Imagindairy announced that it received a “no questions” response letter from the FDA for its animal-free whey protein β-lactoglobulin. The FDA response was the result of a GRAS self-determination that Imagindairy submitted last summer for its protein produced by Aspergillus oryzae strain Ao_st0002. This means that the ingredient can now be used in various dairy and non-dairy products in the United States.
This “no questions” response is a significant achievement, as it allows Imagindairy to use its animal-free whey protein at levels ranging from 5-35% in a variety of food products. This includes milk and milk-based products, dairy-based frozen desserts, nutritional bars and beverages, meal replacements, and supplements. Imagindairy is only the third company to receive such a letter from the FDA for an animal-free whey protein.
The company’s animal-free dairy is produced through a combination of precision fermentation and a proprietary AI platform. With the recent acquisition of industrial-scale precision fermentation production lines, Imagindairy aims to sell its animal-free milk proteins at cost parity to traditional dairy.
The acquisition of these production lines will also allow Imagindairy to speed up the development of other milk proteins. The company plans to triple its production volume in the next one or two years and already claims to be producing industrial scale batches at a competitive cost structure to traditional dairy.
Having access to over 100,000 liters of fermentation capacity, Imagindairy will be able to overcome production capacity limitations that have affected other companies relying on precision fermentation. This acquisition will support mass-market adoption and transition Imagindairy to an industrial company.
The food and beverage industry trends towards innovation, sustainability, and consumer preferences are driving companies like Imagindairy to develop new technologies and manufacturing processes. As the food and beverage industry continues to evolve, it’s important for companies to stay ahead of these developments and adapt to changing regulations, consumer trends, and market demands.
