Swedish biotech firm Melt&Marble has raised €7.3 million in Series A funding, with Beiersdorf among the investors. This capital infusion will propel their precision fermentation-derived designer fats from research into commercial production for beauty and personal care products. The company has now secured a total of €10 million within the past year, including a €2.5 million grant from the EIC Accelerator last year.
Traditional ingredients like palm and coconut oil face scrutiny over performance inconsistencies, supply chain volatility, and environmental impact. Melt&Marble's technology offers a solution by engineering animal-free fats at a molecular level. These tailored fat structures promise enhanced functionality, improved skin-feel, and greater bioactivity compared to conventional sources.
The investment signifies growing confidence in sustainable alternatives for the beauty sector. While the focus is on high performance and sustainability, the cost-competitiveness of these novel ingredients will be a critical factor for widespread adoption. For UK salon and barbershop owners, this development points towards a future where ingredient sourcing can align with both client demand for ethical products and the practical need for reliable, effective formulations.
