Enifer: Leading the Way in Fungal Protein Production
Enifer, a Finnish scale-up company, is on a mission to establish the world’s first fungal protein factory after securing a substantial amount of funding totaling €33 million. This innovative plant will convert food industry byproducts into a unique ingredient called Pekilo, which was originally developed in the 1970s as the world’s first industrial mycoprotein derived from natural fungus.
Pekilo offers a sustainable alternative to traditional meat protein, boasting a low carbon footprint and minimal land requirements. Previously used as animal feed, this ingredient has now been refined for human consumption, with Enifer aiming to bring it to the mass market. The company’s ambitious plans include producing 3,000 tons of Pekilo annually, enough to meet the protein needs of 40,000 people each year.
Cultivating fungal proteins at Enifer involves growing the fungus in a large fermentation tank, providing essential nutrients for its growth. The biomass is then heat-treated and harvested using centrifuges, resulting in a tofu-like mycoprotein that is dried and milled into a powder. This versatile ingredient can be used in a wide range of food products, from meat alternatives to breakfast cereals, at a cost comparable to plant-based products.
Enifer’s efforts to produce Pekilo align with the growing concerns over environmental impact and animal welfare associated with traditional protein sources. The company’s recent funding, which includes a €15 million Series B round and €9 million in climate-friendly tech loans, brings them one step closer to realizing these goals. Construction of the factory is already underway on a brownfield site near Helsinki, with plans to employ 15 people during regular operations.
Despite early challenges faced by the plant-based food industry, Enifer’s CEO Simo Ellilä remains optimistic about the future of mycoprotein. He believes that Pekilo’s superior taste and nutritional profile will set it apart from previous plant-based products that failed to meet consumer expectations. Ellilä encourages skeptics to give mycoprotein a try, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize the next generation of plant-based foods.
Enifer’s groundbreaking approach to fungal protein production holds promise for a more sustainable and ethical future in food production. With their innovative technology and strong financial backing, they are poised to lead the way in creating a new era of protein sources that benefit both people and the planet.
