Israeli startup grows dairy protein in genetically engineered potatoes

ISRAELI – Israeli food-tech startup Finally Foods has introduced a groundbreaking development in dairy production by growing cow-milk protein in genetically engineered potatoes. 

Reported by the company, this innovation marks the first time real dairy protein has been produced without the need for cows, potentially transforming the global dairy industry.

According to a report by Finally Foods, the startup, which operates under Strauss Group’s The Kitchen food-tech incubator, will conduct its first field trial next month in southern Israel near the Gaza border. 

The modified potatoes will be cultivated to extract casein protein, a key ingredient in dairy products. 

Casein, which constitutes 80% of milk proteins, plays a vital role in cheese-making by providing essential melting, stretching, and foaming properties.

The company specializes in molecular agriculture, a technique that uses plants as bio-reactors for protein production. 

By growing dairy proteins in potatoes, Finally Foods aims to offer a sustainable alternative to traditional livestock-based dairy, which is known for its high greenhouse gas emissions and significant land and water consumption. 

“Together with our partners, we are laying the foundation for a sustainable future in dairy protein production,” said Finally Foods CEO Eyal Gabay.

The technology was developed using AI-driven genetic engineering from Israeli biotech firm Evogene. 

Researchers analyzed genetic databases to identify animal-derived DNA sequences suitable for plant incorporation. 

This process enables potatoes to function as biological factories for dairy protein, with AI continuously optimizing both growth conditions and protein yield.

Potatoes were selected for their high yield, ease of protein extraction, and global availability.

Unlike fermentation-based dairy alternatives that rely on yeasts, bacteria, and fungi but struggle to replicate real casein, this method provides a cost-effective and scalable approach to producing identical dairy proteins. 

Reported by the company, the first field trial was also strategically placed near the Gaza border as part of an initiative to contribute to regional development.

Meanwhile, in India, Amul is investing Rs 600 crore to establish the world’s largest curd manufacturing plant in Kolkata. 

According to reports, this facility will meet the growing demand for dairy products in Bengal and strengthen India’s dairy sector.