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Dairy giant Danone has inaugurated its OneBiome Laboratory in Paris, France, strengthening the company’s position in microbiome science and nutrition-driven health innovation.

The new facility is located within the Paris-Saclay research and innovation cluster in the south of the French capital, which is home to the Paris-Saclay University and Polytechnic Institute of Paris. It will act as a global hub for research into the gut micobiome, nutrition and digital health.

Building on the OneBiome Lab first launched in Singapore with a focus on early life, the Paris-Saclay site expands Danone’s scientific capabilities to accelerate the development of targeted nutrition solutions.

The lab brings together advanced microbiology, artificial intelligence and data science to explore how gut health influences overall wellbeing. The initiative underscores growing industry and consumer interest in the microbiome, an area in which Danone has been active for more than a century.

“Science and innovation are at the heart of Danone’s mission to bring health through food to as many people as possible,” said Antoine de Saint-Affrique, chief executive officer of Danone. “The launch of the Danone OneBiome Laboratory marks a new chapter in our Renew Strategy, deepening our capabilities in microbiome science and reinforcing our leadership in science-led health innovation.”

Isabelle Esser, Danone’s chief research, innovation, quality and food safety officer, highlighted the company’s long-standing commitment to biotics. “We believe the future of nutrition lies in understanding and harnessing the power of probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics and symbiotics for gut health," she commented. "With these new capabilities, we will continue to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge and its application in food.”

The opening follows Danone’s recent acquisition of The Akkermansia Company, a microbiome-focused innovator in gut health solutions. This move complements Danone’s portfolio of science-backed brands, including Activia and Actimel, which have recently expanded with innovations such as Activia Fibre, Activia Proactive and Actimel+ Triple Action.

Consumer awareness of gut health continues to grow, yet research cited by Danone shows that only one in two people believe they have a healthy microbiota. The company sees this as an opportunity to advance both education and innovation in the category.

By anchoring its microbiome research at Paris-Saclay, Danone aims to foster collaboration with academic partners, stimulate public interest in gut health and accelerate the delivery of science-driven, preventive nutrition solutions for both consumers and patients.