£15m fund for UK alternative protein research hub

This centre aims to drive research and innovation within the UK’s alternative protein sector.

NAPIC's centre will support development across the full alternative protein supply chain, including sources such as plant-based proteins, lab-grown meats, and protein-rich algae.

With the global population expected to near 10bby 2050, 2b more than the current population, with that protein demand will rise sharply. The UN Environment Programme predicts that meat consumption could increase by as much as 50% by 2050.

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Plant-based proteins like soy and peas, as well as lab-grown meats, are offering an alternative protein source.

Professor Anne Ferguson-Smith, BBSRC executive chair, stated: "I am delighted to announce the £15m launch of the National Alternative Protein Innovation Centre. This investment places NAPIC at the forefront of global efforts to develop the next generation of alternative protein products, technologies, and services."

The centre’s research and innovation will unite businesses, charities, academic researchers, and stakeholders across the alternative protein industry, from plant-based proteins to lab-created food products.

The UK's leadership in alternative proteins has already attracted over £23m in additional investment and support for NAPIC from businesses, international partners, and stakeholders.

Dr. Stella Peace, executive director for Healthy Living and Agriculture at Innovate UK, said: “The new national alternative protein innovation centre will advance research and innovation in alternative proteins, strengthening the UK’s leadership in this critical sector and fostering international collaboration to ensure a more sustainable and secure food future for all.”

In partnership with BBSRC, UK businesses are being encouraged to collaborate with the UK research community to address global challenges such as food security and sustainability while boosting economic growth.

Professor Anwesha Sarkar, director of research and innovation at the University of Leeds School of Food Science and Nutrition, and Project Leader for NAPIC, commented: “There are many challenges to transitioning towards alternative proteins. Population-level access to and acceptance of alternative proteins is currently hindered by a highly complex marketplace, concerns about taste, nutritional equivalence and cost, as well as health and safety concerns and the fear of diminished livelihoods for farmers.”

The NAPIC centre will provide a platform for open innovation, responsible data sharing, and collaboration with industry, regulators, and policymakers. This approach aims to help mitigate risks in this emerging field and address both short- and long-term concerns for consumers and producers.

NAPIC seeks to encourage collaboration to address key research and innovation challenges, from discovery research to proof-of-concept and commercial initiatives.

Green Alliance’s analysis estimates that the UK alternative protein industry could be worth £6.8b annually, creating 25,000 jobs by 2035, with help from the UKRI-funded centre.

The centre brings together researchers from several institutions, including:

- University of Leeds

- The James Hutton Institute

- Imperial College London

- University of Sheffield

Over 100 UK and international stakeholders, including small and medium-sized enterprises, multinational corporations, academic institutions, and third-sector partners, are already involved. These partners have committed £23m in co-investment in addition to UKRI’s £15m funding.

Looking ahead, the centre plans to expand further, attracting more investment and developing a pipeline of alternative protein innovations.

The funding began in August 2024 and will last for five years. This latest investment aligns with UKRI’s ‘Building a Green Future’ strategic theme, supporting the UK’s goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.