News – fresh from the lab

Förderung für Infinite Roots: Neuer Weg zur Umwandlung von Molke in Mycelium-Produkte soll erforscht werden

Hamburg – Das Biotech-Unternehmen Infinite Roots, das auf nachhaltige Lösungen in
der Lebensmittelindustrie spezialisiert ist, erhält eine Förderung. Insgesamt stehen 2,6
Millionen Euro für das Forschungsprojekt zur Verfügung. Ziel des Projekts, das in
Zusammenarbeit mit der Technischen Universität Hamburg (TUHH) durchgeführt
wird, ist die Entwicklung einer innovativen Technologie zur Aufwertung von Molke,
einem Hauptnebenprodukt der Milchverarbeitung.

Durch die Umwandlung von Molke in ein Substrat für die Mycelium-Fermentation soll
ein neuer Weg zur Herstellung alternativer Milchprodukte geebnet werden. Das Projekt
wird auch mit Mitteln des Bundesministeriums für Ernährung und Landwirtschaft (BMEL)
aufgrund eines Beschlusses des Deutschen Bundestages über die Bundesanstalt für
Landwirtschaft und Ernährung (BLE) im Rahmen des Innovationsförderprogramms
gefördert. Insgesamt fließen auf diese Weise 1,8 Millionen Euro den beiden
Projektpartnern zu.

Infinite Roots adressiert mit dem Vorhaben ein zentrales Problem der Milchindustrie:
Molke, die bis zu 90 % 1 der für die Käseherstellung verwendeten Milch ausmacht, wird
weltweit in Mengen von 180 bis 190 Millionen Tonnen jährlich produziert. Derzeit wird 2
jedoch nur etwa die Hälfte dieser Molke weiterverarbeitet. Die Entsorgung ist teuer und
ökologisch problematisch , da Molke aufgrund ihres hohen biochemischen 3
Sauerstoffbedarfs das Risiko der Grundwasserverschmutzung und der Belastung
landwirtschaftlicher Flächen birgt.

Das Ziel des Projekts ist es Molke als Nährstoff für die Mycelium-Fermentation zu nutzen.
Mycelium, das wurzelähnliche Geflecht von Pilzen, hat sich in den letzten Jahren als
besonders ressourcenschonende Alternative zu Fleischprodukten etabliert. Dank seiner
natürlichen Struktur und des hohen Proteingehalts bietet Mycelium zahlreiche
gesundheitliche Vorteile für Menschen und trägt gleichzeitig erheblich zur Reduktion
von CO2-Emissionen bei – besonders im Vergleich zur Fleisch- und Sojaproduktion. Nun
erforscht Infinite Roots ein neues Anwendungsfeld.

Die Aufwertung von Molke eröffnet nicht nur neue Umsatzpotenziale, sondern reduziert
gleichzeitig die Umweltbelastungen, die mit der Entsorgung verbunden sind. „Unsere
Upcycling-Technologie optimiert den Fermentationsprozess und verwandelt ein bislang
problematisches Abfallprodukt in eine wertvolle Ressource; einen natürlichen Rohstoff.
Dies bietet Zeitvorteile, senkt Produktionskosten und fördert nachhaltige Praktiken in
der Lebensmittelproduktion“, erklärt Dr. Mazen Rizk, CEO von Infinite Roots.

Die Zusammenarbeit mit der TUHH geht über technische Innovationen hinaus. Eine
Bildungsinitiative wird junge Forscher in die Themen Upcycling und umweltfreundliche
Lebensmitteltechnologie einführen. „Durch die Kooperation mit der TUHH und die
Einbindung junger Talente erhält das Projekt eine wichtige gesellschaftliche Dimension“
,fügt Rizk hinzu. „Wir entwickeln nicht nur neue Technologien, sondern wollen auch die
nächste Generation von Innovatoren für mehr Nachhaltigkeit in der
Lebensmittelproduktion begeistern.“

Partnering with Pulmuone to Pioneer Plant-Based Proteins in South Korea

What do you get when you combine state-of-the-art mycelium technology, innovative product development, and market savvy? A recipe for success that delights the palates of South Korean consumers.

