Valorization of lactose into protein-based sweeteners using hyprcreet™ expression system
Biofect Innovations offers a scalable method to produce Brazzein, a high-intensity sweetener, using synthetic biology and precision fermentation. This approach transforms lactose into valuable food ingredients, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional methods.
Overview
Biofect Innovations presents a groundbreaking solution for producing Brazzein, a high-intensity protein-based sweetener, using their proprietary Hyprcreet™ Expression System. By leveraging synthetic biology and precision fermentation, lactose is transformed into high-value food ingredients. This process provides a sustainable and economically viable alternative to traditional agricultural methods, which are limited by agricultural constraints and low yields.
Technical specifications
The Hyprcreet™ Expression System is a sophisticated eukaryotic protein expression platform designed for the efficient assimilation of lactose. It converts lactose into high-value proteins like Brazzein, which is 2000 times sweeter than sugar. The system involves:
- Strain Engineering: Customized microbial strains with optimized genetic and regulatory circuits for enhanced protein synthesis.
- Fermentation Process: Utilizes specialized bioreactors for controlled fermentation, with lactose as a primary carbon source.
- Downstream Processing: Involves centrifugation, filtration, chromatography, and drying to maximize protein recovery.
- Scale-up Studies: Ensures consistent manufacturing performance and scalability.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 5, the technology has been validated in relevant environments and is poised for further development. Biofect Innovations is actively seeking partnerships for large-scale commercialization and offers licensing opportunities for industry partners with fermentation capabilities.
About Biofect Innovations
Biofect Innovations is a Toronto-based biotechnology company founded in 2017 that utilizes synthetic biology and precision fermentation to develop sustainable, high-value protein ingredients. The company's platform works by genetically engineering microorganisms to produce specific proteins, which are then cultivated through a controlled fermentation process similar to traditional brewing. This approach allows the company to create animal-free analogs of animal proteins and functional ingredients, such as brazzein, a rare protein sweetener that is significantly sweeter than conventional sugar. By utilizing industry by-products as feedstocks for these microbes, Biofect aims to advance a circular bioeconomy while reducing the environmental impact associated with traditional agricultural production.
The company's technology offers food and beverage manufacturers sustainable, high-quality alternatives to commodity ingredients, helping brands formulate products with improved health profiles and lower carbon footprints. Biofect Innovations has been recognized for its role in the Canadian bioeconomy, securing various grants, awards, and support from programs such as the Ontario Genomics BioCreate Program and the University of Guelph's Agri-tech Pitch Competition. By bridging the gap between benchtop research and industrial-scale application, the company seeks to address the growing global demand for eco-conscious food innovation and responsible ingredient manufacturing.
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