Biotech Heights secures continued funding to drive fermentation-led food innovation

Sweden’s Biotech Heights innovation platform has secured a second round of funding from Vinnova, expanding its mission to transform food systems through biotechnology and fermentation. The new phase will build on the initiative’s early momentum by scaling projects, strengthening industry partnerships, and positioning the platform as a national and international node for biotech-driven food innovation.

Founded in 2023 and coordinated by Lund University, Biotech Heights is a collaboration between Tetra Pak, Region Skåne, Future by Lund, and other regional and national partners. The platform’s core ambition is to create an ecosystem where fermented foods and other biotechnological advances can become everyday staples – supporting a vision that, by 2035, everyone eats a new fermented food every day.

“This is a transformative work of innovation, and there is a very large untapped potential here,” commented Peter Kisch of Future by Lund. “Population development means that we need alternatives and supplements to, among other things, animal protein. Producing plant-based protein through fermentation is an opportunity for Swedish industry and international know-how, but also contributes to national issues such as increased need for self-sufficiency and preparedness for times of crisis.”

The project’s second phase – running until autumn 2027 – will expand its portfolio of research and innovation projects, further develop its physical and digital meeting spaces, and enhance collaboration across public and private sectors.

One of the key goals is to reduce the cost of fermentation technologies to support broader industrial adoption. Lena de Maré of Tetra Pak, which operates a facility in Karlshamn, said the company is helping scale up innovation efforts: “An important part of the projects is to develop the technology so that we can reduce the cost of the fermentation process.”

The platform also aims to create a vibrant and visible meeting point for biotech stakeholders across Sweden – and beyond. The physical hub is being developed at Kemicentrum in Lund, with support from Lund University and partners.

“Interest in biotechnology and food is everywhere,” said Emma Nordell, project manager at Lund University. “We see a need for a gathering force and a meeting place. The meeting place is being created at Kemicentrum.”

As the platform grows, there is also a strong emphasis on increasing consumer and industry awareness of the potential of biotechnology. This includes showcasing how fermentation can be used not only for new foods but also for upcycling side streams, boosting nutritional content, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions – all while limiting land use and preserving biodiversity.

“Biotech Heights is an important piece of the puzzle to develop more resource-efficient and bio-based solutions that can drive Skåne’s transition to a more circular and bio-based food sector,” said Susanna Winblad from Region Skåne.

In parallel with its national activities, Biotech Heights will also deepen international cooperation – particularly with Denmark, a key player in the fermentation space. The platform plans to support harmonization of EU food regulations, push for greater investment in research and infrastructure, and foster new cross-border value chains.

Crucially, the initiative recognizes that implementing a food system shift will require more than technical innovation. New business models, consumer engagement, training, and supportive legislation will all play a role in building a future-ready fermentation economy.

[Main picture shows Tilde Svensson (Future by Lund), Lena de Maré (Tetra Pak), Emma Nordell (Lund University), Josefin Ahlqvist (Lund University), Susanna Winblad (Region Skåne) and Peter Kisch (Future by Lund)]