Vivici, a Dutch ingredients startup backed by nutrition, health and beauty multinational dsm-firmenich and dairy multinational Fonterra, announces that it has raised €32.5 million (about US $33.7 million) in Series A funding. APG led this funding round on behalf of ABP, one of the largest pension funds in the world, and Invest-NL. Additional participation came from InnovationQuarter, and continued support from existing shareholders dsm-firmenich and Fonterra.
Vivici already secured the first customer off-take agreements for its dairy protein from precision fermentation. And it will use the funding to expand its access into new international markets, launch its second dairy protein ingredient, and establish long-term manufacturing capabilities.
Precision fermentation—the method used by Vivici to create dairy protein—combines traditional fermentation with the latest advances in biotechnology, producing proteins without the need for animals. The technology promises to meet the protein needs of the world’s growing population without compromising on price, taste, or nutritional quality.
With its proprietary protein platform Vivitein, Vivici aims to significantly complement the protein production of the dairy industry. So the Vivitein platform will help to feed a global population that demands an ever-increasing quantity and quality of protein in its diet.
Vivitein BLG, an isolated whey protein (beta-lactoglobulin), is the first ingredient to be launched under the company’s Vivitein protein platform. Compared to conventional methods of producing dairy protein, Vivitein BLG will offer significant environmental benefits, including 86% less water usage and a 68% lower carbon footprint.
Vivici was launched in 2023 with the mission of realizing the commercial potential of precision fermentation. Its senior team, led by former IFF executive van Sint Fiet, features decades of combined experience in ingredient application, giving the company a level of commercial and technical acumen unrivaled among food biotechnology companies.
Continuing its momentum, the company features a strong pipeline of future ingredient products, with lactoferrin – Vivitein LF – to be launched later this year.
KEY QUOTES:
“With this investment, we will continue on our path to turning the promise of precision fermentation into a commercial reality. This fundraise demonstrates the confidence investors have in both our mission and our capabilities. With our Vivitein™ protein platform, we’re bringing a new standard of protein to the market – one that will become a mainstay of consumer protein products.”
– Stephan van Sint Fiet, CEO of Vivici
“The Vivitein protein platform offers a compelling package of sustainability, consumer, and commercial benefits. This makes it a strong proposition for food companies looking to unlock new potential, now and in the long term.”
– Lodewijk Meens, senior portfolio manager at APG Netherlands Energy Transition & Biodiversity fund
