No cows, no problem – Vivici lands €32.5m to scale precision fermentation dairy proteins

Vivici, the Netherlands-based food biotechnology company, has raised €32.5 million (approximately US $33.7 million) in a Series A funding round aimed at accelerating the commercialization of its precision fermentation dairy proteins. The investment was led by APG, acting on behalf of ABP, one of the world’s largest pension funds, along with Invest-NL. Additional participation came from InnovationQuarter, with continued backing from existing investors dsm-firmenich and Fonterra.

Founded in 2023, Vivici has positioned itself at the forefront of alternative dairy proteins, leveraging precision fermentation technology to develop sustainable, animal-free protein solutions. The company plans to use this fresh capital to expand international market access, introduce its second dairy protein ingredient, and enhance long-term manufacturing capabilities.

How Will Vivici Use Its Series A Funding to Advance Precision Fermentation Dairy Proteins?

Vivici has already achieved a critical milestone by securing commercial offtake agreements for its first product, Vivitein BLG—a beta-lactoglobulin whey protein produced using precision fermentation. This proprietary protein platform offers a sustainable alternative to traditional dairy proteins, addressing growing global demand for high-quality, environmentally friendly protein sources.

The company will allocate part of the funding to scale up manufacturing capacity, ensuring a reliable supply chain for food companies incorporating precision fermentation dairy proteins into their products. Additionally, market expansion initiatives will focus on establishing a global presence, tapping into regions where demand for alternative protein sector innovations is rising.

According to Stephan van Sint Fiet, CEO of Vivici, the investment marks a significant step toward transforming precision fermentation dairy proteins into a commercially viable solution for the food industry. He emphasized that investor confidence underscores both the market potential and technological advancements behind Vivici’s alternative protein solutions.

What Makes Precision Fermentation Dairy Proteins a Game-Changer for the Food Industry?

Precision fermentation technology enables the production of dairy-identical proteins without relying on cows, offering a sustainable and scalable solution to meet global protein needs. The process merges traditional fermentation techniques with biotechnology advancements, allowing for precise production of specific proteins, such as beta-lactoglobulin whey protein.

The primary advantage of precision fermentation dairy proteins is their ability to replicate the taste, texture, and functionality of conventional dairy proteins while significantly reducing environmental impact. Vivici reports that Vivitein BLG uses 86% less water and produces a 68% lower carbon footprint than traditional dairy protein production. These sustainability metrics make precision fermentation dairy proteins an attractive choice for food manufacturers and environmentally conscious consumers.

Investors see precision fermentation technology as a critical driver in the alternative protein sector, particularly as food manufacturers seek to meet increasing consumer demand for sustainable, animal-free protein sources. Lodewijk Meens, senior portfolio manager at APG Netherlands Energy Transition & Biodiversity fund, noted that Vivici’s Vivitein protein platform provides a compelling value proposition for food companies looking to future-proof their product offerings.

How Is Vivici Expanding Its Presence in the Alternative Protein Sector?

Vivici’s first commercial ingredient, Vivitein BLG, is specifically designed for the active nutrition category, a market that was valued at US $28.4 billion in 2023 and recorded 8.5% growth that year. The company is strategically targeting functional food and beverage manufacturers looking to innovate within the alternative protein sector.

With Vivitein BLG, food manufacturers can develop clear water-based protein drinks, vegan-friendly protein bars, and other high-protein products that maintain texture and performance similar to animal-derived ingredients. The functional versatility of precision fermentation dairy proteins makes them a high-value addition to next-generation food formulations.

Vivici is also preparing to launch its second product, Vivitein LF (lactoferrin), later this year. This bioactive protein, known for its nutritional and immune-boosting benefits, will further expand Vivici’s portfolio of precision fermentation dairy proteins, catering to emerging consumer health trends.

Why Are Investors Backing Vivici’s Precision Fermentation Dairy Proteins?

Investor interest in precision fermentation dairy proteins is driven by multiple factors, including sustainability, scalability, and commercial viability. With the global food industry facing challenges related to climate change, resource scarcity, and consumer preferences shifting away from animal-based products, alternative protein solutions are seen as a key market opportunity.

Vivici’s leadership team, led by former IFF executive Stephan van Sint Fiet, brings extensive expertise in ingredient application, biotechnology, and commercial strategy. This strong industry background enhances the company’s market positioning and increases its appeal to institutional investors.

By securing Series A funding, Vivici has reinforced its long-term commitment to transforming the protein landscape, ensuring that precision fermentation dairy proteins become a mainstream ingredient in the food industry’s sustainable future.

What’s Next for Vivici and the Future of Alternative Dairy Proteins?

Vivici is set to expand its manufacturing capabilities, scale commercial production, and continue research and development to introduce new precision fermentation dairy proteins. With consumer demand for high-quality, animal-free protein sources on the rise, the company is well-positioned to become a leading force in the alternative protein sector.

As the precision fermentation industry continues to evolve, food manufacturers seeking sustainable and innovative solutions are expected to integrate precision fermentation dairy proteins into a wider range of consumer products. With strong financial backing and a clear market strategy, Vivici is poised to redefine how dairy proteins are produced and consumed globally.