Lab-grown oils could make cosmetics, food deforestation-free, cut supply time

Paris-based startup SMEY is developing lab-grown coconut, palm, and shea oils that could eliminate deforestation in cosmetics and food production. Their AI-driven yeast fermentation technology compresses the traditional 18-24 month supply cycle to just 30 days, offering a sustainable alternative as Europe prepares to enforce stricter rules on deforestation-linked imports. The process uses non-GMO yeast strains without genetic modification and could help manufacturers avoid hefty fines while addressing environmental concerns and supply chain vulnerabilities.