Alternative dairy startup 1.5 Degree has successfully closed a $1 million pre-Series A funding round led by 35North Ventures’ India Discovery Fund II, signaling strong investor confidence in plant-based food solutions tailored to India’s evolving taste and sustainability priorities.

Operated by Natturz Bio Kontrol Pvt Ltd, 1.5 Degree targets the institutional food-service segment, supplying plant-based milk, yogurt, tofu, cooking cream, oat-milk beverages, frozen desserts and gelatos to corporate cafeterias, educational institutions, hotel chains and large dining operations through long-term contracts that generate predictable, recurring revenue.

A key differentiator for the startup is its proprietary processing technology, which helps address taste and texture challenges that have traditionally limited adoption of plant-based dairy in India. The technology supports products that the company says have significantly lower emissions and water use compared to conventional dairy, aligning with rising ESG and wellness trends among clients and consumers.

With the new capital, 1.5 Degree plans to scale manufacturing capacity, deepen institutional partnerships and extend operations into Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad and Delhi — markets where organised food service demand is expanding rapidly.

Though its focus remains B2B, the startup is also exploring direct-to-consumer channels via select premium retail outlets, experience centres and cloud kitchen partnerships — a step that could broaden brand visibility and mainstream appeal.