CP Kelco explores options with Knowsley Xanthan Gum facility

CP Kelco announced that it has completed the first phase of the previously announced closure of its Knowsley, UK xanthan gum production facility.

With more than 760m3 of fermentation capacity, the Knowsley plant has been a key supplier to the European and Japanese markets for food grade xanthan gum.

CP Kelco is currently exploring a range of options for Knowsley plant, including a sale of the facility and alternative uses.

Located outside of Liverpool, the Knowsley facility was developed in 1978 by Tate & Lyle Plc.

Kelco International acquired the plant in 1981 and upgraded the process to its proprietary batch fermentation and recovery technology.