This collaboration aims to develop next-generation food products, harnessing Melt&Marble’s precision fermentation technology and resulting tailor-made fat solutions for a variety of applications.

With Melt&Marble contributing its proprietary designer fats, and Valio bringing its deep knowledge of formulation and food application, together, the companies will work on developing innovative products that meet industry demand for functionality and exceptional taste. Melt&Marble’s innovative fats will be studied in Valio’s food products, including next-generation plant-based products.

“We’re incredibly excited to work with an established and forward-thinking company like Valio,” said Anastasia Krivoruchko, CEO of Melt&Marble. “This collaboration is a key step forward in our mission to revolutionise the food system by providing high-quality, sustainable fats that offer the same taste and functionality consumers expect from traditional animal fats. By producing fats locally, we’re also adding the benefit of increased food security and self-sufficiency.

“We are thrilled to work with Melt&Marble to bring their cutting-edge technology to our food products,” said Saara Pöyri VP, R&D Food Product Development & Technology. “Melt&Marble's proprietary technology allows for the production of fats that closely mimic the properties of animal fats, for example, the melting and juiciness. This collaboration is expected to set a new standard in the plant-based food industry, offering consumers high-quality options. Our initial testing with Melt&Marble fats has yielded promising results, showcasing improvements in flavour and juiciness, and we are excited about the opportunities ahead.”

The partnership marks a significant milestone for Melt&Marble as it continues to expand its footprint in the food innovation space. With the joint development efforts already underway, prototype products are expected in the near term. As the partnership progresses, both companies will continue to scale up their efforts to bring market-leading food innovations to consumers.

“This is an exciting step toward delivering breakthrough products to consumers,” added Thomas Cresswell, CBO at Melt&Marble. “By combining our expertise with Valio’s vast experience in product formulation, we’re able to create truly innovative solutions that push the boundaries of what’s possible in food.”

Positioned to accelerate the commercialisation of its designer fats and bring these groundbreaking solutions to market soon, this exciting new collaboration underscores Melt&Marble’s leadership in precision fermentation and its commitment to creating sustainable tailor-made fats that promote food security and self-sufficiency by enabling local production independent of climate or geography.