Sun Genomics

Sun Genomics is a personalized probiotics company that uses gut microbiome analysis and custom formulations to improve health outcomes.

Sun Genomics has its in-house CLIA lab, where it uses whole-genome sequencing technology, with a patented bioinformatic pipeline to interpret the trillions of microbes in a user’s gut. Calprotectin is a specific test to look at the level of the protein calprotectin in the gut, which aids in diagnosing IBD. The GI Pathogen Test looks at specific harmful strains and is a separate test from the microbiome test.

The process analyzes gut composition and records where microbes are either in ample or in deficient supply. Based on the data, the company designs probiotics that are claimed to enhance the health state of the guts. 

Its product, Floré, is available in capsules and powder andare catered differently to various age categories. It also offers dietary complements, such as multivitamins. 

Custom-formulated probiotics are claimed to help with abdominal pain, constipation, bloating, SIBO, leaky gut, and other digestive issues. The company also claims that the products are 100% natural, vegan (optional), gluten-free, non-GMO, and free of artificial preservatives.

Floré claims to have built the largest longitudinal whole-genome microbiome dataset in the world, which includes data on over 23,000 organisms, such as bacteria, parasites, yeast, viruses, phages, and fungi.

Key customers and partnerships

Floré partnered with the Swiss Integrative Center for Human Health in December 2021 to expand product offerings to the EU by setting up an international office in Switzerland. 

In January 2023, Floré by Sun Genomics partnered with Royal DSM (health, nutrition, and bioscience investment firm), whose investment unit, DSM Venturing, made an investment in Floré. The companies matched during the MassChallenge Switzerland Sustainable Food Solutions Challenge, and together, they expected to collaborate on research, including DSM’s use of Floré’s algorithms to gain insight into novel ingredients. In return, DSM was to help Floré source high-quality ingredients for its products and take advantage of DSM’s deep knowledge base and extensive business network.

Funding and financials

In June 2020, the company raised USD 8.7 million in a Series A funding round led by Pangaea Ventures. The company expected to use the funds to support its growth in the custom probiotics market, scale delivery across the US, enter international markets, and propel the publication of its studies with leading academic institutions.