Cosaic: A New Era in Plant-Based Ingredients

April 5, 2025, 4:11 am
In the bustling world of food technology, Cosaic emerges as a beacon of innovation. Formerly known as Cultivated Biosciences, this Swiss startup is reshaping the landscape of plant-based ingredients. Their flagship product, Cosaic Neo, is not just another ingredient; it’s a game-changer.

Cosaic Neo is a yeast-derived emulsion that combines fats, proteins, and fibers into one multifunctional ingredient. Imagine a Swiss Army knife for food developers. It offers eight key functionalities, making it a versatile solution for various applications. This is not merely about replacing fat; it’s about enhancing the entire sensory experience of plant-based products.

The rebranding from Cultivated Biosciences to Cosaic reflects a strategic pivot. The name itself evokes the idea of a mosaic—different elements coming together to create something greater. This concept resonates deeply with their mission: to bridge the gap between traditional dairy and plant-based alternatives.

Tomas Turner, the CEO, is a material engineer with a vision. His journey began at the Swiss Institute of Technology, where he first encountered alternative proteins. The seed of an idea was planted. He envisioned a world where plant-based products could rival their dairy counterparts in taste and texture. After an internship at Planted Foods, he dove deeper into the world of yeast fermentation. This exploration led to the birth of Cosaic and its innovative ingredient, Cosaic Neo.

What sets Cosaic Neo apart? It’s the perfect blend of functionality and sensory appeal. Traditional plant-based ingredients often fall short in texture and taste. Cosaic Neo changes that narrative. It enhances creaminess and mouthfeel, making plant-based products more appealing to mainstream consumers. In blind taste tests, products containing Cosaic Neo have been described as creamier and more flavorful. This is a significant leap forward for the industry.

The potential applications for Cosaic Neo are vast. From ready-to-drink protein shakes to dairy-free milks and creamy sauces, the ingredient can elevate a wide range of products. Health-conscious consumers are increasingly seeking nutrition without sacrificing taste. Cosaic Neo allows manufacturers to boost protein content significantly—up to 50 grams in a 330ml bottle—without compromising on flavor or texture. This is a win-win for both consumers and producers.

Cosaic Neo also addresses a critical issue in the food industry: clean labels. Today’s consumers are more informed than ever. They want transparency in their food. Cosaic Neo replaces unwanted additives, simplifying ingredient lists while enhancing product performance. This aligns perfectly with the growing demand for clean-label products.

However, the journey to market is not without challenges. Regulatory hurdles loom large, especially in the U.S. and Europe. Cosaic is navigating the complex landscape of food safety regulations, but they are armed with a strong foundation of knowledge. Their yeast composition has already received Qualified Presumption of Safety, which bodes well for future approvals.

The company is not just resting on its laurels. With a recent $5 million seed funding round led by Navus Ventures, Cosaic is poised for growth. The focus is on scaling production and forging partnerships with industry giants. The goal is clear: to bring Cosaic Neo to market by 2026, transforming the way consumers perceive plant-based products.

Cosaic’s approach is refreshing. They are not merely reacting to trends; they are setting them. By unlocking the full potential of yeast, they are redefining what plant-based ingredients can achieve. This innovation is crucial as the food industry grapples with climate change and health challenges.

The future looks bright for Cosaic. As they continue to innovate, they will likely introduce more ingredient solutions that tackle industry challenges. Each new product will aim to create better outcomes for people, businesses, and the planet.

In a world where food choices are increasingly scrutinized, Cosaic stands out. They are not just selling ingredients; they are offering a vision for a sustainable future. A future where plant-based products are not just alternatives but desirable options for everyone.

Cosaic Neo is more than an ingredient; it’s a movement. It symbolizes a shift in how we think about food. It challenges the status quo and invites consumers to embrace a new way of eating.

As Cosaic prepares to launch its innovative ingredient, the anticipation builds. Will they succeed in changing the perception of plant-based products? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: Cosaic is ready to make waves in the food industry. They are poised to lead the charge towards a more sustainable and delicious future.

In the end, Cosaic is not just about food; it’s about connection. It’s about bringing people together through shared experiences. It’s about creating products that nourish both body and soul. As they continue to innovate, they remind us that food is more than sustenance; it’s a tapestry of flavors, textures, and memories.

Cosaic is weaving a new narrative in the world of food. One that celebrates diversity, innovation, and sustainability. And in this narrative, everyone has a seat at the table.