Molecular farming start-up PoLoPo has made a significant leap in agricultural biotechnology by transitioning from greenhouse operations to large-scale field cultivation of genetically modified potatoes designed to produce high levels of protein, including ovalbumin, an egg protein.

This advancement increases the company's production capacity from tens of kilograms to an anticipated three tons.

The initiative marks the first extensive deployment of PoLoPo's proprietary metabolic engineering techniques, enabling potato plants to manufacture and store proteins in their tubers. The harvested potatoes will undergo extraction and drying processes to produce functional protein powder suitable for various food applications.

Maya Sapir-Mir, CEO of PoLoPo, said: “Moving from the lab to the greenhouse and now to field-growing has been exhilarating. The increased yield from these trials will be directed to commercial samples for our partners to begin working with the product in food applications.”

Discover more about PoLoPo's work in our 'Start-up Spotlight' with CTO Raya Liberman-Aloni. Read here. 

The current crop, set for harvest in Spring 2025, will not only supply larger samples for potential clients but also facilitate the testing of diverse new genotypes. This move aims to identify additional potato varieties that can enhance protein accumulation efficiency, while also revalidating previously selected genotypes under field conditions to ensure consistency and quality.

Located in the Eshkol region of southern Israel, known for its agricultural production, PoLoPo has partnered with a seasoned local grower to support its cultivation efforts. The company’s approach transforms potato plants into micro-biofactories, enabling the extraction of proteins that can seamlessly integrate into existing food processing lines.

PoLoPo’s first target protein, ovalbumin, is positioned as a cost-effective alternative in an industry facing challenges such as rising egg prices, supply chain disruptions, and avian flu outbreaks. Additionally, PoLoPo plans to provide patatin, a native potato protein that is allergy-friendly and highly regarded in both food and nutraceutical sectors.

The start-up has also submitted for USDA regulatory approval, which is expected shortly, potentially allowing US partners and growers to begin cultivating PoLoPo’s protein-rich potato plants.

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