Danone has announced the acquisition of The Akkermansia Company (TAC), significantly expanding its investment into gut health and next-generation biotic research. This strategic move brings a leading Belgian biotech enterprise, with nearly two decades of pioneering research and clinical validation, under Danone’s umbrella, reinforcing its Renew initiative aimed at advancing scientific innovation in response to global consumer demand for health-enhancing products.

Founded by Professors Willem M. de Vos and Patrice D. Cani, The Akkermansia Company discovered and developed the biotic strain Akkermansia muciniphila MucT™ in 2004. Extensive clinical studies validated its efficacy in strengthening the gut barrier, reducing inflammation, and combating metabolic disorders such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Significantly, the pasteurized version of this strain, protected by broad patents, represents its most potent bio-efficacious form, with promising commercial applications.

“Joining Danone empowers us with the resources to scale our groundbreaking Akkermansia muciniphila MucT strain globally,” said Michael Oredsson, CEO of TAC. Professor Willem M. De Vos, Chief Technology Officer and co-founder, echoed this enthusiasm, emphasizing that the partnership with Danone would expedite their mission to provide metabolic health benefits to billions worldwide.

Akkermansia muciniphila’s appeal lies in its multifaceted health impacts. Recent scientific studies highlight its role not only in metabolic and gut health but also its potential as a biomarker in cancer immunotherapy and its promising effects in respiratory and autoimmune diseases. These expanding therapeutic horizons underscore the bacterium’s significant commercial and medical potential.

The global expansion ambitions for Akkermansia muciniphila MucT™, already available in European, North American, and Asian markets, are set to accelerate significantly through Danone’s extensive international presence. This strategic acquisition positions Danone at the forefront of microbiome innovation, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing consumer health through scientifically robust, microbiome-based solutions.