DuPont probiotics to be made in new $100 million facility

DuPont has opened a probiotics fermentation unit at its New York facility, having completed construction in March as part of an overall $100 million investment to expand probiotics capacity. The facility produces probiotics for the dietary supplement and food and beverage industries, providing health nutrition science solutions to a growing market.

The facility incorporates many production innovations in its design, such as a large fermenter for probiotics production and its downstream processing, a built-in system of sensors and monitors to oversee growing conditions and pressurised air technology to mix fermenting solutions, replacing traditional pumps and mixing blades that risk damaging bacteria. New bacteria freezing technology for safe storage of probiotics increases the overall efficiency of the facility.

“The new facility is dedicated to probiotics production, enhancing our ability to provide customers and consumers with clinically documented strains that will positively impact people’s health,” said DuPont CEO Marc Doyle.

In addition to the company’s capital investment, construction of the fermentation unit was supported by an Upstate Revitalisation Initiative Grant provided by Empire State Development.

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Howard Zemsky said, “The growth of innovative companies like DuPont, with its new probiotics fermentation unit, supports the region’s agriculture and food ecosystem and reflects our focus on recruiting and retaining food production businesses that drive economic development.”

DuPont develops and produces a range of clinically documented probiotic strains for products sold globally. Over 16 million US households purchase probiotics, which deliver a variety of functional health benefits — from digestive and immune health to promising advancements in weight management and even cognitive health.

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