Bestzyme launches world's first automated sweet protein production line

Bestzyme, a synthetic biology company under GenScript Biotech, has completed the world’s first dedicated, automated smart production line for sweet proteins at its facility in Jinan. This development represents the first global full-chain integration of research, development, mass production, and application for sweet proteins.

The company’s flagship product, Mellia® Brazzein sweet protein, is derived from the West African Oubli fruit. Brazzein is thousands of times sweeter than sucrose but has historically been difficult to produce due to low expression levels and complex purification requirements. Bestzyme has addressed these challenges through high-density fermentation techniques.

The new 5,000-square-meter facility utilizes a fully automated “fermentation — purification — freeze-drying” process. Once operational, the line will have an annual capacity of over 100 tons, which is equivalent to the sweetness of 300,000 tons of sucrose. The product is designed to blend with existing sweeteners like Stevia and Monk fruit to replicate the taste of sugar without the calories or glycemic impact.