Sweetening the future: Why Europe needs Sweeprot now

Antti Moilanen (left), Petri Leukkunen, Sakari Sipola and their team are developing a new sugar-free zero-calorie sweetener.

University of Oulu is currently preparing commercialization of a zero-calorie, plant-derived protein sweetener designed for the needs of the food and beverage industry. But why do we need another sweetener? Why could the new solution be both safer and more sustainable? 

This blog post is written by Petri Leukkunen.

A global health challenge 

The search for better sweeteners isn’t just about innovation but also about addressing a growing global health crisis. Worldwide, the use of added sugar continues to rise, and with it the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions. 

Alternative sweeteners are being developed in response to this urgent need. They’re no longer just a consumer preference but a public health imperative. 

The problem with current sweeteners 

Despite widespread use, many legacy sweeteners, such as sucralose, aspartame, and erythritol, are under renewed scrutiny. Recent research has raised questions about their long-term health effects, and regulatory bodies across Europe are re-evaluating their safety. While the outcomes remain to be seen, consumer trust is shifting, and the market still lacks replacements that meet expectations for taste, health, sustainability and cost. 

From metabolic concerns to gut health risks, the urgency to find better alternatives is clear. Consumers are demanding sweeteners that are not only safe and naturally digestible but also sustainable and scientifically sound. 

The innovation: Sweeprot

Sweeprot is our response to this challenge: a zero-calorie sweetener that is plant-based, slightly modified for improved functionality, and created through precision fermentation. Designed to taste like sugar while being gut-friendly and clean-label, Sweeprot represents a new generation of sweeteners, aligned with consumer values and backed by science. Its plant-based origin and it being a digestible protein set it apart from many alternatives. 

We are currently in the pre-approval phase, focusing on application testing and preparing for regulatory engagement. Science is ready, and the need is urgent. Still, it’s important to set realistic expectations: the regulatory path takes time, and we cannot promise an exact timeline. Also, further production scaling needs more work. Over the coming year, our focus will be on increasing the scope of application and suitability tests, ensuring that every step is guided by the latest science. 

Researcher Antti Moilanen (left picture) has already produced samples of the new sweetener for partners to test. The team also includes Mirva Saaranen (on the left in the image on the right), Sakari Sipola, Petri Leukkunen, and Lloyd Ruddock.

Finland’s food innovation ecosystem 

Finland is establishing itself as a center of food innovation. Companies such as EniferBio, Onego Bio, and Solar Foods (spinouts from VTT) are pioneering fermentation-based solutions for sustainable proteins and ingredients. Programs like Valio Food 2.0, funded by Business Finland, are further accelerating the development of transformative food technologies. 

Sweeprot is proud to be part of this movement, contributing to Finland’s leadership in sustainable food systems. 

EU-wide momentum: EIT Food 

Sweeprot is also supported by the EIT Food Seedbed Accelerator, an EU-wide initiative connecting startups with mentors, investors, and commercialization experts. This pan-European network is helping us refine our strategy and prepare for market entry across the continent and beyond. 

The opportunity 

The science is ready, the market is waiting, and the innovation ecosystem is thriving. 

What’s needed now is momentum: support from consumers, partners, and policymakers to bring forward the next generation of sweeteners. Sweeprot is more than a product; it is a signal that Europe can lead the way in food innovation that is healthy, sustainable, and future proof. 

Looking ahead 

As we move forward, the next phase of Sweeprot’s journey will focus on application testing and safety-confirming research. These are critical steps towards regulatory approval. While we have seen no issues with safety or quality, we recognize the importance of validating this through rigorous, science-based processes. 

This ensures that Sweeprot not only meets the highest standards but also maintains momentum toward commercialization. Our vision is clear: a Europe where we can enjoy sweetness without compromise and without the health burden of added sugar. 

We’re still in the early stages but we see real potential for a breakthrough here, and strong opportunities for business-driven collaboration. Our focus now is on finding the right partners to help us take practical steps forward. If you’re interested in sugar-free innovation or looking for ways to reduce sugar in new product development, don’t hesitate to reach out: 

Petri Leukkunen

petri.leukkunen(at)oulu.fi  
+358294481162

Note: “Sweeprot” is the current project name, working name of the sweetener, and team name used in the EIT Food Seedbed Accelerator. We will be working on the branded product name soon.