Izote Biosciences is developing a proprietary fermentation technology that enables microorganisms to use an alternative, salt‑like molecule instead of oxygen; the company says this molecule is roughly 100,000 times more soluble than oxygen. The method allows anaerobic organisms to operate in simpler bioreactors and promises more predictable scaling, longer fermentation runs, and operational benefits the company quantifies as over 70% lower capital expenditures and 50–100% higher gross margins. Izote’s initial commercial focus is fragrance and flavor, and it is actively engaging large perfumeries while planning to scale the platform to food, cosmetics, and other industries. The technology was initially developed by Victor Manuel Reyes‑Umaña and Berkeley professor John Coates; the company was formed in 2022 and Samuel Atwood joined as CEO in February 2023. Izote is currently pre‑revenue but working on a few customer projects as it builds lab capabilities. Management expects an 18‑month timeline to identify launch molecules and demonstrate laboratory productivity at least 50% better than current alternatives.

Total raised

$3M

Funding rounds

1

Latest round

Seed

Latest activity

Feb 2024