French Biotech Attracts Food Industry Investors for Casein Production Standing Ovation, a French agricultural biotech company, has completed a €30 million Series B funding round to commercialize its patented fermentation process for producing casein—a high-value dairy protein ingredient. The round was led by Bpifrance (France 2030) and Crédit Mutuel Innovation, with backing from existing investors including the Bel Group. The funding notably includes participation from Danone Ventures, signaling growing interest from established food manufacturers in fermentation-based dairy alternatives.
Technology and Market Strategy Standing Ovation's process converts agricultural sugars and whey permeates into caseins through precision fermentation. The company has filed eight patent families to protect its technology. Romain Chayot, co-founder and managing director, trained as an agricultural engineer. The company plans to begin U.S. sales in 2026, followed by European and Asian expansion starting in late 2027. Standing Ovation will present at SupplySide Global 2026 (Booth #221), where Chayot will discuss the company's fermentation methodology and international growth strategy.
Why It Matters
Casein demand remains strong across dairy, nutrition, and food manufacturing sectors.
Fermentation-based production methods offer potential cost and sustainability advantages over traditional extraction, though market adoption depends on ingredient performance, regulatory approval, and pricing competitiveness.
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Written by FBM Publications Editors
