Alcolase Raises $1.6M for Alcohol Flush Remedy

Jan de Vries · 2026-05-18

A Copenhagen-based biotech startup called Alcolase just locked in $1.6 million in funding to tackle a problem that affects hundreds of millions of people: alcohol intolerance. The round was backed by Ada Ventures, Delphinus Venture Capital, Antler, Manigoff Invest, and a group of business angels. If you've ever seen someone turn bright red after a single drink, you've witnessed alcohol flush in action. For many, it's more than just a blush-it comes with nausea, headaches, and a racing heart. Alcolase wants to change that with an enzyme-based remedy that breaks down alcohol before it hits your bloodstream. ### The Science Behind the Solution Founded in fall 2020 by Mikkel Precht, Jeppe Malthe Mikkelsen, and Mads Emil Mikkelsen, Alcolase is developing a liposomal encapsulation platform. Think of it like a tiny protective bubble that keeps enzymes safe from stomach acid. Once those enzymes reach the stomach, they get to work breaking down alcohol right where it lands. This matters because about 540 million people in East Asia have a genetic condition called ALDH2 deficiency. It makes it hard for the body to process alcohol efficiently. The result? That uncomfortable flush and a higher risk of certain health issues.  ### More Than Just a Personal Choice Here's the thing: alcohol intolerance isn't just about feeling lousy at a party. In many cultures, drinking is woven into business meetings, networking events, and family gatherings. People with ALDH2 deficiency often find themselves shut out of these social and professional spaces. Precht, the CEO and co-founder, put it this way: "When you speak to people with alcohol intolerance, you realize 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." That's a powerful angle. The company isn't just selling a pill-it's offering people a choice they currently don't have. ### What's Next for Alcolase? With the fresh capital, Alcolase has a clear roadmap. Here's what they're planning: - An in vivo study to test how the enzyme platform works in living organisms - Further development of the liposomal delivery technology - Strengthening their intellectual property position - First commercial steps toward partnerships in key markets Interestingly, the company plans to launch first in Singapore, then South Korea. Both regions have high rates of alcohol intolerance, making them logical starting points. They've also set up a UK subsidiary to help develop the delivery platform for broader therapeutic uses. ### The Bigger Picture Ada Ventures co-founding partner Check Warner summed it up well: "ALDH2 deficiency has been hiding in plain sight. It's a genetic reality for around 540 million people in East Asia, yet barely addressed by mainstream health innovation." Alcolase is betting that biotechnology can solve everyday problems. If their enzyme platform works as intended, it could give millions of people a healthier way to participate in social and cultural life without compromising their health. That's a pretty compelling mission. For now, the team is focused on hitting those milestones. And if they succeed, that $1.6 million seed round might just be the beginning of something much bigger.