Course
Course Description
Global demand for protein continues to grow. As is the cost of animal protein production. The introduction of GLP-1 receptor agonists drugs, currently used primarily for weight loss, adds another twist to the development as well as the delivery of protein and nutrition to a new set of consumers who not only eat fewer calories, but also need to pack the smaller portions with nutrient dense, protein rich foods in order to minimize muscle loss resulting from GLP-1 drugs.
This group of customers has the potential to allow for the re-imagining and reintroduction of the “plant-based” protein in decline. This class will explore development of “plant-based” proteins, starting with an evaluation the successes and failures of the space over the past 10 years, and using lessons learned to develop novel ideas for plant-based food concepts, considering all factors: flavors, form, nutrition, environment, economics, technology, and markets, with a view developing “plant-based” concepts to meet the current, and likely sustained market of GLP-1 consumers.
Application
Due to the nature of this class topic, it is highly recommended that students have a strong background in biological sciences, chemistry, chemical engineering or related disciplines. Students from other backgrounds who are interested in the class topic are also welcome to apply as we will form interdisciplinary teams. Unfortunately, we can only admit very few students with a non technical major because innovation on plant based foods is becoming technically very complex. In order to form the class with the appropriate mix of students, all students must fill out an application. As we near the start of the semester, the instructor will review applications on a rotating basis and you will be notified via email if you have been admitted or not. If admitted, you will be given permission to enroll.
About Challenge Labs
Challenge Labs are 4 unit courses for students of all academic backgrounds who seek a rigorous, interactive, team-based, and hands-on learning experience in entrepreneurship and technology. These courses use a unique pedagogy, The Berkeley Method of Entrepreneurship, that involves the use of games, industry guest speakers, team exercises, videos and labs to cover the early part of the startup lifecycle. In these highly experiential courses, students form start-up teams to create technology solutions or services to address a broadly-defined problem posed by an industry partner or social challenge.
Video
Introducing Team Sundial
Hear from team Sundial, a startup that started in the SCET Alt Meat Challenge Lab.
Instructor
Minh Tsai