A method of producing a protein-comprising composition from a spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material and the composition obtained.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method of producing a protein-comprising composition from a spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing an aqueous suspension of a spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material; b) optionally pre-treating the aqueous suspension and obtaining a pre-treated aqueous suspension; c) optionally removing solid material from the aqueous suspension obtained in step a) or pre-treated aqueous suspension obtained in step b), to obtain a protein-comprising aqueous fraction and a solid fraction; d) optionally adjusting the pH of the aqueous suspension obtained in step a) or the pre-treated aqueous suspension obtained in step b) or the protein-comprising aqueous fraction in step c) to a pH between 5 and 7; e) treating the aqueous suspension obtained in step a), or the pre-treated aqueous suspension obtained step b), or the protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c), or the pH-adjusted suspension or solution obtained in step d) with an oxidizing agent to obtain an aqueous protein-comprising composition; f) optionally reducing the water content of the aqueous protein-comprising composition obtained in step e) to obtain a concentrated protein-comprising composition or a dried protein-comprising composition. The invention further relates to an aqueous protein-comprising composition derived from a spirulina-based starting material, the composition comprising between 30 and 99 wt.% of water based on the weight of the composition; and between 0.2% and 70% wt.% of protein based on the weight of the composition. The invention further relates to a concentrated protein-comprising composition, comprising between 15 and 29 wt.% of water based on the weight of the composition and between 71 wt.% and 85 wt.% of protein based on the weight of the composition. The invention further relates to a dried protein-comprising composition derived from a spirulina-based starting material, the composition comprising between 60 and 95 wt.% of proteins based on the weight of the composition. The invention further relates to the use of an oxidizing treatment to obtain a neutral aqueous protein-comprising solution or suspension from a Spirulina-based starting material.

Description

[0001] TITLE A method of producing a protein-comprising composition from a

[0002] Spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material and the composition obtained.

[0003] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention relates to a method of producing a protein-comprising extract from a Spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material, to an aqueous proteincomprising extract and to a dried protein-comprising composition. In addition, the invention relates to the use of oxidizing treatment to deodorize and decolorize an aqueous protein-comprising solution or suspension, or obtain a neutral aqueous protein-comprising solution or suspension, from a Spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material.

[0005] Background

[0006] The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0007] Spirulina has been part of the human diet since thousands of years and have been used as a nutrient-dense food source. Historical records suggest that photosynthetic bacteria, such as Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) were consumed by tribes in Africa and by the Aztecs in Mexico. During the last decades there has been increasing interest in the commercial production of these micro-organisms for human consumption and / or as feed for livestock. One of the reasons is Spirulina has demonstrated potential to meet the population’s need for a more sustainable food supply, specifically with respect to protein demand. Spirulina as a sustainable source of proteins is a rather new idea and could significantly contribute to meet the population's need for protein, with several advantages over other currently used protein sources. Micro-organism based proteins have low land requirements compared to animal-based proteins and some other plant-based proteins.

[0008] Spirulina is a species of free-floating filamentous cyanobacteria, providing high- quality proteins with a well-balanced amino acid profile. In addition, Spirulina may provide potential benefits for health due to the presence of bioactive compounds (for example, antioxidative, antihypertensive, immunomodulatory, hepato-protective, and anticoagulant activities have been attributed to spirulina based product).

[0009] Despite the fact that spirulina clearly show potential as part of sustainable food solutions, utilization of spirulina or spirulina-derived products in food products is limited. This is in part due because of the underdeveloped technologies and processes currently available for spirulina processing towards high quality and palatable food products.

[0010] Spirulina has, for example been incorporated in such products as cookies, biscuits, bread and pasta as these products allow for reasonable acceptance of taste, texture, and appearance, but most spirulina is still presented in the form of food supplements, powders and tablets. Indeed the incorporation of spirulina into traditional products has been found inconvenient because of its colour, its fishy taste, and its strong odour, as well as its powdery consistency and appearance, all adversely affecting consumers' perception about taste and quality. All these aspects constitute main areas for improvement. For example, it has not yet been possible to sufficiently disguise the fishy taste, the green / brown colour and odour of spirulina, therefore, limiting the amount to be used in products..

[0011] The present inventors have prepared a method of producing these products, such as disclosed in WO2023 / 085922 and WO2023 / 085941 which are both incorporated into this application by reference.

[0012] There is a need to provide a protein-comprising composition based on spirulina- based protein-comprising starting materials.

[0013] Objects

[0014] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved method of preparing protein-comprising composition based on spirulina-based protein-comprising starting materials.

[0015] It is a further object of the present invention to provide an improved method of preparing protein-comprising composition based on spirulina-based protein- comprising starting materials wherein the protein-comprising composition is deodorized and or decolorized.

[0016] It is a further object to provide a deodorized, decolorized and / or neutral (i.e. having no taste) protein-comprising composition for human consumption.

[0017] STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0018] In a first aspect, the invention relates to a method of producing a protein-comprising composition from a spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing an aqueous suspension of a spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material; b) optionally pre-treating the aqueous suspension and obtaining a pre-treated aqueous suspension, preferably step b) comprises the following sub steps: b1) adjusting the pH of the aqueous suspension to a value between 7 and 11 ; and / or b2) homogenizing the aqueous suspension; c) optionally removing solid material from the aqueous suspension obtained in step a) or pre-treated aqueous suspension obtained in step b), to obtain a proteincomprising aqueous fraction and a solid fraction; d) optionally adjusting the pH of the aqueous suspension obtained in step a) or the pre-treated aqueous suspension obtained in step b) or the protein-comprising aqueous fraction in step c) to a pH between 5 and 7 preferably by the addition of an acid to obtain a pH-adjusted suspension or solution; e) treating the aqueous suspension obtained in step a), or the pre-treated aqueous suspension obtained step b), or the protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c), or the pH-adjusted suspension or solution obtained in step d) with an oxidizing agent to obtain an aqueous protein-comprising composition, preferably wherein the oxidizing agent is selected from the group consisting of ozone, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), sodium hypochlorite (NaOCI), potassium permanganate (KMnO4) and a combination of two or more thereof; f) optionally reducing the water content of the aqueous protein-comprising composition obtained in step e) to obtain a concentrated protein-comprising composition or a dried protein-comprising composition. In a second aspect, the invention relates to an aqueous protein-comprising composition derived from a spirulina-based starting material, the composition comprising

[0019] - between 30 and 99 wt.% of water based on the weight of the composition; and

[0020] - between 0.2% and 70% wt.% of protein based on the weight of the composition.

[0021] In a third aspect, the invention relates to a dried protein-comprising composition derived from a spirulina-based starting material, the composition comprising between 60 and 95 wt.% of proteins based on the weight of the composition.

[0022] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The present invention is elucidated below with a detailed description. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps, or components.

[0024] List of definitions

[0025] Various terms relating to the methods, compositions, uses and other aspects of the present invention are used throughout the specification and claims. Such terms are to be given their ordinary meaning in the art to which the invention pertains, unless otherwise indicated. Other specifically defined terms are to be construed in a manner consistent with the definition provided herein. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice for testing of the present invention, the preferred materials and methods are described herein.

[0026] For purposes of the present invention, the following terms are defined below.

[0027] As used herein, the singular form terms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a bacterium” includes a combination of two or more individual bacteria, and the like.

[0028] As used herein, “and / or” refers to a situation wherein one or more of the stated cases may occur, alone or in combination with at least one of the stated cases, up to with all of the stated cases. As used herein, “at least" a particular value means that particular value or more. For example, "at least 2" is understood to be the same as "2 or more" i.e. , 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 , 12, 13, 14, 15, etc. As used herein, the term "at most” a particular value means that particular value or less. For example, "at most 5” is understood to be the same as "5 or less" i.e., 5, 4, 3, -10, -11 , etc.

[0029] As used herein, “comprising” or “to comprise” is construed as being inclusive and open ended, and not exclusive. Specifically, the terms and variations of the specified features, steps or components are included. These terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components. It also encompasses the more limiting “to consist of”.

[0030] As used herein, “as is known to the skilled person” refers to a situation wherein the methods of carrying out the conventional techniques used in methods of the invention will be evident to the skilled worker. The practice of conventional techniques in molecular biology, biochemistry, cell culture, genomics, sequencing, medical treatment, pharmacology, immunology, and related fields are well-known to those of skill in the art and are discussed, in various handbooks and literature references.

[0031] “spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material” or “starting material” as used in the present description means: any material derived from spirulina biomass, such as (raw) spirulina or (previously) extracted phycocyanin spirulina, such as a spirulina side stream from a process where phycocyanin has been extracted; said spirulina-based starting material can be fresh, frozen or in the form of a powder and said starting material comprises protein that is derived from said spirulina.

[0032] “deodorized” as used in the present description means: a material that has been treated to remove or reduce undesirable odours or tastes, resulting in a more neutral and / or more appealing taste and / or scent.

