The Canadian biotechnology company Lallemand has introduced ‘Hevani’, a fermented vanillin that can be used in cosmetics and fragrance applications. It is suitable for use in perfumes, lip care products and balms, amongst other things. The ingredient is produced using yeast in a sugar fermentation process. It offers an alternative to both plant-based raw materials and purely synthetic fragrances. According to the company, Hevani is approved for use in cosmetics and perfumery in the EU and the US. Recent surveys show that sweet scents such as vanilla, strawberry and cherry are becoming increasingly popular with Generation Z.

Independent of crop failures

According to the manufacturer, the bio-based vanillin is of high purity and free from contaminants such as pesticides or heavy metals. Fermentation is intended to ensure consistent quality regardless of harvest cycles, as well as fluctuating availability and market prices of plant-based raw materials. The raw material is based on renewable feedstocks and is produced via microbiological processes. Lallemand gained the capability for this process through the acquisition of the Swiss fermentation specialist Evolva at the end of 2023.

Sustainable and fair

With Hevani, the company is responding to the growing demand for natural, sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients in the cosmetics industry. “Our global customers are demanding high-quality, natural ingredients that align with their sustainability goals,” said Danielle Cusumano, Vice President of Enzymes and Flavours at Lallemand Bio-Ingredients. The fragrance also meets the requirements for natural labelling in key markets and supports clean beauty concepts as well as ESG strategies. At the same time, the scalable fermentation process ensures a reliable supply of consistent quality.

Source: Lallemand