On September 19th, Universidade Católica Portuguesa (UCP) took part in the inauguration of the new ETSA PROHY unit, that resulted from an investment of around 20 million euros and was supported by the portuguese Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR) within the framework of the Blue Bioeconomy Pact, coordinated by Inovamar.
The partnership between UCP and ETSA began in 2017 with the MOREPEP project, carried out in collaboration between the two entities. In this context, UCP researchers developed new hydrolysis methodologies applied to category 3 animal by-products, transforming them into high value-added ingredients and products. Since then, several projects have been carried out in close cooperation, aimed at exploring the potential of these ingredients in applications for pet food and aquaculture, among other relevant areas.
This collaborative work paved the way for the creation of an innovative industrial unit, which now employs 14 specialized workers and integrates technology aligned with the principles of Industry 4.0. It represents a milestone in the advancement of biotechnology and fine chemistry in Portugal, actively contributing to the circular economy, decarbonization, and the development of a more sustainable sector.
The presence of UCP in this process reflects the University’s commitment to transferring scientific knowledge to industry, reinforcing its role as a strategic partner in promoting innovation and the bioeconomy in Portugal.
