Venture capital firm GVFL has backed Biokraft Foods, a young foodtech startup working on cultivated meat technology, with an investment of Rs 2 crore in a pre-seed funding round. This funding marks a strong vote of confidence in the future of sustainable protein solutions in India.
The Ahmedabad-based VC, known for supporting disruptive businesses, sees Biokraft as a game-changer in the protein ecosystem. “Biokraft Foods is at the forefront of a paradigm shift,” said Mihir Joshi, Managing Director of GVFL, while praising the startup’s science-led approach.
Biokraft Foods India
Biokraft Foods was founded in 2023 by Kamalnayan Tibrewal, an alumnus of the Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai. The company aims to build structured cultivated meat using advanced biotechnology and 3D bioprinting.
Its vision is to provide meat that delivers the taste and experience of conventional meat, but without slaughtering animals, thereby addressing climate change, animal welfare, and inefficiencies of traditional farming.
Hybrid Food Approach
To make its products more affordable and scalable, Biokraft has adopted a hybrid model. It combines cultivated meat with food-safe ingredients to improve texture, quality, and pricing, making the products accessible to Indian consumers.
So far, the startup has conducted over 400 consumer trials, which have received encouraging feedback. The results show that the Indian market is increasingly open to ethical and sustainable food innovations.
Research and Expansion
With GVFL’s investment, Biokraft plans to strengthen research and development while moving closer to regulatory approvals. The funds will also accelerate product prototyping to bring its cultivated meat closer to commercialization.
The company is targeting a wide audience including sustainability-conscious consumers, food manufacturers, restaurants, and retail chains. Its long-term vision also extends beyond meat, with efforts underway in cultivated seafood and pet food.
Founder’s Commitment
Kamalnayan Tibrewal, the founder and CEO, described the company’s mission as both scientific and social. “Our mission is to use biotechnology to create sustainable food solutions while addressing climate impact and animal welfare,” he said.
He further added that with GVFL’s support, Biokraft is now one step closer to bringing real, ethical meat to Indian consumers and potentially, global markets.
Foodtech Startups in India
Biokraft Foods is a pioneer in India’s cultivated meat industry, but it is part of a bigger movement. Across India, foodtech startups are innovating in plant-based proteins, cloud kitchens, and sustainable farming.
This growing ecosystem shows how technology and food science are combining to address pressing concerns like climate change, nutrition, and affordability. Biokraft’s entry into cultivated meat could place India on the global map for next-generation food innovations.
Future of Protein Market
India’s appetite for meat alternatives is expanding, and Biokraft aims to lead this transformation. With cutting-edge biotech tools like 3D bioprinting and a focus on scalability, the startup is building a foundation for a new protein economy.
As Biokraft continues its journey, it represents not just a business opportunity but also a shift towards sustainable food choices that balance human needs, ethical concerns, and environmental sustainability.
