Blue cell biotechnology at the service of the food of the future

Technological innovation has been playing a central role in responding to global food sustainability challenges. In the field of marine resources, this need is even more evident, requiring solutions that reconcile production, ethics and environmental preservation. It is in this context that the CellBlue – Food of the Future through Blue Cellular Biotechnology operation has emerged, promoted by Cell4Food – Cellular Culture, SA and co-financed by COMPETE 2030.

Cell4Food is a Portuguese blue biotechnology company dedicated to the development of cellular agriculture technologies applied to marine species. Vítor Verdelho, CEO of the company, explains that Cell4Food operates “according to a B2B business model, focused on the creation and licensing of technological platforms and intellectual property for the agri-food industry, contributing to the transition to more sustainable and resilient food systems”.

A strategic vision for blue biotechnology

The CellBlue project stems from a clear and structured ambition. According to Vítor Verdelho, the project arises “in the context of a clear strategic vision: to position Portugal as a relevant player in European blue biotechnology, through the development of innovative, sustainable food production technologies that are aligned with the preservation of marine ecosystems”. This vision reflects a commitment to promoting national scientific knowledge and creating solutions with an impact beyond borders.

The project’s funding, secured under COMPETE 2030, is described as a decisive factor in its implementation. The CEO emphasises that this support comes through the Business Research and Development Incentive System, “a fundamental tool for transforming scientific knowledge into innovation with economic, environmental and social impact”. According to Vítor Verdelho, this framework allows “the development of cutting-edge technology with the time, scale and rigour necessary for its future industrial validation”.

Cell-based octopus production: a pioneering breakthrough

One of the most innovative aspects of CellBlue is the development of the first national technology for the production of octopus biomass from cells. As the CEO states, “CellBlue is developing the first national technology for the production of octopus biomass from cells, specifically from the species Octopus vulgaris.” This breakthrough represents a pioneering step for the aquaculture of the future, introducing new forms of food production.

This development makes it possible, as Vítor Verdelho explains, “to dissociate food production from the direct exploitation of marine resources, reducing pressure on natural stocks and creating opportunities for sustainable, high added-value value chains.” It is an approach that combines technological innovation with environmental responsibility.

Collaboration as a driver of innovation

Cell4Food assumes the role of consortium leader, ensuring the scientific, technological and strategic coordination of the project. According to the CEO, CellBlue reflects the belief that “innovation only truly happens through collaboration”. For this reason, a multidisciplinary consortium has been set up, bringing together partners from the national scientific and technological system, covering the entire value chain.

The project is organised into several areas of development, from establishing cell lines to validating food applications. The work includes “validating food applications, including hybrid products that combine cellular biomass and plant matrices,” ensuring an integrated approach between science, technology and the market.

An impact beyond research

The impact of CellBlue goes beyond immediate scientific results. As Vítor Verdelho points out, “the project contributes to the creation of new food production models, strengthens national technological sovereignty and affirms Portugal as a country capable of leading the sustainable blue transition based on science, innovation and collaboration”.

For Cell4Food, CellBlue takes on a particularly strategic significance. In the words of the CEO, “CellBlue is more than a funded research project: it is the realisation of a long-term vision, where the sea and biotechnology converge to create ethical, safe and sustainable food solutions with economic value and global relevance”.

Links 

Cell4Food | Website