VIENNA. Austria – October 29, 2024 — DirectSens, a pioneer in next generation biosensor technology, announces the acquisition of its LactoSens® technology by Kerry Group, a global leader in taste and nutrition. The acquisition of LactoSens® reflects DirectSens’ success in developing cutting-edge biosensor solutions and represents a move by Kerry Group to complement its offering in lactase enzymes. As an indispensable analytical tool, LactoSens® will work alongside Kerry Group’s ingredient solutions, enabling a more integrated offering for food manufacturers.
“We’re excited to bring LactoSens® into Kerry Group’s portfolio to add a new element to our offering, as we fully integrate LactoSens® into our broader solutions for the food and beverage industry.”
— Ronan Moloney, Vice President Enzymes, Kerry Group
Proven track record with global success of LactoSens®
Since its introduction, 8 years ago, LactoSens® has become the industry’s preferred solution for fast, accurate, and cost-effective lactose detection. It is widely used in food and beverage manufacturing, enabling producers to meet stringent regulatory requirements while running their processes efficiently. Its real-time analysis capabilities give manufacturers a competitive edge, solidifying LactoSens® as a market leader.
DirectSens’ Market-Leading Enzyme Engineering and BioSensor technology
For DirectSens, this acquisition proves the market value of its biosensor technology.
“This deal underscores the quality of our biosensor technology and manufacturing capabilities. We will continue to execute on our vision to develop and deliver fast and precise biosensor solutions for key analytes to the global marketplace.” said Dr. Christoph Sygmund, CEO of DirectSens.
As the trusted contract manufacturer, DirectSens will continue to ensure the high-quality production of LactoSens®, upholding the product’s established market reputation. This acquisition reinforces DirectSens’ position as a key innovator in the biosensor industry, demonstrating its ability to not only develop cutting-edge technology but also deliver practical, market-ready products.
Excited by this success, the DirectSens team, with its dedicated and passionate individuals, is looking forward to continuing to create new products such as OatSens®, LactaZyme®, XPressGT®,
and to foster collaborations with valued partners.
A Testament to Long-Term Investment and Austrian Innovation
The acquisition of LactoSens® by Kerry Group marks a defining moment in DirectSens’ 12-year journey from its foundation as a spin-off of BOKU University to becoming a global leader in biosensor technology. DirectSens’ 12 years journey from a spin-off at BOKU University to a global biosensor leader is a testament to the power of long-term vision and sustained support. This success was made possible through pivotal early investments from BOKU, TecNet, AWS, FFG, and the Vienna Business Agency, Lisa Vienna along with the ongoing support from Innofly Management, i5invest, Brandl Thalos, VScore, Horwarth-Pregetter, Herbst-Kisnky, Redl IP, and the guidance of a highly skilled advisory board.
“Our success is a direct result of the unwavering support from our funding partners, who believed in our vision from the very beginning,” said Dr. Roman Kittl, COO of DirectSens. “It’s been a long journey, but the dedication, collaboration, and investment over the years have paid off in a way that truly reflects the strength of Austria’s innovation ecosystem.”
About DirectSens
DirectSens was founded in 2013 in Vienna, Austria, as a biotech company as a spinoff of BOKU University, Vienna). Specializing in the development of biosensors, DirectSens provides innovative solutions such as LactoSens®, a rapid lactose detection biosensor. With a commitment to excellence, DirectSens continues to expand its product portfolio to meet the evolving demands of the global market.
About Kerry Group
Kerry Group is a world leader in taste and nutrition, serving the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical markets. With a commitment to innovation, Kerry Group helps its customers create sustainable, delicious, and healthy products for consumers worldwide. See related press release.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Gina Gazzari
gina.gazzari@directsens.com
www.directsens.com
