ÄIO •

Mariane • 29. October 2026

We are hiring: Head of Quality & Process Operations

If you are a PRO with OIL, ISO, HACCP, GMP, QC, SOP, CMO, CoA, SDS, PDS and CAPA, and a START-UP (ÄIO!) is where you thrive, we want to hear from you! Does quality run in your veins? Do you naturally... Read more

Mariane • 29. October 2026

ÄIO wins Sustainability Start-Up of 2026 at the Sustainable Beauty Awards in Paris

Two days of inspiring discussions, valuable connections and new perspectives on the future of sustainable cosmetics ended with a wonderful surprise: ÄIO was named Sustainability Start-Up of 2026 at the Sustainable Beauty Awards! The award was presented on 27 October... Read more

Mariane • 13. October 2026

ÄIO brings fermentation-derived cosmetic oils to the Sustainable Cosmetics Summit and earns TWO award nominations

ÄIO is heading to Paris for the Sustainable Cosmetics Summit Europe 2026, where our Head of Cosmetics Development, Dr. Magdalena Koziol, will present the potential of fermentation-derived oils as sustainable alternatives to conventional cosmetic ingredients. The event also brings another... Read more

Mariane • 8. October 2026

From a dream to award-winning skincare

ÄIO’s fermentation-derived ingredients make their mark. Two international beauty awards, two sustainability award nominations and three commercial skincare ingredients. The latest recognitions mark an important milestone: biotechnology developed in the laboratory is now reaching consumers through finished products and gaining... Read more

Mariane • 29. September 2026

WIPO Highlights ÄIO in the Global Innovation Index 2026

Estonia has recorded the fastest growth in deep-science startups among smaller economies, increasing by 294% between 2020 and 2025. The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) highlights ÄIO as one of the Estonian companies illustrating this development in its Global Innovation... Read more

Mariane • 15. September 2026

Meet ÄIO across Europe this autumn

London → Amsterdam → Munich → Oslo → Wuppertal → Helsinki. ÄIO team, Co-founder and CEO, Dr. Nemailla Bonturi, Co-founder and CTO, Professor Petri-Jaan Lahtvee and CFO/CPO Martin Mets will be joining some of Europe’s most relevant gatherings for investment,... Read more

Mariane • 8. September 2026

ÄIO and tilk! launch award-shortlisted face cream featuring two fermentation-derived ingredients!

The new Skin Booster Face Cream brings Fermira™ RedOil and ZymaLipid Complex together in a commercial skincare formulation, and has already been shortlisted for the European Natural Beauty Awards 2026. TALLINN, Estonia (08 September 2026). Estonian biotechnology company ÄIO... Read more

Mariane • 25. August 2026

PRESS RELEASE! ÄIO and TFTAK secure €1.94M to make microbial oil production faster, smarter and more competitive!

The DigiFoundry 2.0 project will combine improved fermentation, automation, digitalisation and advanced biotechnology to make the production of fermentation-derived oils and fats more efficient, scalable and cost-competitive. Building on three years of research by ÄIO and TFTAK, the project aims... Read more

Mariane • 21. August 2026

Building ÄIO: why scaling fermentation requires more than great science

Interview with Martin Mets, Chief Financial & Product Officer at ÄIO. When people hear about biotechnology, they often think about scientific discoveries, breakthrough ingredients and fermentation tanks. What they rarely see is everything required to transform those discoveries into a commercially successful business. Developing... Read more

Mariane • 19. August 2026

ÄIO enters the Brazilian cosmetics market!

ÄIO is officially entering Brazil through an exclusive distribution partnership with Focus Química, bringing its fermentation-derived cosmetic ingredients closer to one of the world’s most innovative beauty markets. Read the full press release from here: In-cosmetics: Focus Química announces exclusive distribution... Read more

Mariane • 17. August 2026

Choosing a new ingredient supplier: 10 questions we hear before every partnership

Choosing a new ingredient supplier: The questions every distributor and formulator asks from our sales team. Selecting a new ingredient supplier is about much more than evaluating a single raw material. Formulators, brands, and distributors are looking for a partner they can... Read more

Mariane • 31. July 2026

Behind the science: How ÄIO combines AI and biotechnology to accelerate innovation

An interview with ÄIO’s Senior Bioinformatician Paulo Alexandrino, PhD, and Scientist, Tommaso Tagliani. Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming almost every industry, also biotech. At ÄIO, it has become a tool that helps our teams learn faster, make better decisions and accelerate the development of... Read more

Mariane • 29. July 2026

The next bestseller starts with ÄIO ingredient!

