In an era where sustainability is more than a buzzword, New Zealand-based food tech company, Miruku, is literally turning a seed into a cows udder using molecular technology .
Miruku has developed a system allowing plants to produce dairy proteins and fats, a concept that might sound like science fiction but is rapidly becoming a reality. This innovative technology, known as the Dairy Seed System™, positions Miruku an impressive three to four years ahead of its competitors in the food tech sector.
Source: PFN Ai depiction of seeds producing dairy proteins
Traditionally, dairy products come from animals, but Miruku's approach turns plants into mini factories for dairy production. By programming plant cells, these "dairy seeds" can grow into crops yielding essential dairy ingredients like proteins, fats, and sugars. This method not only promises a more sustainable and climate-resilient alternative to conventional dairy farming but also addresses pressing issues of food security and nutrition.
Miruku's CEO, Amos Palfreyman, has been quoted as saying the company's committed to navigating the challenges of climate change and its impact on traditional dairy farming. By focusing on both proteins and fats within the same plant, and selecting the climate-resilient safflower as its primary crop, Miruku is leading the charge in creating a sustainable future for dairy production.
Source: Miruku showing Amos Palfreyman on the right
The company's research has expanded to enhance the interaction between dairy casein and native plant proteins. This breakthrough allows for a more efficient use of the seed, producing a variety of ingredients for the food and beverage industry.
Miruku's recent achievements include key proof-of-concept milestones demonstrating the viability of the Dairy Seed System™. With a tripled workforce and partnerships for co-development opportunities, Miruku is rapidly advancing towards market readiness. The company's expansion includes entering markets in Israel and Australia, with Australia serving as the initial launchpad for its innovative products.
A recent new round of funding will further enable Miruku to advance its crop development efforts, including field trials in Australia in partnership with CSIRO.
As Miruku continues to grow, its focus remains on bringing its dairy-producing plants to market, offering a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to traditional dairy production that could change the way we think about dairy forever.
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