Bel Group has partnered with precision fermentation start-up Standing Ovation as part of its strategy to innovate and introduce sustainable, animal-free dairy products.

Target Information

Bel Group, a renowned name in the cheese industry, is best known for its iconic products including Babybel, Laughing Cow, and Boursin. The company is now making strategic investments in innovative technologies that focus on sustainable dairy alternatives, particularly through precision fermentation, a ground-breaking method for producing dairy proteins without animal involvement. Bel's Chief Venture Officer, Caroline Sorlin, has been actively exploring partnerships with various start-ups in this field, highlighting the growing significance of animal-free dairy in their product portfolio.

In their pursuit of sustainability, Bel is not only dedicated to enhancing its dairy offerings but also expanding into plant-based cheese and fruit-based snacks, such as the popular GoGo squeeZ brand. By integrating these modern technologies into their production processes, Bel aims to significantly reduce its carbon footprint and transition towards carbon neutrality by 2050.

Industry Overview in France

France has always been renowned for its rich dairy heritage, producing a wide array of world-class cheeses and dairy products. However, increasing awareness of environmental concerns and changing consumer preferences have promp