Our cultivated fats and oils, derived from single-cell organisms like yeast, represent a breakthrough in sustainable lipid production.
Our cultivated fats and oils, derived from single-cell organisms like yeast, represent a breakthrough in sustainable lipid production Customizable profiles Can produce oils with specific fatty acid compositions tailored to various applications Sustainability Cutting carbon footprint and resource use while preserving rainforest biodiversity Localsupply chain Year-round production unaffected by seasons or climate change and scalable globally Traceable and originally pure Biomanufacturing uses lean processes and specific feedstocks, producing impurity-free products Unique fatty acids Ability to produce oils with rare and valuable fatty acids not easily obtained from plant sources Our cultivated fats and oils continue to pave the way for a more sustainable and versatile future in lipid production for food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals
We leverage our expertise in protein engineering, fermentation technology, and AI-driven discovery to unlock new possibilities. Our goal is to address global challenges and improve lives across the planet.
Our cultivated solutions have practical use cases across multiple sectors
We leverage our expertise in protein engineering, fermentation technology, and AI-driven discovery to unlock new possibilities. Our goal is to address global challenges and improve lives across the planet.
Advancing ingredients for food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Discover how we produce SMEY Proteins and SMEY Oils
Advancing ingredients for food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals
Discover how we produce SMEY Proteins and SMEY Oils
Our approach centers on smart screening to identify the best yeast strains for high-titer, scalable production. We also use proprietary machine learning algorithms for strain development through metabolic engineering.
How we produce proteins
We harness the power of recombinant DNA technology to produce high-quality proteins in microorganisms such as yeast. Our process inserts specific genes into these host organisms, which creates cellular factories that efficiently synthesize desired proteins.
How we produce cultivated oils
We’ve introduced innovation to oil and fat production. It begins with the discovery and isolation of unique yeast strains, which we identify through careful screening and selection. Afterwards, these specialized yeasts are cultivated under optimized conditions. This allows them to accumulate high levels of valuable oils and fats.
The benefits of our production methods compared to traditional technologies
Non-animal sourced, no deforestation involved
Low and controlled impurities
Locally produced with low environmental impact
Up to 90% less carbon footprint
Plant free
Our proprietary AI technology based on machine learning revolutionizes oil production from yeast by scanning databases to identify and analyze yeast strains with high oil production. It predicts oil types and yields and guids us in creating new strains with tailored oils. This accelerates development and advances sustainable oil production.
We are a Techbio company that combines AI and biotechnology to create sustainable, impactful innovations that push the boundaries of traditional biotech
We are a Techbio company that combines AI and biotechnology to create sustainable, impactful innovations that push the boundaries of traditional biotech
A name was born
Our name is derived from Alexander NESMEYANOV, a pioneering 20th-century organic chemist. He played a key role in the Sputnik project and innovated synthetic food production in the 1960s, focusing on yeast fermentation and plant-based proteins to create animal products without harming animals. His drive to improve the world was matched by his exceptional talent and scientific skill.
Human well-being
Our innovative ingredients enhance consumer products, contributing to a higher quality of life.
Technology leadership
We prioritize early-stage, comprehensive R&D to ensure we develop the best products from the outset.
Win-win cooperation
We value transparency, synergy, and enthusiasm in our B2B partnerships, leading to mutual success.
Sustainability
Our approach focuses on creating valuable products more efficiently and sustainably, without disrupting nature.
We have pioneered advanced biotechnologies that bring essential innovations to the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals industries, benefiting both consumers and producers
Our lab
Fueled by dedication and cutting-edge biotechnology, our next-generation products are crafted in our advanced lab in Germany, where our skilled scientists ensure the highest safety standards through bi-annual independent audits. Our team specializes in biotechnology, chemistry, and food science, with extensive experience in scaling innovative products.
We integrate in-house R&D with strategic partners, utilizing open innovation and specialized expertise. Our lab also generates vital data for AI models that identify promising yeast species for production and validate our predictions, driving continuous improvement in our offerings.
We combine data science, bioinformatics, biochemistry, microbiology, and process engineering to advance multiple industries. Want to join us?
