Bactolife has launched its first commercial product in the U.S. market, Helm Binding Proteins, in partnership with Healthgevity. The Danish company describes these precision-fermented ingredients as a new class of bioactives targeting gut health within the expanding proactive wellness sector. Healthgevity has integrated Helm IgG Binding Protein LT into its Gutgevity supplement, which employs a six-mechanism strategy for maintaining a balanced gut ecosystem.
Safety data, including genotoxicity and allergenicity assessments, were published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology in 2025, confirming the protein’s safety profile. The IgG binding protein LT is constructed from two antibody protein sequences designed to neutralize harmful compounds in the gut, supporting microbiome balance. Bactolife emphasizes that these proteins complement probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics rather than replacing them.
A Complementary Approach to Gut Health
According to Bactolife, binding proteins differ from traditional biotics by not introducing beneficial microbes or directly feeding gut bacteria. Instead, they target gut balance, barrier integrity, and microbiome stability. The company’s strategy follows a “seed, feed, and defend” framework, where binding proteins act as a protective layer.
CEO Sebastian Søderberg explains that this approach addresses a separate aspect of gut health, enhancing existing solutions. The proteins’ high affinity and specificity allow targeted action, enabling broad applicability across supplements, foods, and beverages. This versatility aims to simplify formulation for brands seeking innovative gut health ingredients.
The company’s 2026 Series B funding round raised over €30 million (US$34 million) to scale ingredient commercialization and advance human clinical trials. Chief Scientific Officer Sandra Wingaard Thrane describes the proteins as a “passive immunity layer” that shields the gut from daily harmful compounds. Their stability and low inclusion rates support diverse product formats, facilitating integration into consumer wellness routines. Bactolife plans to showcase its technology at the SupplySide Global trade show in Las Vegas, Nevada, US (Oct 28–30).
Strategic Partnerships and Market Expansion
Healthgevity joins Bactolife as its first U.S. commercial partner in the healthcare practitioner channel, marking an early application of binding proteins in consumer products. Founder Michael Antonelli highlights the partnership’s alignment with a holistic view of the microbiome as an interconnected system. Gutgevity’s six mechanisms, including microbial metabolite binding and barrier support, now incorporate Helm IgG Binding Protein LT to enhance microbial resilience. The company also announced a Joint Development Agreement with AceBiome in early 2026 to explore novel ingredients and expand into global health markets.
