The foundation was looking for knowledge that can contribute to future foods and uses cereals or legumes as a base. Taste is an important factor if green proteins are to succeed in the market. In a new project, researchers at Chalmers University of Technology hope to improve the taste of pea protein. Over the years, the foundation has funded research on gut health and the link to fibre intake.

Over the years, the foundation has funded research on gut health and the link to fibre intake.

This year, two researchers from Örebro University received grants in this field: one project will study the effect of cereal fibres locally in the gut, and another focuses on wheat bran and the gut’s barrier function. At the University of Eastern Finland, the effect of sourdough fermentation and grain sprouts will be studied in a model gut. Researchers at Nofima, Norway, will develop a new method for analysing a potential biomarker for beta-glucan, the cholesterol lowering dietary fibre in oats and barley. A biomarker allows an objective measure of food intake, which is crucial for establishing reliable links between diet and health. Lantmännen´s mills and biorefineries generate side streams, primarily from wheat and oats, some of which have the potential for developing fossil-free materials.

Lantmännen´s mills and biorefineries generate side streams, some of which have the potential for developing fossil-free materials.

Three new projects at KTH Royal Institute of Technology received funding in this area: one aims to further develop starch- based glue for industrial use; another uses starch as an ingredient in the production of recyclable plastic; the third aims to develop new materials using plant-based proteins and fibres with functional properties, such as moisture absorption in packaging. Reducing methane emissions is a decisive issue for future agriculture. A new project at the Swedish University of Agricultural
Sciences will produce data on how methane emissions from cropland are affected by fertilising strategies, measures that could reduce the climate impact of farming. On the feed side, the foundation has awarded funding to a horse project for the first time, in which Norwegian and Swedish researchers will study how the feed state can be adapted to more local and sustainable ingredients. Another interesting project will investigate the potential of using recycled ash phosphorus in animal feed, including a risk evaluation of whether the phosphorus is safe to use. We are eagerly anticipating the results, and look forward to new knowledge that contributes to the development of future foods, materials and agriculture.

Text: Helena Fredriksson, Head of Research, Lantmännen Research Foundation