[0033] “neutral” as used in the present description means: a material that is substantially flavourless, having no or little to no flavour.

[0034] “decolorized” as used in the present description means: a material that has been treated to remove or reduce its colour, leading to a lighter or more uniform appearance.

[0035] “protein-comprising solution” or “protein-comprising fraction” as used in the present description means: a solution comprising one or more proteins derived from the spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material. “protein-comprising composition” as used in the present description means: a composition that has undergone an oxidizing treatment using the method of the present invention, the composition comprising one or more proteins derived from the spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material.

[0036] “homogenization” or “homogenizing” as used in the present description means: high-pressure mixing, high shear mixing or homogenization using a homogenizer.

[0037] Brief description of drawings

[0038] The present invention is described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which embodiments of the present invention are shown and in which like reference numbers indicate the same or similar elements.

[0039] Figure 1 a flow diagram with the method according to the present invention.

[0040] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0041] The present invention comprises a method with several (optional) steps, that will each be explained in more detail below. In addition, the other aspects of the invention will also be discussed in more detail below.

[0042] Step a) provision of aqueous suspension of Spirulina-based proteincomprising starting material

[0043] Step a) relates to the provision of an aqueous suspension of spirulina-based proteincomprising starting material. In an embodiment, it relates to the preparation of an aqueous suspension of spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material by combining a spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material and an aqueous liquid.

[0044] In an embodiment, the suspension of step a) is obtained by mixing the starting material and water. As aqueous liquid may be used water, demi-water, milli Q water, preferably demi-water. The aqueous liquid may be pre-heated or pre-cooled to a desired temperature before mixing with the starting material, for example to a temperature between 1 and 80 °C. The starting material is any material derived from spirulina biomass, such as (raw) spirulina or (previously) extracted phycocyanin spirulina, such as a spirulina side stream from a process where phycocyanin has been extracted; said starting material can be fresh, frozen or in the form of a powder and said starting material comprises protein that is derived from said spirulina. The starting material has a protein content of at least 0.1 %, at least 0.5%, preferably at least 1 % and / or has a protein content of between 0.1 and 40 wt.%. between 0.5 and 30 wt.%, preferably between 1 and 25 wt.%. The starting material has a dry weight of between 0.05 and 50%, between 0.1 and 40%, between 0.5 and 30%, preferably between 1 and 25%. It is understood that based on the volume of aqueous liquid, such as water, that added to the starting material, the protein content and / or dry weight percentage will change. The skilled person is able to determine a suitable dry weight percentage for efficient processing of the starting material.

[0045] During step a) when an aqueous suspension is used, it may be further diluted with an aqueous liquid (e.g. water) prior to proceeding with the next method step. During step a) the aqueous suspension may be subjected to homogenization prior to proceeding with the next process steps. The homogenization allows for the release of cellular components, such as proteins, by destroying the cell. For example, homogenization is performed for a duration of between 30 seconds and 60 minutes using a high pressure homogenizer with a homogenizing pressure between 10 and 400 bars. Other means and methods for homogenizing may also be used such as ultrasonic homogenization, blending, using a French pressure cell press or by using a cell disruptor. It is understood that the method according to the invention is not limited by the means and method for homogenization. The skilled person is able to determine, e.g. based on the total volume or dry weight percentage, a suitable method, time and conditions for homogenization.

[0046] The temperature of the aqueous suspension during step a) is between 1 and 60 °C, between 1 and 40 °C, between 1 and 10 °C. Preferably, the temperature during step a) is below 80 °C, below 60 °C, below 40 °C, below 10 °C. Without being bound by theory, the inventors believe that keeping the temperature (during step a) to step f) ) between 1 and 80 °C, between 1 and 60 °C, between 1 and 40 °C, between 1 and 10 °C, or, below 80 °C, below 60 °C, below 40 °C, below 10 °C avoids denaturation thereby resulting in an improved product. Preferably the temperature is kept between 1 and 60 °C, between 1 and 40 °C, between 1 and 10 °C, or, below 80 °C, below 60 °C, below 40 °C, below 10 °C during step b), step c), step d), step e) and / or step f).

[0047] Step b) pre-treatment of the suspension to solubilize at least part of the protein This step b) is an optional step. Preferably, the pre-treatment will lead to an increase in the amount of soluble protein in the aqueous suspension. By pre-treating the aqueous suspension the particle size is reduced and a more homogeneous material is provided resulting in an increased efficiency with respect to the oxidizing treatment as described below in e.g. step e) of the method according to the invention. Furthermore, the pre-treating ensures a higher protein content, specifically a higher soluble protein content. Hence, preferably step b) is carried out. Preferably, the pretreatment is carried out by one or more of step b1) of adjusting the pH of the aqueous suspension to a value of between 7 and 11 , between 8 and 11 , between 9 and 11 ; and / or step b2) homogenizing the aqueous suspension. In case both steps b1) and b2) are used the order may be b1), followed by b2) or b2), followed by b1), preferably step b1) is followed by step b2).

[0048] The pre-treated aqueous suspension obtained in step b) has a protein content of at least 0.1 %, at least 0.5%, preferably at least 1 % and / or has a protein content of between 0.1 and 40 wt.%, between 0.5 and 30 wt.%, between 1 and 25 wt.%.

[0049] Step b1) adjustment of the pH of the aqueous suspension to a value of between above 7 and 11

[0050] The pH is adjusted in in step b1) to a value of between 7 and 11 , between 8 and 11 , between 9 and 11. Adjusting the pH is performed by the addition of a base selected from the group consisting of food grade bases, preferably sodium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, calcium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate ammonium bicarbonate, and a combination of two or more thereof. Advantageously, adjusting the pH to between 7 and 11 , between 8 and 11 , between 9 and 11 increases solubility of the protein by increasing the net negative charge on the protein, disrupting aggregates, and partially unfolding the protein to expose hydrophilic regions. It is understood that any other suitable type of base may be used to achieve the pH of between 7 and 11 , between 8 and 11 , between 9 and 11 , e.g. in situations where the protein-comprising composition according to the invention is not used in a food product. It is further understood that the skilled person is able to determine which other food safe bases may be used other than those selected from the group consisting of food grade bases, preferably sodium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, calcium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate ammonium bicarbonate, and a combination of two or more thereof to achieve a pH of between 7 and 11 , between 8 and 11 , between 9 and 11 as these are strictly regulated by e.g. the European Union using so-called E-numbers. Hence, it is withing the capability of the skilled person to select which base to use and adjust the pH of the a value of between 7 and 11 , between 8 and 11 , between 9 and 11. The skilled person further is able to determine the amount of a particular base that is required to achieve the desired pH range, this can be tested using e.g. a conventional pH meter and is within the capability of the person skilled in the art.

[0051] Step b2) homogenizing the aqueous suspension

[0052] In an embodiment, the particle size distribution D10 value (representing the size at which 10% of particles are smaller than this size) is 50 pm. In an embodiment, the particle size distribution D50 value (representing the size at which 50% of particles are smaller than this size) is 75 pm. In an embodiment, the particle size distribution D90 value (representing the size at which 90% of particles are smaller than this size) is 100 pm. The particle size distribution can be measured using a laser particle size analyzer.

[0053] This particle size distribution can be obtained by using bed milling with a bed size of 0.3mm in recirculation with flowrate 100kg / h and rotor speed of 13.9 m / s or using a homogenizer such as an Ultra-Turrax T25 at a speed of 10000 rpm.

[0054] During step b2) the sample may be homogenized again after homogenization in step a), or, in step b2) for the first time. Homogenization is performed as described under step a), for example, homogenization in step b2) is performed for a duration of between 30 seconds and 60 minutes, between 1 and 45 minutes, between 5 and 30 minutes, using a high pressure homogenizer with a homogenizing pressure between 10 and 400 bars.

[0055] The particle size of the aqueous suspension, before homogenization of step b2) is between 20 and 200 pm (micrometer), between 30 and 150 pm (micrometer), preferably between 40 and 100 pm (micrometer). The particle size of the (pretreated) aqueous suspension, after homogenization of step b2) is reduced by at least 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% 50% or more compared to the particle size before homogenization.

[0056] In an embodiment, the temperature is between 1 and 80 °C, between 1 and 60 °C, between 1 and 40 °C, between 1 and 10 °C during step b) (or step b1) and / or step b2). Preferably, the temperature during step b) is below 80 °C, below 60 °C, below 40 °C, below 10 °C. Without being bound by theory, the inventors believe that keeping the temperature between 1 and 80 °C, between 1 and 60 °C, between 1 and 40 °C, between 1 and 10 °C, or, below 80 °C, below 60 °C, below 40 °C, below 10 °C avoids denaturation thereby resulting in an improved product. Preferably the temperature is also kept between 1 and 80 °C, between 1 and 60 °C, between 1 and 40 °C, between 1 and 10 °C, or, below 80 °C, below 60 °C, below 40 °C, below 10 °C during step c), step d), step e) and / or step f).

