MOA Foodtech secures €14.8 million EIC investment to scale AI-powered fermentation | PPTI News
Summary
MOA Foodtech, a Spanish startup combining artificial intelligence and biotechnology to create sustainable ingredients, has secured a 14.8 million investment commitment from the European Innovation Council (EIC). Unlike traditional precision fermentation, which often faces strict regulatory barriers, MOAs approach utilizes microorganisms already recognized as safe by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), streamlining the approval process.Emparanza explained that one of the biggest obstacles to bringing fermentation-derived ingredients to market is navigating the regulatory approval process. By working with naturally occurring, non-GMO microbes, MOA Foodtech can bring new ingredients to market faster and more cost-effectively. The startups mission aligns with the rapidly growing global fermentation market, projected to surpass 90 billion over the next decade. Its circular economy approach supports food waste reduction and environmental sustainability, making it an attractive solution for food manufacturers seeking functional, sustainable, and cost-effective ingredients.The EIC Accelerator program provides financial support through grants and equity investments, alongside business acceleration services that connect selected companies with corporate partners, investors, and industry expertise.