French biotech company Nutropy has raised USD 8.1 million to scale its production of precision-fermented dairy proteins. It aims to accelerate the launch of animal-free cheese alternatives worldwide. The funding round was led by Big Pi Ventures and Zero Carbon Capital, with participation from Saudi Arabia’s Beta Lab. Alongside Beta Lab, Wyngate, Paul Dischamp, Desai Ventures, PVS Investments, and Novax of Axel Johnson Group also participated.
Founded by Nathalie Rolland and Dr. Maya Bendifallah, Nutropy develops casein proteins identical to those found in cow’s milk using precision fermentation. This innovation enables the production of cheese that replicates the taste, texture, and nutritional profile of traditional dairy. All of this happens without relying on animal farming.
Transforming the Future of Dairy
The global dairy sector faces mounting challenges as demand rises while the number of dairy farmers continues to shrink. By 2030, experts predict a potential 30-million-ton milk deficit. Nutropy aims to fill this gap with sustainable, lab-produced dairy proteins that eliminate the need for cows while maintaining authentic dairy qualities.
Unlike most plant-based cheese alternatives, which often fall short in taste and functionality, Nutropy’s technology recreates casein, the core protein responsible for the meltability and stretchability of real cheese.
Through precision fermentation, Nutropy:
- Programs microorganisms to produce casein identical to that in cow’s milk.
- Eliminates the need for animal farming, reducing environmental impact.
- Creates high-quality dairy proteins that perform like traditional cheese in flavor, texture, and nutrition.
- Provides powdered, plug-and-play ingredients for manufacturers to integrate into their own dairy formulations.
Scaling for Global Commercialization
With the new capital, Nutropy will scale its manufacturing capabilities and increase sample production for global food manufacturers. The company aims to introduce its first commercial products by 2027. They are targeting partnerships across Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East.
CEO and Co-Founder Nathalie Rolland stated, “Our target markets are North America, Europe, select Asian countries, and the Middle East. We aim to secure our first commercial rights to sell by 2027.”
The involvement of Beta Lab, a Saudi deep tech investor, highlights growing regional interest in sustainable food innovation and alternative protein ecosystems. This partnership positions Nutropy to expand its reach into the Middle East, where demand for ethical, sustainable, and climate-conscious food products is accelerating.
Building a Sustainable Food Future
Nutropy’s technology arrives at a critical time for the food industry, where innovation and sustainability are becoming inseparable. Precision fermentation offers a scalable path toward dairy production that:
- Cuts greenhouse gas emissions.
- Reduces land and water use.
- Ensures supply chain stability independent of livestock farming.
By enabling food producers to deliver animal-free dairy without compromising quality, Nutropy is redefining what sustainable cheese and milk products can be.