In Brief

The Challenge

The challenge is to develop sustainable alternative protein sources that advance the circularity and climate resilience of the Irish bioeconomy. Climate change and a rapidly growing global population have resulted in increased food demand despite a finite amount of agricultural land. Food insecurity is a major issue for many countries all over the world, and while there are drives towards sustainable food production (including increased production, reduced waste, and shifting human diets), evolving areas of science must develop a long-term approach to addressing the issue of food insecurity along with healthy, sustainable diets.

The Solution

The solution is the development of novel alternative proteins from diverse plant pathogenic fungi growing on crop waste, built upon short food chains and regional bioeconomy development. 

The Team

  • Team Lead: Prof. Fiona Doohan, University College Dublin 
  • Team Co-Lead: Prof. Lorraine Brennan, University College Dublin 

Societal Impact Champion

  • Eithne Nic Lochlainn, Lárionad Acmhainní Nádúrtha Teo