MicroHarvest, the German biotech scale‑up producing protein ingredients through biomass fermentation of regional agri‑food side streams, has confirmed that Drees & Sommer has completed the technical and economic feasibility study for its planned production facility at Industriepark Leuna in Saxony‑Anhalt. The engineering firm now leads project management and general planning through the design phase. The plant remains on schedule, with an annual capacity target of 15,000 tonnes, an investment in the mid double‑digit million EUR range, and the creation of around 25 jobs. Production is expected to begin in the first half of 2028.
The Leuna facility is set to become Europe’s first industrial‑scale plant producing high‑quality protein via fermentation, using safe microorganisms and regional side streams such as molasses. The full process — from raw material to finished protein powder — takes roughly 24 hours, without genetic engineering and independent of weather or season.
MicroHarvest previously demonstrated scalability at its pilot plant in Lisbon, inaugurated in 2023. The company will first bring its protein to the animal feed sector, including pet food and aquaculture, with initial products already on the market. Following EFSA approval under the Novel Food framework, the ingredient is expected to enter the human food sector as well.
Learn more: Products – MicroHarvest
