Bryan Tracy, a chemical and biological engineer, found inspiration in gorillas, which are among humans’ closest DNA relatives. These powerful and vibrant creatures are known for their strength and health. In stark contrast, if humans adopted a gorilla’s diet, they would likely become weak and unwell. Gorillas primarily consume a vegetarian diet rich in fruits, bamboo shoots, and stems, while humans require significantly more protein to thrive.
Tracy also studied cows, another robust herbivore that challenges common nutritional beliefs. How do these animals flourish on diets that might render humans ill? He discovered that both gorillas and cows possess an active microbiome. This vast array of microorganisms in their digestive systems effectively converts the plants they consume into the proteins essential for their health. Tracy wondered, “Why can’t we extract this concept from their digestive systems and replicate it?”
His goal evolved into finding protein specialists that can digest plant fibers—cost-effective calories—and harness them to cultivate microorganisms capable of producing highly nutritious proteins. This led to the establishment of his company, Superbrewed Food, which creates these microorganisms through fermentation for human consumption. Operating under the radar for about three years, previously known as White Dog Labs, Superbrewed Food has successfully raised $45 million in funding and secured a high-capacity production facility in Minnesota.
The company plans to launch its first products, including dairy-free milk and cheese made from its innovative protein, as well as a protein powder, in the latter half of this year, pending FDA approval for its protein ingredient. Tracy emphasized that operating stealthily has allowed the company to develop a manufacturing capacity that enables it to offer competitive pricing from the outset. Currently, they are finalizing packaging, design, and formulations, with a focus on how to best introduce a protein he believes could revolutionize the analog food market.
“We’re committed to spending the next eight months working closely with our branding and PR teams to ensure we effectively share our story,” he stated. This fermented protein ingredient is distinctive in numerous ways. It can transform plant fibers and starches into over 85% complete protein by weight and is abundant in essential vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin B12—an important nutrient often lacking in plant-based foods. One teaspoon of this protein provides 30% of the daily vitamin B12 requirement. Additionally, it boasts a concentration of branched-chain amino acids greater than that found in whey protein isolate.
Interestingly, some of this protein is also present in the human gut, but much remains unknown about the microbiome, including why similar proteins are not more prevalent in humans. “Our food system has significantly affected our gut health,” Tracy noted. He pointed out that the most readily available, low-cost food options today do not support optimal gut health. Thus, by providing beneficial gut health nutrients directly, Superbrewed Food aims to address this issue.
The protein, derived from corn and extracted without solvents, is exceptionally clean and has a mild flavor profile. Tracy described it as having a buttery, warm umami taste, making it ideal for dairy analogs. According to the company, the ingredient complements milk, cheese, cream, and yogurt well in terms of both flavor and performance.
Superbrewed Food’s production facility resembles a brewery, utilizing standard equipment for fermentation, which helps keep scaling costs low, despite the process differing significantly from alcohol production. Located next to an ethanol plant, the Minnesota facility benefits from resource efficiency and utility cost reductions, with the ethanol plant utilizing waste generated by Superbrewed Food.
This operational synergy allows Superbrewed Food to produce protein rapidly and affordably, enabling its products to compete with existing milk and cheese options upon launch. As the product line is introduced, the company plans to educate consumers about its nutritional benefits, bolstering claims with evidence and comparisons to other plant-based products. Tracy believes that the nutritional value, taste, and cost-effectiveness are crucial factors in attracting consumers. Once familiarity with the product grows, Superbrewed Food aims to partner with major CPG companies to incorporate its protein into their offerings. Tracy has already received interest from various manufacturers looking to utilize his innovative protein.
As Superbrewed Food prepares to enter the market, Tracy is strategizing for future expansion. “We are optimistic about the potential of our remarkable ingredient and the products we have developed,” he mentioned. “Now is the time to seek investment and partnerships that will accelerate our market entry for the benefit of all stakeholders involved.”
Incorporating essential nutrients like calcium citrate and vitamin D into their products is also part of their strategy, aiming to enhance the overall nutritional profile and attract health-conscious consumers. Through this innovative approach, Superbrewed Food hopes to set a new standard in the food industry, emphasizing the importance of gut health and complete nutrition.