A Day in the Life of the Microbe That Wants to Replace Your Steak
This biotech startup is developing a sustainable protein made from fermented bacteria.
Scientist Joel Thogersen tests a vial of bacteria at MicroHarvest's laboratory in Hamburg, Germany on March 23, 2023.
Photographer: Ériver Hijano for Bloomberg Green
You may already have a favorite brand of plant-based burger. And you’ve read about the scientists trying to grow real meat in a lab. But if Katelijine Bekers has her way, you’ll replace the beef in your stew with a sprinkle of fermented microbes instead.
A scientist by training, Bekers was enjoying another fermented product — beer — with some friends when she was struck by an idea. Why not use that ancient technique to address a modern challenge: producing enough protein for a global population that’s set to reach 9.8 billion by mid-century — and doing it in a fast, affordable and sustainable way.