MicroHarvest selects Leuna for first large-scale fermentation protein plant
German biotechnology company MicroHarvest has confirmed Industriepark Leuna in Saxony-Anhalt as the site for its first industrial-scale production facility, targeting an annual output of 15,000 tonnes of biomass-fermentation-derived protein ingredients. The announcement marks a significant step in the scale-up of single-cell protein manufacturing in Europe.
The planned investment sits in the mid-range double-digit million EUR bracket, according to the company, with production expected to commence within approximately two years. The facility is projected to create around 25 direct jobs. MicroHarvest has also secured a grant award of up to €5.46 million under Germany’s Federal Funding Programme for Energy and Resource Efficiency in Industry (EEW), which will support energy- and resource-efficient biomanufacturing processes at the site.
Site selection: Infrastructure and feedstock proximity
MicroHarvest reviewed approximately 40 candidate sites across Europe before selecting Leuna. The decision was driven by the site’s established industrial infrastructure, access to utilities, and proximity to regional agri-processing operations. The company plans to use agri-food side streams – primarily molasses – as fermentation feedstock, with supply secured locally to reduce supply chain risk.
Jonathan Roberz, Co-Founder and COO, noted: “Leuna stood out clearly. The infrastructure quality, the utilities, and the surrounding agri-processing network create the conditions for rapid execution – exactly what you need when you’re scaling a fermentation-based production system.”
MicroHarvest will work with Industriepark Leuna as the industrial park operator and utilities provider, alongside regional agri-processing companies as feedstock suppliers.
Fermentation-based protein at industrial scale
MicroHarvest’s process centres on biomass fermentation using fast-growing bacteria, producing a dried whole-cell ingredient with over 60% crude protein content and a broad amino acid profile, along with micronutrients including vitamin B2 and iron. The fermentation system operates independently of seasonal and climatic variables, a characteristic the company positions as central to supply resilience.
CEO and Co-Founder Katelijne Bekers commented: “This project is about strengthening European supply resilience by adding a new, scalable protein ingredient pathway that is independent of seasons and climate volatility. Leuna gives us the industrial backbone and the regional ecosystem to execute.”
MicroHarvest says it has strong demand visibility aligned with the planned 15-kilo-tonne annual capacity, with ongoing discussions involving multinational customers and mid-sized white-label manufacturers.
For more information, visit: www.microharvest.com
