The Protein Brewery
EMEA
Breda
,
Netherlands
Startup
FOUNDED
2020
HEADCOUNT
21-100
FUNDING
Series B
Keywords:
filamentous_fungi, mycelium, mycoprotein, fermentation, food_protein, alternative_proteins, nutraceuticals
BUSINESS
The Protein Brewery produces Fermotein, a mycoprotein powder made from Rhizomucor pusillus (an extremophilic fungal strain tolerant of low pH and high temperatures) via submerged fermentation of glucose. EFSA published a positive scientific opinion on Fermotein in December 2025, the first fungal biomass to complete the EU novel food assessment, with European Commission authorization and member state approval expected in 2026.
BIOTECH INVOLVEMENT
Core; precision/biomass fermentation of fungal mycelium to produce nutrient-dense protein ingredients. The Protein Brewery uses a proprietary, patented Rhizomucor pusillus strain selected from thousands of candidates for nutritional profile, yield, environmental footprint, and neutral taste. The fermentation produces a whole-cell fungal biomass that is sieved, pasteurized, dewatered, dried, and milled. Fermotein contains approximately 50% complete protein (PDCAAS 1.0), 30% dietary fiber, with naturally occurring vitamins and minerals, and is carbohydrate-free.
TECHNOLOGY PLATFORM
fungal biomass fermentation; mycelium fermentation
PRIMARY PRODUCTS
Fermotein mycoprotein powder (complete protein with prebiotic fibers)