At ÄIO, we have done the science, so you can focus on creating the next generation of cosmetic products. Whether you are developing your new skincare hero, haircare innovation, or waterless formulation, we are ready to help. Our three fermentation-derived... Read more

Mariane • 28. July 2026

Combining the power of synthetic biology and metabolic engineering to create the next generation of products. 

How ÄIO designs the next generation of specialty fats and oils. When people think about biotechnology, they often picture fermentation tanks transforming feedstocks into valuable products. But before fermentation begins, our Strain Engineering team is designing and optimising the microorganisms... Read more

Mariane • 3. July 2026

ÄIO Featured in Protein Production Technology: Where will the world’s fats come from?

While alternative proteins have dominated the conversation around food innovation over the past decade, fats are equally essential. They define taste, texture, mouthfeel, functionality, and nutrition. Yet they are often overlooked. We’re pleased to share that our Chief Innovation Officer,... Read more

Mariane • 30. June 2026

ÄIO Featured in FoodTech Japan (Foovo): Sharing Our Vision

We’re excited to share that our story has been featured by FoodTech Japan (Foovo), one of Japan’s leading media platforms covering food technology, precision fermentation, and sustainable innovation. In an extensive interview, our CEO and Co-founder, Dr. Nemailla Bonturi, discusses... Read more

Mariane • 26. June 2026

ÄIO’s research featured in EURO COSMETICS magazine: Exploring the Future of Fermentation-Derived Cosmetic Oils

ÄIO’s Head of Cosmetics Development, Dr. Magdalena Koziol, has published a technical article in the April issue (4/2026) of EURO COSMETICS, one of Europe’s leading trade magazines for the cosmetics and personal care industry. The article, “Fermentation-Derived Oils: A Biotechnological... Read more

Mariane • 16. June 2026

From thesis to technology: celebrating ÄIO’s new graduates

This year, we are proud to celebrate three members of our team who have reached an important milestone in their academic journey while already helping to build the future of sustainable fats and oils. Research that doesn’t stay on the... Read more

Mariane • 9. June 2026

ÄIO expands global reach through new distribution partnerships

At ÄIO, our mission has always been bigger than developing sustainable fats and oils. We want to make it easy for formulators and brands around the world to access next-generation ingredients that combine performance, traceability, and sustainability. That is why we... Read more

Mariane • 28. May 2026

From hectares to bioreactors: why the future of fats and oils needs a new production model

The world is running out of natural fats. Demand for fats and oils continues to grow across food, cosmetics, household products, and industrial applications. By 2032, the global fats and oils market is expected to reach more than $350 billion.... Read more

Mariane • 25. May 2026

Beyond sustainable ingredients: what we learned at the Sustainable Cosmetics Summit North America 2026

ÄIO joined industry leaders, brands, ingredient innovators, and sustainability experts in New York for the 17th Sustainable Cosmetics Summit North America in May 2026. Organized by Ecovia Intelligence, the summit brought together stakeholders from across the beauty value chain to... Read more

Mariane • 13. May 2026

ÄIO ingredients receive Vegan certification

At ÄIO, we believe the future of cosmetic ingredients should combine performance, sustainability, and responsible innovation. We are happy to share a milestone in our journey: our three fermentation-derived cosmetic ingredients: Fermira™ RedOil, ZymaLipid Complex and Encapsulated oil, have received certification... Read more

Mariane • 6. May 2026

ÄIO ingredients receive COSMOS certification

ÄIO’s three fermentation-derived cosmetic ingredients: Fermira™ RedOil, ZymaLipid Complex and Encapsulated oil, have officially received COSMOS certification from Cosmécert, confirming compliance with one of the most recognised global standards for natural and sustainable cosmetics. For ÄIO, this is more than... Read more

Mariane • 29. April 2026

ÄIO heads to New York: joining NYSCC Suppliers’ Day for the first time (booth #2278)

This May, ÄIO is joining one of the leading cosmetics industry events in North America, the NYSCC Suppliers’ Day, for the very first time. Held in New York on 19–20 May, NYSCC Suppliers’ Day brings together ingredient innovators, formulators, brands,... Read more

Mariane • 14. April 2026

From Side-Streams to Skincare: ÄIO at in-cosmetics Global 2026

Every year, in-cosmetics Global brings together the people shaping the future of the cosmetics industry. From raw materials to finished formulations, from early-stage ideas to market-ready products. Iit is where innovation becomes tangible. For ÄIO, this year marks an important... Read more

Mariane • 7. April 2026

PRESS RELEASE! ÄIO and tilk! launch first commercial skincare product powered by ÄIO’s bio-fermented RedOil!

