Rapeseed is an important oil crop cultivated in Germany. In addition to its high seed oil content, rapeseed also provides a high content of valuable protein. Currently, this protein is used mainly for feed. The aim of the RaPEQ-project is the development of new options for the application of rapeseed protein which presents a high nutritional value in food production.

To reach this aim, targeted approaches of molecular breeding will be used to increase rapeseed protein content, and to improve the quality of the protein fractions. Additionally, by using sensomics approaches, the type and amount of off-taste components shall be determined. Using this information, reduction of these off-taste components will be addressed. It is anticipated that the modifications shall not negatively affect oil yield or oil quality. Defined setting of techno-functional rapeseed protein properties will be achieved by optimizing the napin-cruciferin ratio. Furthermore, rapeseed processing protocols will be improved to obtain a high protein yield as well as a high oil yield from the same extraction. Analytical methods will be developed or adapted to characterize protein composition, techno-functional properties, content of antinutritive components and sensory properties. The results of rapeseed protein characterisation will form the basis to define the possibilities for the application of the respective protein. One focus is on the application of rapeseed protein in the production of textured meat analogues. New methods will be explored and developed which should offer potential for IP protection. In the longer term, the project will contribute to develop improved rapeseed varieties with variety protection as property right which due to the breeders privilege exhibits open source features. RaPEQ will contribute to strengthening Germany as an optimal place for science and economy, and it will strongly support the establishment of knowledge-based bio-economy.