NZ Startup Miruku Using Molecular Farming and Oilseed Crops to Make Novel Dairy Proteins

New Zealand-based startup Miruku has just raised US$5 million through a Series A round to create novel bio-similar dairy proteins and fats by using molecular farming and oilseed crops.

As other innovators turn to fermentation technology to create new animal-free proteins, Miruku is developing a “Dairy Seed System” where their designed oilseed crops produce dairy protein and fats in their seeds. These seeds can be planted, grown, harvested, and processed into ingredients using existing infrastructure.

With the capital gained from this round, the company stated it will advance its Dairy Seed System and conduct trials for its initial oilseed crop with farming partners in Australia, including the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO). It also will develop its first proof-of-concept to co-develop products with food industry partners before expanding into the U.S. and Canada.

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