IRELAND – Kerry Group, a global leader in taste and nutrition, has announced the acquisition of LactoSens technology from DirectSens, a pioneering biotech firm specializing in next-generation biosensor solutions.
The acquisition, set to strengthen Kerry’s enzyme offerings in the dairy sector, will support food manufacturers in meeting lactose-free and low-lactose demands through the precision of LactoSens lactose detection technology.
Advancing dairy-free production
LactoSens technology has gained recognition over the past eight years as an efficient, accurate, and cost-effective solution for detecting lactose in food and beverage products.
Kerry Group aims to integrate LactoSens with its suite of ingredients and enzyme solutions, creating a comprehensive tool for food manufacturers focused on lactose-free and low-lactose products.
Notably, LactoSens technology offers real-time analysis, which enables producers to streamline processes and meet regulatory standards, enhancing efficiency and speed in production.
Ronan Moloney, Vice President of Enzymes at Kerry Group, commented on the acquisition: “We’re excited to bring LactoSens into Kerry Group’s portfolio to add a new element to our offering, as we fully integrate LactoSens into our broader solutions for the food and beverage industry.”
Building on biosensor innovation
DirectSens, headquartered in Vienna, Austria, will remain as the contract manufacturer for LactoSens, ensuring its continued production and quality control.
Founded in 2013, DirectSens has established itself as a significant innovator in biosensor technology, with its enzyme engineering solutions targeting various analytical applications.
“This deal underscores the quality of our biosensor technology and manufacturing capabilities. We will continue to execute on our vision to develop and deliver fast and precise biosensor solutions for key analytes to the global marketplace,” the company’s CEO, Dr. Christoph Sygmund, emphasized the impact of this acquisition.
DirectSens also plans to pursue new biosensor projects, including products like OatSens, for sugar measurement in oat-based beverages, and XPressGT, a tool for detecting diabetes biomarkers, showcasing its commitment to broadening applications in biosensor innovation.
Kerry’s acquisitions in dairy-free solutions
This acquisition builds on Kerry Group’s recent strategic moves in lactose-free technology. Last year, Kerry acquired the lactase enzyme business from Chr. Hansen and Novozymes, focusing on enhancing lactose-free and sugar-reduced dairy solutions.
The addition of LactoSens technology is expected to further strengthen Kerry’s position in the dairy sector by enabling faster, traceable, and more specific lactose detection.
