Transforming the global fats and oils industry with sustainable innovation
The global fats and oils industry represents one of the most environmentally impactful food sectors. Extreme price fluctuations highlight the instability of current global supply chains, while widespread deforestation and community displacement underscore the urgent need for sustainable alternatives.
Sun Bear Biofuture (SBB), an Oxford-based startup, was founded with a clear mission to revolutionise the industry through precision fermentation technology. Supported by an Innovate UK grant, the company partnered with the Biorenewables Development Centre (BDC) to develop sustainable alternatives to ingredients such as palm oil, addressing critical environmental and economic concerns in the global fats and oils market.
Technological scaling challenges
There are many challenges with transitioning fermentation processes such as SBB's from laboratory research to industrial production. The startup required specialised technical expertise and advanced fermentation capabilities beyond its immediate resources, making the partnership with BDC crucial for advancing its products.
The BDC provided expertise, facilities and novel ideas for fermentation optimisation, downstream processing innovation, and comprehensive product analysis. By combining SBB's innovative vision with BDC's technical expertise, the collaboration has accelerated SBB's progress toward the commercialisation of its palm oil alternative for use in sectors such as food and cosmetics.
Future outlook
The partnership aims to scale technology beyond demonstration level by early 2026, with an ambitious target of transitioning from small-scale production to tens of thousands of litres. This milestone represents a critical step towards creating a commercially viable, environmentally responsible alternative to traditional palm oil and cocoa butter production.
Ben Williams, CTO of Sun Bear Biofuture said:
By working closely with the Biorenewables Development Centre, we're making significant strides in developing sustainable, plant-based alternatives to traditional fats. Their technical expertise and collaborative spirit have allowed us to optimise our processes and rapidly advance our technology in a way that would not have been possible alone.
Rosie Nolan, Lead Technologist at the BDC said:
Our team has been on an exciting journey with Sun Bear Biofuture, carefully fine-tuning their fermentation process. By carefully adjusting factors like pH and dissolved oxygen levels, we've discovered ways to increase product output. Our work goes beyond simple improvements—we're helping to reinvent the fats and oils sector through more sustainable production methods that could make a real difference for the planet.
Let's work together
We have worked on 1,500 bio-based projects to date
We have several ways to work with us, including business advisory programmes and self-funded commercial options. We even have the option for you to hire our state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and office space.
