Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGBBiofabrication opens up new possibilities as a resource-efficient production system for sustainable food. We are currently conducting research on animal cell culture systems for a “cell-based agriculture.” A key focus is on providing alternative protein sources such as cultured meat and fish. The work is being carried out in close collaboration with the biofabrication team at the Institute of Interfacial Process Engineering and Plasma Technology (IGVP) at the University of Stuttgart, headed by Prof. Dr. Petra Kluger.
Cell Culture-Based Foods: Cultured Meat and Cultured Fish
Meat and fish substitutes from the lab
The production of cultured meat is based on the controlled cultivation of animal cells in biotechnological processes. The goal is to build up muscle and fat tissue in a structured manner and combine them functionally to specifically tailor quality, nutritional value, and sensory properties.
At Fraunhofer IGB, we consider the entire production process along the value chain, from cell isolation and media and material development to process development, scale-up, and prototype production. In this way, we support the transition of cell-based foods into industrial applications.
Our services: development from cell isolation to prototyping
Establishment of cell sources and production strains
We support the development of suitable cell sources for food technology applications. In doing so, we work with both primary cells and established and newly developed cell lines.
Our services at a glance
- Isolation and establishment of animal muscle and fat progenitor cells
- Work with cells from cattle, pigs, chickens, and salmon
- Primary cell culture and cell line development
- Genetic modification and functional optimization of cells
- Establishment and maintenance of cell banks
- Comprehensive cell biological and functional characterization of various species
Process development and scale-up
A central focus of our work is the development of robust and scalable processes for cell cultivation. We translate laboratory processes to application-relevant scales and develop strategies for subsequent industrial implementation.
Our services at a glance
- Development of scalable cultivation and manufacturing processes
- Establishment of microcarrier-based cell cultures
- Adaptation of adherent cells to suspension cultures
- Development of spheroid and aggregate cultures
- Scale-up of processes to the 10-liter scale
- Process characterization and optimization
3D bioprinting of cultivated meat
Material development
Suitable materials are a key prerequisite for biofabrication methods. We develop and evaluate edible and functional biomaterials for food technology applications.
Our services at a glance
- Selection and development of edible materials and carrier systems
- Functionalization of biomaterials to support cell adhesion and differentiation
- Testing of biocompatibility and cell compatibility
- Mechanical and rheological characterization
- Adaptation of material properties to process and product requirements
Media development
We develop defined, animal-free, and sustainable cell culture media as the foundation for reproducible and cost-effective biofabrication processes.
Our services at a glance
- Development of serum-free and animal-free culture media
- Cost optimization of media formulations
- Use of sustainable raw materials and by-products
- Adaptation of media to proliferation and differentiation processes
Prototype development and product characterization
We support projects through to the production of application-oriented demonstrators and prototypes, combining biofabrication strategies with modern analytics and food technology evaluation.
Our services at a glance
- Development of integrated biofabrication strategies
- 2D and 3D bioprinting
- Processing of cell masses using various methods
- Final product testing and quality assessment
- Food technology studies (e.g., shelf life, frying behavior)
- Analysis of nutrient profiles and sensory properties