NEW TECH FOODS

Israeli food-tech company Imagindairy has achieved a significant milestone with the issuance of a ‘No Questions Letter’ from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), allowing the introduction of its animal-free dairy proteins to the US market.

This formal recognition marks a notable advancement for the company and signals a shift in the landscape of sustainable protein production.

The FDA's acknowledgement underscores the safety and quality of Imagindairy's dairy proteins. Eyal Afergan, co-founder and CEO of Imagindairy, said: “This approval reflects the FDA’s recognition of the safety of our high-quality dairy proteins. We are now positioned to offer this innovative ingredient to food companies, providing consumers with a dairy experience that doesn’t rely on traditional livestock.”

Imagindairy specialises in the production of animal-free dairy proteins that replicate the taste, texture, functionality and nutritional value of traditional cow’s dairy proteins.

The company's products are cholesterol-, lactose- and hormone-free, and leverage over 15 years of AI research from Tel Aviv University and advanced biotechnological techniques. This allows Imagindairy to produce industrial-scale premium protein powder with remarkable cost-effectiveness.

The production process aligns with a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to protein production, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, land and water use, and other environmental impacts.

Established in 2020 with support from the Strauss Group and its incubator, The Kitchen FoodTech Hub, Imagindairy has secured backing from notable investors, including Target Global, MoreVC, Entrée Capital, S2G Ventures, Emerald Technology Ventures, Green Circle Foodtech Ventures, FoodSparks by PeakBridge and Danone as a strategic investor through its corporate venture arm, Danone Manifesto Ventures.

Headquartered in Haifa with a team of over 30 employees, Imagindairy has raised over $30 million since its inception. As the company prepares to enter the American market, it aims to provide consumers with a sustainable and ethically produced alternative in the realm of dairy products.

“This is a momentous step for both Imagindairy and the consumers,” Afergan concluded. “With this FDA clearance, we look forward to collaborating with food brands, to bring dairy staples like milk, cream cheese, ice cream and yogurt to the market without compromising taste, price or experience.”