Danone inaugurates OneBiome Laboratory in Paris-Saclay, strengthening gut health innovation

Danone inaugurated its OneBiome Laboratory in Paris-Saclay, marking a new milestone in science-driven gut health innovation. Credit: Danone

The OneBiome Lab will act as Danone’s global hub for microbiome science, nutrition and digital health. It builds on the company’s long-standing expertise in biotics and nutrition to accelerate research into the gut microbiome and its impact on overall health.

The facility expands on Danone’s first OneBiome Lab, launched in Singapore with a focus on early life, and will use advanced microbiology, artificial intelligence and data science to develop targeted nutrition solutions. According to the company, the lab underscores its ambition to deliver cutting-edge, science-led health innovations that respond to consumer and patient needs.

“The launch of the Danone OneBiome Laboratory marks a new chapter in our Renew Strategy, deepening our capabilities in microbiome science and reinforcing our leadership in science-led health innovation,” said Antoine de Saint-Affrique, Chief Executive Officer of Danone.

Reinforcing leadership in gut health innovation

Danone emphasised that interest in gut health has grown significantly, both in the scientific community and among consumers. Yet, only one in two people believe they have a healthy gut microbiota – highlighting the need for more education, innovation and accessible solutions.

“Since our founding over a century ago, Danone has been a pioneer in this field – leveraging science and technology to create biotic-enriched products that support diverse health needs across all life stages,” explained Isabelle Esser, Danone’s Chief Research, Innovation, Quality and Food Safety Officer.

The launch of the Paris-Saclay site follows Danone’s acquisition of The Akkermansia Company, a leader in microbiome-based solutions, and complements its established brands such as Activia and Actimel, which continue to evolve with formulations like Activia Fiber, Activia Proactive and Actimel+ Triple Action.

Danone stated that the new laboratory reflects its ambition to foster collaboration, raise public awareness of microbiome science and provide preventive, science-based nutritional solutions that meet the evolving needs of consumers worldwide.