Zero Acre starts with an oil culture comprised of microorganisms like non-genetically-modified yeast and microalgae. Natural plant sugars sourced from non-GMO, perennial sugarcane are fed to the culture, which ferments the sugars into healthy fats. This is then pressed after a few days, and the oil is released, separated and filtered.
Suitable for frying, roasting, sautéing and drizzling, the Cultured Oil boasts a neutral, “lightly buttery” taste, according to co-founder and chief executive Jeff Nobbs.
Vegetable oil crops take up around 20-30% of the world’s agricultural space (Our World in Data, 2020). Zero Acre’s alternative uses 85% less land than canola oil, releases 86% less carbon dioxide than soybean oil, and needs 99% less water than olive oil. It’s also packaged in an infinitely recyclable aluminium bottle.
Additionally, Cultured Oil has an appealing fatty acid profile for the health-conscious consumer, boasting more heart-friendly and heat-stable monosaturated fat than olive and avocado oils.
With a third of UK consumers willing to pay more for planet-friendly products (Simon-Kucher & Partners, 2021), Zero Acre’s Cultured Oil offers a healthier and more sustainable alternative to current cupboard staples.
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