Precision fermentation facility bolsters protein transition in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has announced the expansion of its food-grade pilot plant facilities in Ede with the construction of the Biotechnology Fermentation Factory (BFF). This new precision fermentation facility, funded by the Dutch National Growth Fund and supported by NIZO Food Research and Perspectieffonds Gelderland, aims to accelerate the protein transition and advance food innovation.

The BFF, integrated into NIZO’s existing infrastructure, provides companies with access to advanced upstream processing capabilities and expertise in fermentation. It will support startups and established businesses by offering affordable options for scaling production, reducing the cost barriers typically faced by companies in the alternative protein sector. The facility is expected to play a crucial role in enabling the transition from lab-scale research to large-scale production.

Marcel Oogink, Managing Director of the BFF, highlighted the significance of shared facilities: “For startups, scaling up is often prohibitively expensive. The BFF bridges this gap by providing access to cutting-edge equipment and expert guidance, ensuring innovative ideas can reach the market faster.”

Ede-Wageningen, a region globally recognized for its leadership in agricultural and food innovation, is home to renowned institutions such as Wageningen University & Research and Foodvalley. The BFF’s establishment further strengthens the region’s position as a hub for sustainable biotechnology.

Nikolaas Vles, CEO of NIZO Food Research, emphasized the alignment of this project with broader sustainability goals: “Expanding our capabilities in precision fermentation complements our existing work in plant-based alternatives and downstream processing. This facility represents a significant step toward a more sustainable and healthier food system.”

The facility will feature processing capacities ranging from small volumes to 10,000 liters, enabling companies to test, optimize, and scale up production processes. Its focus on precision fermentation—a technique using microorganisms to produce proteins and other ingredients—addresses the growing demand for sustainable food solutions.

The BFF initiative also aligns with regional and national policies aimed at fostering innovation and sustainability. Perspectieffonds Gelderland’s investment reinforces the economic and environmental goals outlined in the Gelderse Climate Plan. Ingrid Rombouts, Investment Manager at Oost NL, commented on the economic benefits: “By accelerating the protein transition, the BFF strengthens the region’s reputation as a center for sustainable food innovation, while attracting businesses to serve the European market.”

Oost NL has been actively involved in promoting the protein transition through innovation and internationalization efforts. This project exemplifies the organization’s commitment to creating lasting impacts both within Gelderland and beyond.

The Netherlands has a long-standing reputation as a leader in biomolecular and cellular technologies, contributing to global advancements in food production and health. The establishment of the BFF reinforces the country’s leadership in sustainable food systems, leveraging over 75 years of expertise from NIZO and 30 years in alternative proteins.

Precision fermentation, the core technology supported by the BFF, provides an efficient, animal-free method for producing ingredients. It is widely regarded as a transformative approach to addressing challenges in food security and environmental sustainability.

Construction of the BFF is already underway, and the facility is actively seeking partnerships with businesses and research organizations. Companies interested in leveraging the new facility’s capabilities are encouraged to connect with the NIZO Business Development team or Marcel Oogink, who stated: “We are eager to collaborate with innovators to drive meaningful change in food production and sustainability.”

By integrating state-of-the-art technology and fostering a collaborative environment, the BFF aims to set a benchmark for the alternative protein industry. It serves as a model for how strategic investments can enable meaningful progress in creating a sustainable global food system.