Bill Gates-Backed Company Makes Butter From CO2

A start-up backed by Bill Gates claims to have developed a way to make butter without animals or farming, using carbon dioxide and chemistry. Savor, the California-based food tech company, heats up carbon dioxide and hydrogen to create fat molecules that are chemically identical to those from animal or vegetable sources, with a lower carbon footprint than traditional butter or plant fats. The process aims to address the environmental impact of animal agriculture, which takes up a significant amount of land and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.

While Savor is initially focusing on fats, there is potential for carbohydrates and proteins to be produced without farming as well. However, consumer acceptance and potential unintended consequences, such as increased mineral and metal usage, are key challenges to commercial success. The company's carbon-based fats offer a promising alternative to traditional butter, with the potential to revolutionize the food industry and reduce the environmental and ethical impacts of animal farming.