In a significant move that could reshape the future of the cacao industry, Pluri Inc. has completed the acquisition of approximately 71% of Kokomodo Ltd., an innovative AgFoodTech company specializing in cultivated cacao production. The deal, valued at $4.5 million and paid in Pluri’s Common Shares, marks a strategic alliance that combines Pluri’s expertise in mass-scale cell production with Kokomodo’s unique ability to craft real, controlled, climate-resilient cacao using cellular agriculture technology.
The acquisition, announced on April 28, 2025, is expected to accelerate innovation in the cultivated cacao sector, addressing growing concerns about climate change impacts on traditional cacao farming. By integrating Kokomodo’s technology with Pluri’s scalable and cost-effective cell production capabilities, the companies aim to meet the increasing consumer demand for sustainable cacao-based products.
Kokomodo, which will continue to operate independently as a subsidiary of Pluri, crafts cacao directly from plant cells. This method preserves the rich flavor, functionality, and nutritional qualities of cacao while minimizing environmental, ethical, and supply chain challenges associated with traditional production. The company’s diverse library of cacao cell lines enables the development of tailored cacao ingredients, essential for the chocolate industry and creating new opportunities for functional ingredients and wellness products.
The global cacao market, valued at $13.5 billion in 2023, is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.2%, reaching $23.5 billion by 2030. This acquisition positions Pluri and Kokomodo at the forefront of this burgeoning market, leveraging cellular agriculture technology to revolutionize the industry.
Tal Govrin, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of Kokomodo, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Scaling breakthrough innovation in food requires both technological expertise and market reach. By teaming up with Pluri, we believe that we will gain the ability to accelerate our production capabilities, expand globally, and remain true to our founding mission.”
Yaky Yanay, Chief Executive Officer and President of Pluri, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the strategic benefits of the acquisition. “With the closing of this strategic acquisition, we believe that we are uniquely positioned to lead innovation in the cultivated cacao sector. This acquisition advances our mission of transforming global food systems through biotechnology while adding complementary technology to our portfolio.”
The synergy between Kokomodo’s advancements in cell line development and Pluri’s industrial-scale production is expected to create a strong foundation for innovation and industry leadership in cultivated cacao. As the companies work together, they aim to drive growth and expansion, capitalizing on the growing demand for sustainable food technologies.
