Caldic, a global ingredient distributor and specialty chemicals developer, announced a collaboration with Belgian biotech innovator AmphiStar. Through an exclusive agreement, Caldic will distribute and promote AmphiStar’s 100% upcycled biosurfactants across Europe, setting a new benchmark for sustainable, high-performance ingredients in personal care applications.
Per the companies, this collaboration aims to make biosurfactants a mainstream choice for personal care formulations, offering a sustainable, mild and effective alternative to traditional surfactants.
EU Green Deal- and Biotech Act-Compliant
Derived entirely from upcycled bio-based waste and side streams, AmphiStar’s biosurfactants are said to align with the EU’s European Green Deal and Biotech Act, helping brands meet the growing demand for eco-friendly, circular ingredients.
More specifically, the biosurfactants:
are produced through a mild microbial fermentation process using locally sourced, repurposed agri-food waste and side-streams,
are fossil- and palm-free,
are readily biodegradable,
and are safe for both skin and the environment.
In addition, unlike conventional biosurfactants, the ingredients are not tied to direct land use or dedicated agriculture, further reducing their environmental footprint.
LCA Shows 4x CO2 Reduction
What's more, a recent Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) revealed that AmphiStar’s biosurfactants can achieve a 4x reduction in CO₂ equivalent emissions, significantly lower land and water use, and a 50% overall reduction in environmental impact compared to non-upcycled equivalents.
According to the companies, the gap is even greater when compared to fossil- and palm-based surfactants.
Accelerating the Adoption of Biosurfactants
With its extensive European network and application labs, Caldic aims to accelerate the adoption of these innovative solutions, furthering its commitment to reducing environmental impact and supporting customers in creating future-proof formulations.
“By partnering with AmphiStar, we are introducing a next-generation solution to our customers; high-performance biosurfactants created through advanced upcycling of side streams. In addition to its low carbon footprint, the range presents a unique level of circular innovation that turns underused resources into valuable, mild and versatile ingredients,” said Michel Dewael, commercial director, Caldic Europe.
“This partnership allows us to accelerate our impact in Europe,” added Pierre-Franck Valentin, CEO of AmphiStar. “Caldic’s networks and expertise in creating tailored solutions for personal care customers in Europe will enable us to penetrate the European market faster and help more customers transition to sustainable solutions.”
This European partnership builds on AmphiStar’s recent collaboration with US chemicals leader Kensing, which focuses on the distribution and future manufacturing of biosurfactants in North America.
