IFF and BASF Forge Strategic Alliance to Advance Next-Generation Enzyme and Polymer Innovations
International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (IFF), a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, health, and biosciences, today announced a strategic collaboration with BASF, one of the world’s largest chemical companies renowned for its leadership in sustainable product innovation. This partnership is designed to accelerate the development of IFF’s Designed Enzymatic Biomaterials™ (DEB) technology platform and to pioneer next-generation enzyme technologies tailored for applications spanning fabric care, dishwashing, personal care, and industrial cleaning.
This alliance brings together two industry powerhouses, combining deep expertise in biotechnology, protein engineering, and advanced chemical solutions to deliver high-performance, sustainable technologies that respond to evolving consumer needs and global market trends. By integrating IFF’s cutting-edge enzyme and polymer research capabilities with BASF’s extensive chemical innovation portfolio, the collaboration aims to create solutions that enhance product effectiveness while promoting environmental sustainability.
A Shared Vision for Sustainable Innovation
At the core of this partnership is a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation. Both companies recognize the urgent need to develop solutions that reduce environmental impact while maintaining or improving product performance. As consumers increasingly prioritize eco-friendly products, industries such as cleaning and personal care are under pressure to adopt sustainable alternatives without compromising quality.
“Our collaboration with BASF is an exciting step toward unlocking the full potential of enzyme and polymer technologies,” said Erik Fyrwald, CEO of IFF. “Together, we can develop market-driven solutions that not only deliver superior performance but also create sustainable value for both the industry and the environment.”
Michael Heinz, member of the board of executive directors at BASF, emphasized the strategic importance of the alliance: “This partnership represents a significant milestone for both companies. By combining our respective research and development strengths, we are laying the groundwork to bring innovative, large-scale solutions to market more quickly, helping our customers meet the demands of a changing world.”
Focus Areas of Collaboration
The joint initiative will concentrate on developing innovative enzyme systems and biobased polymers, creating products that are both high-performing and resource-efficient. Enzymes, naturally occurring proteins that catalyze chemical reactions, play a critical role in cleaning and personal care formulations. By leveraging IFF’s Designed Enzymatic Biomaterials™ platform, the partnership will develop enzymes that offer superior cleaning, stain removal, and surface protection while minimizing energy, water, and chemical usage.
Similarly, biobased polymers derived from renewable resources are poised to replace traditional synthetic polymers in multiple applications. The collaboration aims to design polymers that enhance product texture, stability, and functionality while reducing the reliance on fossil-based materials. This dual focus on enzymes and polymers enables the development of holistic solutions that address both performance and sustainability challenges across consumer and industrial applications.
Implications for Key Industries
- Fabric Care: Advanced enzyme technologies can improve stain removal, color preservation, and fabric softness, all while lowering detergent dosage and energy consumption. The partnership will explore enzyme-polymer combinations that optimize washing performance across different water temperatures and fabric types.
- Dishwashing: The alliance seeks to develop enzyme systems capable of tackling tough grease and residue, even in energy-efficient or low-water-use dishwashers. Enhanced enzymatic formulations promise improved cleaning efficiency with reduced environmental impact.
- Personal Care: Biobased polymers and enzymes can be applied to skincare and haircare products, enhancing texture, stability, and efficacy. This approach allows brands to meet growing consumer demand for sustainable, high-performance personal care solutions.
- Industrial Cleaning: In sectors ranging from food processing to healthcare, the collaboration aims to develop enzyme-based solutions that deliver superior sanitation and cleaning efficiency while minimizing chemical usage and waste generation.
Balancing Collaboration with Independence
Both IFF and BASF will continue to operate independently, maintaining their competitive positioning while leveraging complementary capabilities. The partnership is structured to accelerate innovation and expand customer choice without compromising the distinct brand strengths and operational autonomy of either company. By pooling resources in targeted research and development initiatives, the alliance seeks to speed the commercialization of breakthrough technologies while maintaining a high degree BASF of flexibility and responsiveness to market needs.
Driving Sustainability and Circularity
The IFF-BASF partnership aligns with the broader industry trend toward sustainability and circular economy principles. By focusing on enzymes and biobased polymers, the collaboration reduces reliance on non-renewable resources, minimizes waste generation, and supports eco-efficient manufacturing processes. These innovations contribute to lowering the carbon footprint of consumer products and industrial operations, advancing global sustainability goals and helping customers meet regulatory and environmental standards.