At Infinite Roots, we’re all about teaming up to make big things happen. Which is why we’re thrilled about our ongoing collaboration with Pulmuone, a leading South Korean food manufacturer, to develop mycelium-based protein products tailored to the unique preferences of South Korean consumers. 

As we make strides in our international expansion, a cornerstone of our success lies in forging partnerships with like-minded experts in local markets. Pulmuone’s product development acumen and deep understanding of consumer preferences ensures that we’re not just entering a market but truly connecting with the hearts and tastes of the South Korean public.

Our collaboration will seek to set new standards in alternative nutrition while championing sustainability every step of the way. Together, we’re dedicated to minimizing our environmental footprint and promoting ethical sourcing practices, from using local sidestreams to deploying low-carbon production processes.

“We are very happy to join forces with a partner with such market power and an equally visionary mindset,” said Infinite Roots® founder and CEO Dr. Mazen Rizk. “This partnership is a significant step in our mission to offer sustainable and tasty nutrition options – in this case, focusing on the culinary traditions and taste preferences in South Korea.” 

The enthusiasm was shared by Pulmuone, whose CEO, Kim Jin Hong, praised the partnership as “proof of our commitment to revolutionizing the food industry and shaping a more sustainable future.”

Of course, a crucial acknowledgment is owed to our silent partner, Mother Nature. The natural properties and processes of mycelium form the foundation of our challenge to the global food industry. Mycelium is a nutrient-rich resource, containing complete protein, prebiotic fibers, vitamins, and minerals. With our patented technology and partners like Pulmuone, we’re continuing to unlock its potential to transform food production using hyperlocal solutions. 

As we navigate through the ongoing test phase, we eagerly anticipate delving into the subsequent stages of our partnership. Keep an eye out for updates.

Infinite Roots Raises $58M, Europe’s Largest Investment in Mycelium

We’ve always believed in the potential of mycelium – and now some of Europe’s biggest investors do too. Dr. Hans Riegel Holding (HRH), the EIC Fund, and REWE Group lead the Series B funding round.

Since our inception, we’ve remained steadfast in our mission to revolutionize the food industry. Now, with the backing of some of Europe’s largest investors, that vision has gained even greater momentum.

Amidst a challenging fundraising landscape, we’re thrilled to have raised $58 million USD from a diverse range of international investors. The round was led by the Dr. Hans Riegel Holding (HRH), of Haribo fame, and supported by the EIC Fund, an initiative of the European Commission aimed at making direct equity investments in highly innovative start-ups and SMEs.

Following the announcement, Svetoslava Georgieva, Chair of the EIC Fund Board, emphasized that “it is high time for consumers to be able to reconcile their appetite for good food and their willingness to act for the planet and for their health.” We are proud to bridge the gap.

Other notable backers include the German trade and tourism cooperative REWE Group, Thailand-based VC Betagro Venture, and existing investors Clay Capital, FoodLabs, Redalpine, Simon Capital and Happiness Capital. 

The largest mycelium investment in Europe

The investment marks the largest in mycelium in Europe thus far, a testament not only to our technology and expertise but also to the broader innovation taking root in the food industry. 

We are deeply encouraged by the confidence companies have shown in our technology’s capacity to revolutionize food production using edible mushroom mycelium. This reaffirms our leadership in the field and underscores our ability to attract strategic partners. Our recent partnership with Pulmuone to enter the South Korean market exemplifies this synergy.

“Rethinking food production and consumption has never been more pressing, and requires our collective efforts. We are thrilled to join forces with industry champions to establish the next generation of tasty, healthy and sustainable foods,” said Dr. Mazen Rizk, Founder and CEO of Infinite Roots®.

Mycelium: The key to sustainable nutrition

Mycelium, an infinitely versatile ingredient and the catalyst for our sustainable food revolution, is packed with essential nutrients that include complete proteins, prebiotic fibers, vitamins such as B and D, important minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium, as well as antioxidants and other bioactive compounds. It not only forms the foundation of our tasty and healthy products but also presents a unique third category of nutrition, distinct from traditional animal-based and plant-based options.

This latest round of funding caps off a series of significant milestones, marking the dawn of a new era of commercial growth for our company. From our corporate rebrand from Mushlabs to Infinite Roots® in November 2023 to our invitation to present our vision at COP28 in Dubai, each step forward solidifies our commitment to reshaping the future of food.

