Microbial food & feed ingredients
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The world’s smallest ingredient factories.
Revolutionizing the way we feed the world using powerful microalgae
The Opportunity
The global food system is challenged. We’re producing more food than ever, and yet wasting nearly half of it. We are eating more, but have high rates of malnourishment and diet-related illness. And at every turn, we see the burden that food systems are putting on the planet. Smallfood is revolutionizing our approach to food & feed with a powerful nutrient-producing microalgae to create sustainable ingredients such as protein and omega-3s.
The Challenge
Smallfood’s focus is on a unique microalgae that produces extraordinary amounts of protein and valuable omega-3s. Because it comes from the sea, it has a natural seafood flavour ideal for alternative seafood products. Smallfood also brings a solution to the feed sector by replacing the need for the unsustainable use of fishmeal and fish oil. The company is focused on sustainable production of this microalgae, dramatically reducing the carbon footprint while delivering an exceptional amino acid profile and much-needed omega-3 DHAs. But this process requires a sophisticated and step-wise scientific approach using fermentation. Smallfood needed a key scientific lead to help them take the product to the next level.
The world needs a new approach to food. We are aiming for high-protein, high-omega-3 ingredients to nourish the population while protecting the planet. NPC is a major partner and ally in our journey.
NPC’s Solution
NPC provided Smallfood with nearly $50,000 through the Access to Talent Program to hire a research scientist. With this senior position filled, Smallfood was able to optimize their fermentation process and increase yields and scale their production volumes, helping to further position them for the next steps of commercialization.
NPC is committed to the creation of natural products that are better for people, animals and the planet. We propel early-stage Canadian innovators with the advice, connections and capital they need to develop and de-risk their solutions quickly and efficiently.
Smallfood
Description:
Sector(s):
Food, Nutrition, FoodtechFunding Type:
Access to TalentProvince:
Nova ScotiaFunding Amount:
$49,680
Year of Funding:
2022Name:
Marc St-Onge