[0057] Step c) removing solid material from the aqueous suspension to obtain protein-comprising aqueous fraction and optional enzymatic treatment

[0058] This step c) is an optional step. This step relates to the removal of solid materials from the aqueous suspension obtained in either step a) (in case no pre-treatment is carried out) or after step b) (in case pre-treatment is carried out). The result of this step c) is a protein-comprising aqueous fraction. Preferably, step c) is carried out. Optional, but preferred step c) can be carried out by centrifugation (e.g. using a table-top centrifuge), by microfiltration, or, by ultrafiltration.

[0059] In an embodiment, the aqueous suspension obtained in step a) or pre-treated aqueous suspension obtained in step b) is subjected to removal of solid material by means of centrifugation in step c). Centrifugation is performed at a speed of between 1000 to 5000 rpm, between 2000 to 3000 rpm, at a temperature of between 1 and 20 °C, for a duration of between 1 and 60 minutes, between 5 and 45 minutes, preferably between 10 and 30 minutes. The supernatant is collected by decantation and the residue is discarded. In another embodiment, the residue, also referred to as a pellet or solid fraction, is kept for later use and as described in embodiments below. The residue may be stored, e.g. by freezing or cooling to between 1 and 20 °C, preferably between 1 and 10 °C. Performing centrifugation according to the embodiment described herein is within the standard capabilities of a skilled person. It is understood that the skilled person can adjust parameters to effectively and efficiently perform said centrifugation to remove (separate) the solid material from the aqueous suspension of step a) or b).

[0060] In an embodiment, the aqueous suspension obtained in step a) or pre-treated aqueous suspension obtained in step b) is subjected to microfiltration or ultrafiltration in step c). For example, the suspension obtained in step a) of step b) can be passed through a microfiltration membrane or ultrafiltration membrane with an appropriate pore size. The pore size is preferable between 0.1 to 10 pm (micrometer) for microfiltration, or, between 1-100 nm (nanometer) for ultrafiltration. The pressure used in the filtration process (either for micro- or ultrafiltration) is preferably between 0.5 to 10 bar, more preferably between 1 and 5 bar. Preferably, the temperature during filtration is of between 1 and 20 °C. Optionally, the filtration may be performed by applying a vacuum, or, suction e.g. using a Buchner flask and Buchner funnel according to standard practice of using such flasks and funnels. The filtrate containing the protein-comprising fraction is collected while the retentate with solid materials is discarded. In another embodiment, the retentate, also referred to as a pellet or solid fraction, is kept for later use and as described in embodiments below. The retentate may be stored, e.g. frozen or cooled to between 1 and 20 °C, preferably between 1 and 10 °C. Performing filtration according to the embodiment described herein is within the standard capabilities of a skilled person. It is understood that the skilled person can adjust parameters to effectively and efficiently perform said filtration to remove the solid material from the aqueous suspension of step a) or b).

[0061] The protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c) has a protein content of at least 0.1%, at least 0.5%, preferably at least 1% and / or has a protein content of between 0.1 and 40 wt.% between 0.5 and 30 wt.%, between 1 and 25 wt.%. The protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c) has a dry weight of between 0.05 and 50%, between 0.1 and 40%, between 0.5 and 30%, preferably between 1 and 25%.

[0062] Preferably, the protein content based on the dry weight of the protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c) is higher compared to the protein content based on the dry weight of the aqueous fraction obtained in step a) or step b), preferably the protein content based on the dry weight is 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 100%, 200% or more higher compared to the protein content based on the dry weight before removing the solid material according to step c).

[0063] In an embodiment, the secondary protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c) has a protein content of between 30 and 95 %, between 30 and 60% based on dry matter (d.s.). In an embodiment, the secondary solid fraction obtained in step c) has a protein content of between 30 and 95 %, between 30 and 60% based on dry matter (d.s.).

[0064] In an embodiment, the solid fraction obtained in step c) is washed with water to obtain an secondary protein-comprising aqueous fraction. In a preferred embodiment, the washing step c) includes the sub steps of: c1) adding water to the solid fraction obtained in step c) to prepare a washed aqueous suspension, c2) adding an acid to the washed aqueous suspension to a pH between 6 and 9; c3) optionally mixing or homogenizing the obtained washed aqueous suspension; and c4) removing the solid fraction from the washed aqueous suspension to obtain a secondary protein-comprising aqueous fraction and a secondary solid fraction.

[0065] Advantageously, applying the steps c1-c4 allows for further protein to be collected as an secondary protein-comprising aqueous fraction. The washed aqueous suspension has a pH of between 6 and 9 and is homogenized to efficiently isolate proteins therein.

[0066] In an embodiment, the mixed and / or homogenized washed aqueous suspension is treated with a proteolytic enzyme to break down (i.e. hydrolyse) the proteins in the secondary protein-comprising fraction obtained in step c4). Preferably, homogenization is performed as described in previous embodiments, e.g. as described in under step a). The skilled person is able to perform homogenization on a protein-comprising solution according to the invention. Preferably, the proteolytic enzyme is selected from one or more of the list of alcalase, pepsin, trypsin, papain, bromelain, and subtilisin. It is understood that other proteolytic enzymes may be used to break down (hydrolyse) the proteins in the protein-comprising solution obtained in step c) or secondary protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step in step c4). The skilled person is able to use any enzyme that can effectively break down proteins therein.

[0067] Removal, or, separation of the (secondary) solid fraction in step c4) is performed in accordance with removal by means of centrifugation, microfiltration and / or ultrafiltration.

[0068] In an embodiment, the secondary protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c4) has a protein content of between 10 and 95 %, between 10 and 50% between 15 and 40% based on dry matter (d.s.). In an embodiment, the secondary solid fraction obtained in step c4) has a protein content of between 30 and 95 %, between 40 and 90%, between 50 and 85% based on dry matter (d.s.)

[0069] In an embodiment, the temperature is between 1 and 80 °C, between 1 and 60 °C, between 1 and 40 °C, between 1 and 10 °C during step c1) to c4). Preferably, the temperature during step c1) to c4) is below 80 °C, below 60 °C, below 40 °C, below 10 during step c1) to c4).

[0070] In an embodiment, the solid fraction obtained in step c) and / or secondary solid fraction step c4) is treated with a proteolytic enzyme to obtain a tertiary proteincomprising aqueous fraction, wherein the enzyme treatment includes the steps: c5) adding the proteolytic enzyme to the solid fraction obtained in step c) and / or secondary solid fraction obtained in step c4) to prepare an proteolytic enzyme -containing aqueous suspension; and c6) removing the solid fraction from the proteolytic enzyme-containing aqueous suspension to obtain the tertiary protein-comprising aqueous fraction and a tertiary solid fraction; wherein the proteolytic enzyme is selected from the list of alcalase, pepsin, trypsin, papain, bromelain, and subtilisin, preferably alcalase.

[0071] Advantageously, the steps c5)-c6) allow for further protein to be collected as an tertiary protein-comprising aqueous fraction due to the hydrolysis of proteins using a proteolytic enzyme. Advantageously, proteolysis, or, the process of hydrolysis allows the solubilization of proteins (i.e. protein fragments) such that they can be separated in e.g. step c6). It is understood that, the same principle of solubilization by means of hydrolysis applies to any previous and or further steps that use a proteolytic enzyme for said purpose. In an embodiment, the steps c5) and c6) are performed using the solid fraction obtained in step c). In another embodiment, the steps c5) and c6) performed are using the secondary solid fraction obtained in step c4. In an embodiment, step c5) is performed at a temperature of between 20 and 80 °C, and a pH of between 2 and 12, and for a duration of between 1 and 120 minutes. It is understood that, depending on the proteolytic enzyme used, the temperature and / or pH needs adjusting such that the proteolytic enzyme is active. The skilled person is able to determine which temperature and pH are optimal given the proteolytic enzyme used. Preferably, an alcalase enzyme is used in step c5) at a temperature of between 15 to 80 °C, preferably 30 to 80 °C, more preferably 50 to 70 °C and a pH of between 5 to 11 , preferably between 7 to 10, for a duration of between 10 to 120 minutes, preferably between 30 to 90 minutes. The skilled person is able to determine suitable conditions for an enzyme to be effective.

[0072] In an embodiment, and as described in the examples below, after the alcalase treatment of step c5) a peptidase enzyme is provided, preferably an exo-peptidase, more preferably a Protona prime enzyme. Preferably, the peptidase is incubated for a duration of between 10 and 120 minutes, more preferably for a duration of between 30 and 90 minutes. In a further embodiment, the proteolytic enzyme, and optionally, the peptidase enzyme, is deactivated after step c5) or during step c6). In yet a further embodiment, the proteolytic enzyme, and, the optionally added peptidase enzyme, is removed together with the solid material in step c). Hence, it is preferred that the proteolytic enzyme, and, the optionally added peptidase is inactive and / or removed from the tertiary protein-containing aqueous fraction obtained at the end of step c6).

