Bacterial single-cell protein (SCP) as sustainable feed and food ingredient, made from methane/biogas
We have developed a gas fermentation process, to convert CH4 into bacterial single-cell protein (SCP). The biomass contains 70% protein. In feed, it can replace fishmeal (EU approval already in place). In food, a protein concentrate from SCP can replace meat, e.g. in hybrid products. The advantage of our SCP is its low environmental footprint (almost no land and water needed, CH4 can be obtained from a wide range of (waste biomass) resources. Also, the SCP is highly resilient and microplastics free. We have scaled up our technology from 1L to 19L and 150L fermentation size, and are currently transitioning to a 5000L loop fermenter. In the product pipeline, we have PHB and PHBV, which are biodegradable plastics.
About Circe Biotechnologie GmbH
Circe Biotechnologie GmbH is an Austrian biotechnology company specializing in gas fermentation technology to produce single-cell protein. By moving away from traditional, sugar-based platforms to a C1 fermentation process, the company enables the conversion of waste biomass streams into sustainable protein products. Their interdisciplinary team manages a portfolio of bioreactors, including research-scale setups in Seestadt, Austria, and a 5,000L loop fermenter in Teesside, UK, used for scale-up activities and customer sample production. This approach focuses on circular bioeconomy principles and aims to provide scalable, climate-resilient solutions without relying on primary agricultural crops.
The company's technology is designed to address the environmental challenges of food production by decoupling protein manufacturing from land and traditional farming resources. Through ongoing international R&D projects and academic partnerships with institutions like the Technische Universität Wien, Circe works to refine its strains and bioprocess efficiency. By engaging in early-stage planning for industrial-scale facilities, the firm supports partners and customers in accessing sustainable, high-yield protein alternatives, thereby promoting scientific knowledge sharing and industrial sustainability in the protein sector.
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