Planetary Expands into Fungi-Based Protein with Acquisition of Libre Foods

Swiss biomanufacturing company Planetary SA has acquired Libre Foods, a Barcelona-based startup known for their fungi-based meat alternatives. The acquisition includes Libre’s brand, intellectual property, commercial agreements, and research and development capabilities. This move will enhance Planetary’s presence in the fungi-based ingredient sector, particularly in industrial fermentation and ingredient development. Libre’s CEO expressed excitement about the acquisition, positioning it as a pivotal moment in the company’s journey towards bringing fungi-based products to consumers’ plates.

Despite the success, Libre’s CEO and team members will not be joining Planetary permanently, as focusing on manufacturing would divert from their core specialization. The decision to collaborate with Planetary was driven by the advanced biomanufacturing capabilities of the company and the potential to scale Libre’s technology effectively. Through this acquisition, Planetary aims to further develop fermentation-based bio-materials and contribute to the mainstream adoption of fungi-based alternatives, marking the beginning of a new era for Libre Foods.