USA – Motif Ingredients, a food science and technology company owned by biotech unicorn Ginkgo Bioworks has US$27.5 million funding to expands research and development of animal-free ingredients.

In addition, the company has also revealed a new brand identity and name, Motif FoodWorks, and announced a number of additions to its leadership team.

Motif said that the new better aims to reflect the company’s unique value proposition, broad appeal and deep roots in the food industry.

Motif FoodWorks also recognizes its technology partnership with Ginkgo Bioworks, a bioengineering platform, which enhances Motif’s ambition to reshape the landscape of food through science and technology. 

The new funding, which was led by growth equity firm General Atlantic with participation from CPT Capital, will also enable Motif to expand academic collaborations and scale its science and regulatory staff.

“Since launching the company, we’ve seen an incredible response from the industry; it’s clear that the movement towards animal-free is no passing fad.

Food leaders know that to get it right, however, there can be no compromise between taste and values,” says Jon McIntyre, CEO of Motif.

“Our team of experienced scientists and passionate food lovers are working relentlessly to ensure our products – as well as our brand – deliver on that exciting and critical challenge.”

According to a FoodIngridientsFirst report, Motif has added three new senior management positions to its leadership team in which Janet Collins joins as Head of Regulatory, Government and Industry Affairs.

Julie Post-Smith was appointed as the Director of Business Development and Morgan Keim as Business Development Manager.

The company also announced that Peter Lafer, a Vice President at General Atlantic focused on life sciences investments in the firm’s global Healthcare sector, will join its Board as an observer.

“The momentum at Motif is palpable, and we have an exciting road ahead,” McIntyre added.

“Powered with funds, technology and a team of incredibly talented food-lovers, we are moving closer to our mission to develop animal-free and plant-based ingredients that are more nutritious, more accessible and more sustainable for our planet.”