#USA #Des Moines #Kemin Industries #CJ Youtell Biotech #Enzyme Production

Kemin Industries Acquires CJ Youtell Biotech

In a significant move to bolster its global enzyme production capabilities, Kemin Industries has successfully acquired CJ Youtell Biotech, a subsidiary of CJ Bio, which specializes in enzyme and fermentation technologies. This strategic acquisition is set to enhance Kemin’s position as a leader in enzyme innovation, catering to various markets including animal feed, food, aquaculture, textiles, paper, pulp, and biofuels.

Overview of the Acquisition

Kemin Industries, headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, announced this acquisition on September 23, 2025. By acquiring CJ Youtell Biotech, Kemin gains complete ownership of several fermentation facilities, notably located in Shandong and Hunan, China. These facilities will augment Kemin's existing operations and provide a world-class fermentation platform that facilitates the development and delivery of innovative enzyme solutions directly to customers globally.

Dr. Chris Nelson, President and CEO of Kemin Industries, expressed enthusiasm about this acquisition, stating, "We are excited to welcome CJ Youtell into the Kemin family. This bold step forward in our ongoing strategy allows us to offer state-of-the-art fermentation solutions directly to our customers. Integrating CJ Youtell's expertise into our portfolio reinforces Kemin’s commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative enzyme ingredients across various industries."

Enhanced Research and Development

The integration of CJ Youtell Biotech’s facilities supports Kemin’s growth in research and development. The new laboratories and specialized technical teams in bioengineering, biochemistry, and enzyme formulation will significantly enhance Kemin's R&D capabilities. This bolstered expertise is expected to drive product innovations, streamline manufacturing processes, and improve the delivery of high-quality end products.

Kemin aims to optimize production costs, reduce supply chain risks, and offer competitive, high-quality enzyme solutions to a diverse array of markets and industries. Michelle Lim, President of Kemin Enzymes, emphasized the importance of this acquisition, remarking, "The addition of CJ Youtell greatly expands Kemin's enzyme capabilities. For over 40 years, Kemin has been developing and providing enzyme solutions for various markets. Now, with CJ Youtell's fermentation expertise, we can offer our customers a fully integrated solution—from the development and manufacture of proprietary strains to final formulation and application support."

Seamless Integration and Client Support

This acquisition builds on Kemin's decades-long expertise in enzyme technology, creating a seamless end-to-end offering for clients. By fusing in-house fermentation with cutting-edge formulation development, technical sales support, and laboratory customer service, Kemin is uniquely positioned to deliver tailored, powerful enzyme technologies. These enhanced capabilities will improve Kemin’s flexibility and accelerate innovations, ensuring that customers remain ahead in competitive and constantly evolving marketplaces.

About Kemin Industries

Founded in 1961, Kemin Industries (www.kemin.com) is a global ingredient manufacturer dedicated to improving the quality of life for 80% of the world's population sustainably. The company offers over 500 specialty ingredients designed for human and animal health, nutrition, aquaculture, food technologies, crop production, textiles, biofuels, and animal vaccines. Kemin utilizes applied science to address industrial challenges and provides product solutions to customers in more than 120 countries worldwide. Kemin is a privately held family business with over 3,300 employees and facilities in 90 countries, including manufacturing locations in Belgium, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Italy, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa, and the United States.

This acquisition of CJ Youtell Biotech marks a pivotal moment for Kemin, reflecting their commitment to innovation, customer service, and the advancement of sustainable practices in the enzyme and fermentation industry. As Kemin continues to expand its global footprint, the integration of CJ Youtell promises to deliver enhanced value to customers and reinforce Kemin's leadership in enzyme innovation.