Assessing the feasibility of implementing CO2 capture and utilisation in Quorn mycoprotein process

This collaborative research project between Quorn, TUBIS, and NZIIC aims to support the decarbonisation of the UK industry by evaluating carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) technologies. Quorn, a leader in meat-free protein manufacturing, seeks to achieve net-zero emissions from its operations by 2030. CQUESTR8 is an SME in CO2 utilisation seeking to demonstrate its enhanced weathering technology for aggregate production. The project will assess options to capture CO2 from Quorn's fermentation process and utilise it in downstream processing stages.

The project will examine the potential to retrofit selected CCU processes to Quorn's infrastructure. This will identify the most feasible and cost-effective solutions. Process and techno-economic models will be used to estimate the potential emission reductions, costs, and business benefits of CCU adoption. Workshops will be conducted to understand the social perception of CCU adoption.

The results will directly inform our partners' investments and designs for commercial CCU systems. The project can accelerate CCU deployment across industrial clusters beyond Teesside by supporting the affordable decarbonisation of a significant regional manufacturer. Widespread CCU adoption would contribute significantly to UK climate targets while supporting economic growth.