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Researchers screened 106 fungal strains grown on orange and black carrot side streams from natural colour production, ultimately selecting Pleurotus djamor (pink oyster mushroom) for its protein yield and growth efficiency. By focusing on fungi rather than fruiting bodies, the process dramatically reduced time, space, and resource inputs.

A next-generation mycoprotein platform has emerged via CRISPR-engineered Fusarium venenatum, enabling 88% faster biomass production, 44% lower sugar input, and up to 60% lower emissions. This materially shifts cost curves, potentially enabling broader retail penetration and finally addressing alt-protein’s affordability ceiling. The consumer effect is simple: better texture, cheaper protein, and less “processing guilt” compared with traditional isolates.

The Sydney, Australia Alt.Protein 25 Conference trends emergence confirmed a generational shift as the industry is quietly re-branding itself around NextGen Food, pragmatic, tech-driven, and consumer-anchored. Cultivated and precision fats are reframed as both flavour and function tools with algae and fermentation innovators chasing cost parity through partnerships; and “trust” replacing “disruption” as the ultimate KPI.

Anuga 2025 dedicating Hall 1 to alternatives signals structural mainstreaming of plant-based and cultivated proteins. Exhibitors include Beyond Meat, Oatly, Omami (tofu), Tofutown, SunflowerFamily, Neggst (egg substitute), Jens Møller (algae caviar & shrimp), and Pacifico Biolabs (mycelium chicken). This cross-section spans multinational incumbents, niche innovators, and regional players, together creating gravitational pull for retailers and investors.

The Monash Alt Protein Project is proof the next wave of sustainable food innovation isn’t waiting for corporate R&D labs to set the pace. This student-led initiative, selected by The Good Food Institute to join a global network of alt-protein university projects, is connecting Monash’s biotech, food science, and environmental expertise with Melbourne’s growing start-up scene.