Investors controlling $11.5 trillion are urging major food companies and retailers to diversify their protein sources to enhance supply chain resilience and address food insecurity. This call to action is part of a broader effort by the Farm Animal Investment Risk and Return initiative, which emphasizes the potential of alternative proteins such as mycelium and fermentation-derived options.

Kensing has received novel food approval from the European Food Safety Authority for its Sunvasterol plant sterols, derived from sunflower seed byproducts. This ingredient, an alternative to soy-based sterols, is clinically proven to reduce cholesterol and is allergen-free. The EFSA approval grants Kensing commercial exclusivity in Europe, prompting the company to increase production to meet expected demand.

A Wisconsin bill proposes funding for firefighting foam made from soybeans, a safer alternative to PFAS-containing foam. Testing has shown the soybean foam to be as effective as PFAS foam.

Applied Food Sciences and OleoLive have collaborated to develop Oligen, an olive extract ingredient that is highly concentrated and bioavailable. Oligen is standardized to contain the polyphenolic compounds oleocanthal and oleacein and is marketed to support joint health, heart health and longevity. The ingredient can be used in powder blends, protein mixes and functional foods.

Researchers at Kansas State University are examining the role of soybean meal in swine diets to enhance feed efficiency and economic returns. Assistant Research Professor Katelyn Gaffield is focused on the quality and consistency of soybean meal, while doctoral student Ron Navales is studying the lysine-to-protein ratio. Navales' research, supported by the United Soybean Board, shows that while pigs maintain weight gain with lower dietary protein, they consume more feed to meet nitrogen needs.

Cold-pressed oils are rich in essential fatty acids, tocopherols and carotenoids, contributing to oxidative stability and health benefits, according to a study in Scientific Reports that assessed nine oils. Their eco-friendly extraction process preserves bioactive compounds, making them favorable over refined oils, according to the researchers.

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a sustainable sanitizer for produce by upcycling waste broth from probiotic production. The method, which combines the broth with mild heat, significantly reduces salmonella and other microbial levels on fresh radish sprouts.

High-oleic soybeans are increasingly being adopted in dairy diets. They improve milk composition and reduce feed costs, while lowering the risk of milk fat depression, sometimes boosting milk fat yield and percentage. And the altered chemistry that comes with roasting the soybeans provides other benefits. Read this article to understand how high-oleic is helping farmers. Join AOCS to unlock this article and more in the November-December issue of INFORM magazine.

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