South Korean Startup Innovates Plant-Based Dairy Alternatives from Soybean Waste
South Korea's Soyft Biome, a food tech startup, is capitalizing on the demand for sustainable and plant-based food solutions by transforming soybean waste into non-dairy products. Recently, the company received funding from MY Social Company's (MYSC) Extramile Lycon Fund, which is expected to bolster its market presence.
Soyft Biome's operations encompass three main product lines: Ja:yu, KetoYou, and Fermax. The Ja:yu line offers low-sugar condensed milks, KetoYou focuses on tempeh products, and Fermax markets energy drinks enhanced with functional proteins. The company utilizes AquaProtein, a byproduct of soybean processing, which is rich in amino acids and saponins, for its product formulations.
A key innovation from Soyft Biome is its emulsion-stabilised plant-based technology, which provides a dairy-free and sugar-free alternative with superior texture and viscosity. This clean-label technology is applied in various products, including cream and condensed milk substitutes.
With its new financial backing, Soyft Biome aims to enhance the competitive edge of its Ja:yu brand and expand into more foodservice channels, particularly cafes and bakeries. The company's products, including its Veggie Cream Condensed, are already available through major distributors such as Coupang Rocket Fresh and Olive Young.
The company's strategic plan extends beyond food products. By leveraging its proprietary emulsion formulation technology, Soyft Biome plans to enter the cosmetics and medical nutrition markets. Its microemulsion structure, known for its stability, is considered suitable for these new sectors.
Participating in MYSC's 2026 Agri-Food Technology Startup Accelerator Support Program, backed by the national agriculture ministry, Soyft Biome is poised to advance its business model and verify its potential in global markets. CEO Yoon Seo-yeon expressed the company's vision to become a technology platform company that transcends the food industry.
