Bezos Center for Sustainable Protein planned for NC State

In North Carolina, the Bezos Center for Sustainable Protein has launched at North Carolina State University with a mandate to become a biomanufacturing hub for environmentally friendly and affordable dietary proteins.

The facility will receive $30 million from the Bezos Earth Fund over five years. The funding comes from $100 million committed by the organization to establish a network of open-access research and development centers for sustainable protein alternatives.

“Food production is the second largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, so it’s critical we find ways to feed a growing population without degrading the planet,” said Andrew Steer, President and CEO of the Earth Fund. “Sustainable protein has tremendous potential but more research is needed to reduce the price and boost the flavor and texture to ensure nutritious, affordable products are available. It’s about choice.”

The grant funding will support research on three types of sustainable proteins: plant-based products; precision fermentation to produce proteins and nutrients that can be used in food formulations; and cultivated meat grown from animal cells.