Leipzig Biotech Startup Cracks Industrial Production of Human Milk Sugars

Primogene, a Leipzig-based biotech startup, has made strides in producing complex human milk sugars at an industrial scale. The company's proprietary technology now allows it to create eight biologically identical human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs). These substances, the third-largest solid component in human breast milk, are set to enhance infant formula and other nutritional products.

The startup's enzymatic production method has already yielded results. It has successfully manufactured eight distinct HMOs, which can be used to enrich infant formula and support health across different life stages. Partnerships with major firms like DSM and BASF will help bring these ingredients to market in nutritional products.

Primogene's technology extends beyond food applications. The same method can produce bioidentical molecules for skincare and pharmaceuticals, opening further commercial opportunities. The company has also begun generating early revenue and plans to launch cosmetic ingredients later this year.

Support for Primogene has come from multiple sources. It secured funding from biotech-focused investors, including Climate Founders, and received grants from Saxony and the city of Leipzig. The state's innovation platform, futureSAX, helped turn the startup's ideas into viable products by fostering industry connections. Recently, Primogene won third place in the 2024 Saxon Founders' Award, boosting its visibility and expanding its professional network.

With its scalable production method and strong industry partnerships, Primogene is positioning itself as a key player in biotech. The company's HMOs and bioidentical molecules are expected to appear in infant formula, skincare, and pharmaceuticals soon. Early revenue and ongoing funding suggest steady progress toward broader commercialisation.