The launch marks a major milestone for Estonian biotechnology company ÄIO, demonstrating the transition of fermentation-derived oils from R&D to real, consumer-ready cosmetic products. Developed in partnership with natural skincare brand tilk!, the new serum showcases how upcycled, bio-fermented ingredients... Read more

Mariane • 2. April 2026

Podcast 311: The palm oil alternative that doesn’t rely on trees

Hear ÄIO’s Co-founder and CEO sharing her story, what and why she does* Palm oil is everywhere in cosmetics – not just in creams and balms, but buried deep inside emulsifiers, surfactants, fatty alcohols, and the many other functional ingredients that... Read more

Mariane • 2. April 2026

Two Technologies, One Direction: Origin by Ocean x ÄIO

The future of sustainable materials is built through collaboration and we are really excited to share what Origin by Ocean, a company transforming invasive algae into high-value ingredients while actively restoring marine ecosystems, has formulated with ÄIO’s ingredients. Both of... Read more

Mariane • 27. March 2026

ÄIO at in-cosmetics Global in Paris

The next breakthrough starts with “hello”! in-cosmetics Global in Paris is the moment during the year when everything comes together – ideas, partners, conversations, plans, colleagues. Come and say hi, explore, and feel ÄIO products. Let’s talk about your portfolio,... Read more

Mariane • 24. March 2026

Before our ingredients reach you, they already carry a story!

From side-streams to shipment: building a fully circular delivery system At ÄIO, we develop sustainable fats and oils through fermentation, transforming low-value side-streams from the wood and agricultural industries into high-performance ingredients. And sustainability does not end at production, it... Read more

Mariane • 10. March 2026

ÄIO Scholarship opens doors to real deeptech innovation!

Supporting future scientists: the ÄIO Scholarship and Kristin Sepp’s internship journey At ÄIO, we are developing a new way to produce fats and oils by using yeast fermentation. Our technology converts low-value side streams from agriculture, forestry, and the food... Read more

Mariane • 4. March 2026

Meet ÄIO team at spring events!

Spring is always a busy and exciting season in the cosmetics industry and the same for ÄIO. We will be on the road meeting partners, formulators, brands, and investors across several major international events. From Bologna to Paris to New... Read more

Mariane • 12. February 2026

Join our team! We are hiring a Head of Sales!

ÄIO is a team of 24 professionals, including 22% PhDs and 50% MSc level experts, representing 7 nationalities working for the same goal: to produce fats and oils sustainably for the cosmetics and food industries. We have built the technology.... Read more

Mariane • 11. February 2026

ÄIO product #1: ZymaLipid Complex

The future of sustainable lipids in cosmetics The world depends heavily on plant-derived oils and butters for cosmetics. Palm oil, coconut oil and tropical butters provide structure, texture and emollience to formulations. But their production is tied to deforestation, biodiversity... Read more

Mariane • 10. February 2026

ÄIO product #2: Fermira™ RedOil

A new generation of fermented antioxidant lipids for cosmetics Unrefined plant oils have long been valued in cosmetics for their richness, bioactivity and sensorial profile. But their production often depends on climate-sensitive crops, long supply chains and ecosystems under pressure. The... Read more

Mariane • 9. February 2026

ÄIO product #3: Encapsulated oil

A multinutritional fermented lipid complex for next-generation skincare Modern skincare is evolving. Consumers are no longer looking for single-function ingredients. They want performance, multifunctionality, stability, sustainability and science-backed claims. It is not just an oil. It is a multi-nutritional, postbiotic lipid system... Read more

Mariane • 4. February 2026

ÄIO selected among TECHARENA TOP46! See you in Stockholm

ÄIO has been selected to the TOP46 companies at TECHARENA (11 – 12 February 2026), one of the Nordics’ leading platforms connecting high-impact startups with investors, corporates, and global decision-makers. Being chosen among hundreds of ambitious European companies is a... Read more

Mariane • 2. February 2026

When policy meets science: why the Ministry visit to ÄIO matters

At ÄIO, we believe that building truly sustainable food and ingredient systems requires more than technological breakthroughs alone. It also depends on open dialogue between science, industry, and public institutions. This is why we were pleased to welcome representatives from... Read more

Mariane • 26. January 2026

ÄIO named TOP 3 Impact Visionary 2025 at the Estonian Startup Awards

ÄIO has been recognised among the Top 3 startups in the Impact Visionary 2025 category at the Estonian Startup Awards. This is an acknowledgement that celebrates companies shaping a better future through real, measurable impact. Startups in this category are... Read more

