The work can be divided into three main parts. But it all starts in nature when the researchers at Novozymes find a microorganism. After a long period of development in the laboratories, the small microorganism begins its work in the plant:
Fermentation
First of all, following inoculation in a flask, a fermentation process is initiated in the plant. On a base of various natural ingredients such as potato starch, water, sugar, etc., the microorganism now forms the basis for the fermentation process that produces the required enzyme on a large scale.
Recovery
After fermentation, the enzyme is sent for recovery. This is done in a recovery plant, where the enzyme is separated from the residual substances.
Granulation
The third and final step at the site is granulation. In the granulating tower - the highest building at the Kalundborg site - the enzymes are sealed in a wax coating.
If for example you look into your washing powder box, you will see a mass of tiny coloured pellets. These are granulated enzymes. Some enzymes are also supplied in liquid form.
Finally, the enzymes are packed into large bags or containers - and then they are ready to be sent out to the customers that use them in their processes. Possibly in washing powders, possibly to tan leather, possibly in animal feed, or.
There are masses of possibilities for using enzymes from Novozymes' plants. And in many cases the enzymes replace chemicals and thus help to create a cleaner world. The enzymes for washing powders mean that washing temperatures can be reduced to 40°C and 30°C, which significantly contributes to a
reduction in CO2 emissions.