Who we are
ExSeed is the leading European company developing modern solutions for manufacturing sunflower protein isolate. We are a deep tech startup devoted to bringing nutritious and functional plant-based protein to the market. By unlocking the full potential of sunflower, we are creating a sustainable protein ingredient that meets the growing demand for clean-label, high-performance food solutions. Our mission is to bridge innovation, nutrition and responsible production to support the future of food.
the challenge we face
Food is more than sustenance, it brings joy, comfort, and connection, and shapes the way we live. Yet as the global population grows, so do the health and environmental challenges linked to modern food systems.
In developed countries, undernutrition has largely been replaced by a health crisis driven by poor dietary habits and highly processed foods that provide calories but little nutritional value. Protein supplements are not a scalable solution. Protein must be integrated into the everyday foods people already eat. Meeting this need will require a new generation of sustainable ingredients beyond soy and pea, which remain limited by allergenicity and flavour challenges.
Our Solution
Our team at ExSeed has developed a novel three-step protein extraction process for byproducts of sunflower oil production, opening new possibilities for the food industry. Sunflower meal and press cake are widely available across Europe, yet they have historically been underutilised and largely relegated to animal feed despite their valuable protein content.
By enabling a commercially viable method of extracting high-quality protein from these side streams, we are transforming an overlooked agricultural byproduct into a functional ingredient for modern food applications. In doing so, we aim to establish sunflower protein as a sustainable, scalable and versatile ingredient for the foods of the future.
Why Sunflower?
Sunflower is a widely available crop in Europe, offering a sustainable alternative to imported proteins like soy. Protein extracted from sunflower oil byproducts can be used alone or combined with soy and pea protein to enhance the nutritional quality of plant-based foods.
Sunflower protein isolate has a better taste than pea and can outperform soy in some cases. Its amino acid profile complements soy and pea, achieving milk-like nutritional value, with digestibility similar to egg whites and better than chicken.
Even the byproducts from isolate manufacturing are valuable. With the help of microorganisms, they can be enriched for use as high-protein feed in the fishing industry, reducing waste and adding value.
Our Commitment
We are committed to transparency, traceability, and delivering consistent, high-quality ingredients to our partners. From sourcing and processing to the final product, we focus on maintaining the highest standards of quality, reliability, and accountability throughout our production process. By combining advanced technology with responsible production practices, we transform sunflower byproducts into valuable, functional ingredient that supports the development of healthier and more sustainable food solutions. Our approach ensures that every ingredient we produce meets the needs of modern food manufacturers while contributing to a more efficient and responsible food system.
Let’s grow the food of tomorrow
If you’re developing plant-based products, vegan alternatives to meat and dairy, or looking for a novel protein source to improve existing formulations or create new products, we’re here to help. Our sunflower protein isolate is designed to support a wide range of food applications, offering a functional and sustainable ingredient for forward-thinking brands and manufacturers.
Contact us to learn more about our sunflower protein isolate, request samples, or discuss partnership opportunities. Whether you are exploring new product concepts or refining current recipes, we would be happy to explore how ExSeed can support your development goals.