Several projects are developing alternative protein sources from underused resources: ALEHOOP converts agricultural residues and macroalgae into protein-rich food and feed ingredients, while Rural BioReFarmeries is producing a grass-derived leaf protein concentrate able to replace soybean meal in pig nutrition, drawing on clover grass yields that can exceed soy's protein output per hectare. CleanAlgae2Value is scaling up microalgae-based protein isolates through five pilot lines, and MycoStruct uses mycelium fermentation to produce whole-cut protein foods from low-value food industry side streams, earning a STEP Seal from the Commission for its alignment with EU economic and climate goals.

The Commission's Protein Action Plan, published in July, recognises CBE JU and its Working Group on Primary Producers as drivers of innovation in unlocking new protein sources for the bloc's food and feed systems.

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