Indian food-tech startup Biokraft Foods is pioneering a new frontier in sustainable protein, unveiling the country’s first cultivated trout fillets. Developed in a landmark partnership with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research’s Central Institute of Coldwater Fisheries Research (ICAR-CICFR), the company is targeting a full commercial launch for its cultivated seafood and meat products by 2026.
This development marks a significant breakthrough for India’s alternative protein sector. Following the debut of its 3D-printed cultivated chicken in late 2024, Biokraft is now applying its proprietary 3D bioprinting technology to the aquatic space. By developing native trout cell lines, the company can produce whole-cut fillets that it says are structurally and nutritionally identical to their conventionally-sourced counterparts.
“Our cultivated trout… has the added benefit of year-round production that is not reliant on animal farming, wild catch, or delicate ecosystems,” said Kamalnayan Tibrewal, Founder and CEO of Biokraft Foods. He emphasized that this method eliminates concerns about antibiotic contamination and microplastic pollution.
A key part of Biokraft’s strategy is market accessibility. The company has set an ambitious goal to price its cultivated trout below conventional options, a move aimed at disrupting the premium seafood market. Trout was strategically chosen due to its high market value and seasonal availability in India, which is often limited by geography and climate.
The collaboration with a premier government research body like ICAR-CICFR lends significant credibility to the venture. Dr. Amit Pande, a principal scientist at the institute, called the partnership an example of how academia and industry can jointly advance alternative protein sources. “This initiative not only aligns with our vision of conserving aquatic biodiversity but also opens up new avenues for cell-based aquaculture research in India,” said Dr. Pande.
While public tastings for the trout are still in the validation stage, the company is moving forward with regulatory approvals for its cultivated chicken, expecting a positive outcome in the coming months. Tibrewal is optimistic about consumer acceptance, citing an internal survey in India’s Tier 1 cities where 60% of respondents were open to trying cultivated meat. However, he acknowledged the need for greater consumer education to build trust and awareness.
Looking ahead, Biokraft plans to open a dedicated R&D and pilot facility by the end of 2025. The company also has its sights set on international expansion, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, and intends to explore cultivated versions of other high-value or endangered fish species in the future.