Mariane • 19. January 2026

ÄIO turns 4: from a scientific idea to an industrial reality

Reaching a fourth birthday may sound modest outside the startup world. Inside it, it is a milestone worth celebrating. Globally, only around 50% of startups survive beyond their fourth year. In deeptech and biotechnology, where development cycles are long, capital... Read more

Mariane • 9. January 2026

ÄIO one of Protein Production Technology’s Top 26 Companies

We’re proud to share that ÄIO has been included in Protein Production Technology International‘s Top 26 companies to watch, a curated list highlighting innovators shaping the future of food and ingredient production. What is Protein Production Technology International? Protein Production... Read more

Mariane • 6. January 2026

From tropical butters to fermentation: what cocoa & shea tell us about the next era of beauty ingredients

In cosmetics, butters are more than a marketing story. Cocoa butter and shea butter bring texture, glide, melt profile, and a comforting sensory signature that formulators rely on across skincare, haircare, soaps, and balms. But behind the “natural” label sits a growing reality: tropical butters... Read more

Mariane • 18. December 2025

Press release: ÄIO secures €1.2M grant to scale up sustainable fermentation-based flavoured fats for future food applications

The new FERM-OIL project, which aims to replace animal fats and tropical oils will validate industrial-scale production of ÄIO’s novel Flavoured Fat ingredient, using local food, forestry, and agricultural side-streams to create sustainable, functional lipid solutions for diverse food products.... Read more

Mariane • 9. December 2025

ÄIO RedOil samples on the move

At ÄIO, every milestone brings us closer to reshaping how the world sources and uses fats and oils. One milestone we celebrate frequently, though it may look simple from the outside, is packing and sending samples to our partners around... Read more

Mariane • 1. December 2025

ÄIO moment on the Nasdaq billboard

Let the world call it Blue Monday! A big thank you, KPMG Baltics and KPMG for the opportunity to pitch at Web Summit as the Global Tech Innovator finalist and for this fantastic earned-media moment on the Nasdaq billboard! Meanwhile,... Read more

Mariane • 12. November 2025

Innovation-Friendly Regulation is Key to a Sustainable Food Future

Key voices from the worlds of biotech, policy, innovation and investment met in Brussels at the European Parliament to discuss how Europe can scale up food biomanufacturing to strengthen its strategic autonomy, competitiveness, and resilience. Hosted by MEPs Pascal Canfin,... Read more

Mariane • 7. November 2025

ÄIO Joins Web Summit 2025 with KPMG Global Tech Innovator Stage Pitch

In November 2025, one of the world’s most anticipated technology gatherings returns to Lisbon and ÄIO is part of it. The 2025 edition runs 10. – 13. November in Lisbon, Portugal. What is Web Summit? Web Summit is more than... Read more

Mariane • 3. November 2025

ÄIO Heads to COP30

From Estonia to Brazil, from Science to Sustainability In just a few weeks, the world will gather in Belém, Brazil, for the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP30. With over 190 countries, thousands of delegates, and voices from governments,... Read more

Mariane • 30. October 2025

Cooking Up Tomorrow: How ÄIO’s Product Innovation Team Brings Novel Ingredients to Life

At ÄIO, innovation isn’t just happening in the lab. It’s simmering in the kitchen. In Q2 2024, we installed our fully functioning food-grade pilot plant, built under HACCP principles. Since then, we’ve expanded our Product Innovation department to explore a... Read more

Mariane • 24. October 2025

Equipped to Scale: Inside ÄIO’s Pilot Plant where people and technology shape the future of fats

At ÄIO, we develop next-generation fats and oils using proprietary yeast fermentation, offering sustainable alternatives to palm, coconut, and animal-based fats for food, cosmetics, and household applications. By upcycling local side streams like wood residues and food processing by-products, we... Read more

Mariane • 14. October 2025

ÄIO article in COSSMA cosmetics magazine

Published in COSSMA, issue 10/2025 Interview done with ÄIO Head of Cosmetics Development Magdalena Koziol. Find the full article: COSSMAxÄIO-10-2025. 1. What inspired the founding of ÄIO, and how did the idea for yeast-based oil alternatives first come about?... Read more

Mariane • 7. October 2025

TechCrunch article: Startup Battlefield company ÄIO invented a method to make edible fat from ag waste like sawdust

Article published by Julie Bort October 7, 2025 on techcrunch.com. Äio (pronounced EYE-oh) is the Estonian god of dreams. It seems a sweetly appropriate namesake for a rising startup, called ÄIO, from that tiny Baltic country that has developed a process to turn agricultural waste like sawdust into fats for the... Read more

Mariane • 7. October 2025

ÄIO’s ingredients now have official INCI names

What Is an INCI Name and Why Does It Matter? When browsing your favourite cosmetics, you’ve probably seen ingredient names like Cocos Nucifera Oil or Olea Europaea Fruit Oil on the label. These aren’t just fancy ways of saying coconut... Read more

Mariane • 24. September 2025

Success at the HEIPowered Startup Pitch Competition. Second Place and Headed to Brussels.

