Lantmännen joins PAN Sweden research center, which secured new Formas funding for plant-based protein research until 2028, shortly after starting construction of a SEK 1.2 billion plant in Lidköping.
PAN Sweden is a national interdisciplinary research center, led by Örebro University, focused on transforming plant-based protein sources into flavorful, nutritious products that promote gut, metabolic, and mental health. It also examines consumer behavior as part of its research. The center’s goal is to position Sweden as a global leader in sustainable food innovation with plant-based proteins.
“It is important to have a high level of commitment among companies and the public sector in order to be able to effectively transition to more sustainable and healthy consumption,” said Robert Brummer, professor and coordinator of the PAN Sweden consortium.
“Lantmännen contributes with unique knowledge and experience regarding plant-based protein sources and dietary fibre. That particular combination is our focus because we believe it is the key to achieving health and taste benefits. With the support of an additional SEK 40 million from Formas, we can continue our successful collaboration on research and innovation where health and sustainability are taken equally seriously.”
The Sept. 26 announcement of a new grant from Formas means that PAN Sweden will continue the work for another four years, according to a press release.
“We look forward to continuing and deepening the collaboration with academia, interest groups and the business community on this important issue,” said Lars-Gunnar Edh, Executive Vice President, Lantmännen Energy Sector. “We have great ambitions in plant-based proteins, which we show in our own research and development, our facilities in Lidköping, Norrköping and Kimstad and collaborations – where PAN Sweden is an example. This is a clear way for us to develop foods that ultimately contribute to a sustainable, healthier diet and increased well-being.”
Alongside PAN Sweden, Lantmännen is a key partner in several major green protein research initiatives, including SLU Grogrund in Sweden and GreenPlantFood in Norway. The Lantmännen Research Foundation is also running multiple projects focused on proteins from wheat, oats, peas, and faba beans.
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