[Disclosure: AgFunder is AgFunderNews’ parent company.]
Unlocking the Potential of Lactoferrin: Eclipse Ingredients Revolutionizes Health Proteins
Siobhan Coster, a former dietician turned startup founder, is on a mission to make valuable ingredients more accessible through innovative production methods. Her company, Eclipse Ingredients, is at the forefront of this endeavor, utilizing precision fermentation technology to create high-demand proteins, starting with lactoferrin.
Funding the Future
The Australia-based startup recently emerged from stealth mode, securing AUD $7 million (approximately $5 million) in funding. This includes $2.9 million from the Commonwealth Government, facilitated by Australia’s Food and Beverage Accelerator, along with investments from AgFunder and strategic angel investors, according to Coster.
Why Lactoferrin?
Coster describes lactoferrin as “one of the most powerful health proteins out there,” highlighting its impressive array of health benefits. Known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, lactoferrin also plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system and regulating iron levels in the body.
Despite its significant advantages, sourcing lactoferrin remains a challenge. Extracting it from cow’s milk is not only costly but also unsustainable; approximately 10,000 liters of milk are required to produce just one kilogram of lactoferrin. Furthermore, the bovine version of the protein differs from the human form, raising questions about efficacy.
“It’s different to what our bodies have been producing and perfecting for thousands of years,” Coster emphasizes. “Why settle for anything less?”
Harnessing Precision Fermentation
Eclipse Ingredients leverages precision fermentation to produce human lactoferrin. By inserting the DNA of lactoferrin into engineered yeast, the fermentation process generates this powerful protein under controlled conditions. “The yeast is programmed to produce our human lactoferrin instead of alcohol as it grows,” explains Coster.
This method isn’t new; pharmaceutical companies have utilized precision fermentation for years. For Coster’s team, this familiarity serves as a strength. “It’s established technology proven at scale,” she notes. “What differs is our application for consumer markets like food and skincare.”
While pharmaceutical companies may charge millions per kilogram for similar proteins, Eclipse aims for accessibility in its offerings. Fortunately, lactoferrin’s efficacy at small doses allows for meaningful impact without the need for large production volumes.
A Competitive Edge
Eclipse isn’t the only startup exploring lactoferrin production, but Coster asserts that their intellectual property strategy and operational model set them apart. “We’re developing a robust patent portfolio for long-term advantage, while maintaining a focus on our people, patents, and breakthrough science,” she states.
AgFunder partner Michael Dean believes in Eclipse’s potential, stating that the company represents a “pivotal investment in the future of accessible health,” and may disrupt global wellness and skincare markets by alleviating existing production bottlenecks.
Market Readiness for High-Value Ingredients
Eclipse plans to launch its initial commercial products featuring human lactoferrin by 2027, starting with skincare applications and exploring international partnerships.
The concept of using human lactoferrin as a premium ingredient has only recently gained traction. “While research on lactoferrin has been ongoing for decades, it was initially made using precision fermentation over 20 years ago when neither technology nor market conditions were favorable,” Coster explains.
Recent technological advancements, combined with rising consumer interest in health-conscious products, have created a ripe environment for lactoferrin’s introduction to the market. “Consumers today are incredibly health savvy,” says Coster. “They seek ingredients with proven benefits, making lactoferrin’s potential to support well-being exceptionally compelling.”
In summary, with the increasing demand for beneficial ingredients and enhanced production methods, Eclipse Ingredients is poised to lead the charge in making human lactoferrin widely available, harnessing the true power of this remarkable protein.
