing interest in protein, both by private enterprises, government, and international organisations like World Economic Forum the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation 联合国粮农组织 .

In the scientific world, protein research has been getting a lot of attention and funding lately. From big investments like the $100 million from the Bezos Earth Fund to the UK's €45 million investment in the National Alternative Protein Innovation Centre, it's clear that protein research is a hot topic for both the private and government sectors.

But why all the fuss? Well, protein research is super important for a few reasons.

First, traditional meat and dairy industries are big contributors to greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental issues. But with the rise of alternative proteins, there's hope. Researchers are investing in sustainable protein sources like plant-based, insect proteins, cultured meat, and mycoprotein, which can help feed more people without using up all our resources. This is a promising step towards a more sustainable future.

And it's not just about the environment—proteins have a big impact on the food industry, too. They play a crucial role in food properties, nutrition, and even in developing healthy, functional foods.

For food innovators and product developers, protein serves various functional properties such as emulsification, gelling, foaming, and water-binding. From a nutritional standpoint, protein is essential for muscle repair, enzyme production, and overall health. From a food safety perspective, the content and type of protein can influence allergenic potential, making identifying and mitigating allergenic proteins crucial in product development.

There is also growing interest in protein's bioactive peptides, which are known for their potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties make proteins an essential ingredient in the development of functional foods aimed at promoting health and wellness.

Don't let me forget to mention that protein serves as a crucial supplement for bodybuilders, expediting the achievement of their desired muscle mass and physique. I firmly believe that this presents a substantial and enduring market opportunity.

So, for young researchers, protein research is not just a field worth exploring, it's a field that demands our attention. It's not just a passing trend – it's a key part of building a sustainable future for our planet and ensuring global food security. The urgency of this mission should inspire us all to contribute to this vital field.