Driving Profitability and Sustainability in the U.S. Fuel Ethanol Industry
CASE STUDY
Submission from Lallemand
The innovation.
LBDS launched the first commercial biotech yeast for ethanol fermentation in 2012. Today, LBDS’ industry leading biotech yeast strains include the TransFerm® product family, Bio-Ferm® EGA and FermaCore™ Propel. Biotech yeast strains have significantly enhanced ethanol yield while reducing the need for exogenous enzymes, leading to more efficient feedstock conversion. Glycerol reduction technology has resulted in a 2.5% average increase in ethanol yield, enabling producers to generate more ethanol from the same amount of feedstock.
The partial replacement of exogenous glucoamylase with an enzyme cocktail expressed by the yeast has lowered the need for additional processing aids, simplifying logistics and reducing production costs. These innovations have made ethanol production more cost-effective. Biotech yeast technology has helped decrease the industry’s carbon footprint. The yeast strains demonstrate improved performance at elevated temperatures, a crucial advantage as global warming becomes an increasing concern. Additionally, the reduction in glycerol production translates to fewer waste byproducts, contributing to a more sustainable ethanol production process.
The benefits.
The continuous development of biotech yeast strains by Lallemand Biofuels & Distilled Spirits has revolutionized the U.S. fuel ethanol industry by increasing yield, reducing production costs and improving sustainability. These innovations have enabled producers to meet growing renewable energy demands while minimizing environmental impact, ensuring both profitability and responsible production practices.