Global brands fell in love with “Biocorium - Biotechnology company specializing in plant fermentation"

Valerie Reynaud and Frédérique Cauzac co-founders of BIOCORIUM

In 2017, two experts who work in different fields but are connected at the intersection met. Valérie Reynaud, biotechnology and fermentation expert in plants, cosmetics and nutrition, and Frédérique Cauzac, a cosmetics chemist with expertise in active ingredients and regulatory areas. Hailing from Toulouse, southwest France, they set out to create a bespoke natural materials company that harnesses the power of nature. Through plant-based bio-fermentation technology, cosmetics and 'BIOCORIUM', a venture company that develops and produces active ingredients for health functional foods, was born. The company uses 100% natural ingredients, is free of GMOs (genetically modified organisms) and manufactures its materials sustainably. In addition, information on the production process of materials is transparently provided to consumers.

Biocorium is about to enter the Korean market. We asked co-founders Valerie Raynaud and Frédérique Cauzac about their philosophy on the development of cosmetic materials. This interview was conducted with the help of consultation firm Latitude37.? ?

Q. Tell us about BIOCORIUM

Since its establishment in 2017, Biocorium has been recognized as a company specializing in unique natural active ingredients through prestigious exhibitions such as CFIC, Cosmetagora and in-Cosmetics. Collaborating with global cosmetics brands has allowed us to grow even more. By applying for a patent for plant fermentation technology, we were able to enhance our reputation by highlighting our expertise and innovation in the field of plant fermentation cosmetics. Biocorium is a small but strong research company with six experts in the field of biotechnology and bioprocessing. All stages of the process, from fermentation generation to ingredient production, are carried out in Toulouse, France. We ensure uniform quality and transparent production processes. In addition, all of our products are 100% natural and superactives with biological properties, which have already proven their effectiveness in skincare products. The recently expanded 350 m2 laboratory has a strict security system in place to manage all stages of ingredient generation to ensure that the quality and safety requirements of the Korean market are met. Q. What are the main product lines of Biocorium? Biocorium's main product line consists of plant fermentation ingredients extracted from a variety of plants, each of which is produced from a variety of plant populations to best meet your skin's needs. Biocorium is positioning itself as a leader in providing customized plant fermentation ingredients in France. With our specialized R&D laboratory, we are able to respond to your specific choices and develop customized solutions that perfectly meet your expectations. Q. What are the global biotech and synthetic biology trends? The global fermentation market is segmented into two approaches: traditional biotechnology and synthetic biology. Biocorium favors biotechnology methods that focus on optimizing the natural fermentation process. This is to avoid chemical or genetic modification and to maximize the naturalness of the product. This is because it ensures the authenticity and purity of the fermented ingredients.

Synthetic biology, on the other hand, focuses on creating new strains of microorganisms that have been reprogrammed for the production of specific compounds. This method aims to develop artificial organisms or biological elements that do not exist in nature, or to modify existing biological systems in a controlled and predictable way. However, this raises ethical concerns, especially when it comes to the creation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

By adhering to the natural fermentation process, Biocorium adheres to the principle of sustainable and ethical solutions. Fermentation technology, in particular, plays an important role in reducing the carbon footprint of the industry. This contributes to the circular economy by converting agricultural waste and other biomass into valuable products. Due to economic growth and urbanization, there is an increasing demand for fermented products in the food, cosmetics industry in emerging markets. This trend reflects a growing awareness of the benefits of fermentation products for both health and the environment. It also signifies the growing importance of fermentation in global sustainable development strategies. ? Q. Are Biocorium's products in line with the clean beauty trend? Unlike traditional processes that focus on a single microbial strain, our approach relies on the complex and harmonious interaction of multiple microorganisms, working closely together to optimally modify the substrate. This symbiosis allows us to harness the synergistic metabolic capabilities of organisms to convert raw materials more efficiently while minimizing undesirable byproducts.

By maintaining this symbiosis, we are able to operate our business under conditions that respect the environment. This process is more resilient in nature, reducing the need for chemical intervention or artificial adjustments. It also minimizes waste emissions while allowing for more efficient use of resources. This environmentally friendly approach, combined with sustainable production, is the strength of our symbiotic fermentation method.

Q. Please introduce the fermentation technology of Biocorium.

Biochorium's specialty is the development of symbiotic fermentations. To extract and transform plant compounds, we select microorganisms that can interact and work together to create a synergistic effect. The advantages of symbiosis lie in the complementarity of the metabolic functions of microorganisms, the optimization of the environment of each species, the diversification of available resources, and the improvement of the overall resilience of the system. This synergy allows for the use of a wider range of carbon sources (energy for the process), where symbiosis allows us to utilize 19 different carbon sources, far more than each strain can achieve individually.

In particular, Biocorium selects the best microorganisms with which they can interact and defines the optimal conditions for these microorganisms to perform at their best. Study the plant fermentation process from laboratory scale to pilot scale to establish production conditions for customized superactive ingredients and products. Nothing is wasted in the process. Everything is transformed, and after plant fermentation, the essence remains in the product.

For example, during the fermentation of rosemary (rich in essential oils that do not dissolve in water), we observe the transformation of the molecule that acquires new properties, such as an increase in the availability of lipophilic molecules in water. This contrasts with the known solubility of plant-active molecules, which are often lipophilic.

These new properties expand the range of formulations available for skincare products. Symbiotic microorganisms act as micro-factories with a variety of tools that adapt to the plant's transformation, increasing efficiency. Plant fermentation allows the molecular diversity of plants to be preserved. This process is good for striking a dynamic balance between the microorganisms involved. It is important to maintain this balance throughout the fermentation process, which is our core technology. We have developed monitoring and control technologies that allow us to maintain an environment that allows us to perform optimally. It is not only a stable and efficient fermentation but also ensures consistent production in terms of quality and yield. ? Q. What are the exclusive extracts developed with global brands?

