Danish company Unibio is teaming up with Saudi Industrial Development Group (SIIG) to build a massive plant in Saudi Arabia. This facility will be the largest in the world focused on single-cell protein production, utilizing natural gas as a key ingredient.
Initially, the plant will produce 50,000 tons of protein each year, with plans to ramp up to over 300,000 tons. This move aims to make Saudi Arabia less reliant on imported animal feed, addressing some pressing food security concerns in the country.
The product, called Uniprotein, is already approved for aquaculture in Saudi Arabia and has additional certifications in the EU and beyond. Construction is set to begin in late 2026, with the facility expected to be operational by 2028. Unibio secured a gas allocation from the Saudi Ministry of Energy, having formed a partnership with SIIG in 2023 after a $70 million investment.
Unibio CEO David Henstrom emphasizes the significance of this venture, stating, “Using Unibio’s technology, we aim to make Saudi Arabia the leader in single-cell protein production.” This aligns with the Kingdom’s push for improved food security.
What makes Unibio stand out is its approach to food production. By employing gas fermentation, the company can create protein without relying on traditional agricultural land. This innovative method utilizes gas instead of sugars, meaning it can operate in areas where crops generally won’t thrive, such as deserts. Henstrom points out that Saudi Arabia relies heavily on imported animal feed, making local production crucial.
Gas fermentation isn’t just more convenient; it’s also cheaper and more sustainable. According to Henstrom, producing protein this way costs about a third of using glucose or dextrose, with fewer risks of contamination. This efficiency allows for longer fermentation cycles, maximizing output.
The global demand for protein is steadily increasing. Recent surveys reveal that around 80% of consumers are interested in alternative protein sources. Key markets for Uniprotein will include aquafeeds for shrimp and carnivorous fish, particularly in the Middle East and Asia, where demand is high.
Yet, the company faces challenges. Building new facilities requires significant investment, which can be a barrier for many in this sector. Henstrom notes, however, that interest from sovereign wealth funds and family offices is growing, as they recognize the potential of this technology.
Unibio’s pioneering bioreactor uses a non-GMO bacterium that thrives on methane, turning it into protein. This method not only makes production more efficient but also demonstrates the growing trend toward sustainable food practices.
As food security continues to gain urgency, companies like Unibio show promise in addressing these global challenges. Their innovative techniques could redefine how we think about food production and security.
For further insights, you can check sources like AgFunderNews and Unibio’s official site for the latest updates.
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