Pentasweet has started constructing a brazzein sweet protein factory in Vilnius, Lithuania, making it the first dedicated production facility for this ingredient in Europe. Brazzein is a protein-based sweetener that is 1,500 times sweeter than sugar and does not cause blood glucose spikes or negatively impact the human microbiota. The company uses precision fermentation to produce brazzein, eliminating the need for its natural source from Central and West Africa.

The €65 million facility has received support from Lithuania's Ministry of Economy and Innovation and will create around 30 jobs in biotechnology, engineering, and automation. While Pentasweet is not the only player in precision-fermented sweet proteins, with US-based Oobli also working in the field, regulatory clearance in key export markets will be crucial for both companies. Pentasweet aims to promote healthier dietary solutions by offering an alternative to added sugar or other sweeteners, enabling the creation of healthier products without compromising taste or increasing costs.