Novozymes introduces new yeast to help ethanol producers ‘break bottlenecks’

Novozymes has announced the launch of a new yeast technology, Innova Fit, which is expected to help ethanol producers break bottlenecks while creating plant efficiencies.

The new product is reportedly the most advanced non-GM yeast available, eliminating production constraints caused by conventional and basic yeasts.

“Conventional yeasts often cause plants to struggle with the rigors of today’s fermentation challenges and production demands – and producers are left without choices and hands are tied,” explained Brian Brazeau, Novozymes’ vice-president of bioenergy commercial and president, North America. “Our goal is to advance the entire industry through our microbial expertise; Innova Fit overcomes the major challenge of advancing and debottlenecking fermentation.”

The Fit yeast provides ethanol plants with flexibility to achieve operational targets, while improving performance with enhanced reliability. It allows ethanol producers to maximise inputs, achieve throughout and production targets without losing ethanol yield to stressors such as high temperature.

Since 2018, Novozymes has introduced four yeast solutions as part of its Innova platform. Brazeau added: “In less than two years, Innova yeasts have been widely adopted by the industry. Our focus remains on bringing Innova technology for improved reliability and trust, to debottleneck plants – freeing them up to improve plant performance and maximise input investment.”

Novozymes will continue to deliver solutions to customers to help them reach their targets, such as starch, fibre, corn oil, protein, unique end markets and future biorefinery opportunities.

“The Innova launches together deliver the most holistic, sustainable, and advanced approach to ethanol production, all based on customer needs and our commitment to a better tomorrow using the power of biology,” concluded Brazeau. “With the launch today, delivering Innova Fit to the industry enables another segment of producers to enjoy production technology advancements for fermentation never available before – meeting their market and production demands.”