DAVIS, CALIF. – 21st.Bio, a Denmark-based precision fermentation company, has achieved self-affirmed generally recognized as safe (GRAS) status for its animal-free beta-lactoglobulin protein called BLG Essential+.

Co-founded in 2020 by chief executive officer Thomas Schmidt and chief science officer Per Falholt, 21stBio initially repurposed unused cider into ethanol. The experiment then led to a joint venture to create sustainable biosolutions, the company shared.

21stBio leverages microbial strains for bioproduction. The company said its process uses a strain platform and fermentation for multiple expression systems, which may streamline the production process for large-scale industrial applications.

Beta-lactoglobulin is the main protein found in bovine whey. The company noted its animal-free beta-lactoglobulin ingredient may contain 45% more leucine than commercially available whey protein isolates.

The biotech company said its ingredient is stable across a wide pH range and may tolerate heat. It also may be formulated in such applications as clear protein drinks, alternative dairy or bakery products.

Earlier this year, 21st.Bio announced that ingredient manufacturers could access its precision fermentation platform to produce dairy proteins at a competitive cost.