Tavelmout

About Tavelmout

Tavelmout, which now operates as Tabérumo, is a Japanese biotechnology company focused on addressing future protein shortages through the cultivation and commercialization of spirulina. Established in July 2014 by the Chitose Group, a collection of bioventure companies, Tavelmout aims to diversify sustainable protein sources. The President and Managing Director is Toshiya Sasaki. The company was founded to develop cultivation technologies and new applications for spirulina, a nutrient-dense microalgae.

A significant milestone for the company occurred in May 2018, when it received a joint investment of 1.7 billion yen from the Innovation Network Corporation of Japan (INCJ) and Mitsubishi Corporation (MC). This funding was allocated for the construction of a new large-scale production facility in Brunei. This location was chosen for its consistent sunlight, which allows for year-round cultivation, a significant advantage over the seasonal production in Japan. The Brunei subsidiary, Tavelmout Biofarm (TVMB), began operations in October 2019 and handles the entire production process from cultivation to export.

Tavelmout's core business revolves around the production and sale of spirulina-based products for both B2B and B2C markets. Its clients include food manufacturers and general consumers. The company has developed a unique product: tasteless and odorless frozen "Raw Spirulina." This is achieved through a proprietary flash-freezing process that preserves nutrients often lost in the common heat-drying method. This makes the product more versatile for use in various foods and drinks. The company utilizes advanced cultivation technology, including both open-pond systems and closed photobioreactor (PBR) systems, which yield significantly higher protein productivity compared to traditional crops like soybeans. These PBR systems also offer better control over environmental factors and contamination.

In addition to food applications, Tavelmout is involved in research for space development. The company has collaborated with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to develop spirulina production systems for long-term space missions, such as on a lunar farm, and to create menus for astronauts. Tavelmout is one of the few companies globally capable of producing raw spirulina on a large commercial scale, a critical component for this research. The company initially targeted the Japanese market, with plans for global expansion, including to the EU. It markets its products to address the growing global demand for alternative protein and also targets the aquaculture industry, where spirulina can be used as feed and a water conditioner.