Hindustan Unilever (HUL) has launched Horlicks Protein Powder, built around fermented yeast protein, targeting India's under-penetrated protein supplement market HUL has simultaneously withdrawn Horlicks Protein Plus, its legacy whey, soy and casein blend, opting to replace it with more digestible and more cost-stable yeast protein powder Fermented yeast protein has moved from a niche formulation by Indian D2C startups to the foundation of a product from one of India's larges

US startup Mushroom Squared is launching a range of minimally processed, mushroom-based protein patties targeting gut health, heart health, metabolic wellness, and cognitive function.

Ginkgo Bioworks and Acies Bio have announced a collaboration to develop optimised microbial strains of Aspergillus niger for use in industrial protein production.

A €1.3 million Dutch grant is funding research into using a previously untested fungus to produce casein, the key milk protein behind cheesemaking.

A single yeast-derived ingredient could replace multiple food additives, offering cleaner labels and simpler formulations for mainstream food and drink products. Swiss startup Cosaic has raised $6M in a seed extension round, backed by DSM-Firmenich Ventures, bringing its total funding to $12.5M. With regulatory approvals underway in the US and Europe, Cosaic is positioning its flagship ingredient, Cosaic Neo, for commercial launch.