Danone is leading advancements in precision fermentation technology, investing in both research and partnerships to drive sustainable food production and address global protein shortages.
Danone, a global leader in dairy and plant-based food products, is making significant strides in the field of precision fermentation, a cutting-edge technology in food production. With an eye toward sustainable food solutions and an increasing demand for animal-free proteins, the company is investing heavily in both research and strategic partnerships with start-ups. This initiative aims to enhance food systems globally, ensuring better nutritional options through more efficient methods.
Precision fermentation allows for the development of essential ingredients like vitamins, plant-based proteins, and flavors with unprecedented precision. Danone is exploring this technology at its innovation center in Paris-Saclay, France, where they are tackling critical challenges in scalability, regulatory approval, and consumer acceptance. Emmanuel Perrin, Danone’s senior director of advanced technology ingredients, emphasizes the potential of precision fermentation to complement, rather than replace, traditional animal protein sources, providing a sustainable solution to global protein shortages.
Danone’s vast library of 1,900 ferment strains is a key asset in this venture, having played a critical role in product development, including their flagship Activia yogurt. The company is also working with several partners, including Michelin, DMC Technologies, and Crédit Agricole, to build a dedicated facility that will help start-ups scale production in the precision fermentation space. This facility aims to support the growth of innovative food technologies and overcome the financial barriers faced by emerging businesses.
In addition to supporting start-ups, Danone is also benefiting from advancements in CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing and artificial intelligence, which are enhancing the efficiency of the microorganisms used in precision fermentation. Though scaling this technology remains a challenge, Danone’s ongoing efforts signal a promising future for more sustainable and nutritious food production.
