Ambrosia Collective has launched Planta Powered by Solein®, the first protein powder sold in America made from air-based protein derived through microbial fermentation. The product uses Solein, a single-cell protein developed by Finnish company Solar Foods using gas fermentation technology that won NASA's Deep Space Food Challenge in the international category.

How It's Made

The fermentation process combines carbon dioxide, hydrogen, renewable electricity, and naturally occurring microorganisms—requiring no agricultural soil. Each serving delivers 20 grams of protein, with supplemental pea and rice protein comprising a minority of the formula.

Ingredient Specifications & Competitive Positioning

For ingredient suppliers and formulators, Planta offers a third-category protein source distinct from traditional whey (animal-based, potentially difficult to digest) and plant-based powders (which may carry heavy metal contamination concerns). The ingredient matches whey on key nutritional metrics: essential amino acids, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and leucine levels associated with muscle protein synthesis and recovery. Because production does not rely on agriculture, Planta claims a significantly reduced environmental footprint compared to conventional protein sources—a critical specification for manufacturers targeting sustainability-focused consumers.

Market Availability & Supply Implications

Planta is available on Amazon and at ambrosiacollective.com. As whey protein supply chain constraints are expected through 2028, alternative protein sources are gaining attention from manufacturers and consumers. Air-based fermentation represents a fundamentally different production model—one that sidesteps both animal agriculture and conventional plant farming, potentially reshaping how the industry thinks about protein sourcing and ingredient procurement.

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Written by FBM Publications Editors