Kerry opens an expanded biotechnology manufacturing hub in Ireland to meet the growing global demand for lactase enzymes

Kerry, a global leader in taste and nutrition, today announced the expansion of its biotechnology manufacturing facility in Carrigaline, Co. Cork has considerably increased its ability to produce lactase enzymes on an industrial scale.

Kerry's growth boosts its ability to help dairy producers globally as demand for lactose-free and sugar-reduced dairy products increases. This allows for speedier scale-up, secure supply, and consistent performance at commercial levels.

"This investment translates decades of biotech research into scalable, real-world capability," stated Shane McGibney, President & CEO, Biotechnology Solutions and Transformation, Kerry. "By strengthening the link between enzyme engineering and industrial production, we're able to move innovations more efficiently from the lab to the production line - helping customers access reliable supply and bring new products to market with greater speed and confidence."

The Carrigaline investment strengthens Kerry's enzyme platform by connecting advanced engineering, strain development, and large-scale manufacturing processes. Kerry's Global Innovation Center connects innovation and application development with its specialised biotechnology capabilities at the Kerry Biotechnology Centre in Leipzig, Germany, and expanded production capacity in Carrigaline, Ireland. This accelerates the journey from lab-based discovery to commercial application.

"This facility demonstrates how industry, skills, and innovation come together to support the future of Ireland's food and biotechnology sectors," said Peter Burke, Ireland's Minister for Enterprise, Tourism, and Employment. "As a global food leader, Kerry Group continues to play a critical role in advancing high-value capability from its Irish headquarters. Manufacturing locations like Carrigaline assist bring innovation to scale and boost Ireland's leadership in sophisticated manufacturing.

Enabling faster and more resilient customer scale-up

Global demand for lactose-free and sugar-reduced dairy products is increasing as customers prioritise digestive comfort and lower sugar intake without sacrificing taste or quality. Kerry's increased lactase capacity is intended to help dairy producers meet this demand swiftly, consistently, and at scale.

"For our customers, this expansion is about execution as much as innovation," said Kerry's Vice President of Enzymes, Ronan Moloney. "With increased manufacturing capacity in Carrigaline, combined with deep application expertise, we can support customers through enzyme selection, process optimisation and scale‑up - reducing bottlenecks and strengthening supply continuity as they commercialise lactose‑free and sugar‑reduced dairy products."

A crucial node in Kerry's global enzyme network

The Carrigaline plant is an important part of Kerry's global manufacturing network, serving approximately 200 customers in 80 countries. Lactase enzymes manufactured on the site are used to digest over two million tonnes of milk each year, reaching an estimated 28 million consumers globally.

Kerry's enlarged facility is now ready to serve the next phase of expansion in lactose-free and reduced-sugar dairy. Kerry's expertise in dairy science, advanced enzyme innovation, and industrial-scale manufacturing enable producers to go from concept to commercialisation faster, more confidently, and as a single partner across the innovation lifecycle.

Source: Kerry Group plc.