DENVER – Mozzarella, lactose and whey protein manufacturer Leprino Foods joined international ingredients producer Fooditive Group in announcing a new partnership through which Leprino Foods will commercialize Fooditive’s non-animal casein protein.

The companies announced a long term licensing deal that will give Leprino Foods exclusive worldwide rights to produce non-animal casein by making it with Fooditive’s proprietary precision fermentation platform.

Leprino Foods also has exclusive worldwide rights to market and distribute the product for use in cheese. Though non-exclusive, Leprino Foods gained a worldwide license to market and distribute it for all other food applications, as well.

Based in Holland, Fooditive described its non-animal casein made through precision fermentation as an “innovative protein” that “mimics the functionalities and taste of traditional animal-derived casein.” The company described the product as “a sustainable and accessible alternative that meets the demands of both the food industry and consumers.”

The animal-free casein, Fooditive said, may be used in applications that call for traditional casein, such as cheese, beverages, yogurts, desserts, coffee creamers, snack bars and sports nutrition products.

Leprino Foods president Mike Durkin said the innovation will enhance the company’s range and “holds the promise of reducing the environmental footprint across the supply chain.” Durkin also said the animal-free casein features “the highest standards of product functionality, quality, taste and texture.”

“This agreement with Fooditive highlights our ability to innovate and adapt swiftly to emerging trends and technologies,” Durkin said. “By incorporating precision fermentation alongside our conventional dairy production, we will explore how this non-animal casein derived from fermentation will add to our product portfolio.”

Fooditive chief executive officer Moayad Abushokhedim said: “By offering high-quality, environmentally friendly proteins, we are paving the way for a more sustainable future and delivering innovative, plant-based alternatives that meet the evolving demands of consumers. Together with Leprino Foods, we are set to transform the food industry and make a lasting impact on the planet.”