Nature's Fynd uses a new fermentation technique to derive protein from a microbe discovered in Yellowstone’s geothermal springs
Image: Nature's Fynd CEO Thomas Jonas. (Credit: Nature's Fynd.)
Nature’s Fynd, a food tech start-up, has secured $80m in series B funding round led by Generation Investment Management and Breakthrough Energy Ventures.
Others who participated in the funding round included 1955 Capital; Mousse Partners; ADM Ventures, the venture arm of ADM and Danone Manifesto Ventures, a venture arm of Danone.
Nature’s Fynd focuses on producing an animal-free protein from Fusarium str. Yellowstonensis, a microbe originally discovered in the geothermal springs of Yellowstone’s ancient volcano.
Nature’s Fynd started production this month at its 35,000ft² manufacturing facility at Chicago’s South Side. The food tech start-up aims to commercialise food and beverage products across breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.
The firm claims that its fermentation technology grows protein using a fraction of the land and water resources required by traditional agriculture.
One of the few animal-free proteins to have all the 9 essential amino acids
The product is touted to contain all the 9 essential amino acids, making it one of the rare non-animal sources of complete protein. It also includes dietary fiber, calcium and vitamins.
Nature’s Fynd further says that the protein can be made into alternative meat and dairy products, as well as protein drinks and powders.
Nature’s Fynd CEO and co-founder Thomas Jonas said: “In these challenging times, securing food for our growing population under the immense pressure of climate change becomes even more urgent.
“We must find new solutions that can both nourish people and nurture the planet. Our innovative technology was developed by studying nature’s own solutions for adapting — and ultimately thriving — in environments with limited resources.”
The firm has a workforce of 50 across its Chicago headquarters and its Bozeman, Montana, R&D centre.
Generation Investment Management growth equity strategy co-head Lila Preston said: “Nature’s Fynd has a highly efficient solution to help address the climate crisis.
“We have tracked the team and technology for several years and believe this is one of the most scalable platforms to drive true food system sustainability.”