We are thrilled to share that ÄIO has won 2nd place at the HEIPowered Startup Pitch Competition Final, an European event that brings together top university-linked startups in the EIT Higher Education Initiative (HEI) community. Representing ÄIO on the virtual... Read more

Mariane • 16. September 2025

Press release: Biotechnology company ÄIO successfully produces first tonne of its yeast-based alternative to traditional oils for cosmetics and food applications

Press release: Biotechnology company ÄIO successfully produces first tonne of its yeast-based alternative to traditional oils for cosmetics and food applications The 1 tonne production milestone marks a significant step in ÄIO’s journey toward commercial-scale manufacturing of its next-generation, ecologically... Read more

Mariane • 11. September 2025

When a Head of State walks through your lab door!

A Presidential Visit to ÄIO: Trust, Innovation, and the Future of Sustainable Ingredients. When the President of Estonia steps through your lab door, it’s more than a visit. It is a powerful recognition of science-driven innovation and the potential for... Read more

Mariane • 29. August 2025

ÄIO on the Road: Connecting Globally

Global challenges require global solutions and global connections. This autumn, the ÄIO team is hitting the road. From Vilnius to San Francisco, we’re stepping onto international stages, sharing our vision, pitching to investors, and forging new collaborations with partners who... Read more

Mariane • 28. August 2025

ÄIO Selected Among Top 200 Startups Worldwide to Pitch at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

ÄIO has been chosen as one of the 200 most promising startups globally to pitch at TechCrunch Startup Battlefield, a world-renowned stage that has launched over 900 companies since its inception. Selected from thousands of applicants across the globe, ÄIO... Read more

Mariane • 22. July 2025

ÄIO secures €1M public funding to develop fats and oils for the cosmetics industries!

Press release Biotechnology company ÄIO secures €1M to develop greener alternatives to unethical and polluting oils in cosmetics products Tightening legislation and increasing consumer awareness of health, environmental, and ethical concerns associated with ingredients like animal-based fats, palm and coconut... Read more

Mariane • 18. July 2025

“Mind the Gap”

Between innovation and regulation, between science and food, between policy makers and change-makers. ÄIO had the honour of helping bridge that gap in a rather fitting location: the UK Parliament for the first-ever Parliamentary Food Fermentation Fair, hosted by The... Read more

Mariane • 14. July 2025

From Oats to Excellence: ÄIO Team Visits YOOK Production

At ÄIO, innovation thrives when inspired by others. Last week, our team had the opportunity to visit YOOK Production AS, Estonia’s first oat drink factory located in Türi, to explore how high-quality plant-based products are made at scale. YOOK: A... Read more

Mariane • 8. July 2025

Scaling Innovation Together: The Power of Collaboration Between ÄIO and VTT

At ÄIO, we believe that transformative innovation does not happen when working alone, it thrives on meaningful collaboration. One of the most significant examples of this belief in action is our ongoing partnership with VTT (Technical Research Centre of Finland).... Read more

Mariane • 25. June 2025

Inside ÄIO: What We Learned from Our 3-Day Pilot Plant Workshop

At ÄIO, innovation doesn’t end with a great idea in the lab, it continues through scale-up, execution, and collaboration. That’s why we recently brought our team together for a three-day internal workshop at our Pilot Plant, focused on building alignment,... Read more

Mariane • 13. June 2025

From Vision to Reality: ÄIO Featured in Innovations of the World

We are proud to share that ÄIO has been featured in the globally recognized book series Innovations of the World, which celebrates visionary companies, outstanding entrepreneurs, and breakthrough technologies shaping the future. Our article, titled “From Vision to Reality,” tells... Read more

Mariane • 10. June 2025

Join ÄIO team! Four amazing job opportunities!

