Levur: unlocking the next generation of sustainable oils

Palm oil is arguably one of the most widely used raw ingredients in consumer products, and not for the right reasons. We know its impact on deforestation and animal habitats is significant, but reliance on this and other problematic plant oils remains high. The widespread use in everyday products, up to 70% of cosmetics and 50% of supermarket products, means it is difficult to avoid for both consumers and producers.

If we want to have impact at scale, the way forward is not changing consumer behaviour or pushing for sustainable sourcing. Instead, we believe the industry must find ways to replace non-sustainable agricultural oils entirely with low-carbon alternatives. Levur is harnessing the power of nature through synthetic biology to create sustainable alternatives that manufacturers can use in their products. Our unique technology is engineering microorganisms, particularly yeast through a precision fermentation process that allows us to produce ethical oils, like a palm oil alternative that is tailored for the cosmetic and food industries.

Levur's goal is to provide solutions that lower scope 3 emissions in the supply chains of our customers, large consumer goods manufacturers. These solutions offer additional benefits compared to traditional oils, including ingredient transparency and traceability, supply continuity, and cost management from having a consistent source of materials. Our technology not only reduces reliance on traditional agricultural practices but also aligns with the planet's climate goals by converting waste streams into valuable products.

Looking ahead, we are focused on scaling our technology to increase production capacity and meet future global demands. Research & development is important for looking at genetic pathways to optimize oil profiles and expand their functionality. Plans also include partnering with industry in a value chain initiative that will pilot our oils, the lifecycle and equations that fuel methodologies to calculate the overall emissions reduction. We can't do it alone, so building strategic partnerships is crucial to seize first-mover advantages and ensure we can transform the cosmetics and food industries by providing sustainable, nature-inspired solutions at scale.