Onego Bio, a precision fermentation company that produces non-animal egg protein, has partnered with Brooklyn-based Zen Waffles to supply its ingredient Bioalbumen® for use in the brand’s high-protein waffles.
Bioalbumen® is made without animals. Onego Bio grows it using precision fermentation, a process that programs microorganisms to produce specific proteins. The result closely matches the functional properties of conventional egg white protein. It offers the same structure-building and browning qualities that bakers rely on, but with a far smaller footprint. According to a 2021 study in Nature Food, its environmental impact is around 90% smaller than that of conventional egg protein.
For Zen Waffles, egg protein plays a technical role. It gives the waffles their light interior and golden, crisp crust, while also delivering protein content. Onego Bio co-founder and CEO Maija Itkonen said Bioalbumen® brings those functions together in one ingredient, giving manufacturers a new tool to meet rising protein demand.
Zen Waffles sells direct-to-consumer nationwide and through retail partners including grocery stores, fitness centers and specialty shops like Citarella Gourmet Market. Co-founder Eugene Komissarov said the partnership supports the company’s goal of making high-protein foods both convenient and satisfying.
The deal lands as protein moves further into everyday eating. Euromonitor International data shows US retail sales of high-protein packaged foods have grown 25% since 2021, nearing $24 billion in 2025. High-protein baked goods have grown even faster, up nearly 46% over the same period.
For Onego Bio, the partnership marks a step forward in its US commercial expansion. Bioalbumen®’s versatility extends beyond waffles. The company says it also suits bakery goods, snacks and other protein-forward products, positioning fermentation-derived ingredients for wider use across the food industry.
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