Asahi Group Foods taps into European yeast market with Leiber acquisition

GERMANY – Japan-based Asahi Group Foods has taken a significant step in expanding its yeast business with the acquisition of Leiber GmbH, a German producer of sustainable brewers’ yeast products for the animal nutrition industry. 

The company signed a share transfer agreement on March 5, 2025, and plans to acquire 100% of Leiber’s shares by the end of April.

Leiber, founded in 1954, specialises in yeast-based products for various industries, including seasonings, functional ingredients, animal feed, and cell and microbial culture media. 

The company operates six production facilities in Germany, Spain, and Poland and has a global sales network covering Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas.

By acquiring Leiber, Asahi Group Foods will establish a strong foundation for its European yeast business. 

The company aims to integrate its advanced yeast cultivation technology developed in Japan with Leiber’s expertise in processing yeast extract and yeast cell walls. 

This strategic move aligns with Asahi Group Foods’ commitment to addressing global food challenges such as shortages, protein deficiencies, and evolving dietary trends.

The demand for yeast extract has surged in recent years as rising health consciousness and the growing popularity of plant-based diets continue to fuel increased consumption of yeast-based ingredients. 

According to Fortune Business Insights, the global yeast extract market is projected to grow at a rate of 8.5% from 2023 to 2029.

Additionally, the global market for yeast extracts for animal feed was valued at US$298.3 million in 2021 and is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1% from 2022 to 2030, according to Grand View Research.

As the world faces food shortages and sustainability concerns, the role of yeast as both a seasoning ingredient and a protein source continues to expand. Yeast cell walls, rich in dietary fibre and protein, are gaining prominence as sustainable nutritional components.

Hiroshi Kawahara, President and Representative Director of Asahi Group Foods, emphasised the strategic importance of the acquisition: 

“This investment marks a new step for our company into the global yeast product market, particularly in Europe. We intend to combine Leiber GmbH’s excellent technological capabilities, sales network, and customer base with our strengths to create value and nurture this growth driver for the Asahi Group.”

Asahi Group Foods remains committed to global sustainability by ensuring a safe and reliable supply of yeast-based food ingredients. 

The company also plans to continue investing in microbial innovations, reinforcing its position in the rapidly expanding yeast market and securing the Asahi Group’s long-term competitiveness.

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