LuzPro4Human

LuzPro4Human is developing a process for extracting protein from alfalfa and is addressing all key process steps involved. First, alfalfa juice is extracted using various high-yield pressing methods and stabilized through pH adjustment and the addition of antioxidants to minimize enzymatic degradation and oxidation and to preserve the proteins in as native a state as possible. Subsequently, separation and purification methods are tested to isolate a pure protein fraction and remove accompanying substances such as fibers, polyphenols, and antinutritional components. At the same time, process parameters are adjusted for targeted functionalization to optimize technological properties such as emulsifying, gelling, and water-binding capabilities for food applications. Finally, a drying process is developed to ensure shelf stability, and scalability up to the pilot scale is tested. An environmental and economic assessment compares the potential with that of soy and pea protein and highlights opportunities for sustainable protein diversification.