Welcome to the third installment in our latest series exploring cutting-edge technological trends that excite us as deep-tech investors. In our previous posts, we spoke of the immense potential of Advanced Material innovations and tools to enable those innovations, before doing a deep-dive into the exciting world of synthetic biology. Today, we turn our attention to Biomaterials: a field which has the potential to solve some of the everyday problems that human beings face.
It is entirely plausible that, in a few years, our world would be transformed by biomaterial innovations that seem straight out of the sci-fi realm. Buildings could repair themselves using bioengineered concrete. Medical implants might dissolve harmlessly in the body after delivering targeted therapeutic interventions. Everyday objects, like clothing or packaging, could seamlessly biodegrade into the environment.
These are not far-fetched fantastical scenarios. They are getting closer and closer to being realised with the rapid advancements in the field of biomaterials. We already have alternative meats that rival the taste and texture of meat without the environmental or ethical cost, and fabrics made from spider silk or fungal mycelium. The biomaterials field is evolving rapidly, promising innovative solutions which can transform our planet.
Biomaterials are natural or synthetic materials engineered to interact with biological systems. These materials are designed to mimic, replace, or augment biological functions and structures, making them integral to advancements in healthcare, environmental sustainability, and various industrial processes.
It is important here to distinguish between biomaterials and synthetic biology, the subject of our last post. While these fields might overlap, there is a clear distinction. Synthetic biology focuses on engineering living organisms at the genetic level to create new biological function. Biomaterials encompass a wide range of materials - living or non-living, natural or synthetic - designed to interact with biological systems.
We are seeing an increasing number of startups working on biomaterials. From creating biodegradable implants for usage in joint & dental replacements to creating edible coatings that extend the freshness of produce, biomaterials are unlocking new possibilities. Innovations like seaweed-based wrappers provide sustainable and edible alternatives to traditional plastic packaging, helping to reduce plastic pollution. Biomaterials such as mycelium-based bricks and bamboo offer sustainable construction alternatives, promoting greener building practices.
While the possibilities are endless, we’d like to do a deep-dive on biomaterial applications in food & agri in this post. In particular we are actively looking at the following 3 themes:
- Alternative Protein Infra: As the global population continues to rise, the demand for protein is increasing at an unprecedented rate. Traditional livestock farming, however, poses significant environmental challenges, from greenhouse gas emissions to extensive land and water use. One of the most groundbreaking advancements in alternative proteins is the development of cell-based meat. By cultivating animal cells in a controlled environment, scientists can produce real meat without the need for raising and slaughtering livestock.
However, cell based meat production is extremely costly & getting the texture right along with matching the taste & nutritional profile is complex. This is where biomaterials come into play. There are startups working on producing animal free & cheap culture media to reduce cost as well as startups working on natural scaffolds to produce meat with the right texture. We are excited about startups that are providing the infra (media, bioreactor, scaffolds etc) to alternate protein companies & helping realize this bold dream. - Food wastage: Food wastage is a significant global issue, with approximately one-third of all food produced being lost or wasted. Biomaterials offer innovative solutions to extend the shelf life of perishable goods and preserve their quality, thus reducing food waste.
Edible coatings made from natural biomaterials can significantly extend the shelf life of fruits, vegetables & meat. These coatings act as barriers to moisture and oxygen, slowing down the ripening process and preventing spoilage. Companies like Apeel Sciences have developed plant-derived coatings that can keep produce fresh for longer, reducing food waste at both the retail and consumer levels. - Agri inputs: The use of biomaterials in agricultural inputs can enhance crop productivity, reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and promote sustainable farming practices.
Biopesticides derived from natural materials such as plants, bacteria, and fungi offer a safer and more sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides. These products target specific pests without harming beneficial insects or the environment. Biofertilizers made from natural microorganisms can improve soil health and boost crop yields. These products enhance nutrient availability and uptake by plants, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
If you are as excited about the potential of biomaterials in transforming human lives and are actively working towards making it a reality, please reach out to us. With our focus on breakthrough technologies, we'd love to partner with you in your journey!