GEA has started building its technology center for alternative proteins in Janesville, Wisconsin, US.
The center is slated to open in 2025 and will increase the manufacturing of innovative meals that are based on plants, microbes, and cells. In this case, GEA wants to help producers meet consumer demand for components and proteins that complement conventional animal-based goods.
“This investment underscores our commitment to innovation and sustainability in the food industry,” said Arpad Csay, who leads GEA’s new food activities in North America, at the groundbreaking ceremony on May 8, 2024. The center will house pilot lines for cell cultivation and precision fermentation, bridging the gap between benchtop and commercial production of alternative proteins. “The technology center will offer foodtech businesses a platform to develop and derisk their processes to ensure technological and commercial viability. It helps startups in the sector implement a business strategy that requires little upfront investment. This way, we help accelerate the development of market-ready products.”
The 1,200 square meter structure will use only renewable energy sources to power itself. For example, electricity-powered heat pumps and systems will take the role of natural gas, which is currently used for process equipment and building technology. The annual output of a ground-mounted solar system is expected to be 290 MWh, which is at least 25% more than the required amount of energy. The grid will receive the extra energy. Because of the expandability of this photovoltaic system, green energy can be produced even in the event that process needs rise in the future. This configuration highlights GEA’s goal of operating at net zero by 2040.
“Novel food production methods are going to gain prominence in the coming decades. This development will require a diverse pool of skilled professionals from operators in the plants to bioprocessing engineers designing production systems and scientists pushing boundaries through research and development,” Arpad Csay added. “Our technology center will help develop this future workforce by educating students and young professionals about the underlying biology and bioprocesses. We are excited to work with community colleges and universities to build these competencies in the region.”
Find out more at: https://www.gea.com/