NoPalm and Milcobel Innovate in Sustainable Palm Oil Alternatives

NoPalm Ingredients, a biotech leader in producing sustainable palm oil alternatives, has announced a strategic partnership with Milcobel, a major Belgian dairy cooperative. This partnership aims to enhance the production of circular, sustainable alternatives to palm oil using dairy byproducts.

Key to the agreement is Milcobel's provision of whey permeate, a cheese byproduct, which will feed NoPalm's demonstration factory, set to begin operations in 2026. The partnership also includes plans for a commercial factory at Milcobel’s Langemark location, expected to launch in 2028.

NoPalm's innovative fermentation technology produces oils and fats that mimic conventional palm oils, without palm-derived materials, using agro-industrial side streams like whey permeate. This method aligns with environmental goals, offering a viable resolution to palm oil's association with deforestation.

"This collaboration with NoPalm Ingredients completes the loop, elevating whey permeate into sustainable, high-value oil ingredients," remarks Francis Relaes, managing director of Milcobel Premium Ingredients. The collaboration not only enhances economic values but reinforces commitments to circularity principles and environmental sustainability.

NoPalm Ingredients and Milcobel's combined efforts illustrate how biotech and dairy sectors can unify to produce sustainable ingredients, effectively creating a resilient and future-proof food system.