A biotechnology company from Singapore has developed a genuinely vegan cheese from protein flour and microalgae. It can be eaten solid or melted, and it tastes like cheddar.
Singapore’s Sophie’s BioNutrients creates food products that focus on green production. In mid-November, they announced that they had developed a nutrient-rich cheese made from photosynthetic microalgae, completely free of animal protein.
“Microalgae is one of the richest resources on the planet,” said Eugene Wang, co-founder, and CEO of Sophie’s BioNutrients. – We have shown how you can still use this superfood – it can be the basis of new lactose-free cheese. At the same time, microalgae contain a lot of protein, and this vegan cheese contains even more nutrients than analogs. One serving (ie, about 28 g) of this product contains twice the daily amount of vitamin B12. In addition to algae, the composition includes protein flour, which was also previously developed by Sophie’s BioNutrients.
It is worth noting that cheeses without animal protein are already on the market, but for the most part, the taste either leaves much to be desired or is simply not very similar to cheese. Singaporeans claim that their cheese has a rich taste and resembles cheddar. This vegan product will be produced in two types – the usual semi-solid pieces and in the form of so-called “cheese oil” – a lactose-free substitute for butter. It can be cut into slices, melted in a microwave oven, or spread on bread.
The Singapore company grows photosynthetic microalgae in special bioreactors. In the natural environment, they live in both fresh and saltwater – they need carbon dioxide and a light source to live. Such microalgae are a source of amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are also used in fish feed.
According to Sophie’s BioNutrients, they are already talking with several European companies to bring their products to market.
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In summer 2021, the first 3D-bioprinted structured Wagyu beef-like meat was unveiled. Sounds impressive? Take a look at the news here.
