USA – String Bio, an India-based company specializing in next-generation ingredients, has secured Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status for its microbial protein, PRO-DG™.
This achievement marks a pivotal step for the company, enabling the commercialization of PRO-DG in the United States.
String Bio announced that PRO-DG received GRAS status for use in crustacean feed, validated by an independent panel of experts who meticulously assessed the extensive body of published data supporting the protein’s safety.
This GRAS designation, regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), ensures that the ingredient meets stringent feed and food use safety standards.
PRO-DG is particularly notable for its high protein content—approximately 70%—derived from methanotrophic bacteria. The protein is produced using String Bio’s patented String Integrated Methane Platform (SIMP), ensuring an optimal amino acid profile and high digestibility and performance.
The effectiveness of this innovative protein has been demonstrated in various aqua trials, and its tolerability by shrimp has been confirmed through peer-reviewed publications by Felix et al. (2023) and Nederlof et al. (2023).
Dr. Ezhil Subbian, CEO of String Bio, highlighted the significance of this achievement: “The FDA-regulated GRAS status will enable the commercialization of PRO-DG in the United States, opening new markets and opportunities for growth.
Many countries consider GRAS status a strong indication that a feed ingredient has been rigorously tested to meet the highest standard. GRAS status of PRO-DG is an essential milestone in String’s journey and will boost String Bio’s market presence in the feed sector.”
With the global population expected to reach 10 billion by 2050, the demand for sustainable and traceable protein sources is set to increase. The aquaculture industry is projected to expand, with total production anticipated to reach 109 million tonnes by 2030.
String Bio emphasizes that PRO-DG is uniquely positioned to address this ‘protein challenge’ by offering a sustainable feed ingredient essential for the growing aquaculture market while protecting marine ecosystems and resources.
Achieving GRAS status sets String Bio apart in the alternative protein industry, showcasing the company’s dedication to science-based innovation.
This milestone, achieved after over two years of rigorous scientific documentation and safety studies, underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to advancing sustainable solutions in the feed sector.
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