DAVIS, CALIF. – 21stBio, a Denmark-based precision fermentation company, has achieved self-affirmed Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status for its animal-free beta-lactoglobulin ingredient called BLG Essential+.
21stBio was co-founded in 2020 by Thomas Schmidt, chief executive officer, and Per Falholt, chief science officer, who began the company by repurposing unused cider into ethanol. The experiment then led to a joint venture to create sustainable biosolutions, according to the company.
21stBio leverages microbial strains for bioproduction. Its process uses a strain platform and fermentation for multiple expression systems, which may streamline the production process for large-scale industrial applications, according to the company.
Beta-lactoglobulin is the main protein found in bovine whey. The company’s animal-free beta-lactoglobulin protein may contain 45% more leucine than commercially available whey protein isolates, according to the company
The ingredient is stable across a wide pH range and may tolerate heat. It may be formulated in such applications as clear protein drinks, alternative dairy or bakery products, according to the company.
