This section seeks to introduce each beneficiary, explain their sector, and describe their work in the project. Today it is the turn of Seronei, from Sinonin Biotech.
The main strength of the ZEST project is its multidisciplinary consortium, which consists of twelve entities from five different European countries and, specifically, the people working in them. The section ‘10 questions to…’ seeks to introduce each beneficiary, explain their sector, and describe their work in the project. Today it is the turn of Seronei, from Sinonin Biotech.
What is Sinonin Biotech?
Sinonin Biotech specializes in alternative protein and palatant enhancements for pet food. Founded by an expert in protein technology, Sinonin derives its name from the Nandi language of Kenya, meaning an evergreen highland rich in diverse flora and fauna. We are a German-based business founded by an ethnic minority and immigrant from Nandi Hills in Kenya. We are based in Langwedel, near Bremen (Germany).
What is your background and role at Sinonin Biotech?
Since September 2022, I have served as the Founding CEO of Sinonin Biotech, which was established three years ago.
What do you enjoy about your work?
I find it exhilarating to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications. With my background as a former Professor and an employee at a leading FMCG company, I bring a comprehensive understanding of both academia and industry to Sinonin Biotech. As a prominent innovator in palatability enhancers, I integrate in-depth product development insights with the ambitions of ingredient suppliers.
This dual perspective helps mitigate misunderstandings that could negatively impact solution acceptability. My advocacy extends to the pet palatant innovation sector, and I am a member of the Industry Advisory Board of The Future of Protein Productions eMagazine, ensuring our contributions are inclusive of the pet food sector.
Do you enjoy working on transnational collaborative projects, and why?
The ZEST project has provided me and my team, including Victor and collaborator Dr. Ralucal Alexa, a renowned expert in pet food hydrocolloids, the opportunity to engage with and learn from other consortium partners. The international diversity of this collaboration is enriching and exciting, offering a magnificent mix of talent and expertise.
Why did Sinonin Biotech join ZEST? What makes ZEST special and intriguing?
Sinonin Biotech joined ZEST to leverage our agility, expertise, and experience in pet food prototyping and validation using mycoproducts. The collaboration is particularly engaging because it allows us to transform raw materials into tangible products. Our role ensures the transition from theoretical concepts to practical, packageable products.
What’s Sinonin Biotech’s mission in the ZEST project?
Sinonin Biotech leads Work Package Five (WP5) on product formulations, in partnership with Tae & Lyle and LEITAT. Specifically, we will characterize and formulate products with proteins and chitin/chitosan for pet food applications. Our key roles include:
- Advancing Alternative Proteins: Integrating sustainable alternative proteins into pet food formulations.
- Ensuring Safety & Quality: Advocating for food safety and quality measures throughout the project.
- Prototyping & Validation: Developing model pet food recipes with significant inclusion of alternative proteins.
- Optimizing Palatability & Performance: Assessing the impact of alternative proteins on taste and acceptance in pet food.
What are you currently working on?
We are characterising the physical properties of small-scale products to analyse their rheological properties. This analysis will inform the suitability of the biomass for applications in human food, pet food, and cosmetics.
What are the main challenges you are currently facing?
Regarding ZEST, there are no current challenges. We are progressing on schedule, preparing to advance to month 12 of the project.
What are the key findings so far?
There are no findings yet as WP5 awaits products from preceding WPs. Please check back in six months as we are rearing to produce prototypes of petfood for our project panelists to taste and feel!
What do you believe will be ZEST’s contributions once the project is completed in scientific, social, and economic terms?
ZEST’s primary contribution will be demonstrating the feasibility of its biomass and product fractions in pet food, human food, and beauty products. We aim to change the focus of the conversation from «alternative proteins» to «proteins from alternative sources.» Another significant outcome will be substantial upskilling and technical knowledge transfers. New human resources, including our intern Victor Kiprono, have been hired, contributing to this transformative learning process involving AI, fermentation technology, biomass processing, and product prototyping.
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