Merck and mantro Launch Spinoff Producing Edible Membranes for Cultivated Meat and Alt Proteins

Merck and mantro GmbH have launched EdiMembre, a new deep-tech spinout company that will commercialize Merck's edible membrane technology for alternative proteins. This technology enables the creation of complex tissue structures for cultivated meat production and has also been used to explore high-protein plant-based pasta applications. With Merck contributing its intellectual property, expertise, and cell culture media, EdiMembre aims to drive change in sustainable food production by expanding the applications of the edible membrane platform.

Headquartered in Massachusetts, EdiMembre is led by former Merck employees Timothy Ryan Olsen and Ryan Sylvia, who have already developed countertop edible bioreactors for cultivated meat production and pasta made from legume protein isolate. The company has secured a pre-seed investment of $400,000 from investors like Siddhi Capital and Replicator VC, positioning themselves to meet the urgent market needs for structured meat products that replicate the texture and complexity of conventional meat. Through this partnership, EdiMembre aims to empower clients and investors to shape the future of food and contribute to sustainability and global food security.