Calysta is to develop the production process for its FeedKind™ protein at the Centre for Process Innovation on Teeside, UK.

FeedKind™ protein is a natural, safe, non-GMO sustainable fish feed ingredient,that is approved for sale in the European Union. Through its use, Calysta hopes to reduce the aquaculture industry’s use of fishmeal.

Calysta (UK) Ltd is to receive a £2.8 million Exceptional Regional Growth Fund (eGRF) grant, subject to due diligence by the UK Government. This will contribute to a £30 million first phase investment over ten years by Calysta, to develop a market introduction facility that will undertake R&D critical to the commercialization of FeedKind and develop the technology for other applications.

The project is expected to safeguard and create up to 39 positions in science, engineering and operations, along with indirect jobs benefits in construction and the supply chain.

Calysta plan to locate a novel loop reactor adjacent to CPI’s existing National Industrial Biotechnology Facility 2 (NIBF2) facility. The loop reactor will incorporate Calysta’s proprietary gas fermentation technology and CPI staff at the Centre of Excellence will gain experience in operating the facility under Calysta’s supervision.

“The eRGF grant is a major vote of confidence from the UK Government. After looking at potential sites around Europe, we look forward to building Calysta’s first plant in Teesside,” said Alan Shaw, PhD, Calysta president and CEO.

“Our plant will help support the UK’s goal to become a world leader in the emerging industrial biotechnology sector by generating game changing technology in gas fermentation and synergistic applications.”

FeedKind™ is manufactured using a natural process similar to the production of yeast-extract sandwich spreads. Studies have confirmed the nutritional value of the feed, based on criteria such as growth performance and animal health.

Calysta is marketing FeedKind™ Aqua to the global salmon farming industry, providing aquafeed manufacturers and farmers with the opportunity to further improve their sustainability profile.

In the UK alone, the salmon farming industry is expected to grow by 50% by 2020. By replacing fishmeal with a nutritious naturally occurring protein, the industry can reduce its impact on the environment and on wild fisheries, while offering consumers a more sustainable product.