Ironic Biotech, a Swedish startup founded in 2020 by Dr. Nelida Leiva Eriksson, is tackling the global challenge of iron deficiency by developing plant derived proteins with high bioavailability. Through the use of precision fermentation, the company creates iron compounds that are as effective in absorption as those found in meat, without the negative side effects often associated with traditional supplements.
How Ironic Biotech Uses Precision Fermentation to Fight Iron Deficiency
In early 2024, Ironic Biotech raised one million euros in pre seed funding to support its ongoing research and development. This investment is being used to grow the company’s patent portfolio, improve production methods, and move closer to commercial partnerships with manufacturers of food and nutritional supplements. The company aims to introduce its iron rich proteins into a wide range of consumer products, helping to address nutritional gaps in everyday diets.
Iron deficiency is a widespread nutritional issue that affects about one fourth of the global population. It can lead to a number of health concerns including fatigue, weakened immune function, and impaired cognitive performance. Traditional iron supplements, while commonly used, often come with problems such as poor absorption and unpleasant digestive side effects. Ironic Biotech is working to offer a better solution by creating a product that is plant based, tasteless, shelf stable, and easily added to food or supplement formulations.
Plant Based Iron Innovation for a Healthier and More Sustainable Future
Dr. Eriksson was motivated to launch the company due to her own struggles with anemia. With a background in molecular biology and protein engineering, she was well equipped to explore new ways of delivering iron through sustainable biotechnology. Her mission is not only to create a better nutritional solution but also to raise awareness about how iron deficiency impacts women and other underserved groups.
The precision fermentation method used by Ironic Biotech allows for the development of iron compounds that are both effective and environmentally friendly. Unlike traditional iron supplements, which can involve mining and harsh processing, the fermentation process is cleaner and more consistent. This aligns with the company’s broader goals of supporting sustainable food production and reducing reliance on animal derived ingredients.
Ironic Biotech is also focused on global health and sees its work as especially beneficial for individuals who follow vegetarian or vegan diets, as well as for children and pregnant women who have increased iron needs. By partnering with companies in the food and wellness industries, the startup hopes to integrate its iron rich proteins into a variety of accessible products.
Looking ahead, Ironic Biotech is preparing for pilot production and expanding its network of collaborators. With strong scientific backing and a clear focus on health outcomes, the company is well positioned to become a leader in the next generation of nutritional solutions.
Through innovation and a deep understanding of both science and human health, Ironic Biotech is showing how biotechnology can solve real world problems. Its mission to make iron more available, more sustainable, and more effective holds promise for improving lives across the globe.