UK – Materials technology company Xampla has partnered with the Yili Innovation Centre Europe to deploy its nutrient microcapsule technology.
This plant-based packaging material protects beverage ingredients from production to digestion without altering the product’s taste or texture.
The technology shields against UV, pH, or heat shock degradation, ensuring ingredient fortification regardless of environmental conditions.
A spin-off from the University of Cambridge, Xampla’s partnership with Yili is pivotal in advancing its technology from proof of concept to full-scale production.
This collaboration will accelerate the deployment of Xampla’s nutrient microcapsules to global markets, introducing advanced fortification technology.
Recently, Xampla secured a multi-year supply deal with Huhtamaki for a plastic-free coating for foodservice containers.
Yili, Asia’s largest and fastest-growing dairy company, operates across all dairy categories, including liquid milk, infant and adult milk powder, yogurt, ice cream, and cheese, each requiring diverse packaging solutions.
Xampla CEO Alexandra French commented, “The support of this leading global dairy brand has further strengthened our position in food and beverage fortification technology.
“We look forward to seeing our microencapsulation technology make its way from the laboratory to a health—and environment-conscious consumer market.”
Gerrit Smit, Managing Director of Yili Innovation Centre Europe, added, “We are excited to start this pilot collaboration. Yili always strives to bring consumers next-generation products with enhanced nutrition and health.”
Earlier this year, Xampla raised US$7 million to develop further its plant-derived, biodegradable material designed to replace conventional plastic.
The capital will be used to advance the production of Xampla’s biodegradable, plant-based materials, strategically positioned to help major brands transition away from single-use plastics.
Xampla’s mission revolves around eliminating the need for plastic by introducing ‘Morro,’ a unique material that degrades rapidly and entirely without releasing harmful pollutants.
Developed from 15 years of research at the University of Cambridge, Morro targets brands committed to reducing their reliance on plastic.
Alexandra French, CEO of Xampla, stated, “This investment is a testament to the shared commitment of our backers, who can see that Xampla products are the gateway to a new era in materials sustainability.
“This new funding will support the expansion of our Morro material into new territories and applications, enabling us to make a significant impact. We are determined to lead the way towards a future where natural materials thrive and traditional plastics become a thing of the past.”
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