Functional fermentation - from idea to market

The food industry is undergoing a revolutionary change, where sustainability and innovation are more important than ever. Functional fermentation has emerged as a key technology for developing the next generation of foods - from novel proteins grown with microorganisms to refined plant-based products with better flavour and nutritional content. But the step from a promising idea to a market-ready product is challenging without the right support.

Developing fermented foods with functional properties requires specialised expertise, resources and rigorous testing. Without access to the right laboratories, pilot plants or the expertise needed to address everything from microbiological safety to sensory quality and regulatory requirements, promising projects risk being more expensive, taking longer or not reaching the market at all. Moreover, in an uncertain world, where global supply chains are under pressure, the demand for robust, localised and circular food systems is increasing. New fermentation-based solutions could therefore be crucial to secure the food supply of the future.

Optimised traditional fermentation or modern precision fermentation also opens up new business opportunities in the food and chemical industries, for example:

Sustainable protein production
Improved plant-based products
Value creation from by-products
New functional ingredients
Modernisation of traditional foods

RISE provides independent expert support throughout the value chain

RISE offers the scientific weight and practical experience required to realise ideas in functional fermentation - from early concept phase to full-scale production. As a neutral player, our focus is on offering cutting-edge expertise throughout the development process.

Together we take a holistic approach to product development

RISE offers expert support in microbiology, biochemistry, process technology, nutrition, product design and sensory science to develop and optimise fermentation processes. Whether the goal is new proteins, better flavour in plant-based products or longer shelf life, we can contribute throughout the development chain. We also work on strain development, including screening and evolution, to find or improve microorganisms with the right properties for your application. From lab to pilot production, we ensure that processes comply with applicable regulations - for a smoother route to market.

Our services

RISE offers support throughout the value chain for fermented products. Examples of our services include:

Idea and concept development: identification of opportunities in raw material flows or side streams and selection of the right fermentation strategy for best results.
Strain development: identification, adaptation or improvement of microorganisms to optimise characteristics that are important for the current need.
Process development and scale-up: Extensive expertise and infrastructure for development, optimisation and scale-up - from lab to 10 m³ scale in a food-grade environment
Product development through fermentation and enzymatic processes: Development of novel foods or ingredients based on microbial fermentation and enzymatic transformation.
Microbiological profiling and safety analysis: Identification and optimisation of microorganisms, as well as comprehensive testing to ensure food safety and product quality.
Sensory, shelf-life testing and regulatory alignment: Sensory evaluations (flavour, aroma, texture), shelf-life testing, and guidance to ensure that the product complies with all relevant regulations.
Business development and strategic support: Advice on business model, market strategy and positioning for fermented products, to ensure the commercial success of your venture.
Regulatory and quality: Our regulatory experts help navigate through legal requirements and authorisations.

All services are integrated into a coherent offer where we adapt to your specific needs. Whether you are in the early stages of research or ready to scale up an established process, we can step in where needed and contribute to the next step.

Contact us for further discussion

Would you like to know more about how functional fermentation can strengthen your business? Contact us to discuss your needs and ideas. Our team of experts will help you go from idea to sustainable, market-ready product - with a focus on your business benefits.