Precision-fermented version of lactoferrin is linked to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-senescence benefits.
Food technology company De Novo Foodlabs has secured new investment to advance its mission to develop animal-free, protein-based ingredients supporting functional nutrition. The new funding is intended to accelerate the commercialization of its flagship product, NanoFerrin, a precision-fermented version of lactoferrin.
Lactoferrin, a protein found in bovine colostrum (the first milk produced by cows after giving birth) is linked to several health benefits, including immune support, cognitive enhancement and gut health. In addition, it is thought to have the potential to mitigate the effects of aging through its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-senescence properties.
De Novo Foodlabs team
The global lactoferrin market was valued at $773 million in 2023 and is projected to grow at an annual rate of 15.8% over the next decade, however, according to De Novo, the traditional extraction of lactoferrin from milk is not only expensive but also faces supply limitations and presents ethical and environmental concerns. The company leverages machine learning, biopharma discovery models and precision fermentation technology to produce NanoFerrin, a nature-identical protein, offering a cost-effective, sustainable alternative to bovine-sourced lactoferrin.
NanoFerrin mirrors the natural properties of lactoferrin but offers the advantages of consistency, scalability and lower production costs, which De Novo is betting will appeal to food and beverage manufacturers as well as supplement providers.
“The lactoferrin market has long been hindered by high prices and inconsistent supply,” said Jean Louwrens, CEO of De Novo. “NanoFerrin is not only more affordable and eco-friendly; importantly, it also provides a reliable supply source compared to traditional bovine lactoferrin products.”
NanoFerrin is a precision-fermented version of lactoferrin
The new funding round, which brings the total raised by the company to $4 million, was led by sustainable protein venture capital firm Joyful Ventures, joining investors including Sustainable Food Ventures, Siddhi Capital, Pascual Innoventures, UM6P Ventures, Cult Food Science and Prithvi Capital.
Joyful Ventures’ Milo Runkle, who joins De Novo’s board of directors, lauded the company’s innovation and focus on sustainability.
“Their advancements in precision fermentation technology and dedication to creating impactful alternatives to high-value animal-derived ingredients pave the way for scalable and profitable industry solutions,” he said.
Photograph: De Novo Foodlabs
