CP Kelco and ExoPolymer to commercialize bio-based polymers for personal care products
28 Sep 2022 --- CP Kelco and ExoPolymer have partnered to develop and commercialize a portfolio of functional ingredients for the personal care industry. The partnership’s initial focus will be to scale up the production of ExoPolymer’s first product, a polysaccharide-based biopolymer to be used in high-end skincare formulations for hydration, anti-aging and anti-wrinkle performance.
In the partnership, ExoPolymer plans to offer an improved alternative to hyaluronic acid that is effective, animal-free, genetic modification-free, safe and derived from plant feedstocks.
CP Kelco brings fermentation technology, manufacturing, quality control and commercialization to the new partnership.
“The personal care segment and the broader consumer packaged groups industry offer opportunities for fermentation-derived ingredients that can deliver existing or new functional benefits in a more [environmentally] sustainable and cost-effective way,” says Didier Viala, president at CP Kelco.
“The ExoPolymer toolbox and approach are well complemented by CP Kelco’s industrialization and commercialization capabilities, making this collaboration a natural fit.”
In the pipeline
CP Kelco is a nature-based ingredient solutions company with approximately 90 years of experience working with food, beverage, consumer and industrial product manufacturers worldwide.
The initial focus will be to scale up the production of polysaccharide-based biopolymer to be used in skin care formulations.ExoPolymer is a biotechnology company focused on next-generation, high-performance biopolymer ingredients for the personal care, food, healthcare and other markets.
The two companies intend to create new, sustainable and upgraded functional and active ingredients to meet a wide range of existing and emerging market needs.
According to the CP Kelco sustainability has become an increasingly important characteristic to consumers. However, performance of the currently available biopolymers is lacking in the personal care, healthcare and home care markets.
“As we explore new and valuable functionalities of our technology, CP Kelco’s production capabilities and market reach will allow us to commercialize needed products at a heightened pace,” says Dr. Derek Wells, founder and CEO at ExoPolymer.
Rising natural claims
The biopolymers are used as a thickening, stabilizing and pumping agents among other uses. The collaboration is planned as public interest in natural and herbal ingredient formulations increases.
“Challenges related to suspension, good pumpability and foam generation remain key to creating consumer appeal,” CP Kelco states.
According to Innova Market Insights, the growth of personal care products featuring a natural claim is rising globally. Europe is leading personal care launches that have natural claims, with 58% of releases coming from the region.
Meanwhile, growth of natural claims has been observed across different categories, including fragrance, sun care, oral care and deodorants.
Edited by Radhika Sikaria
