WUR Spin-off The Akkermansia: From Fundamental Science to Global Impact on Health and Nutrition

Founded in 2016 on the basis of joint research from UC Louvain and WUR, the company developed the patented biotic strain Akkermansia muciniphila MucT™. This next-generation bacterial strain has been clinically validated and has proven effects in strengthening the gut barrier and reducing inflammation in the immune system — relevant for a wide range of conditions, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

From Wageningen Science to Global Application

Professor Willem M. de Vos, Emeritus Professor at Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and co-founder and CTO of The Akkermansia Company, discovered Akkermansia at the Laboratory of Microbiology in Wageningen and played a key role in the further development of the bacterial strain: “Our work on Akkermansia muciniphila began with a hypothesis about its role in metabolic and gut health. That research has since been developed into a clinically validated, consumer-ready product. Early backing from a range of investors (including Seventure and Innovation Industries) enabled us to scale up quickly. With our presence already established in Europe, the United States, and China, we are now focusing on expanding our product portfolio to further enhance our health impact. Early backing from various investors (including Seventure and Innovation Industries) enabled us to scale up quickly. With our presence already established in Europe, the United States, and China, we are now focusing on expanding our product portfolio to further enhance our the health impact.”

Michael Oredsson, CEO of The Akkermansia Company, adds: “From the outset, our mission has been to develop microbiome-based health solutions that are firmly grounded in science and make a real difference in people’s lives. Becoming part of a global leader in nutrition allows us to fast-track that ambition and significantly expand our impact on public health worldwide.”

The acquisition by Danone highlights the company’s strategic focus on gut health and innovation, in line with growing consumer demand for scientifically supported health products.

Academic Excellence Driving Breakthrough Innovation

The Akkermansia Company has its roots in fundamental microbiological research at WUR. This acquisition demonstrates how academic excellence can lead to breakthrough innovation and create tangible societal value. In 2021, the company achieved a world first with the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) approving the use of pasteurised Akkermansia muciniphila as a novel food ingredient.

The successful exit was made possible in part by Dutch investment fund Innovation Industries, which has supported the company since 2018. According to the fund, this milestone confirms the potential for European deep-tech companies to scale internationally.