[0073] In an embodiment, the tertiary protein-containing aqueous fraction obtained in step c6) has a protein content of between 10 and 95 %, between 20 and 70% between 30 and 60% based on dry matter (d.s.). In an embodiment, the tertiary solid fraction obtained in step c6) has a protein content of between 10 and 95 %, between 20 and 70% between 30 and 60% based on dry matter (d.s.).

[0074] In an embodiment, the temperature is between 1 and 80 °C, between 1 and 60 °C, between 1 and 40 °C, between 1 and 10 °C during step c6). Preferably, the temperature during step c5) and / or c6) is below 80 °C , below 60 °C, below 40 °C, below 10.

[0075] In an embodiment, the protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c) is subjected to centrifugation in step c4), and / or, the secondary protein-containing aqueous fraction obtained in step c4) is subjected to centrifugation in step c6). Centrifugation is performed at a speed of between 1000 to 5000 rpm, between 2000 to 3000 rpm, at a temperature of between 1 and 20 °C, for a duration of between 1 and 60 minutes, between 5 and 45 minutes, preferably between 10 and 30 minutes. The supernatant is collected by decantation and the residue is discarded. In another embodiment, the residue, also referred to as a pellet or solid fraction, is kept for later use and as described in embodiments below. The residue may be stored, e.g. frozen or cooled to between 1 and 20 °C, preferably between 1 and 10 °C. Performing centrifugation according to the embodiment described herein is within the standard capabilities of a skilled person. It is understood that the skilled person can adjust parameters to effectively and efficiently perform said centrifugation to remove (separate) the solid material from the aqueous fractions of step c4) or c6). In an embodiment, the protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c) is subjected to microfiltration or ultrafiltration in step c4), and / or, the secondary proteincontaining aqueous fraction obtained in step c4) is subjected to microfiltration or ultrafiltration in step c6). For example, the protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c) can be passed through a microfiltration membrane or ultrafiltration membrane with an appropriate pore size. The pore size is preferable between 0.1 to 10 pm (micrometer) for microfiltration, or, between 1-100 nm (nanometer) for ultrafiltration. The pressure used in the filtration process (either for micro- or ultrafiltration) is preferably between 0.5 to 10 bar, more preferably between 1 and 5 bar. Preferably, the temperature during filtration is of between 1 and 20 °C. Optionally, the filtration may be performed by applying a vacuum, or, suction e.g. using a Buchner flask and Buchner funnel according to standard practice of using such flasks and funnels. The filtrate containing the protein-comprising fraction is collected while the retentate with solid materials is discarded. In another embodiment, the retentate, also referred to as a pellet or solid fraction, is kept for later use and as described in embodiments below. The retentate may be stored, e.g. frozen or between 1 and 20 °C, preferably between 1 and 10 °C. Performing filtration according to the embodiment described herein is within the standard capabilities of a skilled person. It is understood that the skilled person can adjust parameters to effectively and efficiently perform said filtration to remove the solid material from the aqueous fraction of step c4) or c6).

[0076] In an embodiment the protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c) is mixed with the secondary protein-containing aqueous fraction obtained in step c4), and optionally, with the tertiary protein-containing aqueous fraction obtained in step c6), prior to or e). Hence, subsequent step d) is performed using a combined proteincontaining aqueous fractions of steps c), c4) and / or c6). The water content of the combined protein-comprising aqueous suspension or solution reduced prior to step d) such that a desired volume is provided.

[0077] The secondary protein-containing aqueous fraction obtained in step c4) and / or tertiary protein-containing aqueous fraction obtained in step c6) have a protein content of at least 0.1%, at least 0.5%, preferably at least 1 % and / or has a protein content of between 0.1 and 40 wt.% between 0.5 and 30 wt.%, between 1 and 25 wt.%. The secondary and / or tertiary protein-containing aqueous fraction obtained in step c4) and / or c6), respectively, have a dry weight of between 0.05 and 50%, between 0.1 and 40%, between 0.5 and 30%, preferably between 1 and 25%. The secondary and / or tertiary protein-containing aqueous fraction obtained in step c4) and / or c6) have a protein content as measured in the dry matter of between 50 to 100%, 60 to 100%, 70 to 100%, 80 to 100%, 90 to 100%, or, at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% 90% or more. Preferably, the dry weight of the protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c) is higher compared to the dry weight of the aqueous fraction obtained in step a) or step b), preferably the dry weight is 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 100% 200% or more higher compared to the dry weight before removing the solid material according to step c).

[0078] Step d) adjustment of the pH of the suspension or solution to a pH between 5 and 7

[0079] This step d) is an optional step. Preferably, step d) is carried out. In an embodiment, during this step the aqueous suspension obtained in step a) is adjusted for pH to obtain a pH-adjusted suspension. In an embodiment, during this step the pre-treated aqueous suspension obtained in step b) is adjusted for pH to obtain a pH-adjusted suspension. In an embodiment, during this step the protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c) is adjusted for pH to obtain a pH-adjusted suspension or solution. The pH in step d) is adjusted to a pH of between 5 and 7, preferably between 6 and 7.

[0080] This step d) is carried out by the addition of an acid selected from the group consisting of food grade acids, such as for example selected from the group consisting of citric acid, ascorbic acid, acetic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, phosphoric acid, fumaric acid, succinic acid, benzoic acid, sorbic acid, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, carbonic acid, propionic acid, gluconic acid, oxalic acid, adipic acid, one or more alkali metal or alkali earth metal salts thereof, such as the sodium, potassium or calcium salts thereof, and a combination of one or more thereof. Preferably, citric acid, potassium sorbate, or hydrochloric acid are used. Other acids may also be used that are not considered food grade, e.g. in the case where the aqueous protein-comprising composition as obtained in step d) is not used in a food product. In an embodiment, the temperature is between 1 and 80 °C, between 1 and 60 °C, between 1 and 40 °C, between 1 and 10 °C during step d). Preferably, the temperature during step d) is below 80 °C, below 60 °C, below 40 °C, below 10 °C. Preferably the temperature is also kept between 1 and 80 °C, between 1 and 60 °C, between 1 and 40 °C, between 1 and 10 °C, or, below 80 °C, below 60 °C, below 40 °C, below 10 °C during step e) and / or step f).

[0081] Step e) oxidizing treatment

[0082] This step e) is related to treating the suspension or solution obtained in any one or more of the preceding steps with an oxidizing agent for a certain duration called ozonation time to obtain an aqueous protein-comprising composition. In an embodiment, the oxidizing treatment is an ozone treatment and the oxidizing agent is ozone. In an embodiment, the oxidizing treatment is a hydrogen peroxide treatment and the oxidizing agent is hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Other suitable oxidizing agents are Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCI), Potassium Permanganate (KMnO4). A combination of two or more oxidizing agents may also be used.

[0083] Preferably, the protein-comprising composition is a decolorized protein-comprising composition. Preferably, the protein-comprising composition obtained is a deodorized protein-comprising composition. Preferably, the protein-comprising composition obtained is a decolorized and deodorized protein-comprising composition.

[0084] The present invention uses an oxidizing agent, such as ozone or hydrogen peroxide, to improve the olfactory and / or chromatic properties of a spirulina-based composition. Ozone (O3) is a powerful oxidizing agent and so is hydrogen peroxide.. The present inventors have observed that it can break down odour-causing and colour-causing compounds in spirulina-based compositions, thereby effectively neutralizing unpleasant smells and / or reducing colour. When applied to food, an oxidizing agent targets and oxidizes volatile organic compounds and other odourproducing molecules, reducing the odour as well as targeting pigmented compounds, leading to a reduction in colour intensity without leaving harmful residues. The present inventors have found that an oxidizing treatment is an effective method for deodorizing and / or decolorizing spirulina-based compositions. An extra benefit of the oxidizing treatment is that it can enhance food safety by reducing microbial contamination, thus offering a dual benefit of deodorization / decolorizing and disinfection while maintaining the food's quality and safety.

[0085] It is understood that ozone (O3) can affect the pH of a suspension or solution due to the decomposition of water (H2O) to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). In addition, if hydrogen peroxide is added, that can affect the pH as well. Hence, in an embodiment, the pH of the aqueous protein-comprising composition obtained in step e) is between 5 and 7. The inventors have observed that, when the pH is adjusted in optional step d), the pH of the obtained aqueous protein-comprising composition is affected less by the ozone treatment in step e). Hence, pH treatment of step d) is preferred prior to ozone treatment of step e).