At ÄIO, we are pioneering a sustainable future through precision fermentation and circular innovation. By transforming industrial side-streams into high-value fats and oils. Now, as we grow fast, we’re inviting four new professionals to join us in Estonia and... Read more

Mariane • 4. June 2025

BIONEER in Tallinn: How Europe’s Bioeconomy is Taking Shape, One Collaboration at a Time

ÄIO hosted the BIONEER project consortium meeting in Tallinn, a key milestone as we pass the one-year mark of this ambitious, four-year journey. BIONEER, funded by the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU), is driving forward a new generation... Read more

Mariane • 3. June 2025

“We want to stay in Europe. We need your help to scale up in Europe!”

“We want to stay in Europe. We need your help to scale up in Europe!” Founders and investors in biotech and deep tech are calling for swift and coordinated action, as well as joint implementation, following the EU Startup and... Read more

Mariane • 30. May 2025

DigiFoundry Project with ÄIO and TFTAK

How can we replace palm oil, coconut fat, and animal-based lipids with something truly sustainable, functional, and scalable? At ÄIO, we believe the answer lies in precision fermentation and the right partnerships to make it real. That is the spirit... Read more

Mariane • 22. May 2025

Press Release: Novel Food tasting by ÄIO!

On May 21, 2025, ÄIO had the honor of co-hosting a landmark event that brought the future of food closer to today. As an official side event of Latitude59, the gathering was co-organized with Enterprise Estonia, Estonian Research Council, and... Read more

Mariane • 16. May 2025

Food Innovation Estonia. Tasting the Future: Novel Foods to Take the Stage at Latitude59

As part of the official side programme of Latitude59 2025, Estonia’s flagship tech and startup conference, Food Innovation Estonia is set to bring together over 120 guests from government institutions, international organizations, industry leaders, and academia. This special event will... Read more

Mariane • 9. May 2025

ÄIO Appoints Martin Mets as Chief Financial Officer to Support Strategic Growth and Global Expansion

ÄIO is proud to announce the appointment of Martin Mets as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). With over a decade of high-level experience in finance, investment strategy, and product development, Martin brings the financial leadership needed to support ÄIO’s... Read more

Mariane • 30. April 2025

ÄIO is Officially Listed in the EU Transparency Register

At ÄIO, transparency, responsibility, and sustainability are core principles guiding everything we do. We are proud to share that ÄIO (äio tech OÜ) is officially listed in the EU Transparency Register, a step that reinforces our commitment to ethical innovation... Read more

Mariane • 27. April 2025

ÄIO in Bloomberg Spotlight: Building a Sustainable Future with Alternative Fats and Oils

At ÄIO, we are thrilled to share that our work has been featured in Bloomberg’s latest article (by Coco Liu), “Startups Are Turning These Unconventional Ingredients Into Butter and Oil.” The growing media attention on alternative fats is a testament... Read more

Mariane • 10. April 2025

Science Meets Policy: ÄIO co-founder Petri-Jaan Lahtvee Appointed to Estonia’s Research and Development Council

We are proud to share that Petri-Jaan Lahtvee, co-founder of ÄIO and Associate Professor of Food Technology and Bioengineering at TalTech, has been appointed to Estonia’s Research and Development Council (Teadus- ja Arendusnõukogu, TAN). Convened by Prime Minister Kristen Michal,... Read more

Mariane • 3. April 2025

ÄIO Newsletter: Insights from the Heart of Innovation

At ÄIO, we are re-imagining the way fats and oils are produced – through sustainable fermentation technology and circular economy principles. Instead of relying on environmentally damaging sources like palm oil, animal fats, or coconut oil, we are creating a... Read more

Mariane • 19. March 2025

ÄIO – Finalist at FoodTech 500!

We are beyond excited to announce that ÄIO has been selected as one of the top 200 companies in this year’s FoodTech 500 by Forward Fooding! This ranking celebrates the world’s most innovative startups and scale-ups at the intersection of... Read more

Mariane • 27. February 2025

ÄIO Hits a Game-Changing Milestone: scaling to 10,000L!

HUGE news from ÄIO! We have successfully scaled up our sustainable fat and oil production to an industrial-level batch of 10,000 liters – our biggest achievement yet! This milestone marks a pivotal moment in our journey, proving that our fermentation-based... Read more

Mariane • 24. February 2025

ÄIO Co-Founder Petri-Jaan Lahtvee Honored with White Star Class IV Medal

We are proud to announce that Petri-Jaan Lahtvee, co-founder of ÄIO and Professor at TalTech – Tallinn University of Technology, has been honored with the White Star Class IV Medal by the President of Estonia, Mr Alar Karis. This prestigious award recognizes his outstanding contributions... Read more

Mariane • 21. February 2025

ÄIO Supports Future Scientists with a Scholarship Through TalTech Development Fund

At ÄIO, we believe that innovation thrives when passionate young minds have the opportunity to grow, learn, and challenge the status quo. That’s why we are proud to introduce the ÄIO Scholarship—a €2000 grant for a Bachelor’s student at Tallinn... Read more

Mariane • 9. February 2025

ÄIO Wins the Innovation Award at the Forum on Fermented Foods!

