California, USA (CU)_ ADM has invested a significant equity amount in Slovenian biotechnology business Acies Bio in an undisclosed deal. The organization is a leader in research and development and production services of functional foods, sustainable agriculture, and bio-based industrial applications. They are responsible for the growth and expansion of synthetic biology and precision fermentation technologies in these domains. The funding will allow ADM to accelerate the expansion of its projects in the precision microbial fermentation sector by utilizing Acies Bio’s substantial microbial capabilities and contract manufacturing capabilities.
Ian Pinner, ADM’s chief strategy and innovation officer, spoke about microbial technology and its benefits. He said, “Microbial technology is unlocking disruptive opportunities in sustainable agriculture, sustainable materials and fuels, and alternative proteins. We’re propelling growth opportunities by working with innovators who appreciate our unique combination of expertise, capacity and access to feedstocks.” He added, “Now, by investing to become a minority owner in Acies Bio, we’re opening up the door to new collaboration with an innovative, complementary business to meet the growing demand for products developed via microbial fermentation”.
This news follows ADM’s technology license arrangement with US biotechnology startup Solarea Bio in the beginning of this month. Solarea Bio is a biotechnology company focused on developing novel microbiome-based solutions for global health concerns such as human osteoporosis. The organization possesses substantial knowledge and skills in data science and the development of microbial products. The new collaboration will enable ADM to investigate the potential usage of microorganisms in food and beverage products to enhance health and wellbeing.
Daniel Ramon Vidal from ADM expressed hopes to expand the business. He said, “The microbiome is one of ADM’s six strategic platforms that are powering ADM’s growth and we’re continuing to expand our capabilities and develop the next wave of innovation for consumers who are looking for foods and beverages to support their health and wellness”. He expressed hopes in partnering with Solarea Bio. He said, “We look forward to partnering with Solarea Bio and to leveraging their unique technology and expertise to explore the potential for new nutrition products and solutions”.
