In Germany, BRAIN Biotech AG has terminated its joint development contract with Roquette Frères covering natural sweeteners.
The two companies signed the pact in January 2021 after a successful R&D phase for Brazzein, a protein sweetener naturally found in African berries Pentadiplandra brazzeana Baillon. Roquette and BRAIN said at the time that they saw “very good commercial opportunities” for Brazzein, especially in the beverage industry, and would further develop a fermentation-based production route.
BRAIN did not disclose details on the termination, but said it is “convinced of the project’s viability and economics.” BRAIN owns the proprietary production technology for Brazzein and will look for new partners.