At ÄIO, we are always pushing the boundaries of food innovation, sustainability, and biotechnology—so it’s an incredible honor to be recognized for our work! We are thrilled to share that ÄIO has won the Innovation Award at the Forum on... Read more

Mariane • 30. January 2025

ÄIO Products and European Union Deforestation Regulation Compliance

By Magdalena Koziol, ÄIO’s Head of Cosmetics Development The year 2025 marks the implementation of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Initially scheduled to take effect in December 2024, the European Commission has extended the deadline to December 2025 for... Read more

Mariane • 20. January 2025

Minister of Regional Affairs and Agriculture Visits ÄIO: A Showcase of Sustainable Innovation

On January 14, ÄIO had the honor of hosting the Estonian Minister of Regional Affairs and Agriculture, Piret Hartman, at our TalTech campus facility. The visit marked a significant milestone in our journey as we shared insights into how ÄIO... Read more

Mariane • 16. December 2024

Nemailla Bonturi Honored with the Distinguished Alumni Award 2024 by UNICAMP

We are delighted to share that Nemailla Bonturi, one of the brilliant minds behind ÄIO, has been recognized with the prestigious Distinguished Alumni Award of 2024 by her alma mater, the Faculdade de Engenharia Química at Universidade Estadual de Campinas... Read more

Mariane • 27. November 2024

ÄIO – Food Innovation Award Winner at the Baltic Sustainability Awards 2024

We are thrilled to announce that ÄIO (äio tech OÜ) has been honored with the Food Innovation Award at the Baltic Sustainability Awards 2024! This prestigious recognition highlights our commitment to creating sustainable, science-driven alternatives that transform the way industries... Read more

Mariane • 25. November 2024

Tehnopol welcomes biotech startup ÄIO

The Tehnopol Science and Business Park welcomes ÄIO, a TalTech spin-off company, who recently moved to Tehnopol campus. ÄIO uses specialised yeast to produce fats, which can replace palm or coconut fat in food products and cosmetics. The co-founders of ÄIO... Read more

Mariane • 4. October 2024

ÄIO Wins Bright Starter 2024 at Tallinn Entrepreneurship Day

We are thrilled to announce that ÄIO has been recognized with the “Bright Starter 2024” award at this year’s Tallinn Entrepreneurship Day, celebrating our innovative work in redefining food-grade fats and oils. This award highlights our unique approach of transforming... Read more

Mariane • 24. September 2024

Press Release: ÄIO Secures €6 Million for Demo Plant Construction

The biotechnology startup ÄIO has raised €6.1 million through venture capital funds Voima Ventures, 2C Ventures, SmartCap and Nordic Foodtech VC. The funds will be used to build a demo plant in Estonia to produce environmentally friendly oils and fats... Read more

Mariane • 18. September 2024

The world came to visit ÄIO

On September 17, ÄIO welcomed 40 diplomats representing their countries (in Estonia) from all over the world to our lab and kitchen facilities. During the visit, ÄIO’s Global Business Developer, Kristi Lember gave a good overview of what is the... Read more

Mariane • 21. August 2024

ÄIO has joined the BIONEER project consortium

We are excited to announce that ÄIO has joined the BIONEER Project consortium as part of a groundbreaking project under the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU). This project is a key step toward advancing sustainable, bio-based industries in... Read more

Mariane • 10. June 2024

ÄIO to host one of the first novel foods tastings in Europe at Latitude59

Estonia’s culinary scene is undergoing a quiet revolution, and it all started at Latitude59. On May 23rd, ÄIO had the privilege of participating in the country’s first-ever public novel food tasting event. As a pioneer in brewing fats, ÄIO showcased... Read more

Start Up Day, Tartu 2024: How our food affects the health of the world and why we need to change it

A glimpse of deeptech insights impacting our food systems, Start Up Day, Tartu 2024. In response to the pressing challenges of a growing global population, climate change, and resource depletion, biotechnology emerges as a crucial force in reshaping our food... Read more

Mariane • 23. January 2024

Fusion of Innovation: ÄIO, Valio and VTT’s Visionary Partnership

Once again, visionary initiatives are paving the way for a sustainable future. One such stride is the innovative approach to combatting food waste through upcycling solutions and fermentation techniques. ÄIO’s collaboration with Finland’s foremost food exporter and largest milk processor,... Read more

