Tuna, which is familiar to Japanese people through sushi and sashimi, has recently become a popular food in the United States and other Asian countries. The consumption of fresh tuna
Octopus is one of the seafood species that is eaten daily in Japan, Europe, and Asia.
In November 2021, the UK government added decapods and cephalopods, including octopuses, as “sensitive animals” to be protected under the Animal Welfare (Senses) Act in the interest of animal welfare. Octopus and crab also caused a lot of controversy by certifying that they are painful and calling for consideration in cooking methods.
Some countries, including Switzerland and New Zealand, already have laws against cooking crustaceans alive.
Against this backdrop, Austrian food tech startup “Revo Foods” launched the world’s first vegan octopus, “The Kraken – Inspired by Octopus”, for retail. It is available exclusively through the company’s online store starting March 15, 2024.
The Kraken, a vegan octopus, is produced by combining mycoprotein, an alternative protein derived from fungi, with 3D printing technology.
The main ingredient, mycoprotein, is a natural fiber that requires less processing to reproduce the texture and mouthfeel of octopus. As a result, they are able to retain more micronutrients and vitamins than typical ingredients used in plant-based alternative products.
It is also noteworthy not only for its authentic appearance, aroma, and taste, but also for its nutritional value. The product received the highest rating of A in the Nutriscore front-of-package nutrition labeling, which has been introduced in France and other countries in Europe. It is also rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber.
”The Kraken” is ready-to-eat and can be grilled, fried, or baked. Vegans and those with seafood allergies, such as crustaceans, mollusks, and shellfish, can enjoy octopus dishes without worry.
This product was born out of a crowdfunding campaign run by Revo Foods. CEO Robin Simsa noted that The Kraken is notable for the fact that there is no existing substitute for the octopus and the ultra-unique look that makes it a feasible showcase for their technology.
The company hopes to gain more information about consumer feedback with this launch and also share samples with some restaurant partners. If feedback is positive and the market opportunity is deemed large enough, the company may launch the product permanently in late 2024.
Founded in 2021, Revo Foods attracted worldwide attention in September 2023 with the launch of “THE FILET – Inspired by Salmon,” the first 3D printed food in a supermarket, a vegan salmon fillet. The company intends to begin production of the second version of “THE FILET – Inspired by Salmon” this fall. In addition, the company is working with several partners to customize food products with 3D manufacturing technology according to their needs.
According to statistics from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the EU consumed about 125,000 tons of octopus in 2018. In addition, octopus consumption in Asia is even higher, reaching 190,000 tons. This increased demand has led to overfishing around the world, which has put a strain on octopus populations, and octopus landings have been on the decline for several years.
Therefore, there is a trend toward aquaculture in many countries. However, octopus farming is not only against animal welfare, but may also cause environmental destruction, and may not be a sustainable means of supply. Furthermore, producing 1 kg of octopus requires approximately 3 kg of food, which is made from marine resources such as fishmeal and fish oil. Promoting octopus farming could hasten the depletion of marine resources.To ensure a stable supply of octopus while protecting the global environment, alternatives are an effective solution.
Because the food is so familiar in Japan, we should be aware of these sustainability-threatening issues and the importance of companies like Revo Foods taking advantage of new technologies to take on this challenge.
[Related Article]
[Reference Site] “Release THE KRAKEN!” Revo Foods unveils the first vegan octopus alternative
[Reference Site] The Kraken: Revo Foods Launches Fungi-Derived Vegan Octopus
[Reference Site] Global Octopus Landings Declining | Fish Focus
[Reference Site] OCTOPUS FACTORY FARMING:A RECIPE FOR DISASTER | Compassion in World Farming
