TurtleTree has secured its first commercial partnership, with Cadence Performance Coffee, to bring to market an espresso shot that contains its animal-free lactoferrin (LF+). 

Cadence Performance Coffee is dedicated to enhancing overall human performance, with experience providing advanced nutrition products, such as DeltaG ketone technology, to elite athletes, astronauts, ‘extreme job’ executives and military units. 

The new LF+ espresso shot uses high-quality, artisanal coffee. Lactoferrin and coffee have a symbiotic relationship; while caffeine is known to reduce zinc and iron absorption from the diet, LF+ can combat this effect and ensure access to dietary micronutrients. Cadence offers TurtleTree's LF+ ingredient in a functional ready-to-drink product that can easily fit into busy lifestyles.  

The launch comes only a couple of months after TurtleTree's LF+ ingredient was certified as vegan by Vegan Action, and follows the company's self-affirmed GRAS status for the ingredient.

Supplementation of lactoferrin can improve symptoms of low iron, assisting in better overall absorption, however, there are global supply issues. Over 60% of the world's global lactoferrin supply is channelled to infants - leaving little for the adult nutrition market.  

TurtleTree uses precision fermentation, where microbes are programmed to produce specific functional ingredients, to create LF+, enabling it to supplement the global shortage of lactoferrin as well as meet the demand of new consumers who were previously unable to access the protein because of supply issues. 

Lactoferrin helps the body in three main ways: Lactoferrin is known for its ability to bind iron, improving red blood cell production, circulation of iron and stored iron levels.  It also boosts immune function due to its ability to bind to iron, and helps to maintain a healthy gut, promoting microbiota diversity and supporting intestinal barrier function. 

Fengru Lin, CEO of TurtleTree, said: "With this partnership in place we are validating that there is a need for lactoferrin to be more accessible within the global supply chain for audiences other than infants and that we, as an organisation, now have the means to begin filling those gaps. It is so exciting to see LF+ be used in novel ways to support the athlete community to reach their highest potential." 

Dan LaValley, founder of Cadence Performance Coffee, added:

"This collaboration signifies a commitment to health, sustainability and innovation. This has been months in the making and we're thrilled to bring this partnership to fruition. Together, TurtleTree and Cadence Performance Coffee are redefining how consumers view coffee, offering high performers and athletes a convenient and delicious way to support their wellbeing with the added benefits of LF+." 

The espresso shot will be available for pre-order in the coming months in both Salted Caramel and Original flavours. 

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