Optimize Hyaluronic Acid Fermentation with NuCel® for Cosmetic and Nutraceutical Applications

In the fast-evolving landscape of hyaluronic acid production for cosmetic and nutraceutical applications, consistency, yield, and downstream clarity are critical. NuCel® is a yeast-based nutrient solution developed by Procelys to meet these challenges head-on. Engineered for both precision and traditional microbial fermentation, it helps producers streamline operations, boost yield, and ensure regulatory compliance — all without animal-derived components.

Why fermentation efficiency matters for hyaluronic acid

The global hyaluronic acid market continues to grow rapidly, driven by applications in anti-aging skincare, dermal fillers, and joint health. Yet producers face persistent hurdles: variability in molecular weight, long fermentation cycles, and complex downstream purification steps. High viscosity and impurities can further slow mixing and filtration, impacting both yield and consistency. At the same time, regulators and consumers are demanding animal-free, allergen-free solutions with transparent certification.

What is NuCel® — and what makes it different?

NuCel® is a high-performance yeast-based nutrient designed to support microbial hyaluronic acid fermentation, particularly with Streptococcus zooepidemicus. Its key differentiators:

  • Fully animal-free, allergen-free, GMO-free, compliant with food and cosmetic-grade standards.
  • Certified Halal and Kosher.
  • Available as a light-colored, highly soluble powder formulated for clarity and consistent nutrient delivery.

This composition ensures both process performance and regulatory peace of mind.

Proven results in hyaluronic acid yield and efficiency

Extensive trials with S. zooepidemicus show NuCel®’s measurable advantages over standard yeast extracts:

  • +62% hyaluronic acid yield vs. competitor YE (2.64 g/L vs. 1.63 g/L).
  • +18% yield vs. previous-generation Procelys yeast extracts.
  • Fermentation shortened by up to 4 hours, with a reduced lag phase and faster glucose uptake.
  • High reproducibility across batches, ensuring predictable results.

Supporting downstream processing and formulation

NuCel® is formulated to ease one of hyaluronic acid production’s most expensive pain points: downstream processing. The nutrient’s high solubility and low turbidity support higher titers and smoother filtration. This translates into less product loss, easier purification, and higher hyaluronic acid purity in the final material.

By using the NuCel® range, producers can deliver hyaluronic acid that is fully animal-free and aligned with clean-label expectations in beauty and nutraceutical markets.

Typical applications and use cases

NuCel® supports hyaluronic acid production across a wide range of formulations:

  • Cosmetic applications: anti-aging creams, hydrating gels, dermal fillers.
  • Nutraceuticals: oral beauty-from-within supplements, joint health capsules.
  • Compatible with both pilot-scale and industrial bioreactors.
  • Suitable for zooepidemicus and other microbial hyaluronic acid-producing platforms.

A partner you can trust

NuCel® is part of Procelys’ broader yeast-based nutrient portfolio. As a Lesaffre Business Unit, Procelys combines:

  • 170+ years of fermentation heritage and global expertise.
  • Regional technical support and dedicated application labs to assist HA producers worldwide.
  • An in-house innovation team** focused on microbial nutrition and process optimization.
  • Access to Lesaffre’s global R&D network and capabilities, from academic collaborations to applied science hubs.

 

This makes Procelys more than a supplier — it is a committed partner for microbial precision and bioprocess performance.

Take the next step!

Discover how NuCel® can help you maximize hyaluronic acid yield, shorten fermentation cycles, and achieve consistent clean-label production.

Download the NuCel® infographic to see the data behind the results and connect with a Procelys fermentation expert today.