Onego Bio, a pioneering Finnish-American company focusing on food ingredients, has recently made significant strides by submitting a Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) notification to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its cutting-edge, animal-free ovalbumin.
Introduction to Bioalbumen®
Introducing Bioalbumen®, this innovative product is crafted through precision fermentation using the Trichoderma reesei fungus, effectively mimicking ovalbumin, the primary protein found in egg whites. What sets Bioalbumen® apart is that it replicates the nutritional profile and functional properties of traditional ovalbumin, offering a promising solution amid ongoing supply chain disruptions in the global egg market.
One of the most remarkable features of Bioalbumen® is that it is the first animal-free egg protein that shares an amino acid sequence identical to its conventional counterpart. This allows it to effortlessly substitute traditional egg proteins across a range of applications, from baked goods and pasta to confectionery and ready-to-eat meals.
Environmental Benefits and Food Security
Beyond its nutritional capabilities, Bioalbumen® presents significant environmental benefits. Reports suggest that its production could slash greenhouse gas emissions by up to 89%, decrease land usage by 95%, and cut down water consumption by 87% when compared to conventional egg production. Furthermore, by providing a safeguard against avian flu, this innovative ingredient enhances both food security and public health.
In parallel with these developments, Onego Bio has recently established a new commercial headquarters in San Diego, California. Spanning 5,000 square feet, this facility features state-of-the-art office space, well-equipped laboratory settings, and a test kitchen specifically designed to demonstrate the diverse applications of Bioalbumen®.
Funding and Future Plans
Earlier in July, the company successfully secured $15.2 million in funding through the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator Program and other Series A investments, bringing its total funding to an impressive $70.8 million. With a strategic emphasis on launching Bioalbumen® in North America, Onego Bio aims to leverage the favorable regulatory environment for faster market entry.
Maija Itkonen, CEO of Onego Bio, described the GRAS filing as a monumental milestone for the company. She articulated how this achievement highlights their commitment to building a resilient supply chain and fostering a sustainable food system. By complementing traditional agricultural practices, Onego Bio seeks to alleviate potential supply chain vulnerabilities and price fluctuations while also prioritizing public health and environmental sustainability.
Source: Vegconomist