[0086] In an embodiment, the microbial contamination after step e) is at most 50 cfu / g, at most 25 cfu / g at most 10 cfu / g, at most 5 cfu / g. In an embodiment the microbial contamination after step e) is between 1 and 50 cfu / g, between 1 and 25 cfu / g between 1 and 10 cfu / g, between 1 and 5 cfu / g. In yet another embodiment, the microbial contamination after step e) is least reduced by a 1-log, 2-log, 3-log, 4-log, 5-log, 6-log or more reduction in aerobic bacteria, and / or a 1-log, 2-log, 3-log, 4-log, 5-log, 6-log or more reduction in anaerobic bacteria.

[0087] In the present invention the level of deodorization was tested by smelling the compositions obtained. No additional laboratory tests were carried out. The present inventors have observed that the deodorization was linked to the colour, the more the colour was removed, the less the fishy smell became. For the level of colour the Whiteness Index (Wl), Yellowness Index (Yl) and / or CIELAB colour scale value can be used.

[0088] In an embodiment, the oxidizing treatment of step e) is an ozone treatment and said step e) comprises the sub steps of e1) supplying an ozone-containing gas, e2) ozonation treatment, and e3) destruction of any excess ozone gas, if any.

[0089] In an embodiment, the ozone (O3) is supplied in step e1) at a flow of between 0.5 and 3 Nl / min (normal liters per minute), between 1 and 2 Nl / min. In an embodiment, the amount of the ozone used in the treatment of step e2) is between 50 to 80 g / Nm3(grams of ozone per normal cubic meter), between 55 and 75 g / Nm3, between 60 and 70 g / Nm3.

[0090] In an embodiment, the concentration of ozone used in the treatment of step e2) is between 2 and 9 g / h, between 4 and 8 g / h between 5 and 7 g / h. In an embodiment, the total (cumulative) weight of ozone used in step e2) is between 2 and 12 grams, between 3 and 11 grams, between 4 and 10 grams. In an embodiment, the ratio of ozone to solids is between 1 :10 and 1 :1 , between 1 :8 and 1 :2, between 1 :7 and 1 :4. In the experimentals this is referred to as the cumulative amount, in other words, the total amount of ozone added up to that point.

[0091] In an embodiment wherein the pH is adjusted prior to oxidizing treatment according to step d), the oxidizing treatment is between 0.5 and 4 hours, between 1 and 3 hours, between 1 and 2 hours. In an embodiment wherein the pH is not adjusted prior to ozone treatment, the oxidizing treatment is between 0.5 and 4 hours, between 2 and 4 hours, between 2.5 and 3.5 hours. Highly advantageously, the inventors have found that at these ranges for step e1) and e2), the aqueous proteincomprising composition as obtained in step 3) is neutral.

[0092] In an embodiment, during step e) the ratio between the weight of ozone used in step e) and the amount of dry weight of the starting material in step a) is between 0.1 :1 and 0.4: 1

[0093] In an embodiment, when step d) has been carried out, the ratio between the weight of ozone to the dry weight of starting material during step e) is between 0.05:1 and 0.3:1.

[0094] In an embodiment, the oxidizing treatment of step e) is a hydrogen peroxide treatment and said step e) comprises the sub steps of e1) supplying a hydrogen peroxide solution, e2) hydrogen peroxide treatment, and e3) removal of any excess hydrogen peroxide, if any.

[0095] In an embodiment, during step e) the ratio between the weight of oxidizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide, used in step e) and the amount of dry weight of the starting material in step a) is between 1 : 1 and 20:1.

[0096] In an embodiment, the amount of oxidizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide, supplied in step e1) is between 1 % and 30% (v / v), between 2% and 20% (v / v), between 5 and 15% (v / v), preferably between 7% and 12% (v / v).

[0097] In an embodiment, the oxidizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide, supplied in step e1) and the treatment of step e2) is for at least 12 hours, at least 24 hours, at least 48 hours at least 72 hours or more. In a further embodiment, the oxidizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide is incubated at a temperature of at least 21 °C, at least 37 °C, at least 45 °C, at least 60 °C.

[0098] In an embodiment, the oxidizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide, is removed in step e3), using means of filtration, enzymatic treatment or activated charcoal. In a further embodiment, carotenoids are removed in step e3) by means of filtration, enzymatic treatment or activated charcoal.

[0099] In an embodiment, the protein-comprising composition obtained in step e) or f) has a protein content of between 10 and 95%, between 30 and 95%, between 50 and 95% based on dry matter (d.s.).

[0100] In an embodiment, the protein-comprising composition obtained in step e) and / or f) has a whiteness index (Wl) of between 30 and 100, preferably between 30 and 70 and a yellowness index (Yl) of between 5 and 50, preferably 10 and 40 according to the ASTM E313-20 standard.

[0101] The colour values of the present composition are measured using a composition comprising a protein concentration of The Yellowness index (Yl) is measured as 100(Cx X - Cz Z) / Y. Wherein X, Y, Z are tristimulus values, and Cx and Cz are coefficients based on illuminant and observer. The Whiteness Index (Wl) is measured as Wl = Y + (Wl,x)(xn - x) + (Wl,y)(yn - y). Wherein Y is luminance factor, x and y are chromaticity coordinates, xn and yn are standard illuminant coordinates, and Wl,x and Wl,y are coefficients. The colour values of the present composition are measured at a dilution level of the composition comprising a protein concentration of 1.2 wt.%. Hence, any composition, also including any concentrated or dried compositions as described herein, are diluted and / or resuspended to obtain a protein concentration of 1.2 wt.% before determining the Wl and Yl of the composition.

[0102] In an embodiment, said compositions of the invention have a colour value according to the Cl ELAB Colour scale for a of between -10 and -4 and for b of between 10 and -40 at a dry weight of the composition of between 0.5 and 6 wt.%. With higher levels of solid matter (higher dry weight), viz. concentration, the CIELAB values will differ. The CIELAB Colour values were determined using a Hunterlab Ultrascan VIS. Without wishing to be bound by a particular theory, the present inventors believe that by using the present process, the colour stability is increased. In addition, the phycocyanin is not isolated from its natural environment and by keeping other cell components, the colour stability of the phycocyanin is increased. This is an advantage obtained by the method according to the present invention. The colour value is stable even at temperature of pasteurization. In an embodiment, the colour is stable at pH between 8 and 2.5. In an embodiment, said dried composition is prepared from an aqueous composition having a colour value as discussed for the aspect of the method above. The colour value may be stable for at least 4 months, preferably at least 12 months.

[0103] In an embodiment, said compositions of the invention have a colour value according to the CIELAB Colour scale for a of between -0.7 and 1.3, for b of between 5 and 25, and for L of between 55 and 80, all at a protein weight of 1.2 wt.%. The CIELAB Colour values were determined using a Hunterlab Ultrascan VIS.

[0104] In an embodiment, the temperature is between 1 and 80 °C, between 1 and 60 °C, between 1 and 40 °C, between 1 and 10 °C during step e). Preferably, the temperature during step e) is below 60 °C, below 40 °C, below 10 °C. Preferably the temperature is also kept between 1 and 80 °C, 1 and 60 °C, between 1 and 40 °C, between 1 and 10 °C, or, below 80 °C, below 60 °C, below 40 °C, below 10 °C during step e) and / or step f).

[0105] Step f) reducing the water content of the suspension or solution

[0106] This step f) is optional. In an embodiment, step f) is carried out. Step f) can be carried out by reducing the water content by e.g. concentrating, centrifugation, dewatering and / or drying, preferably spray drying, of the protein-comprising composition. The result of step f) can be a concentrated protein-comprising composition or a dried protein-comprising composition. In an embodiment, prior to preferred spray drying in step f) the aqueous protein-comprising composition is first concentrated, e.g. by concentrating, centrifugation, dewatering and / or drying, preferably centrifugation, such that the protein concentration increases. Advantageously, by performing the concentrating, centrifugation, dewatering and / or drying, preferably centrifugation prior to spray drying in step f) the concentration of the protein in the aqueous protein-comprising composition obtained increases which makes the spray drying process more efficient.

[0107] In an embodiment, the water content in step f) is reduced by between 5 and 100%, between 25 and 100%, between 50 and 100%, between 75 and 100%. This may for example be carried out using a centrifuge and is within the skill of a skilled person. The objective is to increase protein concentration and prepare the composition prior to (spray) drying, so it is more efficient.

[0108] In an embodiment, the protein-comprising composition obtained in step e) or f) has a protein content of between 50 and 95 % based on dry matter (d.s.).

[0109] Specific embodiments of the method

[0110] Below are listed specific embodiments of the method combining the steps discussed above.

[0111] In an embodiment, the method comprises step a) and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b1), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b2), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b1) and b2), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b2) and b1), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step c), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step d), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b1), step c), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b2), step c), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b1) and b2), step c), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b2) and b1), step c), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b1), step d), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b2), step d), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b1) and b2), step d), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b2) and b1), step d), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b1), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b2), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b1) and b2), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b2) and b1), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step c), step d), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step c), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step d), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b1), step c), step d), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b2), step c), step d), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b1) and b2), step c), step d), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b2) and b1), step c), step d), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b1), step c), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b2), step c), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b1) and b2), step c), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b2) and b1), step c), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b1), step d), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b2), step d), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b1) and b2), step d), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b2) and b1), step d), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step c), step d), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b1), step c), step d), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), step b2), step c), step d), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b1) and b2), step c), step d), step f), and step e). In an embodiment, the method comprises step a), steps b2) and b1), step c), step d), step f), and step e).

