Tokyo-based food tech startup Kinish Inc. has raised $800 million in a seed funding round to advance its rice-based dairy alternative technology. The company is focused on developing a plant-based source of casein, the key protein found in milk, using plant molecular agriculture. Kinish aims to create dairy alternatives that closely mimic conventional dairy in taste and texture while addressing environmental concerns linked to livestock farming.

Kinish is also working on refining its cultivation methods by partnering with Shizuoka University to research indoor farming techniques that could make rice production more efficient. The company plans to launch an ice cream product made from rice as an initial introduction to consumers while continuing to develop its casein-based dairy alternatives. CEO Hiroya Hashizume emphasizes the company's commitment to creating sustainable and delicious food options that do not compromise on taste or environmental impact.