Vivici introduces precision-fermented dairy protein to US market

Vivici, a Netherlands-based ingredients startup, has introduced Vivitein BLG, a precision-fermented dairy protein, to the US market. Developed without the use of animals, the ingredient is designed to provide functional and nutritional benefits for food and beverage manufacturers targeting the growing active nutrition category.

Vivitein BLG, a beta-lactoglobulin protein, is part of Vivici’s broader Vivitein protein platform. The company, backed by dsm-firmenich and Fonterra, will showcase the ingredient at Expo West 2025 in Anaheim, California. With initial agreements already in place with customers, Vivici is positioning itself to support industry demand for high-quality protein alternatives.

Vivici’s use of precision fermentation allows for the production of dairy-identical proteins without the need for traditional animal agriculture. Beta-lactoglobulin, the primary whey protein in dairy, is widely used in protein-enriched products, including powders, beverages, and bars. The fermentation-based process is intended to provide a more sustainable and consistent source of this protein while maintaining the same taste, texture, and functionality as its conventional counterpart.

Vivitein BLG has been self-affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) in the USA, allowing food and beverage companies to incorporate it into new formulations. Potential applications include clear protein beverages with diverse flavors, protein powders designed for muscle recovery and absorption, and plant-based protein bars that replicate the texture of dairy-based options.

“With protein playing an increasingly important role in an active lifestyle, American consumers are seeking higher-quality sources that align with their dietary needs,” said Stephan van Sint Fiet, CEO of Vivici. “Vivitein BLG brings a new option to the US active nutrition market, allowing brands to meet consumer expectations in a way that was not previously possible.”

The active nutrition category, which includes sports nutrition and protein-fortified products, was valued at US$28.4 billion globally in 2023 and continues to expand. Vivici sees an opportunity for precision-fermented proteins to play a key role in this growth, especially as consumer interest in sustainable and functional ingredients increases.

One of the benefits highlighted by the company is the environmental impact of its production method. Compared to conventional dairy protein production, Vivitein BLG is expected to use 86% less water and generate 68% fewer carbon emissions. These sustainability metrics align with broader industry efforts to reduce environmental footprints while maintaining product quality and affordability.

“Throughout our development process, we have worked to demonstrate both the commercial and sustainability benefits of Vivitein BLG,” said van Sint Fiet. “For us, setting a new standard in protein is about more than just creating an alternative—it’s about delivering a solution that works for both businesses and consumers.”

Founded in 2023, Vivici was established with the goal of commercializing precision-fermented dairy proteins. The company’s leadership team brings experience in ingredient development and commercialization, with a focus on bridging technical innovation with industry needs.

As part of its expansion plans, Vivici is looking to complement its existing manufacturing capabilities with a USA-based production partner in the near future. Additionally, the company has announced plans to introduce Vivitein LF, a lactoferrin ingredient, later in 2025.

Expo West attendees will have the opportunity to sample Vivitein BLG and learn more about its potential applications by visiting Vivici’s booth (#3894) at the Anaheim Convention Center from 4-7 March 2025.