TurtleTree opens R&D facility in latest US move toward cell-based lactoferrin

04 Oct 2021 --- TurtleTree has opened a new R&D facility in California, US, marking a milestone in the cell-based dairy biotech company’s expansion strategy.

“The facility is a significant stride toward the production of product-ready milk and dairy ingredients,” a spokesperson at TurtleTree tells NutritionInsight.

TurtleTree announced in June it was set to launch its first commercially scalable human lactoferrin, with applications in immunity, infant nutrition and sports nutrition. 

“In the next couple of years, we plan to introduce cell-based protein products such as lactoferrin and human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs),” says the spokesperson. 

These functional ingredients can then be used in products such as sports nutrition, infant formula, and everyday dairy products such as cheese and yogurt. 

TurtleTree plans to introduce cell-based protein products such as lactoferrin and HMOs in the next few years.Following the market 
TurtleTree says its focus on the US market is due to North America being “the largest global market in alternative proteins.”

“TurtleTree understands the importance of having a sizable presence in the US from a business, manufacturing and R&D perspective,” the spokesperson says. 

In August, TurtleTree made another significant move in the US. It partnered with Solar Biotech to help bring cell-based milk technology to scale. 

Solar Biotech is a contract technology development and manufacturing company that uses proprietary SynBio Hyperintegration Algorithms to offer scale at low operating costs. 

First products in sight
The new research facility will spur the development of precision fermentation technology currently used to produce highly functional ingredients found in milk. 

The 24,000 sq ft building will house a “world-class” research hub showcasing the company’s array of innovations and cell-based technologies. 

Aside from offices and a research hub, the R&D facility will serve as an integral touchpoint for TurtleTree to connect and collaborate with educational institutions, research-focused partners, strategic partners, future customers and investors.

However, regulation and cost remain two big hurdles for not only TurtleTree but all cell-based food companies. 

“We are working closely with regulatory authorities and our manufacturing partners to achieve commercial viability,” says the spokesperson. Moreover, “R&D is TurtleTree’s priority.”

The spokesperson says the company is committed to allocating the best resource for innovation, which include significant laboratory resources like molecular and cell biology and fermentation capabilities, in addition to the job opportunities available for local talents.

TurtleTree is working closely with regulatory authorities and manufacturing partners to achieve commercial viability.Sacramento-based
The spokesperson emphasizes that the new R&D facility’s location was chosen with surrounding resources in mind. 

“Being in the Sacramento area also allows us to tap on the valuable human and research resources from top universities, including UC Davis, Sacramento State University and California State University,” notes the spokesperson.

TurtleTree’s CEO and co-founder, Fengru Lin adds: “Establishing this R&D facility in Greater Sacramento marks the first step toward bringing our unique products from development to market – one that we’re very glad will help unlock new opportunities within the local community.” 

TurtleTree’s presence was welcomed by the West Sacramento mayor, Martha Guerrero, who says the city will assist TurtleTree reach its facility goals through an accelerated occupancy permit process. 

“TurtleTree is making significant contributions to a sustainable, global food supply and is also creating opportunities to prepare future generations to continue this important scientific work through our student internship program, which will be of great benefit to the city’s youth.”

The R&D center is expected to create approximately 40 new tech-related jobs in and around Greater Sacramento. 

Moving forward, TurtleTree remains committed to its role in developing the food and agriculture ecosystem in Northern California.

“Currently, we are working on cultivating the US and Southeast Asian market, with a long-term plan to expand to other major markets that value sustainable nutrition,” concludes the spokesperson. 

By Missy Green