KelpEat introduces Solein-powered protein snacks to European market

KelpEat, an Italian food company focused on sustainable nutrition, has launched a high-protein snack featuring Solein, a microbial protein produced by Solar Foods. The product, which combines EU-farmed seaweed with Solein, will be presented at the Pitti Taste food fair in Florence from 8-10 February 2025.

By incorporating Solein into its crackers, KelpEat aims to push the boundaries of sustainable food production. Solein and ocean-based dried kelp complement each other in both taste and nutritional value. The crackers contain over 35% protein, including a complete amino acid profile, as well as vitamins B12 and B9, minerals such as calcium and magnesium, and antioxidants.

According to Luca Cerruti, CEO of KelpEat, Solein represents a significant step toward food sovereignty and environmental responsibility. “Using Solein enables us to create a product that delivers complete nutrition while making a bold sustainability statement. Its production is independent of land use, weather, or climate conditions, making it an ideal choice for climate-positive foods,” Cerruti stated. “At Pitti Taste, we are proud to introduce a product that represents the next frontier in sustainable eating.”

KelpEat plans to expand distribution beyond Europe, with a particular focus on entering the US market, where demand for high-protein products continues to grow. The company’s goal is to develop nutritious and sustainable food solutions that benefit both people and the environment.

Pitti Taste is an international event highlighting Italy’s culinary craftsmanship and food innovation. It attracts industry professionals, buyers, and food companies from around the world, providing a platform for showcasing new products and trends.

Solar Foods, a Finnish food technology company, is working to decouple protein production from traditional agriculture. Solein has received novel food approval in Singapore and self-affirmed GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status in the United States. The company anticipates securing EU Novel Food approval by 2026.

Solar Foods is currently shifting from research and development to commercializing Solein as a sustainable protein source. Its strategy, updated in December 2024, prioritizes entry into the Health & Performance nutrition market. This segment includes consumers looking for high-protein, nutrient-dense foods with minimal fat and sugar, a positioning that supports broader adoption in the food industry.

Juan Manuel Benitez-Garcia, Chief Commercial Officer of Solar Foods, highlighted the role of Solein in high-protein applications. “The product introduced by KelpEat is a perfect example of how Solein performs in real-world applications. It enhances protein content and nutrition while minimizing environmental impact, without altering the familiar tastes consumers expect,” he said.

Solein is cultivated through a fermentation process that uses air and electricity as its primary resources. This production method is independent of weather, land use, and large-scale water consumption, making it one of the most sustainable protein sources available. In addition to its environmental profile, Solein offers a nutritional composition of 75% protein, including all nine essential amino acids, dietary fiber, fats, and essential minerals such as iron and B vitamins.

Benitez-Garcia emphasized the versatility of Solein in food formulation. “Solein can meet major ‘free from’ claims while delivering superior nutrition and taste. It is particularly suited for health and performance products, as well as nutrient-dense options for consumers managing conditions such as diabetes or weight management.”