DSM Firmenich partners with startups to develop natural ingredients

DSM Firmenich is working with US-French bioagriculture startup Interstellar Lab to develop exclusive natural ingredients.

Interstellar Lab specializes in developing and operating advanced bioagriculture platforms to accelerate plant growth and trigger the production of specific molecules in plants.

Its AI-environmentally controlled biofarms optimize energy and resource consumption, capture CO2, and significantly improve the life cycle assessment of ingredients through a unique data-driven approach.

The collaboration aims to pioneer a compositional research program focused on the impact of environmental conditions on plant yield and phenotypic assessment.

DSM Firmenich said that the two companies’ joint commitment to lead the advancement of plant-based raw material production marks DSM Firmenich’s achievements in expanding and exploring the boundaries of natural innovation in agricultural technology, unlocking olfactory richness and new dimensions of sustainable innovation. The collaboration will unlock the potential of unique natural ingredients to create beautiful and sustainable fragrances of the future.

Interstellar Lab CEO Barbara Belvisi said: “Our bio-agriculture platform represents a revolution in fragrance, understanding and responding to current industry needs, offering responsibly sourced and produced renewable ingredients that inspire creators and respect the environment. "
Symrise believes the move will solidify its leading position as a provider of high-quality personal care solutions, including multi-functional product protection ingredients, high-performance actives and botanicals, and next-generation UV filters.

"Our entire customer base will benefit from the proximity, efficiency and sustainability advantages of supplying our market-leading portfolio of cosmetic ingredients in India," said Dr. Joern Andreas, President, Symrise Scent & Care. “Virchow Group and Symrise share the same values, so this partnership is a great fit.”

"Together we will produce modern ingredients in India, driving innovation, safety and efficacy for our global customers. Additionally, we seek to make an impact on the local community in Visakhapatnam through continued investment and job creation." Andreas said.

Michal Benmayor, Vice President Innovation and Sustainability of Fragrances at DSM Firmenich, added:“Our collaboration with Interstellar Lab represents another avenue of exploration in agricultural technology, expanding our ability to harness the synergy of nature and science to break the mold and discover the unparalleled excellence of our creations in both olfactory quality and sustainability.”