A biotech company has filed a global patent application to upcycle coffee grounds into a flavor enhancer for plant-based meat. Fermenstation, a Japanese start-up, uses their fermentation technology to produce glutamyl-valyl-glycine from coffee, which improves the richness of meat, dairy, and other fatty foods. This food additive is typically found in animal-based foods but can now be created using upcycled plant biomass, such as coffee grounds, rice bran, and soy pulp.

Improving the taste of plant-based meat could lead to increased acceptance among meat-eaters, as taste has been identified as a key obstacle. A report by NECTAR found that only 30 percent of participants liked plant-based meat products, with taste being a major factor. Companies that prioritize taste in plant-based products can see stronger financial returns and gain more market share from conventional animal products. By using upcycled ingredients like those from Fermenstation, plant-based meat can be enhanced to provide a more enjoyable culinary experience.