California Cultured and the University of California, Davis have entered a partnership to reduce the production costs of cell-based cocoa. Backed by $2.77 million in funding from the National Science Foundation and BioMade, the project focuses on improving bioreactor design, sterilization methods, and process monitoring. By utilizing custom high-density polyethylene bioreactors and automated systems, the researchers aim to increase production efficiency and lower capital expenditures. This initiative addresses supply chain volatility and environmental concerns associated with traditional cocoa farming, which faces risks from climate change and crop disease. California Cultured, which has already developed a cocoa powder using plant cells, plans to begin commercial manufacturing in early 2027. The project results are intended to support broader advancements in biomanufacturing and sustainable food production.
Source: California Cultured, UC Davis Get $2.8M Govt Grants to Cut Lab-Grown Chocolate Costs