Feed processing
 
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, U.S. — As part of a joint development agreement with China-based Qingdao Vland Biotech Group Co., Ltd., Archer Daniels Midland Co. (ADM) plans to open a new U.S. enzyme research and development lab in California.

The joint development agreement includes the development and commercialization of enzymes for animal feed applications. In addition to ADM’s research center in Decatur, Illinois, U.S., the California facility will directly support activities being undertaken in the joint development agreement. Vland also will conduct research and development in its Qingdao, China, research laboratory, which will be upgraded to a new state-of-the-art facility.

Under the terms of the agreement, the companies will share enzyme-producing strains as a basis for the development of feed enzymes that will improve animal nutrition and health. Products developed under the agreement will be commercialized by both companies.

“This agreement and the opening of our new enzyme lab will significantly enhance our ability to develop products for the fast-growing enzyme market,” said Todd Werpy, chief technology officer at ADM. “The agreement will give our research and development team access to new enzyme strains, and the new U.S.-based enzyme research lab will provide us with the resources to use those strains to develop new, state-of-the-art feed enzymes. We’re looking forward to adding these capabilities to our already strong array of animal nutrition products and solutions.”

Vikram Luthar, president of bioactives at ADM, added, “This agreement is another important step as we continue to expand our capabilities in bioactives, including enzymes and novel ingredients for the food, pharmaceutical and animal feed industries. We are continuing to build our portfolio in order to offer complete and innovative solutions to customers in these exciting and rapidly growing markets.”

Chen Gang, president of Vland, said the company is committed to seeking partners around the world.

“This agreement between Vland and ADM to engage in the development of feed enzymes, and the establishment of new research centers in the U.S. and Qingdao, are important steps,” he said. “We are looking forward to future collaborations and the opportunity to offer effective solutions to customers in this exciting and rapidly growing market.”

Vland is one of the leading biotechnology companies in China. The company specializes in four product categories: enzymes, probiotics, vaccines and animal health products.