Circular Colourant Platforms
Lite-1 Relies on Advanced Biomanufacturing Processes to Grow Dyes
Kalin Ned — February 17, 2026
Lite-1, a biotechnology company based in Vancouver, British Columbia, develops circular colourants through advanced biomanufacturing processes that grow dyes from living microorganisms in large bioreactors. This innovation offers a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes for applications in food, cosmetics, and textiles.
Lite-1 harnesses synthetic biology and biofabrication techniques to convert waste products into vibrant pigments by leveraging the natural properties of microbes — such as ultraviolet resistance and antimicrobial activity — to add functional benefits beyond coloration.
Lite-1's approach to circular colourants eliminates the need for toxic chemicals and the mining of non-renewable resources. Thus, the company's process results in biodegradable colourants with low water consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, all while remaining safe for human use across multiple industries.
