Deep Branch, an Anglo-Dutch biotech start-up that makes animal feed from CO2, has received a capital injection of €8 million from chemical group DSM, among others. The financing makes it possible to produce animal feed on a larger scale.
Founded in 2018, Deep Branch produces proteins from CO2 using micro-organisms and hydrogen. The protein is the basis for fish and chicken feed.
Peter Rowe, CEO of Deep Branch, says in a news item on the company's website that he plans to start producing commercially in 2023. There is currently a pilot plant at the chemical industrial estate Chemelot in Limburg. The location of the first real factory is now being determined. Norway would be ideal because of the country's leading position in the salmon industry and hydrogen production, says Rowe.
Reducing the carbon footprint
Pieter Wolters, managing director of DSM Venturing said in the message: “Protein is vital for good health, but its production is responsible for one of the largest greenhouse gas emissions. At DSM we apply our scientific know-how to help the world feed more sustainably, such as reducing the carbon footprint of livestock farming and creating alternatives to wild-caught fish for feed Deep Branch has technology that has the potential to be transformational and we are excited to invest in it ."
The investment round was led by Novo Holdings and DSM Venturing in partnership with Total Carbon Neutrality Ventures and Barclays Sustainable Impact Capital. €4 million has already been provided by UK and European funds.
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