Melt&Marble's fermentation breakthrough receives €2.76 million EU boost

Gothenburg-based Melt&Marble, a pioneer in fermentation-based fats, has secured a substantial €2.76 million in EU grants to bolster its sustainable fat production. The company has been awarded a €2.5 million grant from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator, placing it among 68 cutting-edge European startups selected from a highly competitive pool of 969 applicants. This funding will propel the commercialization of Melt&Marble's inaugural products, MeatyMarble and DairyMarble, which offer eco-friendly alternatives to animal fats.

Furthermore, the company has secured €260,000 from the Horizon Europe Framework Programme (HORIZON) under the EU's 'Farm to Fork' initiative to develop dairy fats for enhancing dairy substitutes. This financial injection will empower Melt&Marble to expand its operations, refine product formulations, reduce production expenses, and introduce its innovative fats to the market, thereby contributing to a more sustainable food ecosystem.

Melt&Marble is at the forefront of the alternative protein sector, committed to producing premium, delectable fats through precision fermentation. By manipulating microbial metabolism, the company creates animal-free fats with tailored structures and properties. This groundbreaking approach enables the replication of traditional animal fats and the development of novel, superior fats, elevating the taste and texture of plant-based foods. The outcome is not only delicious but also environmentally responsible, benefiting both consumers and the planet. Melt&Marble is leading the transformation of food production, making plant-based options more appealing and fostering a sustainable future.

Selected from a pool of 969 competitors, Melt&Marble is one of 68 European deep-tech startups chosen to receive the unique blend of grant and equity funding offered by the EIC Accelerator. The EIC Accelerator Challenges seek out groundbreaking technologies and disruptive innovations from startups and SMEs with the potential to significantly impact EU objectives. Notably, Melt&Marble is one of 14 female-led enterprises to secure funding in this round, gaining access to industry experts, corporations, investors, and network opportunities.

In addition to the €2.5 million EIC grant, Melt&Marble has obtained a €260,000 grant from the Horizon Europe Framework Programme (HORIZON) as part of the EU's 'Farm to Fork' strategy. Led by RISE Processum, the 'DELICIOUS' project involves companies and research organizations across Europe. Melt&Marble will concentrate on developing dairy fats to enhance the sensory qualities of dairy alternatives. This initiative will accelerate the company's DairyMarble™ program, aiming to deliver exceptional dairy fats for the next generation of cheeses, butters, and baked goods.

"We are delighted to receive this funding and honored to be acknowledged for our efforts in driving the shift towards a more sustainable food system," stated Anastasia Krivoruchko, Co-founder & CEO. "The EU's dedication to supporting innovative food production technologies is truly inspiring. This funding brings us closer to offering delectable and wholesome meat and dairy alternatives, significantly improving both sustainability and food security."

The EIC funding will empower Melt&Marble to expand its operations and advance to pre-commercial stages. The grant will also support the product development of the company's inaugural offering, MeatyMarble, while reducing production costs in preparation for market launch. MeatyMarble is a solid, meat-like fat designed to mimic the characteristics of animal-derived fats for use in alternative meat products, resulting in a more flavorful and sustainable option. Concurrently, Melt&Marble is exploring MeatyMarble's potential in other sectors, such as personal care, where there is a growing demand for sustainable specialty fats driven by changing consumer preferences.

"These grants represent a significant milestone for Melt&Marble, enabling us to lower production costs, scale our innovative technology, and introduce sustainable fats to the market," added Chief Business Officer, Thomas Cresswell. "We are enthusiastic about the opportunities this presents to advance our mission of facilitating the transition to a more sustainable agri-food system."