Mane secures exclusive licence for Arzeda's AI-driven Reb M stevia production
Mane has licensed Arzeda's AI-designed enzyme technology for efficient Reb M production, targeting the sugar reduction market with a cleaner-tasting, cost-effective stevia variant. This move enhances Mane's control over the Reb M supply chain, offering opportunities for brand owners seeking high-purity, naturally-derived sweeteners.
London, United Kingdom — 16 July 2026
Mane has secured an exclusive global licence from US-based Arzeda for its ViaLeaf Reb M technology, a significant development for the sugar reduction sector. This agreement grants Mane rights to produce and commercialise the AI-designed enzyme technology, which enhances the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of Reb M sweetener production. It allows for the use of less processed stevia extract, reducing waste and delivering a high-purity (95%+) stevia variant, according to Guus Gerritsen, Director of Mane Ingredients USA. ViaLeaf Reb M is 285 times sweeter than sucrose and offers a neutral, sugar-like flavour profile, addressing a critical market demand for sweeteners without the characteristic aftertastes associated with other steviol glycosides like Reb A.
This expanded partnership, building on a March 2026 collaboration, positions Mane to control the full value chain of ViaLeaf Reb M. This integration aims to streamline supply for food and beverage manufacturers seeking to reformulate products for reduced sugar content. Unlike other Reb M producers such as Cargill and dsm-firmenich, Arzeda’s process does not rely on fermentation. Instead, it leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Intelligent Protein Design Technology (IPDT) to optimise the conversion of natural stevia leaf extract into high-purity Reb M. Arzeda asserts its IPDT platform, informed by 15 years of proprietary data, significantly improves the conversion of stevia extract, thereby increasing the sustainable yield of Reb M.
Mane currently produces Reb M in the US, with Europe identified as a potential expansion market should demand necessitate additional capacity. The company views substantial market opportunities where manufacturers are aiming to reduce sugar or enhance the palatability of products currently sweetened with Reb A. Gerritsen highlighted ViaLeaf Reb M’s regulatory positioning, noting its existing FDA GRAS (Generally Recognised As Safe) notification with a 'no-questions letter', and Flavor Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA) GRAS status for specific flavour applications. Beyond the US, ViaLeaf Reb M has garnered approvals in Canada, Mexico, and India, with an assessment from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) currently pending. The sweetener is also Kosher, Halal, and Non-GMO Project verified, simplifying compliance for brand owners targeting diverse consumer segments.
What this means for United Kingdom
UK brand owners gain enhanced access to a non-fermented, high-purity Reb M sweetener, crucial for meeting increasing consumer and regulatory pressure for sugar reduction without compromising taste. The pending EFSA assessment is a key milestone for market entry; upon approval, ViaLeaf Reb M will offer a competitively priced alternative to existing stevia options, potentially driving down raw material costs. Manufacturers should prepare for reformulation windows and explore new product development opportunities leveraging the neutral taste profile. This technology could improve competitive positioning against brands using conventional stevia, offering superior-tasting low-sugar products across categories from beverages to confectionery.
Mane’s strategic investment in AI-driven ingredient technology aligns with broader industry movements towards advanced R&D to address global health trends. The company reported a revenue of €2.012 billion for FY2025 despite economic challenges, indicating a strong position to scale this new offering. This licence solidifies Mane's sugar-reduction portfolio and provides brand owners with a scientifically advanced solution for cleaner label formulations.
This trend is being actively addressed by UK manufacturing partners including Supplement Factory.