Motif Foodworks

Motif FoodWorks, a spin-off of Ginkgo Bioworks, is a biotechnology startup that develops alternative ingredients and finished products. It uses fermentation technology to develop ingredients for plant-based meat producers.

In June 2021, the company showcased a plant-based burger to demonstrate its HEMAMI and APPETEX ingredients. HEMAMI can be used to recreate the rich umami flavor and aroma associated with beef, while APPETEX is used to replicate the texture of animal tissue by using plant proteins and plant-based carbohydrates. During the same year, Motif developed myoglobin —a heme-binding protein found in cow tissue, which gives meat its flavor and aroma—using a genetically engineered strain of yeast (pichia pastoris). 

In April 2023 , Motiff launched its debut finished format product, Motif BeefWorks Plant-Based Burger Patties, made using HEMAMI and APPETEX. The burger patties were made available in a limited pre-order of a four-pack of the burger patties for USD 12. In May 2023 , the company launched its finished format foodservice portfolio at the National Restaurant Association show, which included Motif PorkWorks Plant-Based Ground and Motif BeefWorks Plant-Based Burger Patties and Grounds. The company also showcased a limited preview of Motif ChickenWorks Plant-Based Cutlets, slated to launch later in 2023.

Key customers and partnerships

The startup has several partnerships with universities to develop plant-based food-related tech, including the University of Queensland, Australia (to create new textures using in vitro oral processing tech), the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the University of Illinois, the University of Illinois Chicago, and the University of Guelph.

In October 2022 , the company partnered with Vectron Biosolutions to develop next-generation animal-free proteins through microbial fermentation. In March 2023 , the company partnered with IngredientWerks to explore innovative ways to optimize heme protein production through molecular farming. Later, in September 2023 , Motif partnered with upscale convenience store and cafe Foxtrot to offer Motif BeefWorks ground beef at all 30 Foxtrot locations across the US.

Funding and Financials

In its last funding round in June 2021 , the startup raised USD 226 million in Series B funding led by the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan Board. The proceeds were expected to be used to scale R&D, increase headcount, and expand its facilities. 

In May 2022, the company also attracted an investment from Robert Downey Jr.’s FootPrint Coalition Ventures, and in collaboration, the two parties will work towards developing a new range of plant-based foods that goes beyond animal mimicry to provide consumers with healthier and more flavourful alternatives.