Turkish Researchers Secure Horizon Europe Funding for Plant-Based Protein Innovation
In a significant stride towards sustainable food production, a team of Turkish researchers led by Professor Mecit Halil Öztop from Middle East Technical University (METU) has secured Horizon Europe funding. The project, named APRISE, aims to develop new types of plant-based alternative proteins from staple Turkish crops. This initiative is part of METU's first consortium leadership within the Horizon Europe Program and is one of only 13 projects selected from 117 proposals under the WIDERA ERA Talents call.
Over four years, the project will develop new protein sources from Turkish crops like chickpeas, lentils, and other legumes. These proteins will be used in products such as dairy alternatives and ready-to-eat foods.
APRISE has a budget of nearly €3 million, with approximately €654,000 allocated to METU. It will involve 18 partners from 11 European countries, aiming to reduce global dependence on animal-based foods and address the shortage of alternative protein researchers in Turkey.
This news follows Turkey's recent introduction of labeling regulations for vegan products, allowing terms like "vegan burger" but prohibiting dairy alternatives from being labeled as "milk."
The regulations also permit the production and import of vegan cheese under certain conditions, lifting a 2022 ban.
Professor Öztop expressed excitement about leading this transformative effort and looks forward to sharing updates.
The APRISE project represents a transformative effort in the field of sustainable food production. With a budget of nearly €3 million and the collaboration of 18 partners from 11 European countries, the project aims to reduce global dependence on animal-based foods and address the shortage of alternative protein researchers in Turkey. As Turkey introduces new labeling regulations for vegan products, the APRISE project is poised to make a significant impact on the future of food. Professor Öztop's leadership and the project's innovative approach promise to pave the way for new protein sources and sustainable food solutions.