Elmentoz Research Pvt. Ltd., a deep-tech biotechnology start-up focused on precision animal nutrition and smart feed solutions, has raised USD 4.5 million in its maiden seed funding round. Angel investors from India and Norway led the round, marking a major step towards strengthening India’s sustainable animal feed ecosystem.
With this capital, Elmentoz plans to establish India’s largest Black Soldier Fly (BSF)–based smart protein facility. The plant will process nearly 2,000 metric tonnes of industrial by-products per month using advanced automation and proprietary technology. Importantly, the facility is expected to become operational by January 2026.
Strengthening Feed Security and Farm Economics
India remains highly dependent on imported functional feed additives. As a result, the livestock sector faces price volatility, biosecurity risks and rising costs. Elmentoz aims to reduce this dependency by offering locally produced, insect-based functional proteins.
Moreover, the company’s solutions help lower exposure to antimicrobial resistance, a growing global concern. By improving feed efficiency and animal health, Elmentoz also supports better farm profitability across poultry, aquaculture and pet nutrition segments.
Sustainability Through Smart Protein Innovation
BSF-based protein offers clear sustainability advantages. It requires significantly less land and water than conventional protein sources. In addition, it delivers a lower carbon footprint while converting low-value industrial waste into high-value nutrition inputs.
Therefore, Elmentoz aligns closely with global sustainability goals and India’s long-term climate commitments. At the same time, it strengthens circular economy linkages within the agri-food value chain.
IP-Driven Technology Platform
Elmentoz operates an IP-led research and manufacturing platform. It integrates genomics, proteomics, advanced automation and cGMP-compliant production systems.
Through this platform, the company develops AMP-fortified immune-smart premixes, smart protein formulations and functional oils. These products are marketed under its flagship brands ELGROW and ELTIDE. Collectively, they focus on improving gut health, disease resistance and feed conversion efficiency without relying on antibiotic growth promoters.
Use of Funds and Growth Strategy
The seed funding will support the scaling of Elmentoz’s automated cGMP manufacturing facility. In addition, the company will expand its product portfolio and advance its antimicrobial peptide (AMP) technology.
Furthermore, Elmentoz plans to strengthen international partnerships and grow its research and commercial teams. This will help accelerate product validation and market adoption.
Leadership Perspective
Commenting on the development, Founder and CEO Dr Jayashankar Das said India must prioritise nutritional security alongside food security. He added that Elmentoz’s science-driven platform delivers safer, antibiotic-free performance outcomes.
Meanwhile, Co-founder and CTO Dr Padmaja Mohanty highlighted insects’ role as efficient bio-converters. Norwegian investor Christen Hveem noted that Elmentoz has the potential to shape the future of sustainable global food systems.
Industry Implications
As feed costs rise and sustainability pressures increase, demand for science-backed, climate-smart nutrition solutions continues to grow. Elmentoz’s progress reflects a broader shift within the dairy and livestock sectors towards innovation-led resilience.
Consequently, the company is emerging as a key player in India’s evolving smart protein and animal nutrition landscape.
