MicroHarvest builds Europe’s first microbial protein plant in Leuna

German biotech scale‑up MicroHarvest is constructing a large‑scale microbial protein production facility in Leuna, Saxony‑Anhalt. The plant, slated to begin production in the first half of 2028, will have an annual capacity of 15,000 tonnes of protein and represent a mid‑double‑digit‑million‑euro investment, creating about 25 new jobs.

The facility will use regional agri‑food side streams, such as molasses, to ferment biomass into dried protein powder containing over 60 % raw protein. MicroHarvest highlights that the process involves no genetic engineering, takes roughly 24 hours from raw material to finished product, and is independent of weather or season. The project aims to reduce the EU’s reliance on imported soy and other protein sources, enhancing supply resilience. Drees & Sommer completed the technical and economic feasibility study and will lead project management and general planning throughout the design phase. Co‑founder and COO Jonathan Roberz emphasized the strategic importance of domestic protein production for both animal feed and human nutrition.