Kerry Group plc has invested about €200 million to acquire biotech firms that the company said will enhance its innovation capabilities in enzyme engineering, fermentation, and bio-process development.

The German firm c-LEcta GmbH is a biotechnology innovation company specializing in precision fermentation, optimized bio-processing and bio-transformation for the creation of high-value targeted enzymes and ingredients. Based in Leipzig, Germany and employing over 100 people, c-LEcta has established itself as a leading innovator in disruptive new sciences for the pharmaceutical market, with a strong pipeline of functional bioactives across food, beverage and other consumer markets. Kerry invested €137 million to acquire 92% of the issued share capital of c-LEcta.

Kerry also acquired Enmex S.A. de C.V. in December for an estimated €62 million. Enmex is an established enzyme manufacturer based in Mexico, supplying multiple bio-process solutions for food, beverage and animal nutrition markets. With a long history of partnering with global customers, Enmex has a complementary enzyme portfolio and a strong manufacturing infrastructure, which will extend Kerry’s fermentation and enzyme manufacturing capabilities into Latin America.

This combination will accelerate Kerry’s innovation capabilities in enzyme engineering, fermentation and bio-process development, the company said. Kerry’s market reach across food and pharma markets, combined with its enzyme applications expertise and integrated ingredient technology design, will enable and accelerate the growth potential of c-LEcta’s strong portfolio and technology capabilities. This acquisition will further support Kerry’s commitment to invest in the development of innovative sustainable technologies, which will be at the heart of future sustainable food and health systems.