Danone expands global microbiome leadership with Paris-Saclay OneBiome Lab
Danone has officially inaugurated its OneBiome Lab in Paris-Saclay, establishing a flagship research hub dedicated to advancing microbiome science, precision nutrition, and digital health.
The move marks a pivotal expansion of Danone’s science-led innovation strategy and reinforces its leadership in gut health across the food and beverage sector.
Building on its initial launch in Singapore — where the lab focused on early-life microbiome development — the Paris-Saclay facility is designed to accelerate translational research into the gut microbiome’s role in systemic health.
The lab integrates Danone’s century-long expertise with clinical data, consumer insights, and advanced capabilities in microbiology, AI, and data science to support the development of targeted nutritional solutions for both consumers and patients.
The microbiome’s influence on health has become a cornerstone of modern nutrition science, with growing demand for biotic-enriched products and functional formulations. Yet, consumer awareness remains fragmented: only half of surveyed individuals believe they have a healthy microbiota, underscoring the need for continued education and innovation.
“This launch deepens our scientific infrastructure and strengthens our Renew Strategy,” said Antoine de Saint-Affrique, CEO of Danone. “It’s a strategic investment in microbiome science that will help us deliver health through food at scale.”
Isabelle Esser, chief research, innovation, quality and food safety officer, added: “We see biotics — probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, and symbiotics — as foundational to the future of nutrition. Danone has long pioneered this space, and OneBiome will allow us to push the boundaries of biotic innovation across all life stages.”
The Paris-Saclay launch follows Danone’s acquisition of The Akkermansia Company, a microbiome-focused biotech known for its work in gut health solutions. This complements Danone’s specialised nutrition portfolio and supports ongoing innovation across its flagship brands, including Activia and Actimel. Recent launches such as Activia Fiber, Activia Proactive, and Actimel+ Triple Action reflect this commitment to science-backed formulation.
Beyond product development, OneBiome is positioned to drive industry collaboration, elevate public discourse on microbiome science, and reinforce Danone’s role as a thought leader in health-focused food innovation.
