4Gene is advancing TUM research into exploiting plant-derived glucosides as flexible triggers for releasing flavouring and aromas.
4Gene, a Germany-based flavouring and fragrance supplier based on Technical University of Munich (TUM) research, has obtained a seven-digit euro (€1m = $1.1m) seed sum in a round backed by public-private partnership High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF).
Regional investment firms Mittelständische Beteiligungsgesellschaft Baden-Württemberg and VC Fonds Baden-Württemberg both participated in the round together with Goldmann International.
Founded in 2017, 4Gene has devised a biotech manufacturing process for natural and synthetic flavourings and aromas for products including food, cosmetics and industrial technologies.
The core ingredient is a naturally-occurring molecule called aroma glucoside used by plants to store volatile compounds. When fashioned into man-made products, the glucoside is triggered by factors including enzymes, temperature and acidity to release its flavour or smell.
4Gene’s approach is intended to improve upon conventional flavourings and aromas that quickly lose potency upon storage and application. Potential use-cases include aroma glucoside-containing skin creams that gradually…
