Helaina Raises $45M to Commercialize First Precision-Fermented Human Lactoferrin – vegconomist

US precision fermentation company Helaina has raised $45 million in Series B funding to scale and commercialize its first product, effera Human Lactoferrin.
Effera, claimed to be the first and only human lactoferrin available, is a bioactive ingredient that supports women’s health, active nutrition, and healthy aging. According to the startup, clinical and pre-clinical research indicates it is even more effective than bovine lactoferrin.
“This infusion of new capital marks the next phase of growth for Helaina”
The round, led by Avidity Partners, brought Helaina’s total equity funding to $83 million. Spark Capital, Ingeborg Investments, Tom Williams of Heron Rock, Barrel Ventures, Siam Capital, Relish Works, CF Private Equity, and Primary Venture Partners, among others, also backed the first company to put human proteins into food.
Founder and CEO Laura Katz shared, “This infusion of new capital marks the next phase of growth for Helaina in which we are accelerating the availability of our first ingredient through new partnerships — the result of years of work to drive innovation and scientific rigor within nutrition.”
© Helaina
A protein found in breast milk
A protein found in breast milk, lactoferrin is known for improved nutrient absorption and cognitive support. Helaina says it additionally supports iron homeostasis, metabolism, and a balanced immune response and promotes a beneficial microbiome.
With the new capital, Helaina will establish commercial traction with consumer brands and distribution partners such as Mitsubishi International Food Ingredients, an expert in the commercialization of nutritional ingredients with scientific rigor.
Brands such as Kroma Wellness, The Feed, Levelle Nutrition, and Healthgevity will use the novel protein in functional foods, beverages, and supplements. The company also announced it is planning to launch an infant formula in collaboration with formula manufacturers.
© Helaina
Innovative approach to nutrition
Last year, Helaina announced a large-scale manufacturing milestone as it prepared for the commercialization of its protein. “Helaina is now producing lactoferrin at scale, but that’s just the beginning,” said Katz at the time.
Founded in 2019 in New York City, Helaina aims to advance nutrition with the next generation of nutrients. Leveraging precision fermentation it aims to create a bioactive protein pipeline to support and improve human health.
Jacob Garfield, managing director at Avidity Partners and member of Helaina’s board of directors, commented, “We are thrilled to support Helaina’s innovative approach to nutrition, which aligns with pressing health and wellness priorities, from immune system support to fostering a balanced gut microbiome.
“We are confident that Helaina’s technology and business model are well-positioned to meet the growing demand for high-quality nutritional ingredients that promote vitality across all age groups.”
Helaina is a member of the Precision Fermentation Alliance.

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