As the Lithuanian biotechnology sector grows rapidly, TEC Industry and TEC Consulting are working on a unique project – the design of the first innovative factory in Europe to produce brazzein. This factory, designed by Pentasweet, to be built in Vilnius City Innovation Industrial Park Northtown, will specialize in the production of sweet protein brazzein which is 1,500 times sweeter than sugar, and it will be obtained by precision fermentation. It will be one of the first such factories in the world which will be distinguished by a very high purification level of product.
TEC Industry, as the general designer, is responsible for the comprehensive management and implementation of the design process – from the preparation and publication of design proposals, obtaining a construction permit, preparation of the technical detailed design, obtaining an expert report to the notification of the start of construction works… The design start stage is particularly important as innovative production processes pose additional technological challenges. TEC’s team of specialists works on design of the production building and engineering systems, ensuring factory compliance with the highest industry standards and environmental requirements. In this project, TEC Consulting provides consulting services for the development of process flow diagrams (PFD and P&ID), monitors data analysis, ensuring that production processes will be optimal and efficient.
Brazzein is a naturally occurring protein found in the fruits of the tropical plant Pentadiplandra Brazzeana (Oubli), providing sweetness without sugar and synthetic additives. Sweet proteins are considered one of the most promising sugar alternatives, so food industry companies both in the EU and around the world have been striving for 20 years to develop an effective technology based on a precision fermentation method that allows achieving a very high level of product purity. The production of brazzein will not only help to reduce sugar consumption in the food industry but will also contribute to the development of healthier food products. Customers of Pentasweet will be European food companies that want to offer healthier and more sustainable solutions to consumers.
Pentasweet is investing €44M in this project, which is partially funded by the National Development Bank ILTE.
TEC Group of Companies is proud to contribute to this significant project which not only strengthens positions of Lithuania as a centre of biotechnology innovations but also promotes the development of sustainable industry. As one of the leading engineering services providers in Lithuania, TEC Group of Companies continues to expand the scope of activities by participating in innovative and strategically important projects. The brazzein factory in Vilnius is further proof that modern industry and technology development can go hand in hand, creating sustainable, future-oriented solutions.
