EuroNews Health has reported that pink rice has the potential to be the “food of the future”. Indeed, technology is revolutionising our culinary world and innovations like pink rice, which is created by combining animal cells with rice grains, are a good example of this transformation. Similarly, lab-grown meat is changing the traditional methods of food production by eliminating the need to raise or slaughter animals.
FoodTech startups are playing a major role in this shift by introducing new approaches to how we prepare and consume food. By utilising technology, these startups are transforming everything from sourcing ingredients to delivering meals.
As we continue to embrace these advancements, we can anticipate further evolution in our relationship with food, fuelled by technology and a growing awareness of environmental and ethical concerns.
Pink Rice
Scientists at Yonsei University in South Korea have developed a new type of rice that could be a solution to problems related to food sustainability and animal welfare. According to a report by EuroNews.Health, this hybrid rice incorporates animal cells, making it a unique source of eco-friendly and affordable protein.
The process involves coating rice grains with gelatin and culturing them with animal cells in an incubator. The resulting rice has a pink colour and increased protein and carbohydrate content compared to standard rice. It has a similar taste to regular rice with a subtle hint of animal protein.
Although this hybrid rice is not yet available for consumers, ongoing research suggests that it holds promise for the future of food. This development could revolutionise the food industry by providing an alternative to conventional meat production and reducing environmental degradation.
Unique Ways Tech Changed The Food We Eat
The food industry is going through a remarkable transformation with the help of technology. Innovations such as 3D printed fish and lab-grown meat are leading the way. These high-tech ventures are not only changing the food we consume, but also the way we think about food production and consumption.
3D Printed Salmon
Revo Foods has introduced its plant-based salmon fillet, known as ‘THE FILET’, which is 3D-printed using mycoprotein derived from filamentous fungi. This vegan fish fillet has a meat-like texture and a range of essential nutrients. Revo Foods has developed a continuous production process that utilises proprietary extrusion technology for mass-producing 3D-printed food.
Revo Foods collaborates with Swedish startup Mycorena’s ‘Promyc’ protein base to use mycoprotein in creating a salmon-inspired fish fillet that mimics the taste and texture of traditional seafood. This advancement provides a sustainable alternative to conventional fish products and addresses concerns such as overfishing and plastic pollution in our oceans.
Through food-grade syringes and precise layering techniques, Revo Foods has achieved a level of control in 3D food printing that allows for the creation of unique products like plant-based fish fillets. This marks a step forward in the evolution of food production, catering to the growing demand for sustainable food options.
Lab Grown Meat
Lab grown meat, also known as cultured meat, is a new way of producing meat that is changing the way we think about meat production. Instead of raising animals for meat, scientists are growing meat in laboratories using stem cells from animals such as cows. These cells are placed in a nutrient-rich solution, where they multiply and grow into muscle tissue, creating a product that closely resembles traditional meat.
Although lab grown meat isn’t vegan, as it’s derived from animal cells, it offers a more sustainable and ethical alternative to conventional meat production.
Technological advancements make lab-grown meat more accessible and affordable. Compared to traditional meat production, lab grown meat requires significantly less land, energy, and water, and produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, researchers are exploring the possibility of producing other types of lab grown meat, such as chicken and duck, as well as dairy and leather products.
Although lab grown meat is not yet widely available, ongoing research and development suggest that it could become a staple in our diets in the near future, providing a more sustainable and ethical choice for meat lovers.
FoodTech Startups Changing How We Plate Our Food
FoodTech startups are ingeniously shaping the way we plate our meals by introducing creative approaches to food preparation and consumption. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and taste, these startups are paving the way for a future where food is not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.
Firmenich
Firmenich, a global leader in flavours, has achieved a significant milestone in the food industry by creating the world’s first AI-generated flavour. This breakthrough technology allows for the rapid development of natural beef taste for use in plant-based meat alternatives.
Leveraging AI, Firmenich accelerates flavour creation, meeting evolving consumer demands for innovative and sustainable food options. With plans to expand into other flavour categories, Firmenich is at the forefront of digital innovation in food creation.
Better Dairy
Better Dairy is revolutionising the dairy industry with science and technology. Using precision fermentation, they create cheese and other dairy products without hormones, lower cholesterol, and minimal environmental impact.
Based in Hackney, London, their team of scientists, technologists, and food enthusiasts is dedicated to crafting dairy products that are tastier, healthier, and more sustainable. Better Dairy’s vision extends beyond cheese to transform all dairy and ultimately redefine the future of food.
Foodberry
Foodberry is a food tech company leveraging nature-inspired technology to transform how we eat. They create nutrient-dense, sustainable foods with plastic-free packaging, bioavailable nutrition, and limitless applications.
By mimicking nature’s protective barriers found in fruit skins, Foodberry offers convenient, nutritious snacks like hummus, yogurt, and more. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, Foodberry is reshaping the future of food through science and technology.
Manna
Manna is rocketing suburban deliveries with lightning-fast drone delivery services. They offer instant delivery of coffee, food, medical supplies, and more, supporting local businesses. Using all-electric drones, Manna ensures faster, safer, greener, and quieter deliveries.
With a focus on privacy and sustainability, they aim to improve the world by making drone deliveries affordable and safe. Currently operating in Blanchardstown, Dublin, and Pecan Square, Texas, Manna plans to expand globally soon.
Grow Up Farms
Grow Up Farms is leading better food production in the UK with their pesticide-free, vertically grown produce. Using 100% renewable energy in their climate-controlled vertical farms in Kent, they ensure year-round availability of fresh greens.
Their modern farming methods lead to longer-lasting, fresher leaves, reducing food waste. Collaborating with industry leaders, Grow Up Farms is shaping a more sustainable future for the UK’s food system.