At SMEY, we are revolutionizing the use of rare ingredients through cutting-edge biotechnology, advancing global health and sustainability.
Cultivating Oils
Harnessing the power of our Neobank of 1,000 yeasts, we leverage AI and biotechnology to revolutionize cosmetics and food with unique, high-performance oils.
NOY™
Neobank of Yeasts (NOY) is the first digital databank of yeasts providing access to new unique oils. It combines oil and genomic data for 1000 yeast species.
SMEY.AI
SMEY.AI models use NOY data training to predict oil content and profile for any yeast, as well as “oily” genetic features.
Our oils are always locally cultivated. Using AI-powered strain selection, we ensure high oil production from Neobank to the factory.
First Digital Neobank of Yeasts (NOY)
SMEY has access to a diverse collection of 100+ exclusive microbial oils and fats, thanks to our pioneering digital Neobank of Yeasts. This ensures optimal, ready-to-use production technology for our clients.
SMEY.AI
At SMEY, our in-house Machine Learning optimized process and high-performance strains deliver high product yields: 15 g/L for bioactive proteins, 50g/L for nutritional proteins, and 75 g/L for cultivated oils.
SMEY Factories
SMEY specializes in process industrialization, achieving standard industrial-scale production capacities of 1,000 metric tons of oils per year for cosmetics and 10,000metric tons per year for confectionery.
Consumer issues we're addressing
Noyl Silk for sensorial excellence, stability, active performance, and sustainability, all at once.
FOR SKIN: Soothing dry, chapped skin, reducing redness, and maintaining hydration.
FOR HAIR: Emollient oil for dry, damaged, and fragile hair, also great for scalp health.
FOR LIPS: Ingredient for lip balms, lipsticks, and other lip care products.
cHOO is a good source of extra pure oleic acid.
A complete analog of cocoa butter, produced from a non-tropical source with a low environmental impact.
FUNCTION:
This sustainable cocoa butter equivalent is an essential ingredient for chocolate and cocoa-based products. It enhances texture, mouthfeel, stability, and overall quality, all while maintaining a neutral flavor profile.
APPLICATIONS IN FOOD & BEVERAGES:
cCB serves as an excellent alternative to traditional CBEs from tropical sources, suitable for a wide range of applications, including chocolate, confectionery, and cocoa-based products such as fillings and glazes.
Explore our range of ingredients designed to nourish, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. Ideal for creams, serums, and other skincare formulations.
APPLICATIONS:
- Hydration and moisturization
- Anti-aging and collagen support
- Acne treatment and oil control
- Skin barrier repair and UV protection
PRODUCTS:
- Ultra-pure Oleic Acid (95-96%)
- Cultivated High Oleic Butter (cHOB) (High C18:1 Content, Low C18:2, no C18:3)
- Cultivated Cocoa Butter Equivalent (cCBE) - Argan Oil (Fatty Acid Profile of Argan Oil)
- Camellia Oil (Fatty Acid Profile of Camellia Oil)
- Avocado Oil (Fatty Acid Profile of Avocado Oil)
- Omega-6 GLA Oil (Gamma-linolenic Acid Enriched Oil)
- LF (Bioactive Protein Lactoferrin)
cHPO - our Cultivated High Palmitic Oil is a 90% bioidentical, non-tropical alternative to traditional palm oil with a low environmental impact. It can be used to enhance stability and provide a smooth texture in sauces, as well as to ensure shelf stability without refrigeration.
Bioadhesive material; emollient; emulsifying agent; emulsion stabilizing agent; gelling agent; modified-release agent; nonionic surfactant.
Glyceryl monooleate is a polar lipid that swells in water to give several phases with different rheological properties. It is used in topical formulations as an emollient and as an emulsifying agent for water-in-oil emulsions. It is also a stabilizer for oil-in-water emulsions. Glyceryl monooleate gels in excess water, forming a highly ordered cubic phase that can be used to sustain the release of various water-soluble drugs. It is also the basis of mucoadhesive drug delivery systems. Glyceryl monooleate is reported to enhance transdermal and buccal penetration and it has been investigated in inhalation delivery systems. Glyceryl monooleate has been investigated for the encapsulation of drugs in liquid crystalline nanoparticles for the entrapment of drugs for oral and ocular delivery.
