Weizmann scientists engineer bacteria that turn CO₂ into food, in world first

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have engineered bacteria that feed on carbon dioxide to grow rapidly, aiming to create microbial food products for humans and animals. The breakthrough, described as "like magic" by the scientists, could eventually enable food production from air — a potential revolution in global food security. The findings are reported by The Times of Israel.

In a world-first achievement, scientists at the Weizmann Institute of Science have engineered bacteria that grow rapidly on a diet of carbon dioxide, with the ultimate goal of producing microbial food for humans and livestock. The research, reported by The Times of Israel, opens the door to converting CO₂ directly into edible protein — effectively creating food from air.

Professor Yonatan Chemla (or the lead researcher, per the source) described the results as "like magic," noting that the bacteria thrive on a gas that is abundant in the atmosphere. The team is now working toward scaling the process for practical use, targeting food products that could eventually supplement traditional agriculture and reduce reliance on land and water.

The breakthrough builds on decades of synthetic biology research, including the construction of synthetic cells from non-living chemical components — a milestone The Zioneer covered in July 2025. While that earlier work demonstrated autonomous feeding and replication, the new advance focuses on harnessing a natural metabolic pathway for direct food production. The findings remain at the laboratory stage, and no commercial products have been announced.

• Developing21:23 · 1 JulScientists create first synthetic cell that feeds, grows, and replicates
• Developing08:59 · 3 JulIsraeli researchers warn drug-resistant 'superbugs' pose growing threat to animal and human vision
• Strong6 days ago · 12:29 · 10 JulChina reportedly catches reusable rocket booster for first time
• Developing18:26 · 5 JunUK researchers test first AI-designed 'universal vaccine'

Source and signal

A single-sourced dispatch is never rated Confirmed or Strong. Its Signal strengthens only when a second, independent source corroborates it.

• Internal intake