A pioneering startup backed by Bill Gates may have unlocked a game-changing secret for the food industry—creating delicious, planet-friendly food.
Based in California, Savor utilizes carbon dioxide from the air to produce a variety of fat-based products directly in the lab. This innovation addresses the substantial environmental impact of traditional livestock farming, which accounts for 14.5 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.
While plant-based alternatives have emerged, they often fall short in mimicking the taste and texture of animal-derived products. Additionally, concerns over the environmental impact of palm oil, commonly used in these alternatives, persist due to its connection to deforestation.
Savor’s breakthrough lies in its chemical approach to fat production. By leveraging carbon dioxide as a foundational ingredient and employing heat and hydrogen, the startup constructs fat molecules without reliance on animals. This method achieves a remarkably low carbon footprint, emitting less than 0.8 g CO2 equivalent per kilogram compared to over 1.5 g CO2 equivalent per kilogram for palm oil production.
Beyond butter, Savor aims to replicate a wide range of animal-derived fats including milk, cheese, ice cream, and edible oils using its innovative technology. This ambitious vision promises not only to satisfy consumer cravings but also to pave the way towards a more sustainable future for food production worldwide.
