Metrosert and TFTAK have joined the Pilots4U network, which brings together pilot-scale facilities across Europe and helps companies identify suitable opportunities to test and scale their bioinnovation solutions. Membership in the network opens up access for Estonian bio- and food-sector companies to validate and scale their technologies in state-of-the-art European pilot plants.
According to the initiative’s coordinators, the collaboration between Metrosert and TFTAK within the Pilots4U network will help companies overcome key bottlenecks in the food innovation development process—from early-stage experimentation to industrial-scale production.
TFTAK’s core strength lies in food technology and biotechnology development, covering the full spectrum from initial experimentation to early-stage product development. Metrosert’s soon-to-be-opened pilot plant will complement this by enabling the transition of processes into industrial conditions and production volumes.
Andres Maser, Business Development Manager at TFTAK, emphasized that participation in the Pilots4U platform is important as it facilitates connections with a broader range of companies seeking suitable R&D partners for scaling bio-based technologies.
“We see Pilots4U as a platform that can connect technology developers, industrial partners, and pilot infrastructures, enabling faster validation, reduced scaling risks, and more efficient market entry for all stakeholders developing circular bioeconomy solutions in the European Union and globally.”
“If TFTAK enables the production of the first kilograms and validates the technology, then our pilot plant provides a clear understanding of how processes perform with industrial-scale equipment,” added Karl Peebo, Head of the Biorefining Unit at Metrosert. According to him, the Pilots4U portal is particularly valuable for companies, as it ensures that their development processes do not remain confined to the laboratory level.
“Metrosert conducts feasibility studies, provides consultancy services, and helps identify funding opportunities—primarily from European programs. In doing so, we integrate the entire bio- and food innovation development process into a comprehensive solution. This supports developers of novel foods and functional ingredients such as alternative proteins, sweeteners, and probiotics, as well as companies seeking to valorize industrial side streams from dairy, brewing, or grain processing industries, or to develop new biomaterials and biocosmetics,” Peebo explained.
Joining the Pilots4U network strengthens the role of TFTAK and Metrosert within Estonia’s bio- and food innovation ecosystem and provides companies with a clear advantage—the ability to move more rapidly from concept to industrial production by leveraging top-tier European infrastructure and expertise.
Learn more about Metrosert’s applied research capabilities in the field of biorefining.