BASF and IFF join forces to advance enzyme innovation and sustainable biomaterials for the cleaning and personal care industries

BASF and IFF join forces to advance enzyme innovation and sustainable biomaterials for the cleaning and personal care industries

(IN BRIEF) BASF and International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (IFF) have announced a strategic partnership to accelerate the development of next-generation enzyme technologies and biobased polymers for fabric, dish, personal care, and industrial cleaning applications. The collaboration combines BASF’s expertise in chemical innovation with IFF’s strength in biotechnology and protein engineering to deliver sustainable, high-performance solutions. Both companies aim to enhance product efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and expand customer options in the growing market for eco-friendly formulations while maintaining independent operations.

(PRESS RELEASE) LUDWIGSHAFEN, 21-Oct-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — BASF, one of the world’s largest chemical companies and a recognized leader in sustainable product innovation, has entered a strategic collaboration with International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (IFF), a global pioneer in bioscience and biotechnology solutions. Together, the companies will accelerate the development of IFF’s Designed Enzymatic Biomaterials™ platform to create next-generation enzyme technologies for use in fabric, dish, and personal care products, as well as in industrial cleaning applications.

This partnership unites BASF’s deep chemical and formulation expertise with IFF’s advanced biotechnology and protein engineering capabilities. The joint initiative aims to unlock new pathways in enzyme and polymer innovation, offering customers across sectors high-performance, sustainable alternatives that meet the increasing demand for eco-friendly, resource-efficient products.

“This partnership marks a strategically significant step for both companies,” said Michael Heinz, Member of the Board of Executive Directors at BASF. “By combining our research and development expertise, we are creating the foundation to bring large-scale innovative solutions to market faster for our customers.”

Echoing this sentiment, Erik Fyrwald, CEO of IFF, stated: “We are very excited about the collaboration with BASF to jointly unlock new potential in enzyme and polymer technologies. Our partnership enables us to develop market-driven solutions that create sustainable value for both the industry and the environment.”

The collaboration will focus on the creation of novel enzyme systems and biobased polymers, targeting both performance enhancement and environmental sustainability. Customers can expect solutions that improve cleaning efficiency, optimize personal care formulations, and lower the ecological footprint of end products. While both companies will continue to operate independently, they will leverage their complementary strengths to accelerate innovation and offer expanded choices to customers around the world.

This alliance reflects BASF’s and IFF’s shared commitment to driving sustainability and shaping the future of bio-based chemistry—delivering technologies that not only perform better but also contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable planet.

About IFF

At IFF (NYSE: IFF), we make joy through science, creativity and heart. As the global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, health and biosciences, we deliver groundbreaking, sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products — advancing wellness, delighting the senses and enhancing the human experience. Learn more at www.iff.com, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.
About BASF

At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. Our ambition: We want to be the preferred chemical company to enable our customers’ green transformation. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Around 112,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio comprises, as core businesses, the segments Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, and Nutrition & Care; our standalone businesses are bundled in the segments Surface Technologies and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of €65.3 billion in 2024. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the United States. Further information at www.basf.com.
Media Contact:

IFF

Paulina Heinkel
Paulina.Heinkel@IFF.com

BASF

Jasmin Haile
+49 621 60-48122
+49 1525 6409176
Jasmin.haile@basf.com

SOURCE: BASF SE