Nestlé has begun testing its first animal-free milk product, Cowabunga, in collaboration with alt-dairy startup, Perfect Day.

The whey protein is made in Perfect Day’s brewing tanks wher microflora digest nutrients from plants and turn them into a milk protein. Perfect Day gives the microflora the precise DNA sequence that serves as a blueprint for how to make cow whey protein – getting the DNA blueprint does not require any animal involvement.

According to Cowabunga, the animal-free protein used in its milk emits up to 80% less greenhouse gas emissions and up to 94% less water, compared to that of traditional dairy milk.

Cowabunga currently offers two varieties of its animal-free milk, Original and Chocolate, that are naturally lactose and cholesterol free and are a source of protein and vitamins.

The beverages are being trialled in Safeway stores across California, US.