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DSM has a record of applying the best possible technologies for producing its products. To reach this goal, DSM continuously invests in the improvement of its processes so as to make them more efficient, clean, and sustainable. “White biotechnology” – the application of nature’s toolset to industrial production – has been pursued by DSM for more than 20 years in the quest to replace chemical processes by biotech-based enzymatic or fermentation steps.
Vitamin C is no exception to this trend. In the last 10 years, more than 190 patent applications have been filed covering improved processes, novel formulations and novel genes related to the production of vitamin C and its product forms. DSM’s portfolio for this product includes more than 80 patents granted worldwide.
The main raw material for all existing means of industrial production of vitamin C, whether chemical or biotech-based, is glucose. We have been engaged in searching for cleaner, more efficient and more sustainable methods to produce this vitamin.
With the application of modern technologies and novel scientific tools, it has been possible to develop processes which replace some of the chemical steps involved in the synthesis of vitamin C. We are indeed heading towards the ultimate technological platform by which this vitamin is produced in one fermentation step. The main advantages of this development are the minimization raw material consumption (glucose, other chemicals and solvents), and more efficient energy use. This results in a lower environmental impact. Today’s highly complex labor- and energy-intensive chemical facility will be simplified.
