Dutch ingredients startup Vivici has announced the successful closure of a €32.5 million (approx. US $33.7 million) Series A funding round, marking a significant milestone in its mission to redefine dairy protein production through precision fermentation. The investment, led by APG on behalf of ABP—one of the world’s largest pension funds—alongside Invest-NL, InnovationQuarter, and existing backers dsm-firmenich and Fonterra, will support Vivici’s international expansion, new product launches, and the establishment of long-term manufacturing capabilities.
The funding signals strong confidence in Vivici’s potential to transform the protein industry with its proprietary Vivitein™ platform, which uses precision fermentation to produce high-quality dairy proteins without relying on animals. This approach combines traditional fermentation techniques with cutting-edge biotechnology, allowing for a more sustainable, scalable, and efficient protein production method.
Precision Fermentation Gains Momentum
With the growing global demand for high-quality protein, precision fermentation is emerging as a key technology to meet the needs of both consumers and manufacturers. Unlike conventional dairy production, which is resource-intensive and environmentally taxing, Vivici’s approach significantly reduces water consumption and carbon emissions while delivering proteins that match or even surpass animal-derived equivalents in functionality and nutrition.
The company’s first commercial ingredient, Vivitein™ BLG (beta-lactoglobulin), is an isolated whey protein designed to appeal to the growing active nutrition market. Compared to conventional dairy protein production, Vivitein™ BLG requires 86% less water and has a 68% lower carbon footprint, according to a Life Cycle Assessment study by CE Delft. These sustainability credentials position it as an attractive alternative for food and beverage manufacturers looking to enhance their environmental impact while maintaining product performance.
“The Vivitein™ protein platform offers a compelling package of sustainability, consumer, and commercial benefits,” said Lodewijk Meens, senior portfolio manager at APG Netherlands Energy Transition & Biodiversity fund. “This makes it a strong proposition for food companies looking to unlock new potential, now and in the long term.”
Commercial Growth and Future Expansion
Vivici has already secured its first customer offtake agreements for Vivitein™ BLG, underscoring strong market demand. The company plans to use the new funding to accelerate its entry into international markets and launch Vivitein™ LF, a lactoferrin protein expected later this year.
Lactoferrin, known for its immune-boosting and antimicrobial properties, is a sought-after ingredient in functional foods, infant nutrition, and medical applications. By bringing precision-fermented lactoferrin to market, Vivici aims to further expand its role in reshaping the dairy protein industry.
“With this investment, we will continue on our path to turning the promise of precision fermentation into a commercial reality,” said Stephan van Sint Fiet, CEO of Vivici. “This fundraise demonstrates the confidence investors have in both our mission and our capabilities. With our Vivitein™ protein platform, we’re bringing a new standard of protein to the market—one that will become a mainstay of consumer protein products.”
The global active nutrition category, which Vivici is targeting with its first product, was valued at US $28.4 billion in 2023 and is experiencing robust growth, expanding by 8.5% that year. Analysts project continued strong demand for protein innovations that deliver enhanced nutritional benefits, convenience, and sustainability. Vivitein™ BLG is expected to play a critical role in this space, enabling product development in applications such as clear water-based protein drinks and vegan-friendly bars with improved texture, helping brands create more inclusive and functional protein offerings.
A Strong Foundation for Future Growth
Founded in 2023, Vivici brings together a leadership team with deep expertise in food biotechnology and ingredient innovation. CEO Stephan van Sint Fiet, a former executive at IFF, leads a group of industry veterans with extensive experience in commercializing novel food technologies. This expertise, combined with the backing of multinational giants dsm-firmenich and Fonterra, positions Vivici as a formidable player in the rapidly evolving alternative protein landscape.
By securing substantial investment and advancing its pipeline of precision-fermented dairy proteins, Vivici is setting the stage for a future where sustainable, animal-free dairy proteins are not just an alternative—but an essential part of the global food system.
Comments