- The project receives DKK 162.2 million funding for 2025-2027, split between Gates Foundation and Novo Nordisk Foundation.
- Topsoe collaborates with Aarhus University to optimize and scale CO2-to-food technologies.
- Phase 1 developed microbial strains on acetate and completed pilot facilities at Aarhus University.
- Topsoe's SOEC and eMethanol technologies are key components in the project.
Project Overview
A consortium, including Topsoe, Novo Nordisk Foundation, and the Gates Foundation, is advancing a project to convert CO2 into nutritious food. The initiative has entered its second development phase, focusing on optimizing and scaling the technologies involved.
Funding and Timeline
The project has secured DKK 162.2 million (€21.1 million) in funding for 2025-2027, equally provided by the Gates Foundation and the Novo Nordisk Foundation. This financial support will facilitate the continued development and testing of food production technologies.
Technological Development
In the first phase, Topsoe explored process routes from CO2 to acetate using its Solid Oxide Electrolyzer Cell (SOEC) and eMethanol technologies. The second phase will involve life cycle assessments and collaboration with Aarhus University to validate and refine these processes.
Consortium Partners
The consortium includes various universities and companies such as Copenhagen Process ApS, Aarhus University, University of Copenhagen, Northwestern University, Novonesis A/S, Orkla A/S, Spora ApS, and the Novo Nordisk Foundation CO2 Research Center.
Phase 1 Achievements
Key achievements from the first phase include the development of microbial strains that grow on 100% acetate and contain over 40% protein, as well as the completion of pilot facilities at Aarhus University for acetate feedstock. The project also identified electricity and infrastructure as key cost drivers.
