In a bid to improve global food security, BP Ventures has invested $30 million in alternative protein producer, Calysta, to bankroll a global rollout of its FeedKind protein.

The investment will help expand production of Calytsa’s sustainable single-cell protein, which is produced through a gas fermentation process using naturally occurring microbes with the unique ability to use methane as their energy source.

This patented fermentation process uses no arable land and very little water, and does not compete with the human food chain, meaning more food can be produced with less resources.

In aquaculture, Calysta’s initial market opportunity, FeedKind is seen as a key enabler for growth by reducing reliance on conventional sources of proteins.

Through extensive customer trials around the world, FeedKind protein has been demonstrated to be an effective, safe and nutritious feed ingredient.

FeedKind is already being produced from the company’s Market Introduction Facility (MIF) in Teesside, England to support market development activities with leading animal nutrition companies around the world.

“Welcoming BP as a partner is a tremendous step forward for FeedKind protein and the best indicator yet that Calysta’s solution to food insecurity in a resource-constrained world can and will achieve global scale,” said Alan Shaw, President and CEO of Calysta.

“The problems facing our food production supply chains have never been more clear, with increasing evidence that land and water scarcity are key challenges to meeting future demand for protein.

“ FeedKind makes more from less, producing feed for livestock, fish and pets while making smarter use of our resources.”

The investment agreement will also see BP and Calysta establish a strategic partnership around gas and power supply.

“We are really excited to be working with the team at Calysta, bringing them into the BP Ventures family as we seek new commercial opportunities for our gas business,” said Meghan Sharp, Managing Director at BP Ventures.

“Their technology complements our core business while providing opportunities for sustainable products for tomorrow.”