Taking the last steps to realize Swedish peas as a local protein source (SwedPea)

Research Project, 2024 – 2027

Almost all the peas farmed in Sweden currently goes to feed while peas are among the most sustainable local protein sources adapted to the Swedish climate. Urgent actions are therefore needed to shift the Swedish pea value chain from animal feed to food. The goal of the SwedPea project is to build upon the knowledge generated in a series of collaborations between Chalmers and Lantmännen to fill in the remaining crucial gaps and realize Swedish peas as a local protein source. Using an interdisciplinary team and 3 work packages, we will (i) engineer the Swedish pea value chain to mitigate off-flavors and antinutrients in pea proteins, (ii) demonstrate and optimize our developed pea stabilization and biorefinery technologies on a pilot scale, and finally (iii) validate Swedish pea proteins as an alternative protein source by exploring their application potential across various market segments, assessing their sensory and consumer acceptance, and evaluating their competitiveness compared to other commercially available ingredients. SwedPea outcomes will be adapted by Lantmännen for the industrial production of pea proteins in their upcoming pea biorefinery factory. SwedPea will also promote the adaption of locally produced pea protein ingredients by both the food industry and Swedish consumers, driving the shift towards plant-based foods and making a real-world impact.