Our ingredients support healthy hair and scalp while repairing damage. Ideal for shampoos, conditioners, and hair oils.
APPLICATIONS:
PRODUCTS:
Noyl Cocoa is a perfect solution when you'd like to substitute unsustainable cocoa butter equivalents in your formulations with CBEs produced from non-tropical sources.
Cocoa butter and its equivalents are used in several applications.
MOISTURIZERS: Widely used in skin products due to its excellent emollient properties, helping to hydrate and nourish the skin.
LIP BALMS: Its edible nature and moisturizing qualities make cocoa butter a common ingredient in lip care products, providing hydration and protection against chapping.
BODY BUTTERS: often combined with other oils and butters, cocoa butter is used in body butters for deep moisturization and to improve skin texture.
An avocado oil extender with a fatty acid composition and physical characteristics similar to original avocado oil.
FUNCTION:
A rich source of healthy monounsaturated fatty acids, including Omega-7 Palmitoleic acid, and offers a high smoke point for versatile culinary use.
APPLICATIONS IN FOOD & BEVERAGES:
Provides the same fatty acid profile and physical properties as original avocado oil, making it ideal for producing more affordable cooking and dressing oil blends. It can also be used in products that incorporate avocado oil.
Enhance the hydration and protection of lips with our versatile ingredients, perfect for balms, lipsticks, and glosses.
APPLICATIONS:
PRODUCTS:
cCBE - an alternative CBE from non-tropical and sustainable sources that reduces the cost of recipes while providing the same performance as cocoa butter.
Our Noyl Palm (cHPO) is a perfect sustainable and EUDR compliant solution for direct applications in lipsticks, makeup, and other direct applications without any unpleasant odor and with a neutral creamy color.
At the same time, the palm-free alternative is a robust building block for more than 200 downstream product derivatives of palm oil, including acids, alcohols, esters, and hydrogenated products.
Moisturize and soothe the body with sustainable and effective ingredients for lotions, butters, and creams.
APPLICATIONS:
PRODUCTS:
cHPO - our Cultivated High Palmitic Oil is a 90% bioidentical, non-tropical alternative to traditional palm oil with a low environmental impact. Thanks to its versatility, neutral taste, and texture-enhancing properties, it can replace widely used palm oil and serve as an eco-conscious solution in dietary products.
Formulate sustainably with our eco-friendly and EUDR-compliant alternatives, designed to reduce environmental impact.
APPLICATIONS:
PRODUCTS:
cHPO - our Cultivated High Palmitic Oil is a 90% bioidentical, non-tropical alternative to traditional palm oil with a low environmental impact. Its unique properties make it a sustainable substitute for palm oil in baked goods, offering eco-conscious food solutions.
Information coming soon.
Our products go beyond cosmetics, offering nutritional benefits for skin health and overall well-being.
APPLICATIONS:
PRODUCTS:
Higher intakes of odd-carbon fatty acids, such as C15:0, have been linked to lower mortality in some studies by reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, as it may help lower total cholesterol and glucose levels while improving insulin sensitivity. Some studies also suggest a lower risk of certain cancers with higher C15:0 levels. Pentadecylic acid is thought to help improve liver health biomarkers such as lower alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, which have been linked to a lower risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Pentadecylic acid has potential longevity benefits: it activates AMPK and inhibits mTOR, which are key components of human longevity pathways. It also shares some activities with known lifespan-extending compounds such as rapamycin. At the cellular level, C15:0 may help strengthen cells and restore mitochondrial function.
Experience the versatility of our oils, suited for a range of applications across skincare, haircare, and cleansing products.
APPLICATIONS:
PRODUCTS:
cHPO - our Cultivated High Palmitic Oil is a 90% bioidentical, non-tropical alternative to traditional palm oil with a low environmental impact. Its unique properties make it a sustainable substitute for palm oil in baked goods, offering eco-conscious food solutions.
