SPIBER: WHAT IS PROTEIN FIBER AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

Spiber Inc., a biotechnology company founded in 2007 and headquartered in Tsuruoka, Japan, is at the forefront of developing innovative, sustainable materials through cutting edge biotechnology. Their flagship creation, Brewed Protein, is a plant based protein fiber designed to offer an eco friendly alternative to traditional animal-derived materials like silk, wool, and cashmere.

Brewed Protein fiber is a novel material produced through Spiber's proprietary fermentation technology. By utilizing plant derived biomass as feedstock, Spiber engineers microbes to ferment these raw materials, resulting in the creation of protein polymers. These polymers are then processed into fibers that can mimic the properties of various natural fibers, offering versatility in textile applications.

The creation of Brewed Protein fiber involves a multi step process:

1. Microbial Fermentation: Engineered microorganisms ferment plant-based feedstocks, converting them into specific protein polymers.
   
   

2. Polymer Extraction: The resulting protein polymers are extracted and purified from the fermentation broth.
   
   

3. Fiber Spinning: The purified proteins are spun into fibers, which can then be woven or knitted into textiles. 

This process allows for the customization of fiber properties, enabling the creation of materials that can replicate the texture and feel of silk, wool, or cashmere.

Spiber's development of Brewed Protein fiber represents a significant advancement in sustainable material science. By harnessing biotechnology to create plant-based protein fibers, Spiber offers a viable alternative to traditional animal derived textiles, aligning with the growing global emphasis on environmental responsibility and innovation in the fashion and textile industries.

Sources: Spiber Inc