The National Alternative Protein Innovation Centre (NAPIC) officially launches in Leeds
The launch signals the start of an ambitious mission to transform the alternative protein landscape and contribute to a more sustainable future for our planet.
On Friday 29th November, the National Alternative Protein Innovation Centre (NAPIC) celebrated its highly anticipated formal launch at the University of Leeds.
With over 250 registered delegates spanning academia, industry, investors, funders, and policymakers, the event signalled the beginning of an ambitious mission to transform the alternative protein landscape and contribute to a more sustainable future for our planet.
A groundbreaking step forward for the sector
The launch event featured an inspiring keynote address by Professor Tim Benton of Chatham House, who captivated the audience with his insights into the critical role of alternative proteins in creating a sustainable food system.
He outlined the opportunities and challenges this emerging sector presents and underscored its relevance in combating climate change and ensuring global food security.
Adding to the momentum, Professor Anwesha Sarkar (University of Leeds, NAPIC Project Leader and Co-Director of the PERFORM Pillar) and Professor Karen Polizzi (Imperial College London, Co-Director of the PROCESS Pillar) provided an engaging overview of NAPIC’s vision, performance indicators and upcoming funding calls.
Luke Byrne, Innovation & Sustainability Director at THIS, said: "The launch of NAPIC is a groundbreaking step forward for the plant-based food sector.
“It provides a unique opportunity to unite industry leaders, share expertise, and drive collective innovation.
“As a partner, we see this initiative as a catalyst for advancing the entire industry – accelerating progress, shaping standards, and fostering the growth needed to meet the demands from our planet for sustainable, plant-based solutions.
“NAPIC is a pioneering example of the movement towards transforming the future of food.”
Professor Tim Benton gave a presentation at the launch event
Making alternative proteins mainstream
Professor Sarkar emphasized NAPIC's commitment to fostering a robust, sustainable platform of open innovation and responsible data exchange that mitigates risks while addressing the concerns of consumers and producers.
Meanwhile, Professor Polizzi reiterated NAPIC’s mission: “To make alternative proteins mainstream for a sustainable planet.”
She highlighted the centre’s goal of establishing the UK as a global leader in the alternative protein sector, driving progress toward health equity and the fight against climate change.
Rick Mumford, Deputy Chief Scientific Advisor & Deputy Director of Science & Research Science, Evidence and Research Division, Food Standards Agency (FSA), said: “As a food regulator, the alternative protein sector is of huge importance to the FSA.
As we look to support innovation (and the potential benefits that will bring) and also protect consumers, we need access to high quality science and evidence.
Through NAPIC, we have a unique and exciting opportunity to work with scientists and innovators to better understand some of the regulatory science challenges we face and work towards effective solutions.”
Professor Anwesha Sarkar spoke about NAPIC’s aims
Challenges and opportunities in alternative proteins
A panel discussion featuring representatives from key sectors, including the James Hutton Institute, University of Sheffield, Food Standards Agency, Good Food Institute, Plant Futures, and Innovate UK, further enriched the event.
The panel explored the challenges and opportunities for open innovation in the alternative protein sector, offering valuable insights that will shape the upcoming funding calls.
NAPIC, co-led by the University of Leeds, Imperial College London, University of Sheffield, and the James Hutton Institute, has announced its readiness to welcome applications addressing challenges across all four core pillars—PRODUCE, PROCESS, PERFORM, and PEOPLE.
These pillars encompass the entire value chain of alternative proteins, focusing on translating transformative technologies into effective, safe solutions that unlock the full potential of this sector.
Dr Cristina Martínez Villaluenga, Institute of Food Science and Technology and Nutrition, CSIC, said: “NAPIC offers a unique platform for global collaboration in alternative proteins, bringing together researchers, industry, and policymakers to build a sustainable protein ecosystem as a model worldwide.
“As an international partner, I value the shared expertise and vision driving impactful, scalable innovations.”
Partners from a range of institutions spoke on the panel
The centre’s establishment has been made possible through funding from BBSRC and Innovate UK, alongside vital support from stakeholders across the public and private sectors.
As NAPIC embarks on this exciting journey, it remains steadfast in its ambition to accelerate innovation and make alternative proteins an integral part of a sustainable and equitable global food system.