[0112] Aqueous protein-comprising composition

[0113] In an aspect, the invention relates to an aqueous protein-comprising composition (directly) obtained or obtainable by the method according to the invention after step e).

[0114] The invention relates to an aqueous protein-comprising composition derived from a spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material, the composition comprising

[0115] - between 30 and 99 wt.% of water based on the weight of the composition; and

[0116] - between 0.2% and 70% wt.% of protein based on the weight of the composition.

[0117] It is understood that the composition can comprise other components than water and protein. For example, the composition may comprise residual bases or acids used in one or more of steps b), or c). It is further understood that components originating from the starting material may still be present in the final product, for example lipids, nucleic acids or carbohydrates.

[0118] In an embodiment, the aqueous protein-comprising composition, has a whiteness index (Wl) of between 30 and 100, preferably between 30 and 70 and a yellowness index (Yl) of between 5 and 50, preferably 10 and 40 according to the ASTM E313- 20 standard and / or has a pH of between 3 and 11 , between 5 and 9, between 6 and 8 and / or a neutral taste and odour. The Yl and Wl are measured according to the ASTM E313-20 standard using an aqueous composition, for example the aqueous protein-comprising composition according to the invention, that has been diluted / adjusted such that the protein concentration of the aqueous composition is 1.2 wt.%. Preferably the dilution / adjustment of the aqueous composition is performed with water, such as demi-water. Concentrated protein-comprising composition

[0119] In an aspect, the invention relates to a concentrated protein-comprising composition (directly) obtained or obtainable by the method according to the invention after step f).

[0120] The invention relates to a concentrated protein-comprising composition, comprising:

[0121] - between 15 and 29 wt.% of water based on the weight of the composition;

[0122] - between 71 wt.% and 85 wt.% of protein based on the weight of the composition;

[0123] - wherein the composition preferably has a whiteness index (Wl) of between 30 and 100, preferably between 30 and 70 and a yellowness index (Yl) of between 5 and 50, preferably 10 and 40 according to the ASTM E313-20 standard and / or a pH of between 3 and 11 ; and / or a neutral taste and odour. The Yl and Wl are measured according to the ASTM E313-20 standard using an aqueous composition, for example the concentrated protein-comprising composition according to the invention, that has been diluted / adjusted such that the protein concentration of the aqueous composition is 1.2 wt.%. Preferably the dilution / adjustment of the aqueous composition is performed with water, such as demi-water.

[0124] Dry protein-comprising composition

[0125] In an aspect, the invention relates to a dry (dried) protein-comprising composition (directly) obtained or obtainable by the method according to the invention after step f).

[0126] The invention moreover relates to a dried protein-comprising composition derived from a spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material, the composition comprising between 60 and 95 wt.% of proteins based on the weight of the composition.

[0127] In an embodiment, the dried protein-comprising composition has a whiteness index (Wl) of between 30 and 100, preferably between 30 and 70 and a yellowness index (Yl) of between 5 and 50 , preferably 10 and 40 according to the ASTM E313-20 standard and / or a pH of between 3 and 11 and / or a neutral taste and odour. The Yl and Wl are measured according to the ASTM E313-20 standard using an aqueous composition, for example the dry protein-comprising composition according to the invention, that has been resuspended / diluted in an aqueous liquid such that the protein concentration of the aqueous composition is 1.2 wt.%. Preferably the dilution / adjustment of the dried composition is performed with water, such as demiwater.

[0128] Use of oxidizing treatment

[0129] In addition, the invention relates to the use of oxidizing treatment to obtain a neutral aqueous protein-comprising suspension or solution from a starting material. All embodiments discussed above are also applicable for the use.

[0130] Effects of the invention

[0131] As will be shown below in the Examples, the present method using oxidizing treatment allows to prepare neutral protein-comprising compositions from starting materials allows for the preparation of such compositions with reduced colour (partly decolorized) (compared to when the method of the invention is not used), or even completely eliminated colour (completely decolorized) and / or the present method using oxidizing treatment allows to prepare protein-comprising compositions from starting materials allows for the preparation of such compositions with reduced odour (partly deodorized) (compared to when the method of the invention is not used), or even completely eliminated odour (completely deodorized) and / or the present method using oxidizing treatment allows to prepare protein-comprising compositions from starting materials allows for the preparation of such compositions with reduced taste (compared to when the method of the invention is not used), or even completely eliminated taste (completely deodorized).

[0132] Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measured cannot be used to advantage. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. One or more of the objects of the invention are achieved by the appended claims.

[0133] LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

[0134] 100 spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material

[0135] 101 aqueous liquid

[0136] 102 aqueous suspension (of a spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material)

[0137] 200 pre-treated aqueous suspension

[0138] 300 protein-comprising aqueous fraction

[0139] 310 solid fraction

[0140] 311 washed aqueous suspension

[0141] 312 aqueous liquid

[0142] 320 secondary protein-comprising aqueous fraction

[0143] 330 secondary solid fraction

[0144] 331 proteolytic enzyme

[0145] 332 proteolytic-enzyme-containing aqueous suspension

[0146] 340 tertiary protein-comprising aqueous fraction

[0147] 350 tertiary (waste) solid fraction

[0148] 400 pH-adjusted suspension or solution

[0149] 500 aqueous protein-comprising composition

[0150] 501 oxidizing agent

[0151] 600 concentrated protein-comprising composition

[0152] 700 dried protein-comprising composition

[0153] Figure 1 shows a flow diagram of the method according to the invention, including various optional steps. The flow diagram depicts a preferred method according to the invention, steps shown therein may be removed, or, additional steps may be included as described in embodiments below.

[0154] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material 100 is provided together with an aqueous liquid (e.g. water) 101. The spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material and water may be mixed to obtain a aqueous suspension of spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material 102. This aqueous suspension 102 may be pre-treated to obtain a pre-treated aqueous suspension 200, for example by adjusting the pH to a value of between 7 and 11 and / or mixing and (optionally) homogenizing. The pre-treated aqueous suspension 200 may be separated in a protein-comprising aqueous fraction 300 and a solid fraction 310. The solid fraction 310 may be mixed with an aqueous liquid 311 (e.g. water) and the resuspended solid fraction is thereby washed to obtain a washed aqueous suspension 312.

[0155] The solid material may be removed for a second time from the washed aqueous suspension 311 to obtain an secondary protein-comprising aqueous fraction 320 and a secondary solid fraction 330. The secondary solid fraction 330 is treated with an proteolytic enzyme 331 (e.g. alcalase) enzyme to obtain an proteolytic-enzyme- containing aqueous suspension 332. The solid material may again be removed from the proteolytic-enzyme-containing aqueous suspension 332 to obtain a tertiary protein-comprising aqueous fraction 340 and a tertiary (waste) solid fraction 350.

[0156] The aqueous suspension of spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material 102 or the pre-treated aqueous suspension 200 or the protein-comprising aqueous fraction 300, optionally combined with the secondary protein-comprising aqueous fraction 320 and / or optionally combined with the tertiary protein-comprising aqueous fraction 340 may be mixed with a food grade acid to obtain a pH-adjusted suspension or solution 400.

[0157] Next, oxidizing agent 501 is provided and the aqueous suspension of spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material 102 or the pre-treated aqueous suspension 200 or the protein-comprising aqueous fraction 300, optionally combined with the secondary protein-comprising aqueous fraction 320 and / or optionally combined with the tertiary protein-comprising aqueous fraction 340 or the pH-adjusted suspension or solution 400 is treated with oxidizing agent 501 to obtain an aqueous proteincomprising composition 500 and the remaining oxidizing agent (e.g. ozone) is (optionally) destroyed.

[0158] Optionally, the water content of the aqueous protein-comprising composition 500 is reduced to obtain a concentrated protein-comprising composition 600 having a reduced water content or the aqueous protein-comprising composition 500 may be dried to obtain a dried protein-comprising composition 700.

[0159] EXAMPLES

[0160] The present invention is further elucidated based on the Examples below which are illustrative only and not considered limiting to the present invention. The following experiments have been carried out.

[0161] EXPERIMENT 1

[0162] Experiment 1 has the objective of demonstrating that ozone treatment according to the present invention can be used to decolorize and / or deodorize aqueous spirulina compositions. Experiment 1a is a comparative experiment without ozone treatment and Experiment 1 b is an experiment according to the invention with ozone treatment.