We have developed active materials that can be applied to luxury products. The line, which includes Double R Renew and Repair serums using two types of bio-fermented honey, features a biotechnological fermentation process that enhances its anti-aging benefits. In addition, the Capture Total line utilizes ingredients fermented from signature plants, and reformulates its signature serum through a 100% plant-based, eco-friendly process and a multi-fermentation process. These formulas are dry,? suitable for both oily and combination skin and it has been proven to be effective for clear and radiant skin.?

Q. What are you plans for entering the Korean market?

As a leading trend in the global beauty industry, K-beauty has placed Korea at the center of international attention and has emerged as a key player in the market, attracting the attention of global brands. When it comes to cosmetic materials, exploring the Korean market offers many advantages. South Korea is known for its expertise in cosmetics research and development. The Korean market is dynamic and constantly evolving, providing companies with the opportunity to explore new growth paths. In addition, the demand for natural and innovative cosmetics is increasing. Environmentally friendly products in Korea have the opportunity to provide raw materials that meet the aforementioned criteria. In addition,? We decided to enter Korea because it would be possible to expand into other Asian markets by utilizing our professional distribution network in the Korean market. ? Q. What do you think are the characteristics and advantages of the Korean cosmetics market, and what should be supplemented? Korean cosmetics consumers are known to be very demanding, sophisticated, and have strong purchasing power, especially when it comes to premium products. They are heavily influenced by trends and K-pop idols, and are keen on cutting-edge innovations in the beauty industry. In Korean culture, appearance is highly valued, which is why consumers care a lot about the quality and effectiveness of products. In addition, they are closely connected to social media, which plays an important role in their purchasing decisions.

Korea has a thousand-year history of plant fermentation and a wealth of know-how on health and well-being. France's cosmetics technology is also highly regarded in Korea. Biocorium will be able to demonstrate how plant-based fermentation differs from other technologies and how it can meet the expectations of Korean customers.

Biocorium is an innovative company that develops natural active ingredients through plant-based bio-fermentation technology? and ?places environmental protection and sustainability at the forefront of its values.

Q. What kind of products do you plan to focus on in the Korean market?

Fermented products are in line with cultural characteristics, values of naturalness and sustainability, and are expected to have strong competitiveness in the Korean market. In the cosmetics sector, where innovation and quality are of utmost importance, we will be able to gain recognition in the Korean market by providing unique values that are essential to capture the attention of consumers. We have developed a variety of seven plant fermentation ingredients: Hiumic Black Ti-sence, Hiumic Isisis, Hiumic Melissa, Jiumic Nettle, Hiumic Rosmary and Rosavie Water, a rose and oat complex. In addition, we also have a system that allows us to create custom materials to meet the specific requirements of the Korean market. ?

Q. What are your primary goals in the Korean market?

It's about building a local presence. To increase the credibility and recognition of your brand, you will build a strong foundation by establishing a physical presence or local representation. We'll also look at regulations. In addition to complying with Korean standards and regulations, we will form strategic partnerships to identify and collaborate with local distributors and partners to expand market reach and improve product distribution. In addition, we plan to analyze the needs and preferences of Korean consumers to tailor products and services to local trends. At the same time, we are also planning marketing and communication strategies specifically for the Korean market. And by constantly monitoring and incorporating the latest market trends, we will drive innovation by staying competitive and meeting consumer expectations. We will respond effectively by implementing mechanisms to adjust our strategies based on product feedback, market performance, and consumer feedback.

Q. What is the role of Latitude37 in collaborating to enter the Korean market?

To succeed in the highly competitive Korean market, it's important to work with a professional consulting firm like Latitude37 (www.latitude-37.com, shwoo @latitude-37.com) to understand the new market. Latitude37 will be responsible for providing on-site support in Korea and facilitating connections with established distributor networks. We will also conduct market research with in-depth knowledge of the specific needs of the Korean market to identify the latest trends and help us adjust our products accordingly. In addition, by working with local experts, we expect to be able to obtain the local expertise that is essential for a successful entry into the Korean market. ? Q. What are your future R&D plans?

Biocorium plans to focus on the development of fermented plant powders with a rich array of new molecules that show a strong affinity for oils. Extracting compounds from different quality oils can improve performance by introducing new properties to the oil. This process will not only help protect the oil from oxidation, but will also contribute to the creation of products that provide more moisture and protection from environmentally aggrieving substances.

Edited by Ahn Yongchan

Valérie Reynaud, Co-founder

Valérie Reynaud is a food science expert with deep expertise in the production of food and dietary supplements, the manufacturing process, and the unique challenges that come with it. While earning a Ph.D. in enzymatology and biotechnology from the Technical University of Compiègne, she entered the world of life sciences by conducting research on the metabolic pathways that regulate cancer cell growth. This process naturally led to the fields of biotechnology and fermentation, and she began to explore the interaction between fermented products and the gut microbiome. She studied plants and their healing properties, believing that natural ingredients promote health and well-being. Her dream is to create innovative solutions at the intersection of science and nature, pushing the boundaries of well-being.

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Frédérique Cauzac, Co-founder

As Frédérique Cauzac gained experience in pharmaceutical and cosmetic R&D with a focus on the delivery of active molecules, she realized that presenting active molecules to biological targets was just as important as the activity itself. "My research as a chemist was enriching, but I lacked living biological knowledge," she said. “That's why it inspired me to pursue a path in biotechnology and explore life at the heart of science." She is co-founder of Biocorium and oversees R&D projects to develop cosmetic ingredients from fermented plants. In addition, she was in charge of the field of cosmetics regulation and established her own cosmetics regulatory structure.

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