TFTAK-coordinated CBE JU IA project MycoStruct kicks off to advance mycelium-based proteins

On 12 May, the MycoStruct project officially kicked off in Nottingham, marking the start of a three-year collaboration between 13 partners focusing on developing and scaling mycelium-based complete protein structures for whole-cut applications. TFTAK is the the project coordinator and an R&D partner.

Advancing sustainable food innovation

MycoStruct, short for MYcelium-based Complete Protein STRUCTures for Whole-Cut Scale-Up, aims to advance Adamo Foods mycelium-based structured protein technology towards scalable and industrially relevant commercialization.

The project focuses on developing complete protein structures that can support the next generation of sustainable whole-cut food products. By working with filamentous fungi and mycelium-based fermentation, MycoStruct contributes to the wider transition towards more resource-efficient and sustainable food systems.

A competitive European collaboration

MycoStruct is supported by the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU) under the Horizon Europe programme. The project was selected in a highly competitive CBE JU Innovation Action call, highlighting the strong scientific quality, industrial relevance, and collaborative strength of the proposal.

The 36-month project brings together a strong European consortium of 13 research organisations, universities, pilot plants, and industrial partners working jointly to advance mycelium-based structured protein technologies towards scalable and industrially relevant applications.

The MycoStruct consortium includes Adamo Foods, Bühler Group / Bühler Group Industrial Biosolutions, Bidfood UK, Delft University of Technology, TFTAK, NIRAS, HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, TBWR,  Celabor, HOLOSS, FENIX TNT, and Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant.

Kick-off meeting in Nottingham, UK

Project partners gathered on 11–12 May 2026 in Nottingham, United Kingdom, for the official MycoStruct kick-off meeting hosted by Adamo Foods.

Over two days, the consortium aligned on project objectives, discussed upcoming activities, and shaped the roadmap for the next three years of collaboration. One of the highlights of the meeting was the opportunity to taste Adamo Foods’ innovative whole-cut mycelium steak alternative, offering a first-hand look at the sustainable protein solutions that the MycoStruct project aims to advance.

TFTAK as project coordinator

In addition to its R&D role, TFTAK will be the project coordinator, taking responsibility for overall project management and administrative coordination.

As coordinator, TFTAK feels a strong responsibility to support the successful implementation of MycoStruct and to ensure effective collaboration across the European consortium. The role requires close coordination between research organisations, universities, pilot plants, and industrial partners, all working towards a shared goal: scaling mycelium-based structured protein technologies for future food applications.

MycoStruct is a unique opportunity to combine TFTAK’s scientific expertise in fungal biotechnology with a strong European partnership focused on sustainable protein innovation. Taking on the role of project coordinator is both a recognition of our capabilities and a responsibility we take very seriously. We are excited to help guide this collaboration towards impactful, scalable solutions for the future of food, said Project Coordinator Dr Shomaila Sikandar.

Scientifically, MycoStruct strongly aligns with TFTAK’s activities in filamentous fungi, fermentation technologies, and sustainable food innovation. The project further strengthens TFTAK’s position in fungal biotechnology and supports the development of new competences in mycelium-based protein structures and industrial scale-up.

Co-funded by the European Union under Grant Agreement No. 101292039 . Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CBE JU. Neither the European Union nor the CBE JU can be held responsible for them.

Read more: mycostruct.eu