The Venture Codex

Participated · Equity · Apr 2026

AuX Labs uses engineered microbial strains and fermentation processes to produce casein that the company says is biologically identical to animal-derived casein. The startup partners with microbreweries to access existing fermenter capacity and currently works with brewers to ensure product quality. AuX plans to commercialize its product and eventually sell kits containing microbes and instructions so breweries can produce casein more independently. CEO and co-founder Ted Jin, formerly of Procter & Gamble, leads the company’s push to scale via distributed fermentation. AuX highlights environmental benefits, estimating roughly 90% lower greenhouse gas emissions and substantially reduced land and water use versus dairy. The broader cheese market is cited at about $165 billion, and AuX says its platform could make additional food proteins in the future.

Participated · Series B · Mar 2026

Mezcla is focused on scaling a consumer packaged–goods brand, with a near-term emphasis on brand building and widening its distribution channels. The company plans to leverage newly raised capital to accelerate marketing initiatives and secure additional retail placements. Leadership highlighted the importance of entering Expo West with fresh funding to support these growth objectives. While specific revenue or user metrics were not disclosed, the recent financing indicates investor confidence in the company’s trajectory. Mezcla’s team and backers cite the brand’s momentum and market opportunity as key drivers behind this round. Future plans center on deeper market penetration and heightened consumer awareness. Management praised the internal team’s execution capabilities, underscoring an intent to continue rapid expansion.

Participated · Seed · Jul 2025

ALTR develops a proprietary membrane-based “Flavor-First” alcohol-removal technology engineered to extract ethanol at a molecular level without disturbing a wine’s flavor, structure, or mouthfeel. The system is positioned as a non-destructive, low-environmental-impact alternative to traditional dealcoholization techniques, allowing wineries to produce premium low-alcohol wines that honor traditional craft. Led by founder and CEO Richard Schatzberger, the company integrates membrane scientists with renowned winemakers to balance technical precision and sensory excellence. ALTR is initially targeting collaborations with leading global wineries and newly emerging brands, aiming to set an industry standard for mindful-drinking products. The firm also emphasizes sustainability, noting the process addresses climate-driven rises in grape sugar—and thus finished alcohol—while meeting shifting consumer demographics seeking lower-ABV options. With a fresh $5 million seed round, ALTR plans to accelerate product commercialization and scale industry partnerships. Although the company has not released revenue or user metrics, the capital injection provides its first disclosed funding and positions the team to usher in what it calls the “Next Era of Wine.”

Participated · Seed · Jun 2025

Lembas has built a proprietary computational AI discovery platform that rapidly screens, analyzes and designs food-grade bioactive peptides, with an initial product called GLP-1 Edge designed to enhance the body's own GLP-1 response. GLP-1 Edge has been demonstrated in cell and animal models to stimulate GLP-1 secretion to blood and is shown in multiple consumer formats including gummies, powder, and capsules. The company positions the ingredient for integration into bars, shakes, snacks, beverages and supplements to address the global weight management market. Lembas emphasizes food-as-medicine applications and plans to scale commercialization and deepen commercial agreements across the ingredients, food and supplements value chain. Backed by university-patented pending technology, the team combines entrepreneurs and interdisciplinary scientists with executive experience from leading food companies. Founded in 2024 and based in Tel Aviv, Israel, Lembas emerged from stealth following its early validation.

Participated · Seed · Aug 2024

Aerflo develops a portable carbonation device powered by a zero-waste refill model that instantly transforms still water into sparkling. Co‑founded and co‑led by Buzz Wiggins and John Thorp, Aerflo raised $10M+ in venture capital. The rounds were led by Lerer Hippeau and Torch Capital, with participation from Closed Loop Ventures Group, Good Friends, SWAT Equity Partners, WISE Ventures, Bluestein Ventures, RiverPark Ventures, Palm Tree Crew and others. The company has used capital to build its refill infrastructure and commission custom automated processing equipment. Funds have also supported necessary regulatory approvals and R&D across its full portfolio and will continue to support Aerflo’s sustainable pipeline and supply chain.