Danone is partnering with Michelin, DMC Technologies, and Crédit Agricole to create a platform for upscaling precision fermentation. The Biotech Open Platform in Clermont-Ferrand aims to help companies scale up their precision fermentation efforts. By 2025, a demo-scale production line will be installed, with plans for further expansion.
The platform, supported by various institutions, will enable manufacturers to move from niche to mass production. It offers a 10m3 fermentation tank and downstream equipment for scaling up laboratory or pilot formulas. Precision fermentation uses microorganisms to produce specific ingredients, such as plant-based dairy and vegan food coloring.
Companies like Danone and DMC bring their expertise in fermentation to the project. Michelin contributes engineering knowledge, essential for scaling up production processes. Challenges in scaling up precision fermentation include insufficient capital and inconsistent performance at different scales. Danone emphasizes the importance of ingredient quantity and confidence in the scale-up process.
Investments in fermentation research are increasing, with a focus on biobased fermentation and precision fermentation. Large private sector players like Cargill are also investing in precision fermentation technologies. Despite the challenges, the platform aims to accelerate the adoption of biotechnology for sustainable food production.
