Singaporean Startup TurtleTree Introduces Animal-Free Lactoferrin Supplement "IronKind"
Source: dairynews.today
Singapore-based food tech company TurtleTree has developed "Intentional," a brand offering animal-free lactoferrin supplements in the US. Their first product, IronKind, aims to regulate iron levels and support gut health using precision fermentation technology.
TurtleTree, a precision fermentation firm, has rolled out "Intentional," a new brand of supplements centered on lactoferrin, a recombinant protein. Their initial offering, IronKind, mixes lactoferrin with prebiotics to aid iron regulation and boost energy and gut health. The idea emerged from CEO Fengru Lin's experiences with traditional iron supplements, which often led to digestive issues.
Lin explains, "Conventional iron supplements provide more iron, whether or not our bodies need it." The novelty of lactoferrin lies in its ability to balance iron levels, thus preventing gastrointestinal problems like constipation and nausea. Lactoferrin, a protein typically found in human milk and bovine colostrum, is renowned for its antiviral, antibacterial, and immune-boosting benefits.
However, it requires vast amounts of milk to produce, driving costs up to $750 - $1,500 per kg, leading to a demand-supply gap. TurtleTree tackles this via precision fermentation, a technique that efficiently produces bioidentical compounds, offering a sustainable alternative free from animals. Despite being one of the pioneers in this space, they face challenges due to FDA regulations concerning novel ingredients.
Intentional targets consumers focused on proactive wellness, including those more prone to iron deficiencies such as menstruating women, pregnant individuals, and vegetarians. IronKind is priced at $37 for 60 capsules and is set to expand its reach.
The launch of Intentional signals a strategic move for TurtleTree following financial hurdles, as ventures seeking to scale face dwindling venture capital. Lin asserts that profits from Intentional are crucial for sustainability, while emphasizing the role of women in femtech innovation, particularly in addressing gender-specific health needs.
Lin explains, "Conventional iron supplements provide more iron, whether or not our bodies need it." The novelty of lactoferrin lies in its ability to balance iron levels, thus preventing gastrointestinal problems like constipation and nausea. Lactoferrin, a protein typically found in human milk and bovine colostrum, is renowned for its antiviral, antibacterial, and immune-boosting benefits.
However, it requires vast amounts of milk to produce, driving costs up to $750 - $1,500 per kg, leading to a demand-supply gap. TurtleTree tackles this via precision fermentation, a technique that efficiently produces bioidentical compounds, offering a sustainable alternative free from animals. Despite being one of the pioneers in this space, they face challenges due to FDA regulations concerning novel ingredients.
Intentional targets consumers focused on proactive wellness, including those more prone to iron deficiencies such as menstruating women, pregnant individuals, and vegetarians. IronKind is priced at $37 for 60 capsules and is set to expand its reach.
The launch of Intentional signals a strategic move for TurtleTree following financial hurdles, as ventures seeking to scale face dwindling venture capital. Lin asserts that profits from Intentional are crucial for sustainability, while emphasizing the role of women in femtech innovation, particularly in addressing gender-specific health needs.
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