Alcolase Secures €1.5M Funding To Develop Alcohol Intolerance Solution

The company is developing an enzyme-based technology that breaks down alcohol in the stomach before it enters the bloodstream.

Its solution is specifically designed for the estimated 540 million people in East Asia affected by ALDH2 deficiency a genetic condition that impairs the body’s ability to metabolise alcohol and often causes symptoms such as flushing, nausea, and discomfort, while also increasing long-term health risks linked to alcohol consumption.

The idea for Alcolase originated during the coronavirus pandemic when CEO and co-founder Mikkel Precht and his fellow founders began discussing how biotechnology could be used to address real-world problems. After researching several global health challenges they identified alcohol intolerance as a widespread yet underserved issue.

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For people living with ALDH2 deficiency, alcohol intolerance is often more than a personal inconvenience. In many cultures where social drinking plays a central role in business, networking, and family gatherings, those affected can feel excluded from important social and professional interactions.

Conversations with individuals experiencing alcohol intolerance reinforced the significance of the problem for Precht and the Alcolase team.

To address this, Alcolase has developed a method of protecting enzymes from stomach acid using liposome encapsulation technology, allowing the enzymes to remain active in the stomach for longer periods.

The company’s broader ambition is to create healthier alternatives within global drinking culture. Alcolase plans to launch first in Singapore before expanding into South Korea where alcohol intolerance is especially prevalent.

As part of its growth strategy, the company has also established a UK subsidiary to support the development of its therapeutic delivery platform with Ada Ventures backing its expansion into the UK life sciences sector.

The new funding will support several key milestones for Alcolase, including in vivo studies, continued development of its technology platform, strengthening its intellectual property portfolio and initiating commercial partnerships in key international markets.

“When you speak to people with alcohol intolerance, you realise this is not about wanting to drink more. It is about not being shut out of dinners, work events and family gatherings because of a genetic difference. We want to give people a real choice they are currently denied,” says Mikkel Precht.

“What drives me is the idea that biotechnology can solve problems that affect people’s everyday lives. If we succeed, we can create a healthier alternative for a very large number of people.”

About Alcolase

Founded in 2021 Alcolase is a Danish biotech startup focused on transforming alcohol consumption through innovative enzyme technology. The company develops solutions designed to reduce the health risks linked to alcohol intake, enabling people to enjoy moderate social drinking more safely while addressing alcohol intolerance and promoting healthier drinking experiences globally.