[0163] EXPERIMENT 2

[0164] Experiment 2 has the objective of demonstrating the effect of adjusting the pH prior to ozone treatment helps the ozonation process yielding more efficient results. Experiment 2a is the same as experiment 1 b and has ozone treatment but without prior pH adjustment. Experiment 2b is an inventive experiment with ozone treatment and prior pH adjustment.

[0165] EXPERIMENT 3

[0166] Experiment 3 has the objective of demonstrating the effect of an enzymatic treatment prior ozonation allows for the use of a starting material having a higher protein content. Experiment 3a does not have an enzymatic treatment. Experiment 3b does have enzymatic treatment.

[0167] EXPERIMENT 4

[0168] Experiment 4 has the objective of demonstrating that oxidizing treatment according to the present invention can be carried out using hydrogen peroxide as oxidizing agent and that it can be used to decolorize and / or deodorize aqueous spirulina compositions. Experiment 4a does not have hydrogen peroxide treatment. Experiment 4b does have a hydrogen peroxide treatment. COMPARATIVE EXPERIMENT 1A

[0169] Step a) The aqueous suspension comprising the spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material is obtained according to a prior art method of extracting phycocyanin pigment described in WO2023 / 085922 and WO2023 / 085941 . Said aqueous suspension has a content of solid material of 10.5 wt.% and a protein content of 7 wt.%. This suspension is diluted 1 : 1 (w / w) in demi water. The mixture comprises 34.00 gram (solid) of starting material. The suspension is subjected to homogenization for a duration of 15 mins using a ULTRA-TURRAX® homogenizer from IKA with a stirring speed of between 4000 to 10.000 rpm.

[0170] Step b1) The homogenized suspension is adjusted for pH using a 1M sodium hydroxide solution in water until the suspension has a pH of 10.5.

[0171] Step b2) The suspension is subjected to high-pressure mixing, high shear mixing or homogenization for a duration of 10 mins using a ULTRA-TURRAX® homogenizer from IKA with a stirring speed of between 4000 to 10.000 rpm.

[0172] Step c) The suspension obtained is subjected to removal of solid material by means of centrifugation using 4000 rpm on a table-top centrifuge at a temperature of 4 °C for a duration of 10 minutes. The supernatant is collected as the aqueous proteincomprising liquid by decantation and the residue is discarded.

[0173] Step d) Sorbic acid, in the form of potassium sorbate, is added to the aqueous protein-comprising liquid to an amount of 0.08 wt.% of the aqueous liquid.

[0174] This results in dark brown-green liquid having a strong fishy smell and taste. This is not according to the present invention. This comparative example shows that without ozone treatment the result is a dark brown / green liquid with a strong fishy smell and strong fishy taste.

[0175] EXPERIMENT 1 B

[0176] Steps a)-d) are repeated as discussed above for Experiment 1A.

[0177] Step e) The aqueous fraction from step d) is introduced in an ozonation column where a tube injects a mixture of air and ozone at the bottom of the column in the amounts as provided in the table below. Any unreacted and excess ozone escaped the system through the corresponding escape tube and was destructed by an ozone destruction filter to avoid environmental contamination and prevent any safety issues. During the ozonation treatment, foam was formed, most likely due to oxidation of components present in the aqueous fraction. If was found that after approx. 10 minutes per run, the foam reached the predetermined maximum limit, and hence the flow of oxygen and ozone was stopped after each run of 10 minutes and resumed after a certain period when the foam reduces. During and between the runs, there is no amendment to the setup nor to the material present in the column. At the end of each run, the ozonation time, pH, temperature, ozone amount, and ORP, visually observed colour and smell was measured and shown in the table below. The Experiment is stopped completely when the aqueous liquid was found to be completely colourless, transparent and odourless.

[0178] Table 1: results from experiment 1B

[0179] *ORP Value denotes a measurement that indicates how oxidizing or reducing a liquid is. It can be linked with the capacity of a substance to be further oxidized. It is measured using a Milwaukee mw500 Pro ORP-meter. A minimum ORP value of 218 mV should be reached to achieve a good discoloration and deodorization.

[0180] This comparative example shows that with ozone treatment the result is a liquid having either a dark brown colour or even a white colour, having varying degrees of smell. For the present experiment the ratio of 03 to starting material is 0.29 to obtain a completely deodorizing and decolorized material.

[0181] EXPERIMENT 2A

[0182] This is exactly the same as Experiment 1 B and can be used to compare with Experiment 2B discussed below.

[0183] EXPERIMENT 2B

[0184] Steps a)-c) are repeated as discussed above for Experiment 1A.

[0185] Step d) The pH of the aqueous protein-comprising liquid is adjusted using hydrochloric acid (HCI) to a pH of 6.7.

[0186] Step e) The aqueous protein-comprising composition from step d) is introduced in an ozonation column where a tube injects air and ozone at the bottom as per concentrations indicated in the table below. The excess ozone is escaping the system through the corresponding escape tube and destroyed in an ozone destruction filter to avoid environmental contamination and prevent any safety issues. Foam is formed due to the oxidation of proteins and other components and when the foam in the column is above a predetermined upper limit, the ozonation stops indicating the end of each run. The subsequent run is started once the foam reduces to a predetermined under limit and it can start again. The ozonation time and dissolved oxygen, conductivity, temperature, ozone concentration and ORP is measured for every run. The colour of the liquid and the foam are observed for each run. The pH is adjusted to 6.7 prior to the ozone treatment. This was shown to have the effect that decolorization is obtained at a faster rate, after approximately 60 a mostly yellow-white composition was observed with hardly any fishy smell, after 90 minutes complete decolourisation is achieved and a neutral smell is observed compared to 180 minutes for Experiment 2A. Without wishing to be bound to a particular theory, the present inventors believe that the ozone is depleted by reacting with other components present in the mixture. Without wishing to be bound to a particular theory, the present inventors have observed that a rapid ORP increase at lower pH indicates a stronger oxidizing environment due to persistent molecular ozone. In addition, it was observed that conductivity increased in both experiment 2A and 2B, more pronounced in the first trial (7250 to 8250 mS / cm) compared to the second (5000 to 7199 mS / cm). This suggests ion formation during oxidation, potentially affecting treatment efficiency and final water quality.

[0187] Table 2: results from experiment 2B

[0188] *ORP Value denotes a measurement that indicates how oxidizing or reducing a liquid is. It can be linked with the capacity of a substance to be further oxidized. It is measured using a Milwaukee mw500 Pro ORP-meter. A minimum ORP value of 218 mV should be reached to achieve a good discoloration and deodorization.

[0189] EXPERIMENT 3A

[0190] Step a) The aqueous suspension comprising the spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material is obtained according to a prior art method of extracting phycocyanin pigment described in WO2023 / 085922 and WO2023 / 085941 . Said aqueous suspension has a content of solid material of 10.5 wt.% and a protein content of 7 wt.%. This suspension is diluted 1 :1 (w / w) in water. The suspension is subjected to homogenization for a duration of 15 mins using a ULTRA-TURRAX® homogenizer from IKA with a stirring speed of between 4000 to 10.000 rpm.

[0191] Step b) The homogenized suspension is adjusted using a 3M sodium hydroxide solution in water until the suspension has a pH of 10.

[0192] Step c) The suspension obtained in step b) is subjected to removal of solid material by means of centrifugation using 6000 rpm on a table-top centrifuge at a temperature of 4 °C for a duration of 10 minutes. The supernatant (also referred to as the proteincomprising aqueous fraction) and pellet (also referred to as solid fraction) is collected . The supernatant and solid fraction are analysed for which the results are shown in the table below (sup-1 and pel-1 , respectively). The supernatant is stored to be combined with further supernatant fractions as described below.

[0193] Step d) The pellet is resuspended 1 : 1 (w / w) in water and the pH is adjusted to 8.5 with hydrochloric acid (HCI)

[0194] Step e) The suspension obtained in step d) is subjected to removal of solid material by means of centrifugation using 4000 rpm on a table-top centrifuge at a temperature of 4 °C for a duration of 10 minutes. The supernatant (also referred to as the secondary protein-comprising aqueous fraction) and pellet (also referred to as secondary solid fraction) is collected. The supernatant and pellet are analysed for which the results are shown in the table below (sup-2 and pel-2, respectively). Step f) The supernatant of step c) and supernatant of step e) are combined as the final aqueous protein-comprising composition, also referred to as the aqueous protein-comprising composition, and analysed for which the results are shown in the table below (prod-1).

[0195] Table 3: results from experiment 3A

[0196] EXPERIMENT 3B

[0197] Steps a)-e) are repeated as discussed above for Experiment 3A.

[0198] Step f) The supernatant of step e) is heated to a temperature of 60 °C and an alaclase enzyme at a concentration of 1.5% is added to the heated mixture. The mixture comprising alcalase is incubated for 60 minutes at 60 °C under mild stirring.

[0199] Step g) After the incubation of step f) 0.5% of Protona prime enzyme is added to the mixture of step f) and incubated for 60 minutes at 60 °C under mild stirring.

