From where you get your butter? From cow of course. Isn’t it? But process is changing. Butter can also be made from air. Yes, it can be created from carbon dioxide in the air. California-based startup Savor is developing the process and it is backed by Bill Gates. Savor claims the butter is being synthesized from carbon and tastes as good as traditional dairy butter. The innovation has potential to reshape the food industry and simultaneously reduce environmental impact.
Savor is developing butter from the air through a complex thermochemical process. It captures carbon dioxide from the air first and by using heat and hydrogen the carbon dioxide is transformed into fats and oils. It is basically a blend of carbon dioxide and oxygen that creates oil and fats. The process truly mimics flavor and texture of animal-derived butter.
The technology can turn up to be a game-changer for environmental sustainability. Livestock farming significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Data reveals that about 7% of the total emissions in the world are caused by livestock farming.
The new process of butter making may reduce emissions drastically. Bill Gates emphasized in a blog post the significance of the new butter making process. He noted that reducing greenhouse gas emissions from food production is important today amid the world is fighting against climate change.
The potential for new butter extends beyond the environmental impact. Traditional dairy farming requires vast amounts of resources such as water and land. Often they involve such practices that may turn up harmful to animals and the environment.
However, the butter produced by Savor is not yet made available for consumers. The startup is currently seeking regulatory approval and expects to begin sales by 2025. As of now, the buzz of animal-free butter that tastes like the real thing is capturing attention of food enthusiasts and environmentalists as well.
