Novonesis launches Vertera Velvet enzyme to elevate plant-based beverage quality amid strong financial start 

DENMARK – Novonesis, a global biosolutions leader, has unveiled Vertera Velvet, a new enzyme-based ingredient aimed at transforming the quality of plant-based beverages.  

Vertera Velvet addresses key formulation challenges faced by producers in the plant-based beverage sector. These include foam quality, texture enhancement, protein functionality, and coffee stability—factors that often impact consumer acceptance and product performance. 

A standout feature of the ingredient is protein deamidase, an enzyme that converts protein-bound glutamine into glutamic acid without degrading the protein structure.  

This modification improves protein solubility, leading to smoother textures, enhanced emulsification, and better beverage stability, without affecting flavor. 

Vertera Velvet is compatible with a wide range of plant-based substrates. It enables manufacturers to develop oat drinks with long-lasting foam, pea protein beverages with improved coffee stability, and soy-based drinks with better emulsification. Its adaptability allows formulators to address multiple issues using a single solution. 

Birgitte Borch, Head of Plant & Food at Novonesis, said, “Biosolutions unlock the full potential of plant-based drinks by enhancing taste, texture, and functionality, without adding complexity or compromising on sustainability. We help plant-based producers in meeting consumers’ expectations, from protein nutrition to improving foaming and coffee stability.” 

The launch follows the formation of Novonesis in 2024 through the merger of Novozymes and Chr. Hansen, creating a company with annual revenues of approximately €3.7 billion and around 10,000 employees across over 30 industries.  

Novonesis focuses on two core areas: Human Health & Food, and Planetary Health, with solutions spanning enzymes, probiotics, prebiotics, and other functional ingredients. 

Financial Results

Novonesis also reported a strong start to its financial year, recording 11% organic sales growth and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 38.3%.  

In Food & Health Biosolutions, Food & Beverages grew 11%, while Human Health rose by 13%, driven by demand in dietary supplements. 

In Planetary Health Biosolutions, Household Care climbed by 12%, and Agriculture, Energy & Tech increased 10%, with energy and tech leading the gains. Emerging markets grew 15% organically, and developed markets grew by 9%. 

For 2025, the company has maintained its forecast of 5–8% organic sales growth (6–9% excluding country exits) and expects an adjusted EBITDA margin of 37–38%, despite currency-related challenges. 

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