Grassa; 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐫 of 𝐔𝐩𝐜𝐲𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 H𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 S𝐢𝐝𝐞 S𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬 Challenge

23 May 2023

During Foodvalley NL’s Innovation Insights meeting, the challenge on upcycling of horticulture side streams into valuable proteins, enzymes, and/or supplements came to an exciting end. This challenge was organised by Stichting Innovatie Glastuinbouw Nederland (Foundation for Innovation in Greenhouse Horticulture Netherlands) and Foodvalley NL. Winning company Grassa BV was awarded the prize for their market ready refinery technology, clear view on logistic processes, and experience in upcycling supply chains.

During the pitch event the jury hosted by Peter Duijvestijn, three finalists were selected by the jury: AgroSingularity, Circular Fiber SRL, Grassa (Unlocking The Full Potential Of Grass). The winning company Grassa BV, convinced the jury of their market-ready refinery solution and their capabilities to forge necessary partnership. Their business proposition addressed specific aspects of the new upcycling chain. They presented clear scenarios how to organize the pilot for horticulture side streams resulting in ingredients for different markets in the agrifood value chain.

The nominated companies presented their solutions to the audience of the Innovation Insights meeting held on 23 May. During the afternoon Upcycling Community meeting of Foodvalley NL, on ‘bridging circular food innovators’, Grassa presented its solution and connected with several Upcycling Community partners working on upcycling of side streams.

The expert jury awarded Grassa BV €50.000,- stimulation budget to realise a pilot for the production of at least 500 KG of plant proteins from tomato side streams (leaves and stems).