DuPont has opened a new state-of-the-art probiotics fermentation unit at its Rochester, NY, facility. Construction of the unit was completed in March as part of an overall $100 million investment to expand probiotics capacity. The facility is now producing high-quality probiotics for the dietary supplement and food and beverage industries, which have the potential to provide health benefits to consumers of all ages.
 
“The investment in our Rochester probiotics operation furthers our strategy to provide health and nutrition science solutions to this growing market,” said DuPont CEO Marc Doyle. “With the completion of this facility, we have the largest fermenter in the world dedicated to probiotics production, which enhances our ability to provide customers and consumers with high quality, clinically-documented strains that will positively impact people’s health now and in the future.”
 
The facility incorporates several new production innovations, including:
 

• The world’s largest fermenter for probiotics production and its downstream processing. 
• A built-in, fully automated system of sensors and monitors that helps maintain optimal growing conditions, removing the need to take traditional manual samples.
• Pressurized air technology to mix fermenting solutions, replacing traditional pumps and mixing blades that can damage bacteria.
• New bacteria freezing technology for safe storage of the probiotics that significantly increases efficiency.

 
In addition to the company’s capital investment, construction of the fermentation unit was supported by an Upstate Revitalization Initiative Grant provided by Empire State Development.  
 
Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Howard Zemsky said, "Supporting the growth of innovative companies like DuPont, with its new probiotics fermentation unit at Eastman Business Park, reinforces the strength of the region’s agriculture and food ecosystem and reflects our strategic focus on recruiting and retaining food production businesses that drive economic development in the Finger Lakes.”
 
“We deeply appreciate the support from the state of New York as we launch this industry leading endeavor,” said Matthias Heinzel, president of DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences. “We’re proud to be part of the Rochester community and to expand our footprint at the Eastman Business Park. This investment represents our deep commitment to driving innovation through probiotic research and manufacturing.” 
 
DuPont develops and produces a wide range of clinically-documented probiotic strains for products sold globally. In the U.S. alone, more than 16 million U.S. households are purchasing probiotics, which deliver a variety of functional health benefits—from digestive and immune health to promising advancements in weight management and even cognitive health.