Melazyme Raises $2 Million Seed Round to Scale Fermentation‑Based Melanin Production

Founded in 2025, Melazyme is a U.S.–based startup that uses precision fermentation to create functional biomolecules. Its current pipeline includes the sweet protein brazzein, already under development with commercial partners. The company is now expanding into high‑value molecules such as melanin, where fermentation can replace traditional chemical synthesis.

Precision fermentation uses engineered microbes to synthesize target molecules in bioreactors, offering a sustainable alternative to petrochemical processes. This method can lower production costs, reduce waste, and enable precise control over molecular structure. For melanin, the approach allows adjustment of molecular weight and functional groups to tailor UV absorption or color intensity.

SeaX Ventures led the round and said the funding will support platform development, scale production, and early commercial deployments across its target molecules. Stellaris Venture Partners and Plug and Play Ventures also contributed. Melazyme’s technology enables commercially viable melanin production with tunable functional properties, allowing customization for different applications.

The investment positions Melazyme to move melanin from lab scale to early‑stage market products, beginning with the cosmetics sector where UV protection and pigmentation are key. Engagements with global manufacturers indicate demand for melanin‑based ingredients that offer performance advantages over conventional pigments. The funds will also facilitate partner collaborations and pilot deployments in consumer, industrial, and environmental markets.