- Locus Fermentation Solutions (Locus FS) becomes the first and only domestic producer of commercial quantities of biosurfactants in the USA
- The biosurfactant company’s full line of glycolipids have TSCA certification for all industrial and consumer applications, including in agriculture, energy, industrial and consumer products
- Locus FS is authorized to manufacture unlimited quantities of biosurfactants annually, providing a significant advantage and solidifying its position as the leader in domestic biosurfactant production
SOLON, Ohio (October 17, 2024) In a critical advancement for US production of 100% bio-based ingredients, Locus Fermentation Solutions (Locus FS), a domestic biomanufacturing leader, announced expansion of Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) registration for its biosurfactants from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The approval makes Locus FS the first and only domestic biosurfactant supplier that can produce commercial volumes within the United States, using a diverse range of renewable raw materials. It is a crucial milestone for broadening use of the sustainable ingredients across key applications in agriculture, oil & gas, mining, home care, personal care, industrial and others.
The Urgent Need for Domestic Production of Biosurfactant Ingredients
The chemical industry is experiencing a rapid and significant shift towards increased adoption of bio-based ingredients. Fermentation-produced biosurfactants have emerged as a top alternative to chemical ingredients due to their unmatched environmental and performance benefits. The versatile and 100% bio-based ingredients can be used in applications across a wide range of consumer and industrial markets.
Because of this, recent legislation has highlighted the urgent need to increase domestic production of these biosurfactant ingredients. However, producing biosurfactants at scale within the U.S. requires EPA TSCA registration through a Premanufacture Notice (PMN) approval process.
Dr. Maxwell Shumba, VP of Global Regulatory Affairs & Strategy for Locus FS, commented, “Expanding the list of TSCA-approved biosurfactants significantly broadens the availability of sustainable chemical alternatives that prioritize environmental safety and regulatory compliance. Demand from formulators seeking high-performance, eco-friendly biosurfactants has been and continues to be high. The TSCA expansion reaffirms our position as a leading biosurfactant supplier to meet those needs. Our diligent work done over multiple years is revolutionizing the chemical industry while also paving the way for other biosurfactant companies.”
Locus FS: The Only Biosurfactant Supplier That Can Produce Commercial Volumes in the US
Currently, Locus FS stands as the only US biosurfactant producer with PMN, enabling production of the ingredients at commercial volumes. The approval includes both linear and lactonic, and hydrolyzed and non-hydrolyzed versions of the company’s glycolipids for use in consumer and industrial applications.
“Other biomanufacturing companies are limited to importing biosurfactants at a significant cost and cannot produce them within the US. Locus FS’ TSCA approval allows us to domestically manufacture an impressive annual volume far larger than what’s typical,” Shumba said. “This regulatory expansion grants Locus FS a significant advantage.”
Locus FS also has REACH registrations from the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and the UK, enabling distribution of the biosurfactants across the EU and Great Britain through its ingredients division.
FAQ
What is TSCA?
The Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) is a federal law that mandates the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to evaluate and regulate chemicals in the US. It mitigates potential risks associated with the chemicals, promotes information disclosure and facilitates testing and reporting, ensuring the protection of human health, safety and the environment.
What are biosurfactants?
Biosurfactants are a class of surfactants – ingredients commonly found in a variety of products and industries. Biosurfactants are produced by non-GMO microorganisms without any chemical or genetic manipulation. They can replace toxic chemical surfactants in almost any application.
Biosurfactants Are a Top Sustainable Ingredient Choice
Locus FS’ biosurfactants offer a solution to regulatory challenges and concerns related to 1,4-Dioxane, Proposition 65 labeling and palm oil production that can be common with other bio-based and chemical ingredients. The biosurfactants are derived from responsibly sourced, 100% renewable resources such as fatty acids and carbohydrates. They are free of palm oil, 1,4-dioxane, formaldehyde, ethylene oxide (EO) or other Proposition 65 regulated trace chemicals. This sustainable approach ensures minimal environmental impact with a low carbon footprint and premium performance. 
In addition to being USDA Certified 100% Biobased, readily biodegradable and non-GMO, the biosurfactants are extremely versatile and multifunctional. They have proven success in applications across key global industries such as agriculture, animal nutrition, consumer products, health and wellness, industrial products, mining and oil and gas.
For more information on Locus Fermentation Solutions’ TSCA-certified biosurfactants and their application in various industrial and CPG formulations, please visit LocusFS.com.
READ MORE: EPA Expands TSCA Registration to Full Amphi Biosurfactant Line
###
About Locus Fermentation Solutions
Locus Fermentation Solutions (Locus FS) uses patented biomanufacturing technology to deliver biological alternatives to chemicals that accelerate the profitable meeting of decarbonization goals for clients. These solutions are tailored to address global ESG challenges—including climate change, food security, product sustainability, water contamination, oil and mineral demand, and more. Once field proven, the biobased ingredients are commercialized through industry-specific operating divisions.
Locus Fermentation Solutions’ divisions include Locus Agriculture, which helps farmers grow more food and minimize greenhouse emissions; Locus Animal Nutrition, which reduces methane emissions while boosting productivity of livestock; Locus Bio-Energy, which works with oil & gas operators to increase production of fossil fuels with lower carbon intensity; Locus Mining, which accelerates the clean-energy transition by boosting recovery of critical metals; Locus Ingredients, which helps clients replace chemical and palm-based surfactants in industrial and product formulations; and Locus Consumer Brands, which develops clean-label CPG products. Visit LocusFS.com for more information.