TED Talks Daily Collagen's dirty secret — and its clean future | Fei Luo
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Feb 18, 2025 
Fei Luo, a chemical engineer and founder of Liven, dives into the ethical complexities of collagen sourcing. She reveals how traditional extraction methods raise concerns and introduces her innovative technique of brewing animal-free collagen using genetically modified yeast. This groundbreaking approach not only aims to provide a sustainable alternative but also envisions a future of ethical nutrition and skincare. Luo emphasizes the significant role of microbes in revolutionizing food ingredients, paving the way for a harm-free protein future.
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Animal-Free Bone Broth
- Fei Luo shares a story about a bone broth tasting in Los Angeles where the broth contained animal-free collagen.
- This collagen was brewed using a special yeast, showcasing a sustainable alternative to traditional collagen sources.
Hidden Collagen Consumption
- Collagen, the most abundant protein in our bodies, is often consumed unknowingly through various products.
- It's present in many foods and even non-food items like medicine capsules and facial creams.
Collagen's Role in Food Texture
- Collagen provides structure and texture to meat, acting as a scaffold for muscle and fat.
- Without it, meat would be less appealing, highlighting collagen's essential role in food.