Those Vegan Cowboys

Those Vegan Cowboys is a Belgian food-tech company based in Ghent that develops animal-free dairy proteins through precision fermentation. Its core focus is casein, the key functional protein in milk and cheese, which the company says it can produce without using cows. The company positions itself as a bridge between dairy functionality and a more sustainable food system. It works with food companies, cheese makers, farmers, and chefs to bring dairy-identical ingredients and cheese applications toward commercial use, while emphasizing consistent quality, year-round supply, and reduced environmental impact. Founded in 2020, Those Vegan Cowboys is building around its stainless-steel cow concept, Margaret, and around a broader mission to make cheese and other dairy applications possible without animal farming. Core Values Sustainability : The company emphasizes lower greenhouse-gas emissions, reduced land and water use, and more resource-efficient production than conventional dairy. Consistency : By producing proteins in a controlled environment, it aims to provide stable quality and reliable year-round supply. Functionality : Those Vegan Cowboys focuses on designing proteins for specific performance needs such as stretch, melt, creamy texture, and stable foams. Collaboration : The company highlights close work with cheese makers, food companies, farmers, and chefs to shape products that fit real market needs. Unique Aspects Margaret, the stainless-steel cow : The company’s signature production concept is a “milk-giving stainless steel cow” used to produce casein without animals. Crowdfunding-backed ownership community : The company has used crowdfunding to build a community of co-owners, with news reports citing more than 1,100 shareholders and over €6.25 million raised in its first funding round. Industry partnerships : It has been reported to work with around 10 industry partners, including named dairy players such as Westland Kaas and Hochland, on applications for its casein. US regulatory progress : The company has self-affirmed GRAS status in the United States and is pursuing FDA notification for a formal “no questions” outcome. Commercial readiness focus : Recent reporting says the company is moving from development toward market entry and planning consumer tastings in the Netherlands, where such events for precision-fermented foods have been approved before sale.