VALPRO Path Practice Abstract: Tracking nutrient flows across plant protein value chains

Turning protein crops into high-value food and feed ingredients involves a complex journey from farm to fork, with multiple factors influencing the availability and utilisation of key nutrients such as protein, starch and fibre. But how can these nutrient flows be tracked across the production system, while assessing the impact of different cultivation and processing approaches? To address this challenge, Pulse Nutri-Track, a systems modelling and scenario analysis tool for tracking nutrient flows across plant protein value chains, was developed in this practice abstract by VALPRO Path partner Teagasc.

The Problem 

Creating high value products from protein crops requires careful consideration of nutrients such as protein, starch and fibre throughout a supply chain. Different crop varieties, yield levels, processing methods and product formulation can all impact on the overall utilisation of these nutrients. 

Without a comprehensive approach to tracking these flows, it can be difficult for farmers, processors and other stakeholders to compare production models, identify areas for improvement, and assess the economic sustainability of their plant protein value chains

How the Systems Modelling Approach Helps 

VALPRO Path researchers are using the dynamic systems modelling tool Stella Architect to simulate the production of plant based products, and track the flow of nutrients through various aspects of the value chain.

Using the example of faba bean, the model follows the crop from cultivation through processes such as dehulling, milling and fractionation, tracking how the crop biomass is split into protein, starch and fibre. The model allows for the comparison of different faba bean varieties, yields and processing technologies. It also allows the simulation of new processing approaches, such as dry and wet fractionation, and the subsequent development of plant-based products such as beverages and energy bars.

Benefits

• Better Nutrient Tracking: The model enables a comprehensive look at the tracking of protein, starch and fibre through a production process.
• Scenario Analysis: Different agronomic and processing scenarios can be compared to support more informed decision making.
• Improved Resource Efficiency: By supporting an in-depth understanding of how nutrients such as protein flow through a system, the model provides an opportunity to identify areas to improve the use of protein crops, and their different components.
• Towards Sustainable Value Chains: Future developments will include environmental indicators such as carbon capture and greenhouse gas emissions, and the impact on the environmental sustainability of a stakeholder’s production model, as well as the economic benefits.

The approach will ultimately contribute to Pulse Nutri-Track, a dedicated systems simulation and decision support tool for stakeholders looking to valorise plant based value chains.

Discover how systems modelling can support the improved efficiency of plant protein value chains. Read the full Practice Abstract below.