Science
The science of alternative protein
Cultivated meat, plant-based foods, and fermentation offer exciting research opportunities with huge societal benefits.
As an international NGO, the Good Food Institute works with scientists to develop, fund, and promote open-access research on alternative proteins. Israel’s thriving academic ecosystem has over 70 active alternative protein researchers across 11 academic institutions, and two dedicated food tech research centers have been announced, leading to breakthroughs for existing and new startups.
Learn the science of alternative protein
People everywhere want a sustainable, secure, and just food system. However, studies show that people’s daily food choices are driven by taste, price, and convenience. At GFI Israel, we’re working to make alternative protein products more delicious, more affordable, and more nutritious.
By making meat, eggs, dairy, and seafood from plants, cultivating them from cells, and with the help of fermentation, we can make better foods that reduce our environmental impact and feed more people with fewer resources. Read more about the innovative technologies making this possible.
New video resource: Your guide to TVP, flavors, and methylcellulose in plant-based meats
A brand-new series of 10 bite-sized videos is now available to enhance your understanding of plant-based meat R&D. Whether you’re refining your skills or looking to deepen your knowledge, this video series covers the three foundational pillars that are crucial to creating better, tastier, and more functional plant-based products.
Alternative protein course database
Our alternative protein course database lists educational programs focused on alternative proteins and their enabling technologies. In this database, you can expect to find courses offered online and at institutions around the world.
Tools for educators
Explore Israel’s alternative
protein science community
The field of alternative protein development comprises a growing community of academics from multiple disciplines. This Nature Biotech paper explores the various reasons why this is a fascinating area of study and the countless opportunities for researchers entering the space.
Researcher database
Check out the Israel Alternative Protein Academic Database, which provides an overview of researchers in Israeli academic institutes in the alternative protein space. For global research labs, explore our global directory.
Global alternative protein ecosystem map
Explore the map to discover hubs of alternative protein research and innovation globally and in Israel:
Meet some of Israel’s alternative protein scientists
Meet the researcher: Dr. Sharon Schlesinger
Discover Dr. Sharon Schlesinger’s inspiring journey from stem cell biology to leading cultivated meat research in Israel. Explore her insights…
Meet the researcher: Dr. Roni Rak
Meet Dr. Roni Rak, leading Israel’s first cultivated meat lab. Discover her path from cancer research to transforming the future…
Meet the researcher: Dr. Iftach Nachman
A pioneering scientist in the Israeli cultivated meat space, Dr. Iftach Nachman reflects on how far the Israeli alt protein…
Research and technology resources
Find research funding
Research funding database
GFI’s research funding database provides curated grant opportunities for open-access alternative protein research. Learn how to use this database in this 2-minute tutorial.
Research grants tracker
Explore our alternative protein research grants tracker to discover insights about open-access research, including what’s being funded, who is funding it, at what levels, and more.
Research tools
Ideas and inspiration
Advancing Solutions for Alternative Proteins (ASAP) is GFI’s database of research gaps, commercial white spaces, technological needs, and investment priorities along the alternative protein value chain.
Tools and open-access data
Image credits:
Students in library – Milner Moshe, Israel Gov. Press Office. Sea life – Einat Anker, Israel Gov. Press Office. Cultivated meat dish – Aleph Farms.
View all of our open-access
publications & databases
Our news, events, and blog
Annual Recap: 10 impactful moments from GFI Israel’s work in 2025
This summary highlights ten of the most impactful moments from GFI Israel’s work throughout 2025- a year marked by a…
Widening the Innovation Opportunities in Blended Meats
Blended meat products are gaining traction as a smart bridge for flexitarians, combining familiar taste with a lower environmental impact.…
From your lab to FoodTech applications with GFI Israel Alternative Meats Sandbox!
GFI Israel partnered with the experienced food engineers Liran Gruda and Asaf Cohen-Jonathan to launch a new initiative designed to supercharge…
Learn more from our global affiliates
GFI’s experts work worldwide with stakeholders across all academic, political, and business sectors to advance the alternative protein industry and enable market breakthroughs. Learn more about their work.
