Lasso Launches with $6.5 Million to Revolutionise Food Production Through SpinTech Innovation

Lasso, a new food technology company, has officially debuted with its proprietary Lasso SpinTech system—a breakthrough method that transforms basic ingredients into clean-label, protein-rich foods. Backed by $6.5 million in funding led by Rhapsody Venture Partners, the company aims to accelerate commercial rollout and redefine how nutritious foods are made.

The SpinTech process uses centrifugal force to spin ingredients into fibrous structures that can be crafted into various food products. Unlike conventional manufacturing, the method avoids artificial additives, high-heat processing, and added sugars, thereby preserving nutrients and improving sustainability.

“There’s a clear shift in consumer demand for simpler, more nutritious foods, and today’s manufacturing systems aren’t built to meet that need,” said Mike Messersmith, Lasso’s chief executive officer. “Our technology bridges that gap, enabling the creation of high-quality, protein and fiber-rich foods from whole, recognisable ingredients.”

The technology behind SpinTech traces back to the Wyss Institute at Harvard University, where engineers Kit Parker, Luke MacQueen, Christophe Chantre, and Grant Gonzalez first developed the system. Initially likened to a cotton candy machine, it was refined to produce edible fibers from nearly any ingredient. The team later founded Tender Food in 2020 to apply the technique to plant-based meats.

With the launch of Lasso, the company now plans to move beyond plant-based meat into a broader range of food products. Tender Food remains a key brand under Lasso’s expanding portfolio, while the parent company diversifies into protein-packed snacks, nutrition bars, and even pet food.

Lasso has already tested over 1,000 product formulations, demonstrating the adaptability of its SpinTech technology across markets. The company intends to introduce additional brands built on the same core innovation.

“Consumer expectations are evolving quickly,” Messersmith said. “This funding positions us to scale up production and redefine how sustainable, nutritious foods are created. We believe SpinTech can help reshape the future of food manufacturing globally.”