To support the development of responsible innovation in the field of alternative proteins, RI-ProT is organizing two Practice Innovation Labs with start-ups and established companies. These labs are designed to bring together actors from across the food sector to collectively explore how alternative protein production can contribute to more sustainable, inclusive, and health-promoting food systems.

The first lab focuses on identifying and understanding key challenges in the transition toward sustainable protein production. Participants work together to define shared priorities and goals, laying the foundation innovation pathways. This workshop is co-organized with DLG and emphasizes open, transdisciplinary dialogue between food protein companies and researchers.

Building on this, participants are invited to co-develop concrete strategies for responsible research and innovation in a second lab. Insights from earlier assessments of alternative protein innovations—such as how their risks and benefits are perceived by different stakeholder groups—serve as a starting point for strategic thinking and collective decision-making.

The results and experiences from the labs will be made available through open access publications, practitioner-oriented articles, and newsletters, helping to spread good practices across the sector. By working closely with key actors in the innovation ecosystem, RI-ProT aims to develop practical principles and governance approaches for responsible protein innovation.