Solvay has invested in Suanfarma’s Cipan manufacturing site in Portugal to develop its biotechnological capabilities and support the development of natural ingredients, especially in the vanillin category. The transaction is the first step of a long-term strategic alliance with Suanfarma, owned by global life science investment firm ArchiMed. It will be completed by mid-2023. Jo Grosemans, Growth Director, Solvay Natural, explains: “Today, we source bio-based technologies including guar, natural vanillin and bio-sourced solvents. This new platform will open up new opportunities enabled by biotechnology across our markets.”

The move aligns with Solvay’s goal of producing ingredients sustainably while meeting consumer demand for more natural, healthier foods. “This first step of our collaboration with Suanfarma provides access to efficiently raise our existing capacities on natural ingredients, including our flagship natural vanillin, Rhovanil Natural CW,” says Jo Grosemans. “Produced through a natural fermentation process with the highest standards of quality control and traceability, Rhovanil Natural is manufactured in Europe and offers reliable and future-proof supply to our customers.”

Solvay’s Rhovanil Natural can be used to formulate natural flavours and natural vanilla flavours (95/5 type). It is also used as a direct replacement of synthetic vanillin in food applications such as chocolate, confectionery, baked goods and dairy products.