Kemin Industries acquires CJ Youtell Biotech, expanding global enzyme innovation with advanced fermentation facilities, integrated R&D, and broader industry capabilities.
Kemin Industries, a leading global ingredient manufacturer dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people, animals, and the planet, has announced the acquisition of CJ Youtell Biotech, the enzymes and fermentation arm of CJ Bio. This strategic acquisition reinforces Kemin’s role as a major innovator in the enzyme sector, extending its reach into critical industries including animal nutrition, food production, aquaculture, textiles, pulp and paper, and biofuels.
Through the acquisition, Kemin gains complete ownership of CJ Youtell’s enzyme product portfolio and advanced fermentation facilities. The transaction includes modern production plants located in Shandong and Hunan, China—strategically positioned to support the company’s growing customer base in Asia and beyond. These facilities will significantly enhance Kemin’s global enzyme business, providing the capacity to deliver innovative and sustainable enzyme solutions directly to international markets.
Dr. Chris Nelson, President and CEO of Kemin Industries, emphasized the importance of this step for the company’s long-term strategy. “We are excited to welcome CJ Youtell into the Kemin family. This acquisition is an ambitious leap in our mission to bring cutting-edge fermentation solutions directly to customers. With these assets, we strengthen our ability to deliver high-quality enzyme products that serve diverse industries across the globe,” Nelson said.
The addition of CJ Youtell not only expands Kemin’s physical infrastructure but also its research and development capabilities. The Chinese facilities are equipped with specialized laboratories and technical teams skilled in bioengineering, biochemistry, and enzyme formulation. These resources will drive product innovation, increase manufacturing efficiency, and ensure consistent delivery of premium enzyme solutions. The integration is expected to optimize production costs, reduce supply chain vulnerabilities, and improve competitiveness across global markets.
Michelle Lim, President of Kemin Enzymes, highlighted the synergy of the acquisition with Kemin’s legacy of enzyme innovation. “For more than 40 years, Kemin has been developing and delivering enzyme solutions for a wide range of industries. By incorporating CJ Youtell’s world-class fermentation expertise, we can now offer customers a fully integrated pathway—from proprietary strain development and large-scale manufacturing to final product formulation and technical support. This makes our offering truly unique in the market,” Lim noted.
With CJ Youtell’s expertise now aligned under Kemin, the company is positioned to provide an end-to-end solution for customers. Combining advanced fermentation, formulation expertise, customer laboratory services, and strong technical sales support, Kemin can respond more quickly to evolving market needs while empowering clients with high-performance enzyme technologies. This acquisition ensures greater agility, accelerates innovation, and further strengthens Kemin’s leadership in global enzyme solutions.
