Startup Unveils Meatless Chicken Schnitzel Made From Algae

An Israeli FoodTech startup has created a meatless version of a chicken schnitzel, which will be formulated with the microalgae spirulina.

SimpliiGood sustainably grows and harvests spirulina, an edible green microalgae similar to seaweed. Spirulina is a strong source of protein as well as iron, potassium, Vitamins B and E, and more. 

With special coloring and texturing technology, the company is now producing plant-based meat alternatives made almost entirely of spirulina.

“This broadens its applications beyond the exceptional nutritional profile and high concentration of protein to being a clean-label potential to replace thickeners, stabilizers, emulsifiers, binders, and texturizers in multiple applications,” said Lior Shalev, CEO and co-founder of SimpliiGood.

Most recently, the company announced a meatless version of chicken schnitzel, which will be 80% composed of spirulina and the rest prebiotic fibers. The schnitzel has a completely neutral taste while retaining the chicken appearance and texture, allowing customers to add whatever seasonings and additives they would like. 

“Each cut packs in 30% highly bioavailable protein. Combined with its rich natural makeup of micronutrients, it offers a potent alternative to animal protein with exceptional nutritional value,” said Baruch Dach, SimpliiGood’s CTO and other co- founder.

The company is also planning to commercially produce their 95% spirulina based smoked salmon in 2024. 

SimpliiGood, a subsidiary company of AlgaeCore Technologies, is based in Herzliya, Israel.