All G and Armor Protéines Join Forces to Revolutionize Lactoferrin Production

In an exciting development for the Australian startup scene, All G has announced a strategic joint venture with French dairy ingredients expert Armor Protéines. This collaboration aims to commercialize both human and bovine lactoferrin using advanced precision fermentation techniques.

The Joint Venture Dynamics

The new partnership will leverage All G’s proficiency in recombinant proteins alongside Armor Protéines’ specialization in bioactive milk proteins, particularly animal-sourced lactoferrin. As part of this venture, All G plans to launch its inaugural product—recombinant bovine lactoferrin—in the first quarter of 2026, with human lactoferrin expected to follow later that same year.

Recently, All G successfully raised A$10 million (approximately $6.6 million) through a convertible note from both new and existing investors, including Agronomics and Döhler Ventures. This funding is a precursor to their Series B fundraising round. All G aims to capitalize on Armor Protéines’ established scientific expertise, distribution networks, and longstanding relationships with key players in infant formula, adult nutrition, and dietary supplements.

Understanding Lactoferrin

Lactoferrin, an iron-binding anti-microbial protein found in mammalian milk, is renowned for its myriad of health benefits, including immune support, iron regulation, gastrointestinal health, and dermatological advantages. Historically, the protein was difficult to source due to the high quantities of milk needed for isolation, which can require thousands of liters to produce just one kilogram.

Utilizing fermentation tanks and genetically modified microbes presents a new frontier for lactoferrin production, with several startups currently exploring opportunities in adult nutrition, infant food, cosmetics, and personal care products. Despite such promise, technical challenges have hampered progress, particularly in mimicking native glycosylation patterns and achieving commercially viable yields. However, All G claims to have overcome these hurdles, promising high purity, consistent quality, and scalable production to enhance global accessibility.

Strategic Market Positioning

Unlike some other players in the alternative protein space, All G aims to enhance existing markets rather than creating entirely new ones. CEO Jan Pacas highlighted the advantages of their collaboration, mentioning that Armor Protéines is owned by Savencia, a top global producer of bovine lactoferrin. Given that demand currently outstrips supply, All G can effectively fill this gap.

“They already have an established market with customers eager to procure more of it for applications where we have approval in China, including supplements and personal care,” Pacas stated.

Regulatory Advances and Scaling Up

All G has achieved self-GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status in the U.S. for adult nutrition products and has secured approvals in various categories in China. The company is also in the process of expanding its regulatory filings.

On the manufacturing front, All G has conducted successful pilot scale operations with Döhler and is now looking to scale with contract manufacturers, including one in China and another in the U.S. or Europe. “We have already initiated technology transfer for our Chinese manufacturing partner, known for its collaboration with some of the largest global pharmaceutical companies,” Pacas mentioned.

Future Opportunities in Infant Formula

While All G has not yet secured approval for the infant formula market, they see significant potential in human lactoferrin, especially given the growing trend of incorporating human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) produced through precision fermentation into infant products.

Pacas predicts that within five to ten years, human lactoferrin could become a pivotal component in infant formula, particularly within China’s $35 billion market. “We are working closely with one of the largest infant formula companies to navigate the regulatory process,” he stated.

All G has also developed expertise in producing recombinant casein but is currently focusing on lactoferrin due to its higher profit margins. “The market demands profitability, and lactoferrin offers clearer economic benefits compared to casein,” Pacas explained.

Looking Ahead

The team has plans for recombinant casein in future applications, prioritizing human-derived proteins given their potential benefits for infants. “Presenting options like casein from cow’s milk versus human breast milk is an obvious choice when prioritizing infant health,” Pacas concluded.

Further Reading

• Breaking: Eclipse Ingredients Secures Funding for Its ‘Capital-Light’ Spin on Making Human Lactoferrin
• Alpine Bio Debuts ‘Insanely Soluble’ Soy Protein Isolate and Iron-Rich Lactoferrin Made in Soybeans
• 10 Million Servings Per Run: Helaina Scales Human Lactoferrin Production
• Vivici Raises $34M to Expand Animal-Free Dairy Operation, Plans Move Into Lactoferrin Market
• DeNovo Foodlabs and EFFV Create JV to Scale Lactoferrin via Precision Fermentation