Shanghai Zelixir Biotechnology Co., Ltd. (“Zelixir”) has officially launched its state-of-the-art green manufacturing plant in Changzhou City, Jiangsu Province, marking a significant milestone in the fusion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and synthetic biology. This facility is a key development in transforming computational research into real-world applications, with a diverse product pipeline that includes natural flavors, functional foods, and beauty ingredients.
Zelixir’s CEO, Dr. Sheng Wang, emphasized the company’s commitment to its innovative approach: “discovering pathways → extracting enzymes → engineering enzymes.” This methodology is at the core of their dedication to enzyme synthesis, which the new plant will help scale for the food, cosmetics, and healthcare industries. The plant’s mission is to accelerate the production of biobased raw materials, contributing to sustainable and environmentally friendly products.
The company’s first product, Sustainable Natural Vanillin ex-Ferulic Acid, is poised for large-scale production. This groundbreaking product uses AI-optimized enzymes and eco-conscious methods to produce a rich, long-lasting vanilla fragrance while addressing the problem of impurities typically found in chemically synthesized vanillin. With a production capacity that is not limited by crop yields or climate, this product represents a leap forward in biomanufacturing. It is certified by FEMA GRAS under the FDA and is expected to be available globally, meeting the growing demand for high-quality ingredients in the food industry.
Dr. Wang further highlighted the transformative impact of combining AI with biotechnology: “This advancement is not just a revolution in biomanufacturing but also a step toward creating a greener, more sustainable future. Through AI’s deep integration, we foresee a future where chemicals, materials, and energy are produced intelligently and sustainably within the next five to ten years.”
Zelixir’s new plant and its product developments are a clear indication of the potential AI holds to reshape industries and support a greener, more sustainable world.