The Great Reformulation: Joshua Lachter Rethinks How We Make Everything at Scale

Written By Lizette Couto

Joshua Lachter, co-founder of Synonym, joins us for an in-depth conversation about the future of biomanufacturing and what he calls "the great reformulation." We explore how biology is poised to replace petrochemicals across industries, the infrastructure challenges holding back commercial scale production, and why standardization is critical for mass adoption. Joshua shares insights from Synonym's work building commercial biomanufacturing facilities, including their groundbreaking project in Decatur, Illinois. From GLP-1s to microplastics, we discuss how bio-based products can deliver superior performance while addressing health and environmental concerns. This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in the commercialization of industrial biotech, the economics of biomanufacturing, and the path toward a reformulated supply chain built on biology.

Chapters:

  • (00:00:00) - Snowstorm updates from NYC

    (00:03:00) - Tech Meets Pharma: The Data Revolution

    (00:09:00) - Mr. Beast, Upside Foods, and Colossal Biosciences

    (00:14:00) - Joshua's Background and Why He Founded Synonym

    (00:18:00) - Financialization and Standardization of Biomanufacturing

    (00:25:00) - Early Assumptions That Turned Out Wrong

    (00:38:00) - The Great Reformulation: Biology vs. Petrochemicals

    (00:48:00) - GLP-1s and Nature-Inspired Innovation

    (00:54:00) - Better with Bio: Synonym's Partnership with Brentag

    (00:59:00) - Quickfire Questions

    (01:03:00) - Wrap-Up & Final Thoughts

Episode Links:

Lizette Couto
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