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Quantum computing firm Pasqal has partnered with computational intelligence specialist True Nexus to tackle one of the toughest problems in alternative food development: accurately predicting how proteins behave in complex food systems.

The collaboration, announced this week, aims to apply Pasqal’s neutral-atom quantum processors to protein modeling challenges that have traditionally been difficult for classical computing to solve. Pasqal also recently revealed plans to go public through a merger with Bleichroeder Acquisition Corp. II.

For engineers and developers working in food technology, computational biology, and quantum simulation, the project highlights a growing role for quantum hardware in modeling highly complex molecular interactions.

Quantum modeling for food proteins

The two companies will focus on modeling protein functionality—particularly gelation, texture, and behavior in multi-ingredient food environments. These properties are critical for creating convincing alternatives to animal-derived proteins.

As part of the effort, Pasqal and True Nexus plan to build what they describe as the first fully vectorized, dynamic 3D model of protein gelation. The model will combine multiple data layers including protein extraction parameters, molecular structure, processing conditions, environmental variables, and the requirements of specific food applications.

“For decades, the industry has been constrained by a lack of true computational understanding of protein behavior,” said Dominik Grabinski, CEO of True Nexus. “Partnering with Pasqal allows us to model protein functionality at a level of fidelity that simply hasn’t been possible before. This is the breakthrough that can shift the entire sector from trial-and-error to true design.”

Tackling complexity with quantum processors

According to the partners, Pasqal’s neutral-atom quantum computing platform can capture interactions and variables at a level of detail that classical simulations struggle to handle.

“Quantum computing allows us to tackle complexity that has limited innovation for decades,” said Wasiq Bokhari, CEO of Pasqal. “Together with True Nexus, we’re helping enable a more scalable, design-driven approach to sustainable protein development.”

The longer-term goal is to establish a reference model for protein functionality that food and ingredient companies can use when developing crops, optimizing seeds, or designing proteins through precision fermentation.

If successful, the approach could help address a persistent bottleneck in alternative protein development: replicating the functional performance of animal proteins in food products.

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