Lallemand introduces fermentation-derived vanillin for clean-label foods
The ingredient positions itself as a compelling alternative to conventional synthetic vanillin, which has long struggled to meet the growing consumer demand for recognizable, natural ingredients on product labels.
SWITZERLAND – Lallemand Bio-Ingredients, a leading global provider of natural microbial solutions, has unveiled Hevani™, a groundbreaking fermentation-derived vanillin specifically designed for clean-label foods.
This innovative aroma ingredient, produced through precision fermentation using yeast-based technology, offers a natural alternative to synthetic vanillin, delivering an intense vanilla taste with creamy, sweet, and caramelic notes that enhance mouthfeel and boost flavor profiles in bakery, dairy, confectionery, chocolate, and cereals.
The launch stems from Lallemand’s 2024 strategic acquisition of Swiss biotechnology firm Evolva, which granted access to advanced precision fermentation expertise.
This process converts sugar into high-purity vanillin, boasting 98% purity free of pesticides and heavy metals, ensuring year-round consistency, scalability, and sustainability without reliance on vanilla bean crops vulnerable to weather and geopolitical factors.
Hevani™ meets stringent “natural” labeling standards in both the European Union and the United States, requiring no GMO declaration, which aligns perfectly with rising consumer demand for transparent, nature-identical ingredients.
Lars Asferg, President of Lallemand Bio-Ingredients, highlighted Evolva’s R&D prowess as a key platform for expanding their portfolio.
“Evolva’s deep know-how in precision fermentation and R&D capabilities present an ideal platform from which to expand our product offering. We are excited to bring this yeast-based technology to our customers, ensuring consistent quality and scalability,” he noted.
Danielle Cusumano, VP of Enzymes & Aromas, emphasized its role in supporting customer sustainability goals: “Our global customers demand high-quality, natural ingredients that align with their sustainability goals. Hevani™’s US & EU natural status is a testament to our commitment to meeting these needs and supporting our customers in creating exceptional products.”
Market data underscores the timing: Innova Market Insights reports a 79% CAGR in global food and beverage launches featuring vanilla from 2023 to 2025, driven by clean label trends.
Beyond food, Hevani serves as a versatile fragrance for cosmetics like perfumes and lipsticks, approved by the International Fragrance Association and compliant with EU/US regulations.
The dual-use potential broadens its commercial appeal across multiple industries while navigating the clean-label shift.
Its 100% natural origin per ISO 16128, positioning it as a high-performance solution amid vanilla’s volatile pricing.
This debut reinforces Lallemand’s commitment to biotech innovation in agribusiness, addressing supply chain challenges while promoting eco-friendly flavor production.
Industry experts predict Hevani will accelerate the shift toward fermentation-derived naturals, benefiting manufacturers worldwide.
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