The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, has stated that Good Food Institute (GFI), Europe has taken the right direction in identifying the University of Ibadan as a partner in its mission to create alternative protein for Nigerians.

He made this statement while receiving the Managing Director of Good Food Institute, Europe, Mr Alex Mayers who paid a courtesy visit to the office of the Vice-Chancellor.

Professor Adebowale lauded the initiative of finding alternative sources of protein, adding that meat as a major source of protein has been a cause of cardiovascular diseases.

He acknowledged the sweeter taste of beef and beef products compared to white meats but warned that as individuals get older, beef should be avoided.

The Vice-Chancellor commended the undergraduate students, who have been involved in the Alternative Protein Project (APP), saying they are the university’s pride.

He encouraged them to have the mind of research and develop such to the postgraduate level, advising them to build good networks and collaborate in order to become authorities in the field globally.

Professor Adebowale reaffirmed that the University of Ibadan has tremendous researchers who are committed to excellent teaching, research and innovation to drive the University’s collaboration.

The Staff Adviser of the UI Alternative Protein Project Group, Professor Kolawole O. Falade disclosed that GFI singled out the university for the visit in order to assess the quality of research being carried out by the APP group and to interact with the students.

Mr Alex Mayers, in an earlier remark had disclosed that GFI is an organization with a global reach which operates on a global scale to expand access to protein by producing alternative sources derived from plants, fermentation, and cultured meat technologies.

He explained that these methods make protein more affordable and healthier compared to conventional meat.

Mr. Mayers also highlighted that the organization is committed to social impact, engaging in philanthropic initiatives that include getting funding to groups and supporting students to foster research.

He added that GFI has a mission to accelerate alternative proteins to basically address the challenge of excessive meat consumption, adding that the Institute is a philanthropic non-profit organization.

The Managing Director lauded the UI students on the project, saying their research activities were truly impressive.

He added that UI is important in the global perspective and the students are doing remarkably well, and gave the assurance that the Good Food Institute will support in the alternative proteins project.

Student members of the UI Alternative Protein Project Group who accompanied Mr Mayers on the visit were: Oluwasakin Boluwatife Ayomide (President), Oyebode Michael (Vice President), Awozele Rachael (Director of Research) and Idowu Emmanuel (Media Officer), all from the Department of Food Technology, Faculty of Technology.