Alternative Proteins
Engineering First-of-Its-Kind Processes Into Scalable Production Facilities
Alternative protein facilities operate at the intersection of bioprocessing, food production, and advanced manufacturing, where scalability, process reliability, and regulatory readiness are critical. Merrick brings deep experience designing and integrating fermentation‑based and cell‑based production systems, downstream processing, and ingredient finishing operations, ensuring utilities, process systems, and infrastructure work together to support emerging production methods in practical, buildable facilities.
Merrick supports alternative protein developers and manufacturers as they move emerging technologies from concept through commercial‑scale production. Many producers enter the market with first‑of‑a‑kind processes that continue to evolve as technologies mature. Our teams help translate innovation into reliable, production‑ready environments that support predictable throughput, safety, and long‑term scalability.
Balancing innovation with regulatory readiness is central to alternative proteins projects. Merrick helps clients navigate permitting and compliance requirements while aligning facility design with quality, safety, and operational expectations. By anticipating operational challenges early, our collaborative approach helps reduce risk, avoid costly rework, and support a smoother transition from bench‑scale innovation to commercial execution.
Whether scaling precision fermentation, cultivated meat, cell or plant‑based proteins, or other novel food and ingredient technologies, Merrick delivers engineering solutions that enable alternative protein producers to enter the market with confidence and adapt as processes evolve.
Why Merrick
- Proven process engineering that converts emerging technologies into reliable production systems
- Experience designing facilities from pilot and demonstration to commercial scale
- Integrated approach combining bioprocessing, food manufacturing, and advanced manufacturing requirements
- Practical insight into permitting, safety, and regulatory expectations for new‑to‑market operations
- Collaborative teams focused on operability, scalability, and long‑term performance
