ALTERNATIVE SOURCES OF PROTEIN AND MODERN METHODS OF THEIR EXTRACTION: A REVIEW OF THE SUBJECT FIELD

The global demand for protein is constantly growing, which stimulates the search and research of new protein sources, as well as the development of advanced protein extraction technologies that can overcome the limitations of traditional methods. The aim of this review is to summarize the role of protein in sustainable food systems, discussing new alternative protein sources and their extraction methods from a sustainability perspective. The keywords and phrases “animal and plant proteins”, “new protein extraction methods” and “protein sustainability” were used for the study. The search was conducted in the online databases Web of Science and Scopus. Relevant publications for the period 2015–2024 were selected for the development of this review, which allowed us to create a more comprehensive understanding of modern protein extraction methods and their role in improving the sustainability of the food system. Research results from the last decade show that the use of ultrasonic extraction, pulsed electric field extraction, enzymatic extraction, subcritical water extraction and eutectic solvent extraction are particularly effective when working with agro-industrial by-products. These methods allow optimizing protein recovery in a circular economy by minimizing waste and using resources efficiently. Therefore, assessing the sustainability and practicality of new extraction methods aims to stimulate future innovation and shape policy decisions, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient global food system.