PoLoPo Moves to Field Cultivation of Bioengineered Protein Potatoes, Boosting Capacity to Three Tons

Molecular farming startup PoLoPo has shifted from greenhouse production to large-scale field cultivation of genetically modified protein potatoes, boosting their production capacity to an estimated three tons per harvest. The potatoes are engineered to produce proteins like ovalbumin, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional egg protein. The company aims to scale up production, improve protein accumulation efficiency, and validate the quality of their varieties in real-world field conditions.

PoLoPo has partnered with a local grower in southern Israel to conduct field trials and take advantage of the region's expertise in large-scale farming. Their protein-extracting potatoes not only include ovalbumin but also patatin, a native potato protein valued for its versatility and high nutritional quality. With USDA regulatory approval anticipated, PoLoPo plans to expand cultivation to the United States and provide commercial samples for partners to integrate the protein into various food applications.