Kerry Opens Biotechnology Centre in Leipzig, Germany, Focusing on Cutting-Edge Innovations for Food, Beverage, and Pharma
Kerry, a global leader in taste and nutrition, has officially opened its new Biotechnology Centre in Leipzig, Germany. This state-of-the-art facility will be dedicated to the development of innovative biotech solutions for a wide range of applications in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.
The centre’s inauguration marks a significant step for Kerry in expanding its biotechnology capabilities and offering a diverse range of market solutions. With new advancements in biotechnology, businesses have the opportunity to increase efficiency in food production processes, overcome ingredient scarcity, and create customized products to improve human health and functionality.
Kerry has made significant investments in biotechnology in recent years, including strategic acquisitions and organic growth. The Biotechnology Centre in Leipzig will further strengthen Kerry’s global infrastructure in this field.
Leipzig was chosen as the location for the new facility due to its exceptional biotechnology skills base and research cluster. c-LEcta, which was acquired by Kerry in 2022 for its expertise in enzymes and biotechnology, was originally established as a spin-out from the University of Leipzig in 2004.
The Biotechnology Centre will be under the direction of Dr. Marc Struhalla, the founder of c-LEcta, and will utilize the expertise of over 100 scientists and technical experts, including 34 PhDs. The centre’s primary activities will include enzyme and strain identification and engineering, fermentation and bioprocess development and scale-up, and production. By selecting enzymes from nature and customizing their functions, the centre aims to offer a broad spectrum of solutions for various use cases. Some of Kerry’s already commercialized biotech products include ACRYLERASE™, which removes acrylamide in instant coffee, DENARASE®, a top-performing enzyme for removing residual DNA used in vaccine and gene and cell therapy production, and BIOBAKE™, which prolongs the shelf life and improves the processability of baked goods.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Kerry CEO Edmond Scanlon said, “Biotechnology solutions present a new horizon of innovation and opportunity for global food, beverage, and pharmaceutical markets. Kerry’s existing portfolio of biotech capabilities, coupled with this new Biotechnology Centre, positions us to lead the way in bringing the next generation of discoveries in this space to market, supporting our customers as they strive to meet consumer demands for sustainable nutrition.”
The new Biotechnology Centre in Leipzig is part of Kerry’s global innovation infrastructure, which spans three continents and is led and coordinated from the company’s Global Innovation Centre in Ireland. This new facility aligns with Kerry’s sustainable nutrition strategy and reinforces its commitment to providing innovative solutions for its customers.
About Kerry Group:
Kerry is a world-leading taste and nutrition partner for the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical sectors. The company collaborates with its customers to create delicious, nutritious products while striving for a better impact on the planet. With leading consumer insights, a global team of more than 1,200 food scientists, and a vast global footprint, Kerry is well-equipped to solve complex challenges and provide differentiated solutions for its customers. Kerry is dedicated to being its customers’ most valued partner and is committed to creating a world of sustainable nutrition. For more information, visit www.kerry.com.
For further information, contact media@kerry.com.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.