Moolec Science has obtained a US patent for its Piggy Sooy™ technology, a novel soybean engineered to produce high levels of porcine hemeproteins in its seeds. The patent, granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), covers the plants, seeds, methods of development, and food compositions derived from this technology.
“This patent validates Moolec’s scientific leadership in Molecular Farming”
Piggy Sooy™ is the first patented soybean variety designed to express porcine hemeproteins directly in the seeds, offering a new approach to plant-based animal protein production. In April 2024, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) determined that the engineered soybean does not present a plant pest risk distinct from conventional soybeans, confirming that it will not be subject to certain regulatory oversight under US law. This ruling facilitates the technology’s potential for commercialization.
Trials show promising yields
Initial field trials have yielded promising results, with the technology producing more than 20% animal protein content in the total soluble protein fraction. According to Moolec’s Chief Science Officer, Amit Dhingra, the technology offers substantial environmental benefits. One acre of Piggy Sooy™ can generate the equivalent protein of roughly 10 pigs, while using 35 times less land, 8 times less water, and producing 60 times fewer CO2 emissions than traditional meat production. He noted, “These multifaceted benefits make Piggy Sooy™ a game-changer in sustainable protein production.”
Securing long-term commercial exclusivity
This patent provides Moolec with exclusive commercial rights for Piggy Sooy™ in the US until 2042. The company has also filed over 15 additional patent applications worldwide to protect its molecular farming innovations.
Earlier this year, Moolec merged with Bioceres Group, positioning Moolec as the parent company of Bioceres Group, Nutrecon LLC, and Gentle Technologies Corp. This merger combines Moolec’s molecular farming expertise with Bioceres Group’s biological agricultural technologies, including climate-resilient seeds and microbial solutions.
In addition to the patent announcement, Moolec revealed the appointment of Alejandro Antalich as CEO, signaling a new phase for the company. Antalich commented, “This patent validates Moolec’s scientific leadership in Molecular Farming and protects a technology with unprecedented levels of animal protein expression in plants. It’s not only a recognition of our innovation, but a vital asset that allows us to advance confidently toward commercialization and build a differentiated position in our food and feed ingredients business.”
