In a groundbreaking move, Finnish biotech company Enfier has announced the filing of a Novel Food authorization application with the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for its innovative mycoprotein ingredient, PEKILO®. This milestone marks a significant step in Enfier's mission to bring an eco-friendly and nutritious protein source to the European food and pet food markets.

Unlocking the Power of Fungi-Based Protein

Pioneering a Sustainable Protein Solution

Enfier's PEKILO mycoprotein is a nutrient-rich ingredient produced through a specialized fermentation process involving a unique strain of fungus. This process, similar to the methods used in brewing or soy sauce production, yields a neutral-tasting, neutral-colored mycoprotein powder that is rich in protein and fiber. This versatile ingredient has the potential to be incorporated into a wide range of food products, including alternative meats, baked goods, and pet food, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly protein alternative.

Reviving a Forgotten Innovation

The origins of PEKILO can be traced back to the 1970s in Finland, where it was initially developed to upcycle byproducts from the forest industry into animal feed ingredients. Over the years, PEKILO has proven to be an excellent source of protein for livestock, particularly pigs and poultry. In the late 1970s and throughout the 1980s, the potential for human consumption was also explored, but the journey was cut short in the 1990s due to technical advancements in the forest industry, which meant suitable side streams were no longer available.

Adapting to New Opportunities

Now, Enfier has revived and refined its pioneering technology, adapting it to utilize new raw material streams from the food and agricultural sectors. This strategic move has allowed the company to advance the development of PEKILO as a food ingredient for both human and animal consumption, positioning it as a game-changer in the sustainable protein landscape.

Securing Funding for Expansion

Earlier this year, Enfier secured funding for its first €33 million (.8 million USD) production facility, which is set to be completed by the end of 2025. This facility will have the capacity to upcycle food industry side streams and produce up to 3,000 tons of sustainable fungi-based protein annually at full capacity, further solidifying Enfier's commitment to bringing PEKILO to the market.

Navigating the Novel Food Approval Process

In Europe, any food that has not been consumed to a significant degree before May 1997 is considered a Novel Food, requiring evaluation and approval under the EU's Novel Food regulations. As a result, PEKILO is classified as a novel ingredient with a distinct production process, and Enfier has submitted its application for the thorough risk assessment process.

Pursuing Global Expansion

Alongside the European Novel Food application, Enfier has shared its plans to pursue GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status in the US and seek novel food approval in Singapore. This global approach demonstrates the company's commitment to making PEKILO available to a wider audience, catering to the growing demand for sustainable protein solutions.

Collaborating for Innovation

In preparation for the launch of PEKILO, Enfier is actively collaborating with global partners, including Skretting, the aquafeed division of Nutreco; Purina, for pet food products; and Valio, for consumer food products. These strategic partnerships aim to leverage the versatility and potential of PEKILO, unlocking innovative product development opportunities across various sectors.

Unlocking the Possibilities

As Enfier navigates the approval process, the company remains excited about the future of PEKILO. "With the application now submitted, we're excited to shift our focus on developing innovative products with our partners," said Elisa Arte, Ingredient Development Manager for Enfier. "PEKILO has already shown remarkable versatility, and the possibilities are limited only by imagination."