Novozymes Strengthens Position with Organobalance Acquisition

15 Sep 2016 --- Global biotechnology company and specialists in microbial solutions Novozymes has struck a deal with German-based researchers Organobalance. Although Novozymes is not revealing financial details of the acquisition, it says the deal will complement the company’s existing platform with applications across industries.

Organobalance GmbH specializes in microbial screening, assay technology and developing natural microbial solutions for food industry partners. It owns a large collection of microbial strains, some dating back to the 1920s, and has expertise in screening and metabolic engineering for new product developments for food applications.

The company works on improving shelf life, protection from microbial contamination, infections, pathogenic bacteria, clean label solutions by replacing undesirable ingredients and using natural alternatives as well as the economic production of these natural ingredients for improved texture, flavor, color and stability. 

“The experience of Organobalance’s founding scientists, and the company’s know-how, immediately strengthen Novozymes’ existing capabilities within microbial technologies,” says Sebastian Soderberg, vice president for new business development, incubation & acquisitions at Novozymes. “Organobalance will advance our understanding to develop new, sustainable solutions across industries, and provide us with additional commercial opportunities.”

Organobalance will be integrated into Novozymes’ global organization but will continue to be based in Germany so as to benefit from the established biotechnology capabilities of the country’s capital region and the company’s strong ties to German academia, innovation environments, and markets.

“Organobalance and Novozymes possess similar ambitions and company cultures,” adds Soderberg. “Both companies strongly believe that innovative biological solutions can make a real, positive difference in the world and help tackle many of modern society’s biggest challenges. Together, our solutions fundamentally allow customers to produce more from less, reduce environmental impact, improve health and replace chemicals.”

The acquisition will not impact Novozymes’ financial outlook for 2016.

"Organobalance, our employees and customers will benefit greatly from this move," adds Dr Christine Lang who co-founded Organobalance and will continue as General Manager. "By becoming part of Novozymes, we will have access to a global R&D network and an extensive infrastructure to bring products to market – a clear advantage for us and our customers. When two well-established companies such as Novozymes and Organobalance team up in biological research to confront challenges in technology and society, it benefits people and the wider bioeconomy of Germany."