Germany’s Insempra to Expand Eco-Friendly Lipid Production Following $20M Series A Funding

German startup Insempra is revolutionizing the production of lipids by using organic materials instead of environmentally harmful petrochemicals. Lipids, which are fatty, waxy, or oily compounds, are essential in the beauty, fashion, and food industries. Insempra plans to scale up the production of lipids by utilizing oil yeast in yeast fermentation factories.

Recently, the startup secured a $20 million Series A financing round led by EQT Ventures, with participation from BlueYard Capital, Possible Ventures, Taavet Sten, Acequia Capital, Henkel dx Ventures, Bayern Kapital, and Alante Capital. This funding follows an initial $15 million seed round conducted in 2021.

In addition to cosmetic and food applications, Insempra is developing technology to provide bio-based alternatives to materials like polymers and textiles. The company aims to produce ingredients for antioxidants, preservatives, flavors, and fragrances.

Founder Jens Klein, former CEO of AMSilk GmbH, explained the process of producing lipids from oil yeast in steel vessels under specific metabolic conditions. This innovative approach sets Insempra apart from traditional petrochemical companies in the specialty ingredients market.

Moreover, Insempra will also venture into the fashion industry by producing fibers through a spinoff called Salina, in collaboration with Imperial College in London. These protein fibers offer a sustainable alternative for fashion production.

Ted Persson, Partner at EQT Ventures, highlighted the potential of technology platforms like Insempra to revolutionize manufacturing processes across multiple industries. With a focus on customized ingredients to meet market demands, Insempra is poised to disrupt the multibillion-dollar lipid industry.