Bunge acquires assets of MCN Bioproducts

Assets purchased include intellectual property related to the conversion of canola and rapeseed meals into nutritionally dense protein concentrates that can replace both fish meal and vegetable protein concentrates in animal diets, including aquaculture.

MCN was formed by David Maenz, Henry Classen and Rex Newkirk, University of Saskatchewan researchers, and developed a unique, patented process to manufacture value-added canola-based ingredients for the aquaculture and animal feed industries.

Todd Lahti, President & CEO of MCN said, "We have taken this technology from the lab bench to the processing floor and proven the commercial value of our new canola-based products.

“The time is right to pass it on to a major processor with worldwide operations. Bunge has the processing and distribution expertise and infrastructure to maximize the technology’s potential in a commercial setting."

Miguel Oliveira, Executive Director, Bunge Global Innovation, said, "Animal nutrition continues to evolve and requires innovative products that deliver value in sustainable ways. MCN’s technology opens up opportunities for Bunge to provide protein alternatives in markets where we already operate, as well as in new ones.

“Importantly, the new concentrates are produced via a patented enzymatic water-based process that can be added to an existing canola and rapeseed crushing plant without affecting oil quality or yield.”