Vivici brings animal-free protein ingredient to US market

Dutch ingredients start-up, Vivici, has launched Vivitein BLG in the US, offering a new protein ingredient for food and beverage companies.

Vivitein BLG, a dairy protein (beta-lactoglobulin) produced through precision fermentation without the use of animals, is now available for B2B customers. The ingredient is self-affirmed GRAS (Generally Recognised as Safe) in the US.

Precision fermentation combines traditional fermentation with advanced biotechnology, enabling the production of proteins sustainably without animals. This process results in 86% less water usage and a carbon footprint 68% lower than conventional dairy protein production methods.

Vivitein BLG supports product innovations in the active nutrition sector, which is valued at $28.4 billion globally. The ingredient can be used in a variety of products, including water-based protein drinks, clean protein powders and vegan-friendly protein bars.

Stephan van Sint Fiet, CEO of Vivici, said: "As the role of protein in an active lifestyle continues to rise, American consumers demand a higher quantity and quality of protein in their diets. Vivitein BLG brings a new standard of protein to the US active nutrition market – one that enables companies to deliver on consumer demand in a way that no other protein has before."

"Our journey to-date has seen us rigorously demonstrate the game-changing credentials of Vivitein BLG from both a sustainability and commercial perspective. When we say that Vivitein BLG is a new standard of protein, it's so much more than marketing."

The company also plans to expand its manufacturing capabilities in the US and launch additional ingredients, including Vivitein LF, a lactoferrin ingredient, later this year.

Last month, Vivici raised €32.5 million in a Series A funding to expand its precision fermentation dairy protein business.