Fooditive, a start-up in the food industry, has announced groundbreaking advancements in the production of vegan casein, a plant-based alternative to dairy casein. Through precision fermentation using a proprietary bacterial strain, Fooditive has achieved a genetically identical version of dairy casein that is completely animal-free. This breakthrough opens doors for the development of sustainable and nutritious plant-based dairy products that closely resemble their original counterparts in terms of taste and texture.
Having successfully completed manufacturing trials, Fooditive is now ready to scale up production to meet the demands of its European customers. However, before proceeding, the company must obtain Novel Food approval in the EU. Recognizing the transformative power of partnerships, Fooditive aims to collaborate with a like-minded partner who shares their commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Precision fermentation-derived products and ingredients face regulatory challenges, particularly in the approval process for Novel Foods. Fooditive’s innovative solutions come amid a scarcity of global production capacity specifically for precision fermentation and high capital expenditure costs. Collaborative efforts, such as those advocated by Food Fermentation Europe (FFE), are crucial in accelerating approval processes in Europe and mitigating risks for precision fermentation applications in the dairy sector.
Fooditive’s CEO and founder, Moayad Abushokhedim, emphasizes the company’s determination to navigate regulatory processes and foster collaborative growth. They are not merely optimistic but enthusiastic about partnering with like-minded businesses to unlock new possibilities and redefine the vegan casein market together.
The development of Fooditive’s non-animal casein commenced in 2019, initially utilizing yeast. However, through gene synthesis, the company has transitioned to a unique bacterial strain. This transition offers several advantages, including improved scalability, efficiency, cost optimization, and safety, without compromising on quality or taste. Fooditive’s commitment to making healthy food accessible extends beyond dairy alternatives to include vegan meat applications, providing a moist and pleasant mouthfeel.
With this enhanced production process, Fooditive is well-positioned to expand its offerings and meet the increasing demand for sustainable and affordable dairy alternatives. Leveraging the advantages of their bacterial strain, the company solidifies its position as a leader in the plant-based food industry, dedicated to driving positive change and revolutionizing the way we consume and enjoy food.
