Cargill’s Baupte site cuts CO2 emissions by 45% with major process modernization

Cargill's Baupte site cuts CO2 emissions by 45% with major process modernization

Upgrade improves energy efficiency and reinforces Baupte's industrial role in Normandy

BAUPTE, France - 9 April 2026 - Cargill's Baupte has reduced total site CO2 emissions by 45% following the modernization of one of its most energy-intensive production processes. Supported by an investment of approximately €25 million, the project marks a major step in improving the site's energy efficiency and strengthening its industrial performance.

As part of the upgrade, Cargill modernized the site's most energy-intensive process by introducing Mechanical Vapor Recompression (MVR) technology. This replaces natural gas-based steam with an electrically driven system that captures, recompresses and reuses vapors generated during production as the primary heat source, significantly improving energy efficiency while maintaining production performance.

"This system, operating since the end of 2025, reduces emissions by approximately 13,700 metric tons of CO₂ per year, supporting Cargill's broader global ambition to reduce emissions from its operations by 25% by 2035¹, said Valery Bauchart, site manager, Cargill Baupte. The investment also aligns with France's focus on industrial decarbonization and energy efficiency, while reinforcing the role of local manufacturing in delivering more sustainable food ingredient production."

The Baupte site produces carrageenan, biopolymers and other texturizing solutions for applications including dairy desserts, cocoa-based milk drinks, plant-based alternatives, confectionery, sauces, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products. The site supports food manufacturers in developing and reformulating products with the texture, stability, and consistency consumers expect.

Minister Delegate for Industry, Mr Sébastien Martin, who closely followed the project, said: "The modernization of the Cargill site in Baupte provides a concrete illustration of the strategy we are pursuing: electrifying our economy to produce better while emitting less. Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, we are making decarbonized electricity a central lever of our reindustrialization. This project demonstrates that it is possible to combine competitiveness, industrial sovereignty, and environmental transition. This is exactly the direction we are giving to our industry."

Established in 1941, the site employs around 275 people and exports more than 75% of its production globally, contributing to both the regional economy and Europe's food ingredient supply. Baupte also hosts a dairy-focused Food Innovation Center, supporting product development and application expertise.

¹Against a 2020 baseline.

About Cargill

Cargill is committed to providing food, ingredients, agricultural solutions, and industrial products to nourish the world in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way. Sitting at the heart of the supply chain, we partner with farmers and customers to source, make and deliver products that are vital for living.

Our 155K+ employees innovate with purpose, providing customers with life's essentials so businesses can grow, communities prosper, and consumers live well. With 160 years of experience as a family company, we look ahead while remaining true to our values. We put people first. We reach higher. We do the right thing-today and for generations to come. For more information, visit Cargill.com and our News Center.