Creating plant-based alternatives that mimic the taste and texture of animal-derived products has been a challenge for many companies.
One specific area of focus is dairy, where achieving the desired “creaminess” without using real cream is particularly challenging. Cultivated Biosciences, a Swiss biotechnology food startup, claims to have addressed this challenge with its yeast cream. This innovative product is derived from a unique type of oleaginous yeast and replicates the texture and mouthfeel of traditional cream.
In 2022, the company secured a $1.5 million pre-seed funding round. At that time, they had successfully developed a fat-rich ingredient that mimics the texture and stability of dairy-free products while enhancing taste quality and eliminating the need for additives.
Cultivated Biosciences utilizes yeast biomass fermentation technology, which leverages the high-protein content and rapid growth of microorganisms to produce protein-rich food. Unlike precision fermentation, this method does not involve genetic modification, making it easier to scale. Lucie Rein, the company’s chief commercial officer who joined in March 2023, highlighted the benefits of this approach.
The yeast cream comprises fats, proteins, and fibers derived solely from the yeast, featuring a unique “microstructure” that closely resembles milk fat droplets. The company aims to integrate this innovative ingredient into consumer products such as coffee creamers, milk, and ice cream.
During its recent public debut, Cultivated Biosciences showcased a proof-of-concept coffee creamer with exceptional stability and compatibility with hot and acidic beverages like coffee. Rein emphasized the challenges of creating a creamer that maintains its creamy consistency, taste, and color when added to coffee.
Over the past year, Cultivated Biosciences has significantly scaled its production capabilities, moving from producing 5-10 liters to 1,500 liters of cream, with plans to reach 80,000 liters in collaboration with production partners according to Rein.
The dairy industry continues to attract entrepreneurs and investors, with companies like Perfect Day and Better Dairy using precision fermentation to create dairy alternatives. Cultivated Biosciences has also raised $5 million in additional funding, positioning itself alongside other innovators in the plant-based dairy space.
The company is currently in discussions with foodservice companies with the aim of launching its product in the United States by 2025, subject to FDA approval. Rein mentioned ongoing trials with major industry players, indicating strong interest in the company’s innovative approach.
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