Heptadecanoic acid is naturally present in full-fat dairy and some meats, but modern dietary trends (e.g., low-fat diets) may lead to lower consumption. Supplements help reintroduce this potentially beneficial fatty acid. Higher levels of C17:0 are associated with lower risks of cardiometabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes. It may help improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. In some studies C17:0 supplementation has been linked to reduced inflammation and it may help lower triglyceride levels, which is a key factor in atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries). Emerging research suggests saturated fatty acids like heptadecanoic acid may play roles in brain health, possibly by supporting the integrity of cell membranes in neurons.
Heptadecanoic acid supplementation might help in treating or preventing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. It may help in treating hyperferritinemia (excess iron storage) without requiring phlebotomy. Heptadecanoic acid has been shown to possess antimicrobial.
AVOCADO OIL - is a solution to produce oil mixtures for cooking and dressings with a very healthy fatty acid profile similar to avocado oil, enriched with monounsaturated lipids and which has a high smoke point.
Camellia oil is widely used in cosmetics for a few key reasons: It deeply hydrates the skin and helps maintain moisture due to its high oleic acid content.
The oil is quickly absorbed and does not leave a greasy residue. In addition, camellia oil stimulates collagen production, helping to reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
It contains antioxidants that protect the skin from free radical damage.
It can be used in hair, face, and body care, making it a multi-purpose ingredient.
Camellia oil can help treat and soothe skin irritations by minimizing redness and inflammation, and can also help reduce dark spots and improve skin texture and tone.
It does not clog pores, making it suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Due to these properties, camellia oil has become a popular ingredient in a variety of cosmetic products, from serums and creams to hair care, in both high-end and niche brands.
MCT OIL - a good solution for fortification of plant-based food, especially butter spreads, with a quick energy source from healthy fats.
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If you've ever read the ingredients on skincare products, food, or supplements you have probably seen words like "palmitate" or "palmitic acid." Many people assume this means the product contains palm oil, but that's a common misunderstanding.
A Name Frozen in History
Back in 1840, a French scientist Edmond Frémy isolated a fatty acid from palm oil and named it "palmitic acid." The name persisted, even though the substance itself has very little to do with palm oil specifically [1].
So today, when people see "palmitate" on a label, they automatically think of palm plantations and deforestation. But that connection is mostly just a naming coincidence.
So What is the Real Difference?
Simply put: palmitic acid is a molecule, while palm oil is a crop. They share a name, but they are completely different things. One is a defined chemical structure of a fatty acid with a 16-carbon chain (C16:0). The other is an agricultural commodity composed of multiple triglycerides, processed through complex global supply chains. A product can contain palmitic acid without containing a single drop of palm oil.
A fermentation-derived oil, such as SMEY’s Noyl Silk, comprises palmitic acid while containing no palm-derived material at all. Recognizing the distinction between fatty acid composition and agricultural origin allows ingredients to be evaluated both for functional performance and for sourcing footprint. At the same time, understanding common labeling terms such as “vegetable oil,” “vegetable fat,” or “fractionated vegetable oil” supports greater transparency about raw material origins and supply chains.
The controversial ingredient the world can't quit
The global debate around palm oil has been widely documented, including in the Deutsche Welle documentary featuring SMEY, which explores the environmental pressure linked to tropical oil crops and the urgent need for alternative production models. The film highlights how biotechnology and fermentation can help decouple lipid functionality from land use, offering a pathway toward more resilient and transparent supply chains.
Don’t judge an ingredient by its name alone.
Understanding this difference helps you make smarter, more informed choices when reading labels. For instance, companies like SMEY, now produce oils through a lab-based fermentation process rather than from tropical crops. These oils are completely palm-free, but may still naturally contain palmitic acid.
At SMEY, we produce oils through fermentation, not from tropical crops, but from controlled microbial processes. Our oils are palm-free by origin, fully traceable, and defined at the molecular level. They can match the functional properties of palm and other tropical oils while decoupling performance from deforestation risk, land-use pressure, and agricultural volatility.
References
American Chemical Society. Palmitic Acid — Molecule of the Week. ACS Publications, December 2024. https://www.acs.org/molecule-of-the-week/archive/p/palmitic-acid.html
