Evonik has entered a strategic partnership with InVitria, a leading developer of recombinant proteins and supplements, to supply animal component-free (ACF) recombinant human serum albumin to the global biopharmaceutical industry. The collaboration brings together Evonik’s global reach and expertise in cell culture ingredients with InVitria’s advanced recombinant production technology. It also enables more customers to access high-quality, animal-free ingredients that enhance process efficiency and product stability across cell culture and biologics formulations.
“By combining our expertise in cell culture and parenteral drug product solutions with InVitria’s innovative recombinant technologies, we are well positioned to support the development of highly innovative biopharmaceuticals. This collaboration is the starting point for Evonik’s future growth in recombinant proteins,” said Guido Skudlarek, head of the Health Care business line.
Evonik will distribute InVitria’s blood-free recombinant human serum albumin (rHSA) portfolio to its biopharma customers. InVitria’s rHSA is a highly pure recombinant version of albumin - a key protein used to stabilize, protect, and transport molecules in drug development. InVitria’s rHSA is expressed in a non-mammalian host, eliminating reliance on animal- or human-derived serum proteins. This avoids the risks of contamination, supply limitations, and batch variability. The result is a safer, more consistent ingredient that supports improved process efficiency and product stability across a wide range of biopharmaceutical applications such as cell culture, gene therapy, vaccine development or regenerative medicine.
"This collaboration strengthens our shared commitment to providing reliable, animal-origin-free protein solutions that enhance process efficiency, ensure product quality, and accelerate innovation across the life sciences,” said Scott Deeter, CEO of InVitria.
The market for recombinant human serum albumin is projected to grow nearly 10 percent (CAGR) from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fuelled by a demand for safe animal-free protein alternatives in the biopharmaceutical industry.
InVitria’s products are used by innovators developing vaccines, biologics, cell and gene therapies, and regenerative medicine. Using its proprietary ExpressTec system, InVitria harnesses the power of sunlight and water to produce recombinant proteins in plants - completely eliminating animal-derived components from gene to final product. This sustainable, non-animal approach reduces risk, improves consistency, and supports scalability.
Evonik is strengthening the innovation pipeline of pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies through its strategic focus on Advance Precision Biosolutions. rHSA supports different kinds of bioprocessing that can be used in various biosolutions. Building on its collaboration with InVitria, Evonik plans to expand its recombinant protein portfolio and therefore contribute to the growth of the company’s Precision Biosolutions. With over 60 years of experience, Evonik offers a comprehensive portfolio of high-quality cell culture ingredients - including amino acids, peptides, and plant-based lipids - designed to meet the evolving needs of biopharma.
