Evonik has announced a strategic partnership with InVitria, a leading developer of recombinant proteins and supplements, to supply animal component-free (ACF) recombinant human serum albumin (rHSA) to the global biopharmaceutical market.

The collaboration combines Evonik’s global reach and expertise in cell culture ingredients with InVitria’s cutting-edge recombinant production technology, promising safer, more consistent, and scalable protein solutions for drug development.

Under the agreement, Evonik will distribute InVitria’s blood-free rHSA portfolio to its biopharma customers. Recombinant human serum albumin is a key protein used to stabilize, protect, and transport molecules in drug development.

InVitria’s rHSA is expressed in a non-mammalian host, eliminating the need for animal- or human-derived serum proteins. This approach reduces contamination risks, supply constraints, and batch variability, delivering a high-purity ingredient that enhances process efficiency and product stability across a wide range of applications, from cell culture and gene therapy to vaccine development and regenerative medicine.

"By combining our expertise in cell culture and parenteral drug product solutions with InVitria’s innovative recombinant technologies, we are well positioned to support the development of highly innovative biopharmaceuticals,” said Guido Skudlarek, head of Evonik’s Health Care business line. “This collaboration marks the starting point for Evonik’s growth in recombinant proteins.”

Scott Deeter, CEO of InVitria, added: “This partnership strengthens our shared commitment to providing reliable, animal-origin-free protein solutions that enhance process efficiency, ensure product quality, and accelerate innovation across the life sciences.”

The move comes at a time of strong market growth for recombinant human serum albumin, projected to expand at nearly 10% CAGR from 2025 to 2033. Increasing demand for safe, animal-free protein alternatives in biopharmaceutical manufacturing is driving this growth, as companies prioritize sustainability, scalability, and regulatory compliance.

Evonik’s collaboration with InVitria aligns with its strategic focus on Advanced Precision Biosolutions, strengthening its portfolio of recombinant proteins and enabling biopharma companies to accelerate innovation across multiple therapeutic areas. InVitria’s non-animal rHSA provides a sustainable solution that reduces risks, improves consistency, and supports the development of next-generation biologics, vaccines, cell and gene therapies, and regenerative medicine.