Morus has raised US$5m in Series A funding to accelerate clinical trials and scale mass production of its proprietary silkworm-derived bioingredient, MorSilk Powder – a nutrient-dense powder with matcha-like taste and appearance.
It is combined with Japanese matcha for a beverage that manages blood sugar levels or flavoured with yuzu and stevia for its sports nutrition drink. These are marketed under its Kaiko brand.
Nutritional profile of silkworm protein powder
High concentrations of silk proteins such as sericin and fibroin that support gut health
Abundant DNJ (1-Deoxynojirimycin) and polyphenols derived from silkworm diet of mulberry leaves, which help regulate post-meal blood sugar levels
Evidence-backed benefits for blood sugar regulation, gut health, and lipid absorption control
Production compliant with EU regulatory standards and full traceability
Source: Morus Inc
The firm sees potential in the ASEAN and EU markets, where there is increasing awareness among ageing populations, driving demand for functional food and drinks.
“We see high potential in functional beverages, active nutrition, and preventive health – particularly in markets with ageing populations and rising awareness around blood sugar and metabolic health,” said Yoko Muroi, marketing and PR manager at Morus.
ASEAN and EU focus
Morus is currently prioritising Singapore and selected EU countries, such as the Netherlands – regions that see growing demand for functional foods.
“Singapore is at the forefront of food innovation in Asia and offers a clear regulatory pathway for novel ingredients, making it an ideal launchpad for Morus in the ASEAN region. Thailand is also of strong interest to us – not only due to its cultural affinity with Japan, but also because we’ve already seen early adoption from Thai consumers living in Singapore,” said Muroi.
“In Europe, there is interest from countries like the Netherlands, where there’s growing demand for functional foods, sustainable proteins, and evidence-based wellness products – all of which align strongly with our value proposition.”
The firm sees potential for MorSilk Powder as a functional ingredient for food and cosmetic manufacturers, as well as a high-protein functional food and drink for the retail market.
Collaborations with renowned institutions in the region are under way to further validate MorSilk’s health benefits.
Global collaborations driving sustainable health solutions
Morus collaborates with international institutions, including Japan’s Shinshu University, the University of Illinois in the USA, and Singapore’s A*STAR.
“We are planning to jointly conduct the upcoming intervention trial in collaboration with A*STAR. This partnership allows us to validate MorSilk’s health benefits under rigorous scientific standards and strengthen our foundation for broader regional expansion,” said Muroi.
The firm is also preparing a pilot study this fall to explore whether MorSilk-derived peptides circulate in the bloodstream after ingestion.
“Based on the findings, we aim to launch a three-month intervention trial early next year to evaluate its potential effects on blood sugar and blood pressure,” Muroi said.
Morus positions itself as a solution provider for global health challenges including diabetes and high cholesterol.
“Japan’s sericulture has a rich history, but the industry is rapidly declining. At the same time, silkworms are one of the few domesticated insects with established safety and nutritional value – yet they remain underutilised in modern food systems,” said Muroi.
“By integrating cutting-edge nutritional science with this traditional resource, we saw an opportunity to create high-value, sustainable ingredients that honour the past while addressing contemporary health challenges.”
