The UK is exploring homegrown lupin as a protein-rich, sustainable alternative to imported soya in livestock feed. Currently, the UK imports over 3.5 million tonnes of soya annually, mostly from Brazil, which contributes to deforestation and high carbon emissions.

The Sustainable Lupin Project:

• Led by: UK Agri-Tech Centre

• Partners: Soya UK, Phytoform Labs, Newcastle University, Sustainable Direction

• Duration: 2-year feasibility study under the UK government’s Sustainable Farm-based Protein competition

Project Focus:

• Assess whether lupin can partially or fully replace imported soya.

• Conduct life cycle analysis, field trials, and gene-editing to improve traits such as herbicide tolerance and pod-shattering.

• Explore regenerative agricultural practices, including reduced/no-tillage methods.

Key Insights:

• Lupin is considered the most viable species to genuinely replace soya protein, outperforming peas and beans in protein content and quality.

• Field trials show potential, though yields are variable due to weather and soil conditions.

• Gene-editing efforts aim to develop lupin with robust roots, leaf cover, and resilience in low-nutrient soils without pesticides.

• Farmer adoption remains low, with ~2,000 acres grown annually, mostly for direct livestock feed.

‘Lupin Loop’ Expansion:

• Collaborating with UK and Canadian partners to enhance agronomic traits, produce sweet-alkaloid-free lupin flour, and develop lupin-derived ingredients (proteins, fibers, lipids).

• Goal: Create region-specific food product portfolios and optimize cultivation practices.

The initiative reflects a push toward reducing the UK’s reliance on imported soya while promoting sustainable, locally produced feed. How do you see lupin fitting into your herd’s feed strategy, and what challenges or benefits would you anticipate in replacing soya with lupin on your farm?

Source: Dairy Global, 14 August 2025 Link