XPRIZE and ASPIRE Address Global Food Security with Alternative Protein Breakthroughs; Hosts Final Phase of XPRIZE Feed the Next Billion Competition in Abu Dhabi

Worth a total prize pool of US $15 million, the competition was designed to incentivize teams worldwide to replicate or outperform conventional chicken and fish in five critical areas: access, environmental sustainability, animal welfare, nutrition, and taste and texture. The goal is to develop products that are not only delicious and nutritious but also environmentally sustainable and ethically produced.

The final round of competition will look at the structure, preparation, and cookability of the finalists’ samples, as well as sensory analysis, including taste, aroma, texture, appearance, and overall similarity to their animal-origin equivalents.

This month, Abu Dhabi hosts the rigorous taste testing and judging phase, where six finalist teams will present their groundbreaking innovations. The ultimate winner will be announced and celebrated in an official awarding ceremony on October 30^th in Abu Dhabi.

“The global challenge of food security requires urgent and innovative solutions,” said Stephane Timpano, CEO of ASPIRE. “ASPIRE’s support for the XPRIZE Feed the Next Billion competition is a testament to our commitment to leveraging advanced technology to ensure a sustainable and nutritious food supply for future generations.”

The XPRIZE Feed the Next Billion competition has seen significant milestones on its journey to revolutionize food sustainability since its launch in December 2020. Participants were required to adhere to stringent rules and safety standards throughout the competition. From more than 350 original entries, only six teams from Argentina, China, Canada, Austria, Estonia, and South Korea, were successful in navigating the rigorous evaluation process and competition standards that included assessments of nutritional profile, food safety, environmental footprint projections, and economic feasibility.

“XPRIZE Feed the Next Billion showcases the incredible potential of innovation to address one of the most pressing issues of our time—sustainable global food supply,” said Anousheh Ansari, Chief Executive Officer, XPRIZE. “As we approach the final phase of this transformative competition, we are inspired by the dedication and ingenuity of the participating teams. Their breakthroughs in alternative proteins will play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable and resilient global food system.”    

According to the World Bank Group, food inflation surpassed overall inflation in 53% of 166 countries, highlighting the need for nutritious, sustainable, and scalable alternative proteins. The Feed the Next Billion competition was modelled after XPRIZE conducted an analysis of global food system challenges in which it identified 12 breakthroughs that could establish a more food-secure and environmentally sustainable world by 2050. From these 12, the XPRIZE group prioritized the need for alternative proteins at-scale as a critical impact area that requires significant technological advances, decreased price points, and notable shifts in consumers’ preferences.

For more information about the XPRIZE Feed the Next Billion competition and ASPIRE’s role, please visit xprize.org/feed.

ENDS

Notes to Editor:

Six teams competing in the final phase of the competition are:

• CellX: Cell-based chicken team from China
• Eternal: Fermentation-derived chicken team from Argentina
• The PlantEat: Plant-based fish team from South Korea
• ProFillet: Plant-based fish team from Canada
• Revo Foods: Plant-based fish team from Austria
• TFTAK: Plant-based fish team from Estonia

About XPRIZE

XPRIZE is the recognized global leader in designing and executing large scale competitions to solve humanity’s greatest challenges. For 30 years, our unique model has democratized crowd-sourced innovation and scientifically scalable solutions that accelerate a more equitable and abundant future. Donate, learn more, and co-architect a world of abundance with us at XPRIZE.org .

About ASPIRE 

ASPIRE drives the creation of future transformative technologies as the business development and technology program management pillar of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC). ATRC is responsible for defining Abu Dhabi’s research and development strategy, consolidating funds for efficient investment, and driving policy and regulation. ASPIRE works in consultation with cross-sector industry stakeholders, universities, and research institutes to frame problem statements. It also launches grand challenges and international competitions to solve some of the world’s most pressing issues. ASPIRE brings together exceptional people, ideas, resources, and technologies to solve complex challenges.