Elmentoz Research Secures Funding to Revolutionize Sustainable Animal Feed
Elmentoz Research Pvt. Ltd., a biotechnology start-up focused on precision animal nutrition, has successfully raised $4.5 million in its first seed funding round. The funding was led by angel investors from India and Norway. With this capital, the company plans to build India's largest Black Soldier Fly (BSF)–based smart protein facility, capable of processing 2,000 metric tonnes of industrial by-products monthly. The facility is expected to become operational by January 2026.
This initiative is significant in addressing India's dependence on imported functional feed additives, which exposes the livestock sector to price volatility, biosecurity risks, and increased costs. Elmentoz aims to mitigate these challenges by producing locally sourced, insect-based functional proteins. This approach not only enhances feed efficiency and animal health but also supports farm profitability across various segments, including poultry, aquaculture, and pet nutrition.
The use of BSF-based protein aligns with sustainability goals, requiring less land and water than conventional protein sources and reducing the carbon footprint. Elmentoz's technology platform integrates genomics, proteomics, and advanced automation to develop immune-smart premixes and protein formulations under the brands ELGROW and ELTIDE.
The seed funding will enable Elmentoz to scale its cGMP manufacturing facility, expand its product portfolio, and advance its antimicrobial peptide (AMP) technology. The company also plans to grow its research and commercial teams to strengthen international partnerships and accelerate market adoption.
Dr. Jayashankar Das, Founder and CEO, emphasized the importance of nutritional security, while Dr. Padmaja Mohanty, Co-founder and CTO, highlighted the efficiency of insects as bio-converters. Norwegian investor Christen Hveem expressed confidence in Elmentoz's potential to influence sustainable global food systems.
As feed costs and sustainability pressures rise, demand for innovative, climate-smart nutrition solutions is increasing. Elmentoz continues to emerge as a key player in the evolving landscape of smart protein and animal nutrition in India.
