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CHIPOTLE'S CULTIVATE NEXT FUND INVESTS IN AQUATIC PLANT-BASED TECHNOLOGIES THAT AIM TO EMULATE ANIMAL PROTEIN AND SCALE MORE SUSTAINABLE CATTLE FEED
AIMAIM ImmunoTech(AIM) Prnewswire·2025-01-15 13:55

Company Overview - Plantible, founded in 2018, has developed a vertically integrated manufacturing platform to produce Rubi Protein™ from Lemna (duckweed), a plant-based protein that mimics the quality, taste, and texture of animal-based proteins and replaces synthetic emulsifiers and binders [1][5][6] - CH4 Global aims to reduce methane emissions in cattle by up to 90% using its flagship product, Methane Tamer™, a feed additive leveraging Asparagopsis seaweed [6][10][12] Industry Impact - Plantible's Rubi Protein™ addresses the food industry's need for cleaner, healthier, and allergen-friendly alternatives to unsustainable ingredients [1] - CH4 Global's Methane Tamer™ reduces methane emissions from cattle, a significant contributor to climate change, while improving feed efficiency and cattle growth or milk production [2][10][12] Strategic Investments - Chipotle's Cultivate Next venture fund has made minority investments in Plantible and CH4 Global to support their missions and align with Chipotle's goal of cultivating a better world [4][7][8] - The investment in CH4 Global will help scale production of Methane Tamer™ to meet global demand, targeting the world's 1.5 billion cattle [11][12] Technological Advancements - Plantible's manufacturing technology leverages the aquatic growth of Lemna, minimizes fresh water usage through recirculation, and reduces carbon emissions due to its efficient growing process [1] - CH4 Global's Asparagopsis-based solution not only reduces methane emissions but also improves energy and nutrition absorption in cattle, enhancing growth and milk production efficiency [2][10] Market Expansion - Chipotle plans to operate 7,000 restaurants in North America, supported by investments in innovative companies like Plantible and CH4 Global through its Cultivate Next fund [4][8] - Plantible and CH4 Global are part of Chipotle's broader portfolio, which includes companies focused on sustainable and innovative food solutions [8][9]