UK start-up raises $30M to scale cultured meat using RNA technology
Summary
Extensive research, based on Nobel Prize-winning findings and pioneering biomimicry, utilises exceptional insights to build complex proteins and fats that are packed full of authentic flavour and nutritional benefits. Once achieved at scale, Uncommon claims its products will be able to be delivered more quickly than farm reared meat, providing quality food to consumers worldwide. The cellular alchemy unlocked by Uncommons unique and adaptable technology heralds a cost efficient future for cellular agriculture that sidesteps regulatory hurdles to deliver a sustainable and delicious product.Furthermore, with over a third of the worlds total antibiotics used solely on pigs in China, and antibiotic resistance predicted to kill more people than cancer by 2050, cultivated meat offers a sustainable solution. The funding will be used to continue to bring the cost of goods down, apply for regulatory approval, and scale up production at its pilot manufacturing facility at Cambridge Technopark, whilst doubling the team over the next 18 months to further expand the companys capabilities.The Series A round was led by Balderton and Lowercarbon, with participation from Red Alpine, East Alpha and previous investors Max and Sam Altman, Miray Zaki and Sebastiano Castiglioni.The cultivated meat industry faces significant challenges, from the cost of materials to regulation and scaling. Were excited to be backing Uncommon and look forward to working with Benjamina and the team as they embark on this next growth stage, said Daniel Waterhouse, Partner at Balderton.