Mariane • 7. December 2023

NEXPO – Exploring the Future at the Intersection of Green Tech and Food Innovation

In a world where sustainability is not just a buzzword but a way of life, attending NEXPO – the recent greentech conference held Nov 13-17, 2023 in Tallinn was a glimpse into the future we all hope to see. Themed... Read more

Mariane • 23. November 2023

Revolutionizing Our Food Systems: A Groundbreaking Partnership between TFTAK and ÄIO

In an era where sustainability is at the forefront of global concerns, innovative solutions are emerging to reshape our food systems and reduce their environmental impact. One such groundbreaking effort is the collaboration between Food And Fermentation Technology Development Center... Read more

Mariane • 26. September 2023

ÄIO Pioneers Sustainable Alternatives in Oil and Fat Production

Estonian-based ÄIO secures funding to develop an innovation centre to revolutionise the food, cosmetic and chemical industries with a low carbon approach to oil and fat production. Estonian-based startup ÄIO, a pioneer in sustainable fat and oil production through fermentation,... Read more

Mariane • 26. June 2023

Exploring the Future of Food: Novel Food Masterclass with Prof. Hans Verhagen

Imagine stepping into a room filled with the aroma of culinary curiosity and mission driven entrepreneurs and policymakers, where innovative food ideas and regulatory frameworks take center stage. Recently, Estonia’s agri-food innovation network, METK, in collaboration with ÄIO, achieved a... Read more

Mariane • 29. May 2023

ÄIO triumphs at Latitude59 securing 150k from EstBAN and Tera VC

Latitude59, a prominent European startup and technology conference, recently witnessed an extraordinary triumph as ÄIO once again emerged victorious in the highly competitive pitching contest. Almost 400 startups from 61 countries applied for Latitude59’s this year. ÄIO secured €150k to... Read more

Mariane • 18. May 2023

ÄIO and Fibenol Collaborate to Pilot Biomanufacturing of High-value Microbial Oils

Fibenol, a company that converts residues into lignin and two types of sugars, has formed a strategic partnership with emerging biotechnology startup ÄIO to create a reliable alternative to traditionally produced fats and vegetable oils. Using ÄIO’s technology, Fibenol’s wood... Read more

Mariane • 1. May 2023

Swedbank visits ÄIO: A new age start-up producing healthy and reliable oil alternatives

Swedbank visited ÄIO, a start-up that is making the food industry more sustainable! At last year’s sTARTUp Day, we were recognised by Swedbank with a €10 000 prize. Take a look how producing healthy fats and oils from agricultural and... Read more

Mariane • 9. March 2023

Estonian Public Broadcast ETV visited our lab and showed ÄIO’s innovation in the nature show Osoon

It was a great pleasure to welcome Osoon’s team in our lab to capture ÄIO’s everyday life and how we are bringing the lab scale innovations into real production. The topic of the show was how the current side- and... Read more

Mariane • 21. February 2023

Co-Founder of ÄIO, Petri-Jaan Lahtvee named “Founder of the Year” by Cleantech Estonia

ÄIO‘s goal is to reverse-engineer our food systems through innovative biotechnology. Our Co-Founder, Petri-Jaan Lahtvee sees great potential for science in business. Just recently, he received recognition from Cleantech Estonia for his efforts in floodlighting ÄIO’s technology to create more... Read more

Mariane • 9. February 2023

Estonian start-up raised 1 M€ euros to create alternative oils and fats

The company ÄIO, founded in January last year by TalTech bioengineers Petri-Jaan Lahtvee and Nemailla Bonturi, produces edible fats and oils from agricultural and wood industry side-streams using results from years of biotech research. The company’s goal is to make... Read more

Mariane • 27. January 2023

Intorducing ÄIO – TalTech researchers have found a way to make food from sawdust

Sawdust makes up a large part of manufacturing waste in Estonia. So what can we do with it? Nemailla Bonturi and Petri-Jaan Lahtvee, founders of the TalTech spin-off company ÄIO, found an answer to the question. Bonturi, who comes from... Read more

Mariane • 31. August 2022

Start-Up Day 2022 in Tartu was a success!

ÄIO is gaining momentum! Hell yeah! TOP 5 in the bag from Start-Up Day 2022 pitching competition powered by EstBAN (Estonian Business Awards Network). ÄIO received some valuable awards. Thank you #Swedbank and #Sorainen for much appreciated legal services! ÄIO... Read more