EFISHient Protein Achieves Milestone in Tilapia Cell Line Development – vegconomist

Israel’s leading cultivated fish startup, EFISHient Protein, announces that it has achieved a significant milestone with the successful development of the cell line of the water fish Tilapia.

EFISHient Protein says that it is establishing a genetic cell bank by leveraging its advanced technology to produce muscle and fat cells of the sought-after fish.

This achievement in cell line development comes after the successful creation of a cultivated tilapia fillet prototype, which was achieved ahead of schedule last year. According to the company, both achievements highlight its dedication and support for an environmentally friendly fish industry on a global scale.

Dana Levin, CEO of EFISHient Protein, shared, “Completing the Tilapia cell line development showcases our dedication to accelerating sustainable protein solutions, ensuring future generations can enjoy nutritious and ethical fish products.”

A system for fish production

Founded in 2020, E-FISHient is a collaboration between BioMeat, an alt protein investor, and the Volcani Institute. 

The company aims to become a leader in cultivated fish production by leveraging the institute’s specialized knowledge in white fish science and BioMeat’s industry insights.

Currently, EFISHient is developing a cost-effective cultivated whitefish production system to be utilized by food manufacturers and food service industries worldwide to provide nutritious, delicious, ethical, and affordable alternatives to traditional fish production.

According to the Israeli startup, the growing population and demand for protein have caused detrimental overfishing, depleting fish populations, and disrupting the ocean’s natural balance. At the same time, aquaculture and fish farms harm freshwater and marine ecosystems by producing fish contaminated with chemicals and microplastics.

EFISHient was a semifinalist at the 2023 Aviram Awards, which recognize companies that contribute to social and environmental change through innovation and technology. Additionally, it was among the six finalists in Israel’s FoodTech 2022 competition.

Levin adds, “We are thrilled to lead the way in revolutionizing the global fish products industry.”