Source: Michael Fielding, MEATINGPLACE, 10/12/15


Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has helped bankroll a $108 million investment in the latest player in the alternative foods movement.

Founded in 2011 by a Stanford University biochemist, Impossible Foods, Inc. will produce plant-based foods to serve as alternatives to meat and cheese products.

The company separates proteins, fats and nutrients from grains, greens and beans, combining the proteins with vitamins, amino acids and fats to create meat-like and cheese-like products.

“Veggie burgers are great for those looking for an alternative to conventional meat, but not for true meat-lovers. We are creating uncompromising meats for people who love meat, directly from proteins and other ingredients found in plants,” according to the company’s website. “Our burgers will delight and satisfy meat lovers who are looking for the most delicious burger they can buy at the best value. We aim to deliver, without compromise, every pleasure that meat-lovers get from burgers – from the visual appearance and versatility of the raw meat, to the smell and sizzle during cooking, to the ultimate taste and texture of the burger.”

The financing was led by UBS with participation from Viking Global Investors. Other investors include Horizons Ventures and Khosla Ventures.

"This latest financing ensures that we have more than enough runway to bring our first products to market," said Patrick O. Brown, founder and CEO of Impossible Foods. "We are grateful to our visionary investors, whose support will enable us to transform the global food system by providing consumers with delicious and sustainable meat and dairy foods made directly from plants."

The company plans to introduce its first product, the “Impossible burger,” in 2016.

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