Canadian cell-based dairy producer Opalia has announced a strategic commercial agreement with major dairy ingredient provider Hoogwegt. The deal is claimed to be the first ever commercial supply agreement for cell-based dairy, and will run for the next two years (2026-2027).
The collaboration aims to create sustainable cell-based dairy products and showcase their versatility and global opportunity. Opalia’s proprietary cell-based dairy manufacturing technology will be combined with Hoogwegt’s expertise in dairy products and global markets, which spans more than 130 countries and six continents.
Hoogwegt previously led a CAD$2 million funding round in Opalia last year.
“After already having invested in Opalia, this commercial purchase agreement between Opalia and Hoogwegt is the next major step towards establishing Opalia as a strategic supplier of cell-based milk in Hoogwegt’s future sustainable dairy supply chain,” said Sander Hulsebos, CEO of Hoogwegt.
“Trust and commitment”
Founded in 2020, Opalia is creating real milk without cows using patent-pending technology. The company is targeting B2B applications and aims to create a range of sustainable, cost-effective products, including butter, cream, cheese, yogurts, and more.
Opalia has significantly reduced its production costs by eliminating fetal bovine serum from its process, and has attracted LOIs from large food and dairy corporations. The company is now working with regulatory agencies to showcase its products at tasting events, as it prepares for scaling and commercialization. Opalia also hopes to meet with more commercial partners and investors.
“Hoogwegt’s purchase order to support Opalia’s development of the world’s first cell-based dairy development reflects its trust and commitment in our pioneering technology,” said Opalia CEO Jennifer Côté. “Hoogwegt’s proven expertise in dairy product development and global dairy markets, as well as its commitment to sustainability, aligns perfectly with our strategic goals, and we are confident that this purchase order will allow us to commercialize the world’s first cell-based dairy products.”
