Upcycling C1 gas-derived resources in future food system

Abstract

Upcycling the one-carbon (C1) gas-derived resources into food-related product offers a dual benefit, alleviating food shortages and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Powered by synthetic biology and cutting-edge technologies, the conversion of C1 resources into food-related products has become a reality. In this study, we present a state-of-the-art review for the synthesis of C1-based food-related products, broadly categorized as follows: (i) C1-to-carbohydates, (ii) C1-to-proteins, (iii) C1-to-lipids, (iv) C1-to-food additives, and (v) C1-to-food packaging. We assess the technological readiness level of each product category and identify the C1 fixation pathways and C1-based products with industrialization potential. We also address the bottlenecks and explore the opportunities within the less mature product categories. By revealing the existing knowledge gap, we emphasize the imperative of leveraging advanced technologies and collaborative efforts to address these challenges. Taken together, our work highlights the potential of upcycling C1 gas-derived resources in fostering future food system.