Infinite Roots® at COP28: Spearheading Sustainable Solutions in Dubai

Given the importance of food security worldwide, we were honored to share our vision at an event attended by approximately 80,000 guests from 198 countries.

It was a privilege for us to participate in the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai. As a young biotech company from Hamburg, the event was landmark milestone in our journey. Our invitation to COP28 wasn’t just an opportunity to showcase our innovative mycelium-based solutions but also to advocate for a more sustainable food system in front of an international audience. 

Oh, and it was the perfect setting to debut our new corporate identity, one that reflects our core mission and the boundless potential of our technology.

Impacting the Global Stage: Insights and Interactions

Our booth at COP28 was a beehive of activity, drawing nearly 700 visitors over three days. We engaged with global thought leaders and sparked the interest of students in the critical link between food systems and the climate crisis. These interactions highlighted a collective dedication to sustainable methods of feeding the global population.

A key insight from the conference was the investment disparity between the food and energy sectors. To combat climate change effectively, we need to reallocate focus and resources toward sustainable agriculture. Experts emphasized the need for synchronized efforts in regulation, innovation, participation, and investment to drive meaningful change.

Remarkably, food’s role in addressing climate issues has been on the COP agenda for only three years, with the topic of nutrition being included just this year – certainly a case of better late than never.

Looking Ahead: The Path to Sustainable Change

The discussions and insights from COP28 have reinforced our commitment to advancing food technology. “Our invitation to the UN Climate Conference acknowledges our relentless research and our role in driving essential shifts within the food sector,” stated Dr. Mazen Rizk, our founder and CEO. “Representing Germany and presenting our solutions to environmental challenges was a profound honor.”

As Infinite Roots® continues to grow, so does our impact on the global food landscape. Our work in Dubai has paved the way for entering new markets – as we are in South Korea – and developing solutions that not only meet but surpass the demands of a modern, sustainable food system.

COP28 was an invaluable platform for recognition and networking with other innovators, and we are immensely thankful for the opportunities it presented.

Mushlabs Becomes Infinite Roots®: A New Chapter in Sustainable Food Innovation

Ahead of our debut at COP28 in Dubai, we reveal a fresh corporate identity that embodies our commitment to revolutionizing the global food system through the boundless potential of mycelium.

Mycelium doesn’t stop evolving, and neither do we. On November 28th, 2023, we officially became Infinite Roots® after six years of growth as Mushlabs. We unveiled our new corporate identity at the United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP28, in Dubai, which drew some 80,000+ visitors. It was definitely worth putting on a pretty face for.

Why the change? 

Our transformation into Infinite Roots® isn’t just a new look and name—it’s a leap towards greater international impact and commercial success. Infinite Roots better captures our mission to drive sustainable innovation with mycelium technology at its heart. As our team of experts grows, so does our potential to shape the future of food on a global scale. Our new identity reflects both the foundation of our products as well as their limitless potential.  

Our evolution from Mushlabs

Our journey began in Berlin, in 2018, when we were founded as Mushlabs. Our passion then was the same as today: to transform the food industry for the betterment of people and the planet. We quickly attracted investors and partners who were aligned with our vision, and by 2020, our momentum culminatinated in a $10 million USD Series A financing round that expanded our operations and broadened our impact. As our needs evolved, the search for top-tier talent and industry expertise led us to Hamburg.

In Hamburg, we currently have 70 employees from 25 nationalities working tirelessly to advance sustainable food innovation from state-of-the-art facilities that provide the ideal environment for research, development, and production. Adding “Infinite Roots®” and uploading a new logo to our Hamburg address on Google was one of those small full-circle moments you cherish as a company.  

A swift milestone as Infinite Roots®

Our transition to Infinite Roots quickly bore fruit. In January 2024, we secured $58 million USD in Series B funding, a testament to the confidence investors have in our vision and technology. This funding will boost our R&D, expand our product line, and scale operations to meet increasing demand. We’re also deepening collaborations with industry partners, research institutions, and government bodies to accelerate the shift towards a more sustainable global food system.

With a new look, stronger corporate identity, and even grander ambitions, the future is bright for Infinite Roots®. We’re thrilled to embark on this next phase of our journey.