[0200] Step h) The mixture is heated to 80-82 °C to inactivate the alcalase and Protona enzymes.

[0201] Step i) The suspension obtained in step h) is subjected to removal of solid material by means of centrifugation using 4000 rpm on a table-top centrifuge at a temperature of 4 °C for a duration of 10 minutes. The supernatant (also referred to as the tertiary protein-containing aqueous fraction) and pellet (also referred to as tertiary solid fraction) is collected. The supernatant and pellet are analysed for which the results are shown in the table below (sup-3 and pel-3, respectively)

[0202] Step j). The supernatant of step c) and supernatant of step e) and supernatant of step i) are combined as the (final) aqueous protein-comprising composition and analysed for which the results are shown in the table below (prod-1). Table 4: results from experiment 3B

[0203] From these experiments it can be concluded that the pre-treatment with an alcalase enzyme increases the efficiency of protein recovery from 56 % to 78 %. Without wishing to be bound to a particular theory, the present inventors believe that this is due to the hydrolyzation of protein that allows to solubilize and separate / force the protein into the liquid part of the composition, e.g. away from the non-solubilized part.

[0204] EXPERIMENT 4A

[0205] Steps a)-d) are repeated as discussed above for Experiment 1A.

[0206] This results in dark brown-green liquid having a strong fishy smell and taste. This is not according to the present invention. This comparative example shows that without ozone treatment the result is a dark brown / green liquid with a strong fishy smell and strong fishy taste.

[0207] EXPERIMENT 4B

[0208] Steps a)-d) are repeated as discussed above for Experiment 1A.

[0209] Step e) The aqueous fraction from step d) is mixed according to the table 4 below with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) at a concentration of 5% 10% or 11 % (v / v). The mixed solution comprising the aqueous fraction and hydrogen peroxide is stored for 48 hours at 45 degrees Celsius. Table 4: mixing conditions for experiment 4B

[0210] From these experiments it can be concluded that the samples at 11% H202 yielded the lightest (in terms of Whiteness Index and Yellowness Index) and less green appearance.

[0211] COLOUR MEASUREMENT

[0212] The (final) aqueous protein-comprising composition as obtained in experiment 3B was diluted to a protein content 1.2 wt.%. As a comparative sample the aqueous protein-comprising composition as obtained in experiment 3A was diluted to a protein content 1 .2 wt.%.

[0213] As further comparative examples, a 1.2 wt.% protein content soy protein solution was obtained by dissolving it in distilled water, a 79 wt.% protein powder of soy protein isolate (SPI), and, an 1.2 wt.% protein content of an algae solution obtained from FUL Foods, were provided

[0214] To measure the colour values, 40 ml the samples were placed in a petri dish.

[0215] The colour value was measured using a Xade Finder to find the L,a,b values. The Yellow Index (Yl) and Whiteness Index (Wl) were calculated according to ASTM E313-20 standard.

[0216] The results of the colour measurements for the samples are shown in table 5. Table 5: colour measurement results

[0217] From the results of the colour measurements it can be observed that ozonation of the aqueous protein-comprising composition results in a Wl of 7.92 and a Yl of 41.91. Comparatively, the non-ozonated sample has a Wl of -60.33 and a Yl of 89.4.

[0218] Hence, the results demonstrate that ozonation results in a decolourized aqueous protein-comprising composition.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A method of producing a protein-comprising composition from a spirulina- based protein-comprising starting material, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing an aqueous suspension of a spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material; b) optionally pre-treating the aqueous suspension and obtaining a pre-treated aqueous suspension, preferably step b) comprises the following sub steps: b1) adjusting the pH of the aqueous suspension to a value between 7 and 11 ; and / or b2) homogenizing the aqueous suspension; c) optionally removing solid material from the aqueous suspension obtained in step a) or pre-treated aqueous suspension obtained in step b), to obtain a proteincomprising aqueous fraction and a solid fraction; d) optionally adjusting the pH of the aqueous suspension obtained in step a) or the pre-treated aqueous suspension obtained in step b) or the protein-comprising aqueous fraction in step c) to a pH between 5 and 7 preferably by the addition of an acid to obtain a pH-adjusted suspension or solution; e) treating the aqueous suspension obtained in step a), or the pre-treated aqueous suspension obtained step b), or the protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c), or the pH-adjusted suspension or solution obtained in step d) with an oxidizing agent to obtain an aqueous protein-comprising composition, preferably wherein the oxidizing agent is selected from the group consisting of ozone, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), sodium hypochlorite (NaOCI), potassium permanganate (KMnO4) and a combination of two or more thereof; f) optionally reducing the water content of the aqueous protein-comprising composition obtained in step e) to obtain a concentrated protein-comprising composition or a dried protein-comprising composition.

2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the aqueous suspension of step a) is obtained by mixing the spirulina-based protein-comprising starting material and an aqueous liquid, preferably water.

3. The method according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the oxidizing treatment of step e) comprises an ozone treatment and wherein step e) comprises the sub steps of e1) providing an ozone-containing gas, e2) contacting the aqueous suspension obtained in step a), or pre-treated aqueous suspension obtained step b), or the protein-comprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c), or pH-adjusted suspension or solution obtained in step d) with ozone as oxidizing agent , and e3) destruction of excess ozone gas, if any.

4. The method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the aqueous suspension in step b1) is obtained by addition of a base selected from the group consisting of food grade bases, preferably sodium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, calcium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate ammonium bicarbonate, and a combination of two or more thereof.

5. The method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the solid fraction obtained in step c) is washed with an aqueous liquid, preferably water, to obtain an secondary protein-containing aqueous fraction, preferably wherein the washing includes the steps of c1) adding the aqueous liquid, preferably water, to the solid fraction obtained in step c) to prepare a washed aqueous suspension, c2) adding an acid to the washed aqueous suspension to a pH between 6 and 9; c3) optionally mixing or homogenizing the obtained washed aqueous suspension; and c4) removing the solid fraction from the washed aqueous suspension to obtain a secondary protein-containing aqueous fraction and a secondary solid fraction.

6. The method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the solid fraction obtained in step c) and / or secondary solid fraction obtained in step c4) is treated with a proteolytic enzyme, to obtain a tertiary protein-containing aqueous fraction, wherein the enzyme treatment includes the steps c5) adding the proteolytic enzyme to the solid fraction obtained in step c) and / or secondary solid fraction obtained in step c4) to prepare an proteolytic-enzyme-containing aqueous suspension; and c6) removing the solid fraction from the proteolytic-enzyme- containing aqueous suspension to obtain the tertiary protein-containing aqueous fraction, wherein the proteolytic enzyme is selected from the list consisting of of alcalase, pepsin, trypsin, papain, bromelain, and subtilisin, preferably alcalase.

7. The method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the proteincomprising aqueous fraction obtained in step c) is mixed with the secondary proteincontaining aqueous fraction obtained in step c4), and optionally, with the tertiary protein-containing aqueous fraction obtained in step c6), prior to step d) or e).

8. The method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the proteincomprising composition obtained in step e) or f) has a protein content of between 50 and 95 % based on dry matter (d.s.).

9. The method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the proteincomprising composition obtained in step e) and / or f) has a whiteness index (Wl) of between 30 and 100, preferably between 30 and 70 and a yellowness index (Yl) of between 5 and 50 , preferably 10 and 40 according to the ASTM E313-20 standard.

10. The method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the temperature is between 1 and 80 °C during step a) and / or during step b) and / or during step c) and / or during step d) and / or during step e).

11. The method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein during step e) the ratio between the weight of ozone used in step e) and the dry weight of the starting material in step a) is between 0.1 : 1 and 0.4:1 , and / or wherein during step e) the ratio between the weight of hydrogen peroxide used in step e) and the dry weight of the starting material in step a) is between 1 :1 and 20:1.

12. An aqueous protein-comprising composition derived from a spirulina-based starting material, the composition comprising- between 30 and 99 wt.% of water based on the weight of the composition; and- between 0.2 and 70 wt.% of protein based on the weight of the composition.

13. The aqueous protein-comprising composition according to claim 12, having a whiteness index (Wl) of between 30 and 100, preferably between 30 and 70 and a yellowness index (Yl) of between 5 and 50, preferably 10 and 40 according to theASTM E313-20 standard and / or a pH of between 3 and 11 and / or a neutral taste and odour.

14. A dried protein-comprising composition derived from a spirulina-based starting material, the composition comprising between 60 and 95 wt.% of proteins based on the weight of the composition.

15. The dried protein-comprising composition according to claim 14, having a whiteness index (Wl) of between 30 and 100, preferably between 30 and 70 and a yellowness index (Yl) of between 5 and 50, preferably 10 and 40 according to the ASTM E313-20 standard scale and / or a pH of between 3 and 11 and / or a neutral taste and odour.

16. A use of an oxidizing treatment to obtain a neutral aqueous protein- comprising solution or suspension from a Spirulina-based starting material.

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