WORKPLAN
About workplan
Workplan
ZEST kicked-off in Juin 2023 and will cover a period of 48 months. It is structured in 9 interconnected work packages (WPs).
WP1 – Fungi Screening and Test Fermentation
Initially, various raw materials and agricultural side streams will be examined for their suitability as a feedstock in fungal fermentation. During WP1, several analyses will be conducted to determine the nutrient content of the selected feedstocks. Understanding the nutrient composition is essential to estimate the specific nutrient profile each
feedstock provides to the fungi. All data will be shared with other partners to develop various datasets and digital models. Based on the results of this WP, a user editable and public accessible data base of the tested feedstocks will be established.
WP2 – Bioreactor Design and Fermentation Upscaling
Considering the operation challenges of modern bioreactors for submerged filamentous fungi cultivations: (1) managing heterogeneity induced by high viscosity, (2) lowering energy requirements for agitation, (3) ensuring high oxygen mass transfer rates and (4) avoiding foaming, cell adhesion and morphology changes throughout the cultivation. The project team will partake in activities aimed at designing and developing individual bioreactor systems, which are adjustable for multiple cultivation process conditions.
WP3 – Digital Modelling, Process Monitoring and Control
The main objective of this WP is to implement data processes, digital models and AI mechanisms for analysis and control of the fermenters/bioreactors, fermentation parameters, fermentation and bioreactor processes and guide decision making for fermentation experiment setups and validation.
WP4 – Downstream Processes
Work Package 4 is organized to design the most optimal and efficient downstream process of the output from WP1 and WP2, targeting product applications in WP5. Specific objectives are: (1) developing a suitable downstream process for recovery and purification of fungal biomass targeting the specific application as food ingredients; (2) creating suitable downstream processes for purification of mycoprotein extracted from mycelia targeting the specific application as food and/or feed ingredients; (3) testing, validating, and improving the quality of the mycoprotein; and (4) developing stepwise extraction and/or other cascading strategies for feedstock and fermentation residues.
WP5 – Product Development
The main goal of WP5 is to operationalise the product formulation and production for proof-of-concept to demonstrate commercial viability of the mycoproteins, chitin, mannans and other potential residuals obtained from this project. Over this work package, partners will develop food or petfood grade product from the extracted proteins and polysaccharides
such as myco-chitin/chitosans based on the specific product requirements for each application by the end users. Application work will be done on pilot plant equipment ensuring
scalable solutions.
WP6 – Safety and Sustainability Assessment
The incorporation of Safety-and-Sustainability-by-Design (SSbD) requirements in the developed processes within ZEST will involve integrating principles that prioritise safety and sustainability throughout the entire extraction process of targeted compounds from food side streams, in order to ensure that the food ingredients are not only safe for
consumption but also have minimal environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. The main goal of WP6 will be to operationalise sets of criteria for SSbD assessment to guide all implicated processes towards human and environmental risk minimisation while maximising the positive impact of food additives.
such as myco-chitin/chitosans based on the specific product requirements for each application by the end users. Application work will be done on pilot plant equipment ensuring
scalable solutions.
WP7 – Dissemination and Communication
WP7's mission is to optimise the project's effect and the transmission of its findings by delivering targeted information to predefined target groups. Some of the actions foreseen are (1) raising awareness among key stakeholders of the project's existence, significance, and innovative practises, procedures, and new products; (2) ensuring that knowledge and activities are properly exchanged among consortium partners; and (3) making use of the networks of the partners and current effective communication tools.such as myco-chitin/chitosans based on the specific product requirements for each application by the end users. Application work will be done on pilot plant equipment ensuring
scalable solutions.
WP8 – Business Modelling and Exploitation
In general terms, WP8 seeks to ensure maximum impact of the ZEST project. More specifically, this work package aims at (1) developing a suitable business model and operational business plan for project outputs and results to maximise the
impact and market uptake of project outcomes in other application areas, (2) testing and validating the business models to sharpen the exploitation strategy, and (3) supporting the exploitation of project results through assessment and mitigation of exploitation risks and proper IPR (Intellectual Property Rights) management.
such as myco-chitin/chitosans based on the specific product requirements for each application by the end users. Application work will be done on pilot plant equipment ensuring
scalable solutions.
WP9 – Project Management
WP9 involves coordinating tasks, managing risks, and ensuring that all project elements come together efficiently to deliver the desired outcomes. It encompasses planning, organizing, leading, and controlling resources (such as time, money, people, and technology) to achieve specific goals and objectives within a defined timeline and budget.
such as myco-chitin/chitosans based on the specific product requirements for each application by the end users. Application work will be done on pilot plant equipment ensuring
scalable solutions.
WHY CHOOSE US
Beyond the state of the art
ZEST’s approach to mycelial fermentation in agricultural side streams will advance beyond the state of the art and offer solutions to current challenges.
These solutions outline the basis for the strategy set out in ZEST’s approach to an improved and modern fermentation production system resulting in a range of biological products. As a result, it will achieve a paradigm of minimal waste and full cascade usage along the entire production line.
Environmental and Ethical Challenges
Global livestock production has tripled in four decades and is expected to double by 2050, contributing 40% of global protein intake. It is linked to pollution, habitat loss, and ethical concerns.
Problems with traditional systems
Meat production contributes 15%-24% of global greenhouse gas emissions and faces criticism for its unsustainable and inhumane practices, raising concerns about its long-term viability.
Alternative protein sources
Various alternative proteins, such as insect, algae, and plant-based options, have been explored. However, challenges remain, including off-tastes, poor textures, costly processes, and scalability issues.
Potential of mycoprotein
Fungi-based mycoprotein offers a promising solution, with better texture and flavor compared to plant proteins. It also has greater scalability and environmental benefits, positioning it as a revolutionary alternative.
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