David Weiner, Cauldron Ferm's newly appointed CTO

David Weiner - Image courtesy of Cauldron Ferm

Company News

Cauldron Appoints Biotech Veteran to Spearhead Hyper-Fermentation Solution for Alternative Proteins

Contract manufacturer organization Cauldron Ferm announces the appointment of Solugen and BASF industry veteran David Weiner as new chief technology officer. Drawing on his extensive experience in product development and scaling innovative biotech solutions, Weiner will oversee the company’s technology R&D pipeline as the Australian company embarks on its next phase of global expansion. Cauldron, founded in 2022 in Borenore, New South Wales, has developed a precision fermentation technology that promises to reach price parity — or even cheaper — with current goods such as dairy, egg, and silk proteins and widely used petrochemicals. The company recently closed a Series A funding round of over $6.25 million with investors including SOSV, In-Q-Tel, Main Sequence, and Horizons Ventures. “David brings a distinguished career leading R&D programs that …

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flava pulse pea protein concentrate
Ingredients

Pea protein concentrate with a great taste! A new standard for the industry.

After 4 years of dedicated research with our R&D partners, we have introduced a groundbreaking process that is set to revolutionise the industry standards. FlavaPulse is the first dry fractionation plant utilising this patented technology to eliminate bitterness and off-tastes in pea protein.  Pea protein concentrates offer an attractive alternative to pea and soy protein isolates, thanks to their competitive price and low carbon footprint. However, the specific bitterness in native pea flour has been a limiting factor in food recipes. Formulators in the meat and dairy analog industries, bakery, and gluten-free and allergen-free applications can now incorporate our new version of pea protein concentrate without compromising on taste. The initial feedback from our clients has been overwhelmingly positive, with test panel participants describing the product …

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© United States Department of Energy

Investments & Finance

US Government Amplifies Support for Alternative Protein Industry with New Funding Initiatives

The United States Department of Energy’s (DOE) Industrial Efficiency and Decarbonization Office (IEDO) has officially released a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA), unveiling a $83 million funding opportunity designed to target emissions reduction in the industrial sector, with a significant focus on the alternative protein industry. The IEDO’s announcement highlights its intention to support 3-8 proposals in the Food and Beverage industry, offering awards ranging from $500,000 to $7 million. In December 2023, The Good Food Institute hosted a webinar with the IEDO to discuss how this funding opportunity specifically earmarks a portion for the decarbonization of alternative protein production, recognizing the sector’s potential to contribute to a more sustainable and climate-friendly food system. The department has identified alternative protein production, including plant-based, precision fermented, and …

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Superbrewed Food

© Superbrewed Food

Company News

Revolutionizing Alt-Proteins: Superbrewed Food Secures Patent for “True Breakthrough” Postbiotic Protein

Fermentation startup Superbrewed Food has achieved a major milestone, securing a patent for its proprietary Postbiotic Protein ingredient. This development, combined with the attainment of self-affirmed GRAS status, grants the company a competitive advantage in the alt-protein market, enhancing the appeal of Superbrewed Postbiotic Protein to consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies. The patent comes after a period of significant growth for Superbrewed Food. In 2022, the company attained self-affirmed GRAS status for its postbiotic protein and began a strategic collaboration with The Bel Group, makers of Babybel and The Laughing Cow, to develop cheese products with its postbiotic cultured protein. Superbrewed Food also made an appearance at the UN Climate Conference (COP28) in 2023. The US Patent Application Publication (No. 2023/0320399) covers a broad range …

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